Families London South West Issue 257 June 2016

® SouthWest June 2016

HUGE summer holiday listings PARTIES FEATURE Special needs

Half term activities The truth about tutoring

Where to book your child’s swimming lessons ®

25 YEARS

Really useful information for parents of 0-12+ year olds in SW London Find us online: FamiliesSouthWest.co.uk

Contents Families® SW London | June 2016 | Issue 257

FEATURES 07-13 Education •Local School news •The truth about tutoring •The importance of outdoor play

Fun at The Playroom See our Parties Feature, pages 22-26

14-17 Swimming Feature Important information related to infant swimming lessons and a few fab new pools

IN EVERY ISSUE 04-05 Local news 06

Families ‘Top Five’ this month

38-42 What’s On •Diary dates & events •Theatre •Museums and galleries •Days out •HALF TERM ACTIVITIES

See Bugsy Malone, at the Lyric, Hammersmith, page 6

18-21 Your local clubs & classes news 22-26 Parties Feature!

Your local entertainers 27-34 Summer holiday listings Sports, arts & crafts, dance, music, drama, languages, day camps… there is something for every child!

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Special Needs Places to go and things to do

Why not join a Yoga and mindfulness class with your children?

See page 19

ADVERTISE IN OUR NEXT ISSUE: Contact us on 020 8696 9680

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Local news Please tell advertisers you saw them

in Families It makes a HUGE difference Thank you

The Great Little Trading Co has a new store just behind Southside Shopping centre.

12 Buckhold Road, SW18 4GP

You can’t beat wooden toys We all know there is too much plastic around—embrace wood. Classic Wood Toys have been at the forefront of the traditional toys market throughout Europe for more than 20 years. All their products aim to combine fun and education, for example their 3 cm thick jigsaw puzzles assist with hand-eye coordination and enhance problem solving skills. The wood is taken from sustainable forests and paints are natural with no harmful products used. All meet EU standards and are eco friendly. They also have a range of music boxes and piggy banks. : classicwoodtoys.com

Throw your own street party Families are encouraged to organise their own street party in honour of the Queen’s 90th birthday on June 11th.

Running alongside the ‘World’s Biggest Street Party’ on London’s Mall, try the website : ourstreetparty.org designed to help you organise your own events, meet your neighbours and allow children to play outside, free from traffic fears. It may be a bit short notice now, but check your Council website info. Also good to know that many councils will waive their charges and road closures can be submitted online. : wandsworth/gov.uk/streetparties

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Professionals required for local charities A new local initiative, Link Up Battersea, is looking for new volunteers and charities to get involved. Link Up Battersea brings together individuals who are willing to share their professional skills by volunteering with local Battersea based charities, community groups and social enterprises, which desperately need these skills to make a real difference to their work in the local community. The skills needed are wideranging and include finance, legal, marketing, video production, interior design, project management, photography and writing…to name just a few. linkupbattersea@gmail.com : linkup-battersea.org

Need a nanny?

Then look no further! Firm favourites Abbeville Nannies have been operating in South London since 2001 with offices in Clapham and Putney, providing all types of childcare including full-time, part-time, permanent, temporary, daily and live in. Find a nanny, mother’s help, maternity nurse, night nanny, temporary nanny or even an evening babysitter. Congratulations on opening their third office, in East Dulwich SE22. : abbevillenannies.co.uk

Why is fertility decreasing?

Over the past 20 years, the number of couples experiencing fertility problems has increased dramatically. Over 25% of all couples planning a baby have trouble conceiving and more are turning to fertility treatments. It is thought that heavy metal toxicity, alcohol, smoking, being overweight, nutrient deficiencies, impaired nutrient absorption, and increasingly stress, all play a role in declining fertility rates, and this is not just confined to women, it’s men too!

Weight management is key to improve your fertility chances—it’s not just being overweight, it’s underweight too. Hormonal re–balancing and getting your body at its best will help improve fertility. Stress management, mindfulness, meditation and yoga all play their part in getting you at your best.

Nutripharm can help you eat clean, and eating well. Optimising your nutrient intake will not only leave you feeling great, it can also help when there are specific issues, for example, low sperm count, abnormally long or short periods and hormonal issues. : nutripharm.co.uk

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June 2016

Local news Connect Café: a new community service

Can you help?

Holy Trinity Clapham has set up a new venture in the Connect Café: Helping Hands is a dropin centre especially for parents who are on benefits or unemployed. Equipped with computers, a printer and play area for young children, it is a place to get support with CV writing and job searches, plus receive advice in a hospitable space, open Thursdays 10.30am2pm. Plus, why not drop into Family Friday, where skilled volunteers support parents with their children's homework and share a family meal together. The children are invited into the 7-11 year old Friday club Blaze, while parents can enjoy coffee and relax. Open every Friday during term time 4-6pm. For further information contact Diana Grano at Holy Trinity Clapham ( 7627 0941, life@holytrinityclapham.org. Connect Café, St Anne’s Hall, corner of Bromell’s Road and Venn Street SW4 0BN.

Westminster Befriend a Family need your support as demand for their services increases. Founded in 1989 by local people to help the large number of Westminster families in need, WBAF has been matching trained befriending volunteers with families who are vulnerable or in poverty, to provide practical and emotional support through the challenges they face. They also run projects including a Best Start Project for families with children under five, and a Young People’s Project for older children. If are interested in volunteering or to find out more call ( 7828 2765, : befriendafamily.co.uk

Work opportunity with Families

Bad news for Earlsfield’s parents?

Wandsworth Council is currently consulting residents on their plans to “de-designate” the Garratt Park Children’s Centre in Earlsfield, which could mean the end of free services for Earlsfield’s parents. ‘We know how important free early years support is both for children’s development and in terms of the support it provides to parents, so I am very concerned that the Council is considering leaving Earlsfield without any free provision for children under three,’ said Sadiq Khan, MP for Tooting (not to mention Mayor). Currently, the Garratt Park site offers parents free stay and play facilities in the afternoons, however the Council’s current proposals are to introduce a charge for this and to scrap the targeted services currently available to eligible families. ‘I am worried by these proposals which I fear could convert the current Centre into another private nursery for richer parents, rather than the wonderful, community-wide resource it needs to be,’ said Earlsfield Cllr Rachael Stokes. Updates to follow as soon as we know more…

Lyric Hammersmith Best Venue award Family favourite Lyric Hammersmith has won the Get Creative Family Arts Festival Audience Choice Award for Best Venue, at this national festival of arts events for families. With a fantastic Little Lyric Programme this autumn, including travels to space, giraffes, ducklings and the return of the much loved Raymond Briggs’ Father Christmas, it certainly deserves the award. ‘We’re thrilled to have been awarded Best Venue, especially as it has been voted for by the public,’ said Artistic Director Sean Holmes. ‘We are extremely proud of our Little Lyric programme as it is often the beginning of our young audiences’ engagement with arts and culture. We hope to welcome many new Little Lyricers to our exciting upcoming autumn season.’ Lyric Hammersmith, King Street W6 0QL, ( 8741 6850 : lyric.co.uk

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Families Online is preparing the launch of a fantastic new website this summer, with over 300 local sites across the UK. We have a number of highly flexible, home-based, selfemployed work opportunities available for Area Managers to run their local sites. No set up costs involved, full training provided, an opportunity to make money. You should be knowledgeable about what's on locally, be online savvy and a regular user of Facebook and Twitter. Responsibilities include posting daily online, populating and updating your site with useful local content for families.

To register your interest, please email the editor Pascale@familiessouthwest.co.uk

Get them thinking If you are looking for new ideas to educate and entertain your little ones, take a look at London’s Little Thinkers, the online resource which promotes an educational, engaging and fun London life for children. London’s Little Thinkers, the brainchild of primary school teacher Rebecca Dooley, aims to inspire parents, nannies and carers to make the most out of the infinite amount of educational resources and opportunities (often free) available to us on our doorstep in London. : londonslittlethinkers.co.uk

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Families ‘Top 5’ this month Take a look at our Top Five theatre picks to keep you and your family entertained this June.

A Brimful of Grimm

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Lyric Hammersmith, Lyric Square, King Street W6 0QL : chickenshed.org.uk / : lyric.co.uk 28-29 June A fantastical original play written for the Chickenshed Kensington and Chelsea’s Children’s Theatre. Watch out for wheeler and dealer Rumplestiltskin and his gold-loving Gang and the worrywart Queen who won't let her daughters out of her sight. Of course no fairy tale would be complete without a Stepmother, and this one has two sisters who want to get rid of all the children in the kingdom including Hansel, Gretel and their less well-known younger sister, Ida. Age 7+, 7pm, £8/£5

The Gruffalo

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The Little Mermaid

Photo by Manuel Harlan 2015

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Ensemble and James Okulaja as Fat Sam

Bugsy Malone Lyric Hammersmith, Lyric Square, Kings Street W6 0QL : lyric.co.uk From 11 June Join Bugsy, Blousey and Tallulah for an unforgettable theatrical experience.

Get booking today because, as Fizzy knows... tomorrow never comes. After last year’s sell out run, it’s sure to be a hit! For age 6+, 11am and 1pm

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Colour House Theatre, Watermill Way SW19 2RD : colourhousetheatre.co.uk Every Saturday and Sunday to 26 June. In the depths of the ocean lives Aerial, a young mermaid who dreams of a faraway land.

When the magical Sea Witch grants Aerial’s wish, casting a spell to make her a human, what will happen when she falls in love with a walking human Prince? Such a special little theatre, have you discovered it? 2pm and 4pm, £12/£10

The Lyric Theatre Shaftesbury Avenue W1D 7ES : nimaxtheatres.com/lyrictheatre/the_gruffalo 6 July – 4 September Everyone’s favourite furry monster roars back into the West End in celebration of his 15th anniversary on stage. The most fearsome creature that never was takes to the stage in this enchanting production combining songs, laughter and storytelling theatre with just the right amount of scary fun.

Familiessouthwest.co.uk ( 8696 9680

James and the Giant Peach The Polka Theatre, 240 The Broadway, Wimbledon SW19 1SB : polkatheatre.com To 14 August Join James and his new-found insect friends as they embark on an extraordinary adventure which takes them halfway around the world with excitement, songs and laughter. Ages 5-11, £15/£10

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Education

How important is outdoor play and why does it matter?

By Georgina Rodgers

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Being in the natural world allows children to develop their strength and coordination and gain self-confidence. They also have a great need for physical exercise and going to the park or exploring the local woods is a chance to use different muscles to swing, slide, skate, scoot or ride a bike. The increase in obesity is the most visible symptom of the lack of outdoor play with the number of obese children tripling over the past 25 years. Even for the youngest children being pushed on a swing means they need to engage their muscles to hold on and balance and co-ordinate their bodies to the rhythm of going back and forwards. This has a knock on effect on sleep and eating habits.

growth in forest schools – a Scandinavian import that is becoming increasingly widespread in primary schools across the UK.

Camping in the Forest

hildren are naturally drawn to playing outside and there are countless benefits to outdoor play. It’s not only about learning about our natural environments and the creatures and plants that inhabit it; it is about what happens when children are in nature that really counts. Everyone from respectable teachers and educationalists, to doctors and mental health experts agree that nature is important to children’s development in every major way – intellectually, emotionally, socially, spiritually and physically. A recent study by the American Medical Association said: “Children will be smarter, better able to get along with others, healthier, happier when they have regular opportunities for free and unstructured play in out-of-doors.”

Nature is not just good for our children – it is good for us too and undoubtedly has a healing effect on the body.

When we spend a few hours walking in the woods or camping by a lake with our children, we breath in fresh air and phytoncides, an airborne substance released by plants, which experts say appear to boost our immune systems and lower blood pressure and stress levels.

• Georgina Rodgers is a journalist and author of new book and journal, Peace of Mind: A Book of Calm for Busy Mums, which is published by Hodder & Stoughton.

There are a number of other benefits, from learning about risk assessment and problem solving to improving their eyesight, with one study showing that just 40 minutes outside a day reduces school children’s chances of becoming shortsighted by 23 per cent. There is also a marked improvement in mental health, which is particularly important given the current rise in rates of mental health problems among young people and a number of studies have shown also shown a reduction in problems like Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder.

Forest schools and outdoor classrooms Studies have also shown as well as free play where children learn, learning outside the classroom significantly raised standards and improves pupil’s personal, social and emotional development, with

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Where children come together to play, have fun and learn Wednesday and Friday afternoons from 2-4 pm.

St Luke's Church Hall, St Luke's Street, SW3 Creative and imaginative play for 2-3 year olds. We offer a relaxed and friendly environment where children are free to explore and investigate their surroundings, develop social skills in play, and a curiosity for learning.

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

Contact: Lucy Hustler 020 7352 8784 lucy@ringrosechelsea.co.uk www.ringrosechelsea.co.uk

John:- James & Lamont

020 8462 4646 - 07802 535695

THE STUDIO DAY NURSERY (Established 1987)

Montessori Teaching Method 8.00am to 7.00pm Full & Part-time Cooked Lunch & High Tea provided Boys & Girls Aged 2yrs-5yrs

93 Moore Park Road Fulham SW6 All enquires: 020 7736 9256 Principal: J.M.R. Williams, NNEB, RSH (Norlander).

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Dawmouse Montessori Nursery School “To assist a child we must provide him with an environment which will able him to develop freely” Maria Montessori

Celebrating 20 years of excellence in Montessori teaching Come and visit one of our two Dawmouse Montessori Nursery Schools in Fulham and discover why we have enjoyed such a long period of success teaching children from 2yrs to 5yrs in their early years education.

To learn more about us just visit our new web site at www.dawmouse.co.uk or email miss.emma@dawmouse.com

www.dawmouse.co.uk

Tel: 020 83989294

Passionate about teaching and learning

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Education

Local education news Colet Court: new name, new Head and increased bursaries

How to avoid the summer slide With exam season drawing to a close, and your household (hopefully!) returning to a state of normality, thoughts inevitably turn to the long summer holidays and time spent getting away from it all. While we all recognise the value of a much needed break, it’s important to make sure that the only ‘summer slide’ your kids end up on this holiday is the one that leads to the hotel pool.

‘Summer slide’ refers to the dip in learning that kids experience over the summer months, when they’re away from school and the routine of study. One way of avoiding the ‘slide’ is to get some additional tutoring over the summer break, so that when the holidays are over, they’ll be more than ready for learning.

Lots of news and changes for Colet Court: first from September the Preparatory School will now be known as St Paul’s Juniors. The Junior School has existed under a variety of names since its creation in 1881, but to people unfamiliar with the school the name Colet Court is not readily associated with St Paul’s. The School is often misconceived to be an open preparatory school preparing boys for Common Entrance to other schools, but it has always been the direct junior feeder school to St Paul’s.

The renaming coincides with the new appointment of Maxine Shaw, current Head of Hazelwood School, Surrey, who will take up the post of Head of St Paul’s Juniors from September 2016.

The start of the new academic year in 2016 will also mark the introduction of a more Maxine Shaw, generous bursary offering from St Paul’s new Head of School, broadening the existing provision to St Paul’s Juniors enable bright boys, whose parents may not otherwise be able to afford the fees, to benefit from its outstanding education. Whilst the majority of bursaries are awarded at 11+ entry, there are bursaries available at 7+, 8+, 13+ and 16+ entry points.

St Paul’s School, Lonsdale Road, London SW13 9JT ( 8748 9162 : stpaulsschool.org.uk

New Prep school Look out for the new Moat School Preparatory opening this September. On the same site as the senior school, the Moat Prep will further their mission statement of ‘all dyslexic children can achieve’, while at the same time increasing opportunities for early identification and early intervention, both of which are important parts of the school’s ethos. To find out more email office@moatschool.org.uk or call ( 7610 9018. The Moat School Preparatory, Bishops Avenue SW6 6EG, : moatschool.org.uk

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TutorMapper is a great place to find private tuition that works for you and your family. All of their tutors have been carefully selected by London’s finest tutoring agencies, ensuring that when you use TutorMapper, you will always find a trusted and reliable tutor that’s local to you.

So, enjoy the holidays and avoid the slide! : tutormapper.com

Max Blanshard, Tutormapper

Everyone’s choosing a Wandsworth school!

A record number of parents have applied for a place at a Wandsworth primary this September as the popularity of the borough’s schools continues to rise, with nearly a 5% increase on last year’s applications a new record high. And the good news is that this year every child who needs a place at a Wandsworth school has been offered one.

Wandsworth schools are hugely popular with parents because of their quality of teaching and learning, and with nearly every single child being taught in a Wandsworth school attending either a good or an outstanding one it’s not surprising! ‘Parents in Wandsworth have some really excellent schools to choose from,’ said Education spokesman Cllr Kathy Tracey. ‘Our primaries continue to strongly outperform others across the country and this is testament to the inspired work of headteachers, teachers, teaching assistants and governors to deliver the best possible education to our young people.’ For more information call ( 8871 7316 or email admissions@wandsworth.gov.uk

Merton student becomes UK Young Scientist of the Year A Merton student has been crowned the UK Young Scientist of the Year for 2016 at the The Big Bang UK Young Scientists & Engineers Fair. Sixth-former Roxanne El-Hady of Ricards Lodge Secondary School was presented with the prestigious award after creating a project investigating climate change. ‘I am thrilled for and very proud of Roxanne’s achievement,’ Ricards Lodge’s student is Scientist of the Year said headteacher Alison Jerrard. ‘She has worked extremely hard throughout her 7 years at Ricards and thoroughly deserves this award. She really is a successful woman of the future.’ Roxanne will now take on the role of an ambassador for science, attending events throughout the year to connect with the Science Technology Engineering and Maths (STEM) industry and to inspire other young people to pursue science. Ricards Lodge Secondary School, Lake Road SW19 7HB ( 8946 2208 : ricardslodge.merton.sch.uk

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Education The truth about tutoring

By Clare Pelham of Chelsea and Fulham Tutors

Gaining a place at a good independent or grammar school seems like winning the lottery. Many students make multiple attempts. In the past, the 11 plus might have consisted of a short interview. Now, schools like St Paul’s Boys set a pre ISEB online test before maths, English and reasoning papers plus interview. Extra year entry points create a blinding array of 7+, 8+, 9+, 10+, 11+, 12+, 13+ levels. Is it any wonder parents hire private tutors?

Extra tuition must be deployed with specific goals in mind. Students applying to the top secondary schools have to be pitch perfect in English and maths. And nothing beats plodding through past GCSE and A level papers with a teacher who has done it all before. My daughter’s tutor coaxed her through science exams so successfully that she recently received an offer to read chemistry at her top choice university.

Excessive tutoring can be counter-productive Children can lose their enthusiasm for learning and appear jaded - the kiss of death at school interviews. The child should be involved at some level in the choice of tutors and future schools. The objective must be to develop the confidence in his ability to overcome academic obstacles.

Parents need to spread the net wide rather than obsess about a handful of schools. League tables provide a limited picture. The Headmistress of a lower ranked school informed me proudly that the girls decide which GCSEs are offered, not the other way around. I encourage parents to contemplate weekly boarding, newly established and state schools especially free schools and sixth form colleges.

Alarmingly, many independent schools manipulate their A level results by replacing the struggling students in the class with an intake at the

start of the sixth form. Thus, research on the school’s expectations for minimum GCSE grades and feedback from current students and parents is crucial. Selective tutoring prior to the GCSEs can alleviate the pressure.

The truth is that tutoring is only one aspect of the question “How do we best educate our child?” and only one of the weapons in your arsenal to win the ultimate reward of a university place. clare@chelseaandfulhamtutors.co.uk : chelseaandfulhamtutors.co.uk Clare Pelham

Excellence in science teaching

By Charlene Folkes, Science Coordinator, High View Primary School

Young children are natural scientists. They are constantly asking questions about the world and developing their understanding of how things work through experimentation. Science lessons in primary schools have a unique opportunity to nurture this natural interest and curiosity. High View Primary School in Wandsworth encourages its pupils to develop a love of science and has recently been giving its children an extra inspirational boost in their science learning, with opportunities to learn more about space, chemistry, computer science and virtual reality.

Each spring, High View’s dedicated science week provides a focal point for some extra inspirational learning. Recently a group of Google engineers brought some fun gadgets for the children to play with.

Children were taught to program lego robots using Scratch, a visual programming language, before using that code to race the robots around an obstacle course. The children also got to experience life in virtual reality, trying out both Google Cardboard (a simple and accessible virtual reality device), as well as a state-of-the-art Oculus Rift.

With so much attention in the news being given to Tim Peake’s mission to the International Space Station, science week also gave the children the opportunity to hear from Colin Stuart, an astronomer from the Royal Observatory in Greenwich, who wowed the children and teachers with facts about how space has a big impact on how we live on Earth. Children made their own rockets and learned more about the

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space mission. Tony Charles, a scientist and entertainer, created some ‘magical’ reactions – demonstrating how exciting chemistry can be and how children can use simple equipment and materials around our homes to help us in understanding more about materials and their properties.

High View governor Jenny Cooke, who also manages educational outreach programmes at Imperial College London, has been very impressed with the range of science opportunities for children at the school: “Many primary school children tell me that they love science and want to be scientists – not something you hear as often when speaking to older children. A good primary education can inspire a love of science and encourage more children to continue to study STEM subjects at a higher level, hopefully helping to provide more scientists and engineers that are so needed in the UK.” : highviewprimary.org.uk

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Swimming feature

Important information related to infant swimming lessons and a few fab new pools s learning to swim an option? Most people would say, no, and we’d agree. Most children love swimming and being in a swimming pool, in a river or in the sea. It is a fantastic family activity to be enjoyed whilst keeping fit, but very importantly, swimming could also save their life. So how do you choose a great swimming instructor? What should you look out for? We asked the best local swimming schools for their advice and we discovered new fabulous pools locally.

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The ASA (Amateur Swimming Association), the governing body for swimming in the UK, has recently compiled a list of important factors to take into consideration when choosing a swim school for your baby. Guidelines include ensuring that the swim school and their teachers are registered with the necessary regulations boards, in this case the ASA, and are fully insured with public liability insurance and professional indemnity protection to £10 million. Some swim schools have fully structured lesson plans, with clear aims to ensure proper progression, while other swim schools have less developed structures and can be more free play focused, so make sure you know which you’re getting

Commonly asked safety questions answered

By Pete Weller from Puddle Ducks South West London Is it safe to take my baby underwater?

Swimming underwater is a natural part of learning to swim and it’s essential that your baby understands and enjoys the underwater environment in order to relax, learn to play and swim on the surface. Parents can, quite understandably, be nervous of their child putting their face in the water, but baby swimming classes can offer the perfect environment in a safe way, with trained instructors.

Is it safe to submerge my baby?

Babies are born with a natural gag reflex, which means they naturally hold their breath when submerged. Older babies can be taught to hold their breath, and toddlers can be taught to exhale under the water. At Puddle Ducks we use the same signalling throughout our programmes, this gives the baby plenty of opportunity to prepare for the submersion, or importantly to tell us if they do not want to be taken under the water.

Should I submerge my baby even if s/he isn’t happy?

By using clear signalling and communication, it

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is important to respect your child’s wishes.

If your child does not wish to be submerged underwater, then encourage them to feel relaxed putting their faces in the water through activities, songs and games.

Can my baby swim underwater on his/her own?

By swimming underwater, babies can learn the difference between being under and above the water, and also that critical life-saving skill of how to kick to the surface. Although babies don’t actually develop the strength to swim independently for the first couple of years of their life, they can certainly experience the buoyancy of the water and freedom of movement that it offers. With careful handling, a baby can feel all the sensations of swimming freely in the water from their very first class.

Look at the submersion policy of the swim school you are considering, as these vary significantly. Some swim schools do not practise submersion techniques at all. This is a shame as the freedom and exhilaration a baby can feel in the water would be totally missed.

Puddle Ducks is offering 10% discount off first term’s fees to Families readers.

Other swim schools follow a strict programme focussed on swimming underwater, even if the child is upset, which could traumatise the child. ( 8546 8470 southwestlondon@puddleducks.com : puddleducks.com/southwestlondon

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Swimming Eighteen years of excellence Established in this area for 18 years, the South West Swimming School has 1,600 swimmers a week. Kelly and Erica, the directors, have over 22 years of experience between them, both here and abroad. They have qualified in special needs, adult, baby/child and aqua fit to advanced standard. Their swimming instructors are ASA qualified and in-house trained to teach in the water allowing demonstrations and greater input into the lessons. Together they have designed a unique recipe of teaching.

They believe that a safe and secure environment is necessary in order to develop and improve the swimming skills of their pupils.

Look at what they offer! Intensive holiday programmes for all ages and abilities including adult and baby sessions, learn to swim classes, fun club, pro club, adult learn to swim and adult swim fitness classes… in four venues, six days a week.

South West Swimming School is proud to have won a Sustainable Business Award from Wandsworth Council, and they will soon be celebrating their 20th year of operations. So, well done them.

South West Swimming School was established 18 years ago.

Kelly’s mum, Norma, a pool manager at Burntwood, is a massive support, pictured here with Erica and Kelly's children.

40% discount on all special needs sessions, specialists in teaching autistic 1-1 session. ( 8767 2723 admin@swswimschool.co.uk : swswimschool.co.uk

Marjan Moosavi of Blue Wave Swim School says children need to learn to love the water before they can learn to swim. As a parent you can do so much to generate positive feelings when your child is in the water. To boost water confidence, nothing works better than swimming together and spending “quality time” together as parental presence in the water will gives your child a sense of security. : bluewaveswim.co.uk

Luxury private hydropool Chelsea Swim Spa offers lessons in a superb luxury hydropool in a private house in the heart of Chelsea, SW10. The swimming pool is heated to 34ºC (91ºF) with a built-in ozone system.

They offer swimming lessons for babies, children and adults.

Make a note it is available for private hire, just for you with your family or friends!

The pool has a Sonos Audio System. Listen to your Swim Spa in Chelsea favourite music on Spotify and more.

Contact Darya Simanovich, ( 07988 431 229, 2 Edith Grove, SW10 0NW : chelseaswimspa.co.uk We specialise in:

• Adult and Baby lessons • Toddler lessons • Learn To Swim classes • Pre-Club Squad Training for Children • Adult Beginners and Intermediate Training

Cindy’s Swim School is focused on delivering a variety of personalised lessons to local families.

We have a passion for swimming instruction and practice within a structured and safe environment.

Our swimmers learn the joys of swimming and stroke technique with programmes incorporating games and exercise to improve each swimmer’s confidence in the water.

• Ha lf-term • Sw im Clu Crash Cour ses bs for adva m • Ho nced swimm ore liday C e rash C rs ourses

Quote 'SWF-1' to get 1 lesson free when booking into next term’s Adult & Baby swimming course. For new customers only.

cindy@cindysswimschool.co.uk

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07902 782675

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Swimming New SwimWay private pool venue in Balham/Tooting Bec SwimWay is delighted with the use of a beautiful new pool right next to Tooting Bec Common (Balham side) from September 2016. Located in a private house, it is a 15 minute walk from Tooting Bec and Balham stations, superbly located in a fantastic area.

Uniquely the location has been designed with SwimWay lessons in mind, with a separate entrance and excellent facilities for their clients to enjoy. The pool is 12.5m in length, and 1.3m deep. They will be offering classes for parents and babies, and 1:1 and 1:2 lessons for children aged 3–9 years, up to stage 6 on their swimming programme.

Why should you choose SwimWay’s programme?

Owner Dan Pastor says: “The most important aspects of our classes are the lesson quality, teachers’ enthusiasm, and the methodology we have developed and utilise. Of course, environment and water quality/temperature also play an enormous factor in our students’ progress. Because we specialise in private or semi-private lessons, the children receive full, direct support inside the water from their teacher. This allows us to use only kickboards as a floatation device without sacrificing any safety measures. Other swim schools often use backpacks, shark wings and noodles, which delay the learning process.

High quality lessons from SwimWay A good programme will work on fundamentals such as breath control, buoyancy, body position, gliding and correct leg kick action before introducing the full stroke. Students that are given the correct core elements will thrive, and become good swimmers.

•SwimWay has locations in Kensington, Kew Gardens, East Sheen, Putney, Wandsworth Common and Balham.

( 871 3972 email info@swimway.co.uk : swimway.co.uk For information on the new Balham pool please email balham@swimway.co.uk

Sports Generation swimming lessons in Wimbledon Village Sports Generation is a high calibre swimming coaching company, cofounded by Christian Kenny and Christopher Whitworth. With over 25 years’ collective experience of teaching, and running swimming companies, Christian and Christopher believe that swimming is one of the most fundamental life skills that children should acquire as soon as possible.

‘Swimming is beneficial on many levels, health-wise and socially, but the most important benefit is that it saves lives; according to the 2010 UK statistics, drowning is the third most common cause of accidental death in the country’ states Christian. ‘That’s why it’s our mission at Sports Generation to turn our pupils into strong, confident swimmers with excellent technique at the earliest possible age’.

Lessons are currently taught to over 1,400 children at prestigious health clubs and private residences in Chiswick, Bloomsbury, Richmond and Esher.

The highly experienced and fully qualified teachers who represent the company have a passion for both teaching swimming and children. All follow Sports Generation’s proven approach, enabling children to progress Sports Generation: a high calibre swimming school as powerful, happy swimmers, whilst simultaneously ensuring that lessons are both safe and productive by running them in line with the National Teaching Plan.

Sports Generation is now offering shared private swimming lessons to children aged from 2.5 years at a luxury private pool on Wimbledon Parkside. ‘The benefit of shared private lessons is that children receive maximum benefit from each lesson, optimizing learning potential and attention from their teacher’, explains Christopher.

Lessons, including a free trial for new clients, are taught term-time, Monday to Wednesday, 1.30pm–5.30pm. Places are still available for the current term until July 17th.

To make a booking or an enquiry, please contact the Sports Generation Bookings Team, Monday – Friday, 9am – 3pm. ( 8940 9431 info@sportsgeneration.co.uk : sportsgeneration.co.uk June 2016

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Creative Little Minds ART AND CRAFT & BUILD AND CONSTRUCT WORKSHOPS two different activities that enhance children's creativity Locations: Chelsea, Fulham and Belgravia www.creativelittleminds.co.uk creative-little-minds@outlook.com

07711 992451

Club Italiano Italian for children, Thursdays 4 to 5pm in Fulham SW6, £363 per year.

To enrol call Stefania on 020 8748 6418 07857 746491

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June 2016

Clubs and classes How to get them started in outdoor sports

By Adrian Warner

Most parents agree that getting young children involved in sport from a young age will help them to keep fit and get into the habit of enjoying regular exercise.

Outdoor sports are a great way for children to get some fresh air and have fun with their friends. But how do you choose which sport is right for your child?

Here are five outdoor options they will love: Football - Children can start from reception age and there are clubs that offer coaching during the holidays for children from five to 11 years. These are usually a morning or afternoon class where young children are introduced to the basic skills of the sport.

1 2

Rugby – Don’t panic: kids’ rugby is not about scrums, mauls and tackling or complicated rules. Children are encouraged to play a simple, non-contact game together and the focus is on passing and running skills. Most clubs start youngsters off at the age of six or seven.

3

Tennis – Children from three can learn the basic skills of the game using smaller courts and nets and with childsized rackets. Some clubs will also have squash and badminton courts.

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Hockey – The game is much gentler than that for adults and sticks and pitches are smaller. Some clubs offer “Quicksticks”, suitable from seven, which is a four-a-side game that can be played anywhere and uses a bigger ball for safety.

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Multi-Sports – Not sure which sport to choose? Look for multi-sports sessions where kids can try a variety of sports. These are often available in the summer holidays and are a great way for kids to find out what they really like. Do look at our summer activities listing.

Adrian Warner has been a sports journalist for 30 years and has reported from 13 Olympic Games and 5 World Cups for Reuters, London’s Evening Standard and the BBC.

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Yoga and mindfulness for families Sign of the times: who would have thought that the great trend is for families to do not only yoga but mindfulness as well together!? Project Yogi teaches fun interactive Yoga and Mindfulness classes through games, themes, songs, creative art and crafts. Their programmes are designed for children, teenagers and families. Through Yoga, Mindfulness and social Emotional Learning activities, they help young people live better, learn better and make better choices.

The classes help to improve physical fitness, develop social skills, help with focus, help improve patience and teach responsibility and gratitude. They introduce children to yoga postures, breathing techniques, mindfulness, partner yoga, relaxation and meditation.

As well as weekly after-school classes they teach yoga in schools, deliver workshops during halfterms and work with charities and organisations to bring yoga to vulnerable and disadvantaged children and families info@projectyogi.com : projectyogi.com

Half the size…double the Funk!

Street dance favourite Funky Moves are thrilled to be finally offering a funky street dance activity for the tiny tots of SW London.

They are now resident in four nurseries, providing a fun morning or afternoon activity for the mini funksters to enjoy. They also run street dance classes for little ones outside of nursery at their venues in Wandsworth, Wimbledon, Notting Hill and Streatham.

Don’t miss out on their holiday workshops too! For more information on all of their classes and workshops across SW London ( 07810 431101 or email info@funkymovesdance.com : funkymovesdance.com

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June 2016

Clubs and classes Sewing for children and mums too!

Workout for mums! bootybarre is a fun, energetic, workout that fuses techniques from Dance, Pilates, and Yoga that will tone, define and chisel the whole body.

Sew Pretty is a small, very friendly and independently owned workshop set in a relaxed garden studio in Wimbledon.

Katya began stitching dresses for her dolls using her mum’s sewing machine when she was just eight years old. Her passion for making has continued over the years and after graduating as Fashion Designer she set up her own label. Now a mother of two, she has decided to share her passion and inspire others, both young and old, to get creative.

It is the perfect combination of strength and flexibility with an added cardiovascular element.

Accompaniment of music is a proven workout that reduces stress to the mind and body.

You won’t be sipping calories at this bar, but you will be losing them – in fact 500 in one session!

For little ones, Katya runs Sewing & Craft birthday parties, an after-school sewing club and her ever-popular Kids sewing camps during half terms and summer holidays.

Classes are held at The Putney Canteen and Northcote Road. Your first class is free if you buy a block of 6. : elizadoalot.com/bootybarre

Meanwhile, for mums, Katya puts on short workshops, sewing classes and courses for adults. She can also organise sessions for hen parties, girls’ get-togethers and corporate craft events : sewpretty.me.uk ( 0771 4252 660

NEW FRENCH SATURDAY SCHOOL The school Les Petites Grenouilles, a high-quality private French Saturday School will open its door in September 2016 to children between 3 and 7/8 years old.

SEPTEMBER 2016 START LIMITED PLACES Register now to avoid any disappointment

The lessons will be held in the beautiful setting of Wimbledon College on Saturdays from 10 am until 12 am.

For more information, visit the website: www.lespetitesgrenouilles.co.uk or contact Delphine by phone: 07985468466 or by email: ecolelespetitesgrenouilles@gmail.com

Nurturing and developing young people's potential through dance, drama and singing.

For 4-18 year olds, after school, at weekends and holiday workshops.

Stagecoach Schools enrolling now Battersea Fulham Merton Park & Tooting Putney Wimbledon www.stagecoach.co.uk

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020 8946 0845 202 020 8942 0845 265 020 8946

2986 5727 3502 7050 3400

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June 2016

Parties feature

The best local party entertainers and magicians in town!

Keep this issue safe: this is the only one you’ll need. We have gathered entertainers, magicians, a mobile zoo, soft play centres, a putting course plus party venues and food.

Adventure Putting Party

Amanda’s Action Parties

Amanda’s Action Club Amanda's Action Club offers dynamic, high energy, creative and fun party entertainment for ages 1 to 7yrs. Action Club party, Build my Bear, mini disco, pamper parties, face painting, glitter tattoos, balloon modelling and bouncy castle hire. Why not add a little extra sparkle to their day and have a princess or mascot meet and greet your guests? ( 01895 623999 info@amandasactionclub.co.uk: amandasactionclub.co.uk

Enjoy a fun filled golf party at Central London Golf Centre. The little ones will venture out onto the adventure putting course for an hour with a member of their professional team or the older ones can try their swing on the enclosed driving range. Each child will receive a certificate as well as a CLGC wristband. From £15 per child weekdays, £16.50 per child weekends (minimum of 10 children). ( 8871 2468 or : clgc.co.uk

Adam Ants Adam Ants offers high energy parties. Adam Ants and his talented team make sure their parties are non stop fun. With something for all ages: magic, balloon modelling, puppets, music, dancing, games, face painting. They also offer amazing disco/sports parties or the ever popular a Build a Bear party. You

can hire tables and chairs/bouncy castles/soft play and ball ponds.

Why not invite your favourite character to the party from Mickey Mouse to Pepper Pig and many more.

“Just wanted to say a massive Thank You for today! It's was such an amazing party & Kitty had the best time ever!!!” Sarah ( 8959 1045

Adam A nts

info@adamantsparties.co.uk : adamantsparties.co.uk Special 25% discount to midweek parties throughout the summer June- September.

Allsorts drama for Children Allsorts offer fantastic original themed drama parties.

“Understanding how important birthday parties are to children, we want them to have the most fabulous party ever! Our parties are always a whirl of excitement, fly to the world of make believe, become a Film star, Magician or Detective.

Explore the drama of murder mysteries. The only limit is your imagination!” ( 8767 5298 or ( 8969 3249 : allsortsdrama.com Allsorts also run term time classes, holiday courses and private tuition.

Central Golf London: Have a go at the newly opened putting course

PARTIES! Wonderfully fun musical parties for your under-5’s! Guitar-accompanied songs with actions, joining in, jumping and dancing, instruments, puppet and parachute!

The perfect party for little ones.

Call 020 8677 6871 info@blueberryplaysongs.co.uk www.blueberryplaysongs.co.uk

June 2016

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Parties feature Action Station 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, makeup artists and DJs also available. ( 0870 770 2705 : theactionstation.co.uk

Amazing magical parties for children Vice President of The Magic Circle, Richard Pinner is a proper magician using strong magic to amaze and amuse children and adults alike. Drawing on 25 years of personal experience, Richard’s shows are perfect for modern children, maintaining traditional birthday party values whilst using cutting edge magic. Parties full of fun, laughter and amazement leave every child with tales to tell and special memories to keep. ( 7352 3524 Hello@MagicAndLaughter.co.uk : MagicAndLaughter.co.uk

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. Shaky egg maracas,

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Party” (3-10yrs), they throw Toddler Parties for under 3s, evening Laser Tag parties (6-12 year) and the ever popular Make a Bear parties. : eddiecatz.com

parachute games and a puppet will add to the fun—perfect for little ones! “Blueberry is wonderful entertainment for little ones; fun, cheerful and gentle.”

A 45-minute session is £115. ( 8677 6871 info@blueberryplaysongs.co.uk

Froggle Parties

Boo Boo Recommended by the Evening Standard. Lots of laughter, fun and games, mini disco, balloon modelling, silly juggling, magic tricks and puppet show!

(07961 355 269 :mrbooboo.co.uk

Traditional tea party A refreshing idea—why not go to Willow Bough, Wimbledon’s traditional tea rooms, for an afternoon tea party? They can cater for up to 20 adults and children. They also organise tea parties for private events in your own home.

Served on vintage china, the homemade afternoon tea is the perfect way to celebrate your special occasion!

The “best value for money afternoon tea in London”.

11 Park Rd, London SW19 3NT ( 8540 8080 info@willowbough.com

Familiessouthwest.co.uk ( 8696 9680

Always popular: the Eddie Catz Make a Bear party!

Eddie Catz With three sites (Wimbledon, Putney and Earlsfield) Eddie Catz offers a fantastic variety of party packages to suit all ages and budgets. The Earlsfield venue is ideal for 0-6yrs as it boasts a large adventure play structure and a party room with disco facilities.

The Putney venue is great for children 0-7yrs. This bright space has a gentle playframe, games, rides and dressing up. Parties can also be themed to a favourite character. The large facilities in Wimbledon make it great fun for all ages: it has a giant playframe, a dedicated Toddler playframe, a sports pitch and a disco for older children.

As well as their popular “Eddie

Froggle Parties are becoming one of the most popular party companies in the business and are known for their varied and high energy parties! They have a fantastic reputation for providing a huge range of party options that are fun, lively and thoroughly engaging. Parties range from entertainers, magicians, themes, discos, science parties, bubble parties, baby and toddler activities, clowns, and more. Party shop supplies, balloon decorating, free party invites and even help with finding a venue. ( 8617 9070 : froggleparties.com

Gymboree Play & Music Putney Lots of fun with zero clean up!

Let them know your child’s favourite games, songs and activities and they’ll create your own tailor made event.

Guaranteed to be 100% fun!

Handpick from a number of themes and let their teachers create a unique, stress-free and enjoyable day to remember.

Themes include train and planes, jungle safari, ocean adventure, Beatles, Caribbean, art or sculpture parties etc.

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June 2016

Parties feature Mini-Engineers

High energy Muki Sports Bootcamp ( 020 8780 3831 Putney@gymboree-uk.com : gymboree-uk.com

Kids en cuisine

Healthy party food Check out this new company offering healthy children’s party food. Just Kinder Party Food have years of experience in high-end catering. They are passionate about crafting the perfect nibbles and refreshments and will prepare fresh, delicious and beautifully presented food.

Children are sure to love the unique, delicious food that Just Kinder Food provide for your memorable event. The children’s party catering ensures that both children and parents alike can tuck into yummy and healthier food at parties. info@justkinderpartyfood.co.uk ( 020 3641 6208 : justkinderpartyfood.co.uk

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Cooking parties are always great fun. You can choose from a variety of options like Smoothie party, Pizza making or Biscuits party. Invitations, aprons chef hats and party bags included. They can also provide lunch bags to take to your party or even prepare a whole buffet for you. ( 020 3015 2966 info@kidsencuisine.com : kidsencuisine.com

Magical Designs For the very best in Face Painting and Balloon modelling Magical Designs provides an excellent face painting and balloon modelling service in and around London.

Whether your event is a small birthday party or a large corporate event Magical Designs will bring colour and joy to both young & old.

Contact Susie on ( 07814 925 462 susiejk38@hotmail.com : magicaldesigns.co.uk

Create bespoke LEGO parties with Mini-Engineers. They will help you tailor your party by build activity, group size and age. They have a variety of activities and themes and can cater to just about any child’s desire. Let the children’s creativity and imaginations run loose! The party will start off with a brief introduction and interactive discussion to help connect the children to the theme. The children will then have an opportunity to build, play and share their LEGO creations with one another. All you need to do is provide location, food and birthday cake. : mini-engineers.com

Mobile zoo Doolittle's Zoomobile is a small animal, mobile zoo. Amanda will bring a selection of animals to your home or venue, where the children can have a thoroughly hands-on experience, which is both fun and memorable. She has worked with children and animals for many years so both will be in very safe hands. ( 07940 177 201 : doozoo.co.uk

Muki Sports Bootcamp Party Want to host a fun packed, original and exciting party? Keep children on the go with this 1-2 hour (or longer) workout party: paired and group fitness games, tug of war and much, much more.

Prizes and certificates provided.

No sitting around playing the usual party games: this is not a

Zoomobile party for the faint hearted.

Fitness clothing recommended plus lots of water… you’ll need it!

Prices start from just £99. ( 07429 34 7538 : mukisports.com

Perform Parties Perform Parties are high energy, fun and totally infectious. Choose a theme and watch the guests enjoy lots of lively games, songs and improvisations. There are packages to suit 4-7s and 7-12s.

Superheroes, Ice queen, Fairy Tale Forest, Frozen, Mamma Mia, Les Miserables etc ( 0845 400 4000 You can book online : perform.org.uk/parties

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Parties feature Playroom party venue

All smiles at The Playroom

Playball Do you like ball skills? Then why don’t you book a Playball party?

You can make use of all the Playball drills and equipment (big bouncy balls, hoops, bean bags, beacons, shapes, ropes). The children can do the activities and games according to a theme, Fireman, fairies/princesses, superheroes, animals or a particular sport such as football, hockey, basketball, tennis, cricket or rugby etc. The treasure hunts are always a popular request.

To book a party contact gavin@playball-london.com : playballlondon.com

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

The Playroom in Wandsworth is open all weekend for exclusive party venue hire. You can choose between five package options ranging from £99 for venue hire only or up to £350 for a fully hosted party package which includes party food, face-painting, bouncy castle, party games, party bags and more. They have various themes to choose from to suit your child’s individual interests like Toy Story, Frozen, Peppa Pig, Octonauts.

“We have a large outdoor play area too which is full of toys, games and a play castle to climb” With various time slots to choose from (9am, 11am, 1pm, 3pm) it is the perfect place to host your child’s birthday with its close proximity to Earlsfield and Wandsworth town stations.

The Playroom 317 Garratt Lane London SW18 4DX Call Carla ( 3560 7186 : theplay-room.co.uk

Great family party shop Occasions is a family run party shop based in Pimlico which specialises in children’s parties, fancy dress and balloon decorating for all kinds of events. Occasions is filled with a wide selection of children’s and adults fancy dress costumes to cover all themes.

They also have accessories for all events including Hen & Stag parties and baby showers. Whether you are looking to hire their amazing popcorn machine, in need of a balloon arch or looking for

Occasions’ Olaf mascot to attend your event, Occasions will fulfill your party needs, simply because they are experts at it!

27 Ebury Bridge Road, SW1W 8QX : occasionspimlico.co.uk

Perfect pizza delivered to your party Pappa Ciccia delivers delicious authentic and healthy pizza to your party venue. They also have a highly rated Gluten free and Vegan pizza option. Pizza-making parties at their Fulham branch remain a firm favourite. Children get to make their own pizza and enjoy a 2 hour party experience.

Details and ordering through their website or give them a call.

• 105/107 Munster Road, SW6 5RQ 7384 1884 • 41 Fulham High Street, SW6 3JJ ( 7736 0900 • 96 Lower Richmond Road, SW15 1IN ( 8785 7349 : pappaciccia.com

The Creation Station Give your child a fun and inspiring arty birthday party packed with hands on creative art and crafts activities to celebrate their special day and entertain all their friends in style. Plus you can relax as they provide all the fun and the party bags filled with treasured masterpieces too! ( 8419 1809 : thecreationstation.co.uk melanie@thecreationstation.co.uk

Stagecoach Stagecoach understand that with the increasing demands on parents, juggling the pressures of work and family life, time is of the essence.

Whether it’s a birthday party, wedding entertainment, or any occasion, they provide a way to remove the stress from what should be a day of celebration for everyone, and allow you to sit back, relax and let them do all the work. They will take your child on a roller coaster ride through their imagination and land them safely back home with some amazing party memories.

They will come either at your home, if space permits, or to a hired venue. Stagecoach Parties are packed full of fun, lively party entertainment including dramatic games, fabulous songs and fun for everyone. Themed Parties (for ages 4-10yrs) or Murder Mysteries (for ages 11-16yrs).

For your local area and to book go to : stagecoach.co.uk/parties

Watersports Parties Want a Birthday Party with a difference? Come and celebrate your special day at Wimbledon Park Watersports Centre. Their highly qualified, enthusiastic, experienced instructors will ensure that you have an unforgettable experience. Ages 8+ Saturdays, March–July. 1 hour watersports parties (with options to use the garden area), prices from £180.

Book at : merton.gov.uk/ wimbledonparkwatersports • Do bear in mind that this listing is kept up-to-date in our online directory : familiesouthwest.co.uk

Face Painting & Balloon Modelling Contact Susie 07814 925462 www.magicaldesigns.co.uk

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June 2016

Summer holidays

How to organise summer holiday childcare

By Claire Muffett-Reece

Super Camps offers a wide range of age-related activities

Worried how you’ll juggle work with childcare over the never-ending summer holidays? Relax – there are plenty of options to ensure you’ll still be employed come the first week of September…

Looking after your children during the summer holidays is no easy feat for any working parent, with many mums and dads resorting to booking their annual leave separately to ensure someone keeps an eye on the children. But it doesn’t have to be that way – regardless of your budget, there are many affordable solutions to keep those wages coming in while your little ones enjoy the summer break.

Relatives Your first port of call should be looking at close family members to see if anyone could potentially help out. Your parents or in-laws are ideal, as most will revel in the chance to spoil their grandchildren with days out and endless supplies of ice cream! Bear in mind their age and don’t over-burden them if they agree to help, sticking to set times and helping with packed lunches or sending your children with pocket money towards yet another trip to the zoo.

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School mums Why not have a chat with other mums at the school gates to see if they can help? A win-win situation; your child gets to spend the day with one of their friends – plus you save on childcare costs! Make sure you only ask mums you feel confident leaving your child with — and who your little one feels comfortable around — and take a little gesture of thanks over at the end of the day, such as some flowers. However, most mums might instead prefer a ‘play date swap’ in return, where they look after your child one day in the week and you look after theirs another.

Holiday play schemes/summer camps See our listing pages 32-33 and online too.

Children’s camps and holiday play schemes usually cater to fit around school hours, they are often based on themes to appeal to your youngster, with football, science, dance and drama top of the hit-list. Run privately or by your local council, this competitively priced option can be booked on a daily or weekly basis and is a fun-filled way for your little one to meet new friends and gain skills in the process.

Childminders

Working from home

For many working parents, childminders are the best option over the school holidays, often sticking to the same person they normally get to do the school drop off and pick up. If you don’t have one, ask friends and other mums who they recommend, or look online for Ofsted-registered carers. A more affordable solution but remember to ask what stipulations they have, such as you providing your child’s meals or whether you’re expected to pay if they are sick or you go away.

Last, but by no means least, is the hope your boss might be sympathetic to your situation and agree to let you work from home every now and then. Explain your childcare struggle as soon as you can, asking if a day a week might be an option over the holidays and give them time to think about it. If they agree, make sure you complete all tasks assigned to you on time – regardless of the distractions that come with a demanding child at home!

Claire Muffett-Reece is a freelance journalist who writes on parenting, lifestyle, health and general interest. Her work has been published in The Evening Standard, The Metro and Cosmopolitan, among others.

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June 2016

Summer holiday activities listings, part 1 Compiled by Joanna Parry

We took every care in preparing these entries but sometimes events are cancelled or times changed.

Please double check event with the organiser to avoid disappointment.

education@landmarkarts centre.org : landmarkartscentre.org Throughout Summer Holidays.

Summer Workshops A range of arts and crafts classes, courses and clubs throughout the Easter holidays.

Sew Me Pretty Wimbledon Park Road SW19 6PE ( 07714 252660, me@sewpretty.me.uk : sewpretty.me.uk 13-25 July and 30 August – 2 September.

Kids’ Holiday Sewing Workshop Feeling creative? Want to become a fashion designer? Try something different at these creative workshops. 10am-1pm or 1.454.45pm, £24. Or full day sessions 10am-4.45pm, £48.

LANGUAGES Et Patati et Patata

100% French camp with Et Patati et Patata

ARTS & CRAFTS Active Art The Nature Study Centre, Wandsworth Common ( 07775 781332, artimatelondon@gmail.com : naturescope.co.uk 19 July – 12 August.

Active Art – Animate the Pixel Summer animation workshops, from pencil to pixel, screen dots to characters, grids to games and moving gifs to mini stories. Learn stop frame animation techniques, plus editing and sound. Age 6-13, 9.30am–3pm.

Eddie Catz Putney, Wimbledon and Earlsfield • First Floor, 68-70 Putney High Street SW15 1SF • 42 Station Road SW19 2LP • 279 Magdalen Road SW18 3NZ ( 3475 5268 : eddiecatz.com Throughout Summer Holidays.

Holiday Workshops Eddie Catz will be running themed drop off summer drop off

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workshops for 4-8 year olds in its three SW London venues plus Mum & Me Sessions for Toddlers throughout July & August including: Science, Lego, Cookery, Dance, Drama, Mini Yoga, Soccer, Make a Bear and Playball! Eddie Catz appears twice daily to meet the children too! See website for a full listing. Camps include a free play at Eddie Catz, refreshments and lunch.

Fulham Start Centre and St Andrew’s Church, Fulham SW6 ( 07966 893674, caroline@etpatatipatata.com : etpatatipatata.com 18-22 July, 25-29 July and 1-5 August.

Fun in French Summer Day Camp 100% French club, 100% fun. An unforgettable week of learning – all en francais! French classes, workshops and activities, with French dancing and storytelling, ages 4-13, 9am-3pm.

Club Petit Pierrot Chelsea and Notting Hill ( 7385 5565, adminpp@btconnect.com

Club Petit Pierrot : clubpetitpierrot.co.uk 18-29 July.

Summer Holiday Clubs Do you want your children to have fun and flourish while doing lots of arts & crafts, cooking, drama, outdoor sporty games, singing and learn French effortlessly at the same time? Fun French Easter Holiday clubs across London for ages 3-5 and 68. 9am-1pm or 9am-3pm.

French and Music Ensemble Clapham Common ( 07854 336346, contact@frenchandmusic ensemble.co.uk : frenchandmusicensemble.co.uk 22-26 August. Creative Music Day Camp in French Activities include musical creativity, ensemble playing, singing in French, drumming, and French and music workshops.

Ages 8-12, 9am-4pm, £300 for the week, 10% discount for siblings.

Fun with Fimo West London ( 8992 3767 : funwithfimoclay.co.uk 15, 22 and 29 July, 31 August, 5 and 6 September.

Holiday Activity Sessions Fun and creative sessions, fully supervised and non-messy.

Includes Miniature Mice, All About the Elephants and A Picture of Peru. Age 6+, bring a packed lunch, 10.15am-4.15pm, £50, email to book on fimofun@tiscali.co.uk.

Landmark Arts Centre Ferry Road, Teddington TW11 9NN ( 8977 7558,

Sew Me Pretty

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Summer holiday activities listings, part 1 Allsorts Drama Notting Hill Prep, 95 Lancaster Road W11 25-29 July More House School, 22–24 Pont Street SW1 18-22 July ( 8969 3249, info@allsortsdrama.com : allsortsdrama.com Summer Holiday Drama Workshops - 9.30am-3.30pm, ages 4–6 and 7-11, £220 for the week with sibling and early bird discounts.

MUSIC, DANCE & DRAMA Act Summer Drama Week Broomwood Hall Upper School, 68-74 Nightingale Lane, SW12 8NR Rehearse and perform a 'Play in a Week' of The Wizard of OZ. Act Drama is lead by professional actors. Children are encouraged to free their imagination and express their creativity; it builds confidence and self esteem.

Includes fun drama games, dance, singing, rehearsals and loads of fun! Full performance at the end of the week. £175 (£145 sibling discount) 25th-29th July 10am-3pm.

Contact Jane Cameron. ( 07976 873161 actdrama@googlemail.com : actdrama.co.uk

Amanda’s Action Club Skylark Café, Wandsworth Common SW18 3RT ( 01895 623999, info@amandasactionclub.co.uk : amandasactionclub.co.uk Throughout Summer Holidays.

Active Music Baby and Toddler Classes Fun and energetic, for little ones and older children too. £10 pay as you go, check website for times.

Mozo Island Music Explorers Ritz Music, 88 Sheen Road, Richmond TW9 1UF ( 07899 811703, mozoisland@gmail.com : mozoisland.com Dates throughout the summer holidays TBC. The Summer Music Camp Discover musical instruments and great pop songs on a tropical adventure. Electric/acoustic guitar, ukulele, keyboard, singing, drumming with art. Solve puzzles, follow a treasure map, win prizes.

Ages 5-8, 9.30am till 2pm, or half days, £19-£39 per day.

Perform Drama

Perform Drama St Stephens Church Hall SW15 2RS 25-29 July Baden Powell House SW7 5JS 8-12 August ( 0845 400 4000 enquiries@perform.org.uk : perform.org.uk The Secret Garden Summer Holiday Courses Be whisked away to the mysterious and magical world of Misselthwaite Manor in these 5day holiday courses. Based on Francis Hodgson Burnett’s classic tale, the course is led by experienced theatre professionals who will nurture and inspire every step of the way. Ages 7-12, 10am-3pm, £330 for the 5 days, 25% sibling discount, book on ( 7255 9120.

Perform Drama St Francis Xavier College SW12 8EN – 25-29 July Baden Powell House SW7 5JS – 25-29 July and 1-5 August St Stephens Church Hall SW15 2RS – 15-19 August ( 0845 400 4000 enquiries@perform.org.uk : perform.org.uk 25-29 July. The Jungle Book Holiday Courses

This summer your young cub will have the wildest week ever putting on a show about Mowgli and his friends. Based on Rudyard Kipling’s classic, the courses are led by actors, musicians and dancers and end with a minimusical on the last day. Ages 4-7, 10am-3pm, £225 for 3 days, £330 for 5 days, 25% sibling discount, book on 020 7255 9120.

Putney Arts Theatre Ravenna Road SW15 6AW ( 8788 6943, info@putneyartstheatre.org.uk : putneyartstheatre.org.uk 25-29 July.

Sharks vs Jets On the harsh streets of New York two gangs, the Sharks and the Jets, battle for control of the turf.

But what happens when the boarders blur? Group 64’s renowned musical in a week is back - a fantastic way to develop musical theatre skills with a performance at the end of the week. Age 11-16, 10am-4pm, £105, 10% sibling discount.

1-5 August.

A Spoon Full of Sugar Tell the magical story of the world’s favourite Nanny and her adventures, where you will be dancing and singing to

Sparks (formerly Studio Film School) Balham and Chelsea ( 7101 9329 hello@sparks-ignite.com : sparks-ignite.com Dates in July and August TBC. Summer Workshop The best-selling summer workshop is back to give young filmmakers aged 7-18 the opportunity to produce their own movie masterpiece, before treading the red carpet at their VIP premiere event in the West End. Check website for details.

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Summer holiday activities listings, part 1 the finished song at the end. Ages 8-11, £105 for 3 afternoons or £35 per afternoon, snacks provided.

Stagecoach Battersea Northcote Lodge School 26 Bolingbroke Grove SW11 6EL ( 07956 288928, Batterea@stagecoach.co.uk : stagecoach.co.uk/Battersea 25-29 July. Summer Holiday Performing Arts Camp Join them for 5 fabulous days of everything 1950s. Put on a show in five days (or mornings for little performers aged 4-6). Enjoy first class lessons in dance (jazz/street/musical theatre), acting and singing and put it all together in a free performance for family and friends at the end of the week. It'll be a Summer Lovin' kind of week! 4-6 year olds 9.30am-12.30pm, £145. 7-16 year olds 10am-4pm, £175.

Stagecoach Fulham

Exciting summer workshop with Stagecoach unforgettable songs. Age 7-11, 10am-4pm, £105, 10% sibling discount.

8-10 August.

Jungle Jive Welcome to jungle jive, where this summer members of the jungle forget who they are. What happens when a mouse wants to be a tiger or a Hippo a bird? A fantastic experience to help develop confidence and creativity in a fun and safe environment.

Age 4-7, 10am-4pm, £105, 10% sibling discount.

Song Academy Holy Trinity Church, Brook Green W6 7BL ( 07710 023743, contact@songacademy.co.uk : songacademy.co.uk 1-3 August.

Summer Holiday Workshops Develop creative lyric writing skills, improvise melodies and harmonies and compose instrumental parts and solos. Each workshop is over two afternoons at 2-5pm, with a performance of

French and music ensemble

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All Saints C of E Primary School, Bishops Avenue SW6 6ED Call ( 0845 2025 727, fulham@stagecoach.co.uk : stagecoach.co.uk/fulham 25-29 July. West End Kids / West End Little Kids Summer Holiday Workshops Over the course of 5 exciting, action-packed days students will experience every aspect of live theatre: casting, rehearsing and performing on stage. Learn numbers from popular West End productions such as Matilda, Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, Into the Woods and The Lion King. On the final day perform a new production to family and friends. Ages 4-6, 9.15am-12.30pm, £155 (£135 siblings). Age 6-18, 9am-4pm, £195 (£155 siblings).

Stagecoach Putney St Stephen's Church SW15 2RS ( 0845 265 7050, putney@stagecoach.co.uk : stagecoach.co.uk/putney 1-5 August.

Summer Workshop 5 days of fun, working with a talented team to rehearse and perform for family and friends.

No previous experience necessary – just tonnes of enthusiasm!

Age 4-17.

Stagecoach Wimbledon The Rutherford Theatre, Wimbledon High School ( 8946 3400 wimbledon@stagecoach.co.uk : stagecoach.co.uk/wimbledon 25-29 July and 1-5 August. Put on a show in 5 days Put on a musical show in a course led by top professionals and perform in a theatre at the end of the week to family and friends.

Make friends, build confidence, learn new skills and be part of a fabulous show. With a Wicked theme for ages 7-16 and Peter Pan for the younger ones. Age 416, see website for prices, early bird and sibling discounts available.

Siegeris Dance Merton Hall 76 Kingston Road, SW19 1LA : siegerisdance.com 1-5 August Five fun-filled days of dance (ballet, street jazz, tap) and musical theatre ending in a costumed show for family and friends to enjoy. 5- 6 yrs, 7 - 8 yrs, 8 yrs £160 10% discount for siblings, 10am - 3pm.

Sparks Film making workshops

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Summer holiday activities listings, part 1 friends: pick your sport and they’ll provide the coach, equipment and place.

SwimWay East Sheen, Putney, Kensington and Wimbledon ( 8871 3972, info@swimway.co.uk : swimway.co.uk Throughout July and August.

Swimming Courses Intensive courses to improve your child’s swimming technique, on a private or semi-private basis.

Courses run for half an hour each day, book early to avoid disappointment. Age 3-9, dates and times dependent on venue.

SwimWay will run swimming courses throughout August

SPORT Central London Golf Centre Burntwood Lane SW17 0AT ( 8871 2468 : clgc.co.uk 11 July – 2 September.

Summer Holiday Junior Golf Camps

What better way to spend the holidays than improving your golf at one of these fun camps with an array of skills challenges, competitions and tasks. For children of all levels, includes golf coaching, daily fun competitions, skill challenges and prizes. £30, 9am-12pm, £45, 9am-3pm.

Chelsea FC Soccer School Venues across SW London ( 7957 8220 londondevelopment@ chelseafc.com / soccerschools@chelseafc.com : chelseafc.com/foundation / : chelseasoccerschools.co.uk Throughout Summer Holidays.

London Soccer School For boys and girls aged 4-13.

Times vary according to course, from £30.

Fulham FC Foundation Venues in Fulham ( 0870 442 5432, holidaycourses@fulhamfc.com : fulhamfc.com Throughout Summer Holidays.

Holiday Courses Holiday courses for all abilities in a fun and challenging environment. 3-5yrs, 9-11am, 614 yrs, 9am-3pm, from £15 per day.

Kiddikicks Across South West London ( 7937 7965, sarah@kiddikicks.co.uk : kiddikicks.couk Throughout Summer Holidays.

Holiday Sessions Kiddikicks (football 18m to 5 years) Kiddisports (multi-sport 18m to 5 years) and Ligasoccer (football Under 8’s) sessions run throughout the holidays. Or arrange a bespoke session (1 to 3 hours) for your player and their

Urban Ascent Rock Climbing Unit 5 Parsons Green Depot, 3335 Parsons Green Lane, Fulham SW6 4HH ( 7751 0913, info@urbanascent.co.uk : urbanascent.co.uk Throughout Summer Holidays.

Holiday Climbing Club Get the most out of this Summer holiday with rock climbing sessions, daily at 1.30pm, 3pm and 4.30pm, each session lasts 1 hour and costs £12, ages 5 and up. Book ahead to avoid disappointment.

Youngstars MultiSports and Activity Camp Clapham, Parsons Green, Putney and Wimbledon ( 07920 426499/07749 343116, info@young-stars.co.uk : young-stars.co.uk 25 July – 2 September.

Holiday Activity Camps Plenty of fun, games and excitement whilst being introduced to all aspects of sports in an all inclusive and noncompetitive environment. 3-7 years, times and prices vary.

DAY CAMPS Activ Camp Barnes, Wandsworth, Wimbledon, Tooting ( 07896 546067 : activcamps.com Throughout Summer Holidays.

Holiday Camps Fun-packed multi-activity camps for children aged 4-14, including dodgeball, quad biking, inflatables, water slides, indoor rock climbing, swimming, crazy crash mats, foam stick hockey, obstacle courses, the list goes on and on…

Dates and times vary according to venue, from £37 per day.

First Hand Experiences All Saints Church Hall, 70a Fulham High Street SW6 ( 07917 583759 contact@firsthandexperiences.co.uk : firsthandexperiences.co.uk 4-29 July and 1 August – 2 September.

Summer Camps Summer camps full of time old traditions with a modern twist.

Visit a working City Farm to meet their new arrivals, Kew Gardens to be 'plant detectives' and Richmond Park to test your navigation skills with a Spring scavenger hunt. Build team spirit through song, drama, art, craft and healthy whole food. £280 for the week or £65 per day including lunch, snacks, transport and trips, sibling discount offered. Half day options for 4 year olds, £140 for the week or £45 per day.

Super Camps Several sites across SW and beyond.

See website for all locations. ( 01235 467 300 : supercamps.co.uk From 8am to 6pm. For ages 4 to 14yrs.

A programme of well- organised games, sports and creative

Football at Burntwood Burntwood School, Burntwood Lane, London, SW17 0AQ info@footballatburntwood.co.uk : footballatburntwood.co.uk ( 07875 581376 Throughout Summer Holidays A new football club for boys and girls aged 4 – 11. All levels welcome.

Come along to learn new skills, play matches and have fun.

10.00am–3.00pm or 10.00am–12.00 pm. £25 per day or £15 per half day. Deals for siblings and friends booked together.

Run by FA Licensed coaches in a safe, secure location.

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Summer holiday activities listings, part 1 activities designed to keep children energised and entertained in the holidays. New themes for 2016 RAW adventure, Great super camps bake-off, a passion for... super science Rated ‘Outstanding’ by Ofsted for running superb holiday activities that stretch young bodies and inspire young minds in safe, secure settings.

Role Models Across SW London ( 07825 598344, hugo@rolemodels.me : rolemodels.me 18-22 July and 30 August – 2 September.

Summer Confidence and Resilience Courses The courses will focus on combining core competencies looked for by the top selective schools with a more general focus on mindset growth. 10am-3pm, ages 7-13, dates and ages vary depending on venue, prices vary depending on course.

FREE ACTIVITIES Bank of England Museum

Bishop’s Avenue SW6 6EA ( 7736 3233 : fulhampalace.org 7, 21 and 24 July.

Palace Stories Hear the Palace’s history brought to life in these tales of the characters who lived here and stories inspired by our beautiful surroundings. Free, no booking necessary.

10 July. Museum Drop-in During this Georgian themed family drop-in, try on period costume, handle artefacts and learn about the history of Fulham Palace. Free, no booking necessary.

DAYS OUT Get Active Day King George’s Park, Wandsworth SW18 4AZ 9 July Fun fair rides, bouncy castles, food and drink, face painting.

Lots of freebies from different Leisure and sports companies to be won.

5 different zones: Kids, Healthy and Active, Run riot (football, cricket, rugby, tennis etc.) urban sports etc. 12pm-5pm

Super Camps have a wide variety of options Make a splash at the Wimbledon Park watersports outdoor centre!

Activities include sailing, multiwatersports and teen supreme!

Also try windsurfing and kayaking. Courses from just £10 per hour and multi activity day camps cost from just £20. Ages 5 + (depending on activity) Places fill up quickly so book now at : merton.gov.uk/Activeplus

This listing will be kept updated on www.familiessouthwest.co.uk Horrible History Merton

Bartholomew Lane EC2R 8AH ( 7601 4878 : bankofengland.co.uk/museum 25 July – 2 September.

Every Image Tells a Story Make your Museum visit a day to remember by creating your own photo album. Choose your favourite museum objects from a selection of images and use your creative talents to tell your own story. 10am-4.30pm, drop in.

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Get Active Merton Get active with Merton’s range of leisure activities this Summer. Find something for everyone with arts, sports and leisure and watersports courses. Learn horse riding at Wimbledon's Ridgeway stables or brush up on your racquet skills with tennis & badminton. Also choose from football and golf plus crafts and music classes for the creative minded.

The Chalke Valley History Festival 27 June – 3 July 2016 From one week a normally sleepy corner of South-West Wiltshire will come alive to sound of Merlin engines, cannon-fire, muskets and music. A celebration of the past like no other, the Festival offers talks, living history entertainment, children’s art and craft activities, interactive experiences, plus a series of breathtaking short air displays. Designed to inspire, excite and inform, and fun for all the family! : cvhf.org.uk

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Mindfulness for children using creative breathing techniques, visualisation and other fun activities

I can help your child • relieve anxieties and fears • relieve exam stress • improve sleep patterns • increase self-esteem and confidence • develop concentration skills Sessions can be 1-1 or group in central location in Putney Ellen Ley, BA (Hons) Early Years professional status Dip Counselling, Children & Young People ellenley@btinternet.com 020 8789 2474/07790 782157 Trained and qualified with founder and internationally renowned author Lorraine Murray

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June 2016

Special Needs – What’s on free flying demonstrations in the Falconry Arena - a fantastic visual show featuring a range of birds including hawks, vultures, falcons and owls. Meet the Falconer and Meet the Owls sessions take place at the Bird of Prey Centre each month.

Museum of London

Young Amici, at the Lyric Hammersmith

Things to do and places to go THEATRE

DAYS OUT /MUSEUMS

Lyric Hammersmith

The British Museum

Lyric Square, King Street W6 0QL : lyric.co.uk To 4 June Monstersaurus Follow the young inventor Monty as he creates a world of whacky inventions and incredible monsters, but what is he going to do with them all? This energetic show full of thrills, spills, magic and mayhem will delight the whole family with original music and plenty of audience participation. 11am and 1pm, ages 3-7, £10 Wednesdays to 29 June Young Amici A new inclusive dance theatre group for disabled and non-disabled young people.

The classes are fully inclusive and suitable for all levels of experience. Experience dance theatre through various improvisation techniques and the Amici Magic. 4.30–6pm, ages 13–21 FREE Fridays to 8 July Friday Club Friday Club supports disabled people to access Action on Disability’s youth service offer and provides an opportunity and environment to develop independence and peer relations.

Explore a variety of different activities such as circus skills, drama and multisport. 3.15pm6.15pm, age 11-16 FREE Mondays until 27 June Move-it Mondays Express yourself, get moving and develop your dance technique. This is an inclusive dance group codelivered by DanceWest and Action on Disability. 5–6.30pm, age 11-25 FREE

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Great Russell Street WC1B 3DG : britishmuseum.org Throughout June Touch Tours Tours of the permanent galleries for visually impaired visitors. See website for details.

Cutty Sark King William Walk, Greenwich SE10 9HT : rmg.co.uk 11 June Tour in British Sign Language Explore the ship and its fascinating story on this audio-described tour for blind and partially-sighted visitors. Get hands-on with history on the world’s last remaining tea clipper. £17/£13.50 concessions (includes visitors with disabilities), includes admission to the ship, sighted companions enter free. 11.30am-12.30pm and 1.30-2.30pm

Imperial War Museum

150 London Wall EC2Y 5HN : museumoflondon.org.uk 31 August BSL Great Fire of London Family Walk Is the baker of Pudding Lane to blame? What did Samuel Pepys bury in his garden?

How did they put out the fire?

Join us on this interactive British Sign Language family walk to find all the answers. 2pm, £7/£5, call the box office on 020 7001 9844 to book.

15 June, 20 July and 17 August Audio Described Tours Tours include Expanding City, Pleasure Gardens and Victorian Walk.

•For visitors with SEN they also offer Morning Explorer sessions at weekends and in school holidays.

These are ASC friendly sessions run by Visitor Hosts which give families with children who have an autistic spectrum condition the opportunity to enjoy the museum before the arrival of the general public.

Painshill Park Portsmouth Road, Cobham Surrey KT11 1JE : painshill.co.uk/education/ special-needs Painshill Park’s Education Department run sensory based activities for school groups throughout the year. See website for details.

Science Museum Exhibition Road SW7 2DD : sciencemuseum.org.uk 16 July Early Birds session, plus their BSL program SIGNtific Includes A Star Is Born Storytelling in British Sign Language at 1.30pm and The Bubble Show in BSL at 3.30pm 4 June SIGNtific Day. Includes Up, Up, and Away Storytelling in BSL at 1.30pm and Magic Lanterns in BSL, time TBC

Wallace Collection Hertford House, Manchester Square W1U 3BN : wallacecollection.org 2 June RNIB Family Day. This event is for blind and partially sighted children and their families. Join musicians from Tactile, a new ensemble of blind, partially sighted and sighted musicians, to create your own brand new piece of music and tactile score. Booking essential on ( 7391 2273 or james.risdon@rnib.org.uk.

11am–4pm FREE

CLASSES First Aid For Life : firstaidforlife.org.uk First Aid For Life run regular courses at Garratt Park School and have run training for profoundly deaf teenagers with English as a second language and for groups of children with special needs and a huge variety of physical and sensory disabilities.

They also run First Aid training for children, teenagers and adults with special needs specifically tailored to their requirements.

Lambeth Road SE1 6HZ : iwm.org.uk First Sunday of every month Audio-described Tours Experience the First World War Galleries through one of these live audio-description tours for blind and partially sighted visitors, ages 14+. 9.30am, booking essential on 020 7091 3157 or visitorenquiries@iwm.org.uk FREE

Leeds Castle Maidstone, Kent ME17 1PL : leeds-castle.com Leed’s Castle’s education workshops and activities for children are fully inclusive so that any schools or groups who have children with special needs can be catered for. They also have daily

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What’s on ilcircolobazaar@gmail.com 7th June 12.30-8pm & 8th June 10.30-8pm Italian food, jewelry, home decor, cashmere, leather accessories and beauty products etc. Entry £3

Hammersmith and Fulham Arts Fest

New Magic Garden at Hampton Court Palace

DIARY DATES See more events in our online What’s On calendar

some wonderful music. £10 per adult, children free, tickets online or on the door. Dates vary depending on venue.

The Baby Sleep Show Kensington Town Hall : babysleepshow.co.uk 4 June Tried and trusted products proven to help your little one sleep, plus the UK’s leading sleep experts all under one roof.

NCT Kensington And Chelsea Meet Up Gambado Chelsea, 7 Townmead Road SW6 2PY : nct.org.uk/branches/ kensington-chelsea Every Wednesday in June A great opportunity to meet other mums with babies under 1.

9.30-11am, £1, show your NCT card to get in.

Do-re-mi Babies Concerts Barnes, Chelsea, Fulham, Wandsworth : doremibabies.co.uk Dates throughout June Inspirational and fun classical concerts. With different musicians, instruments and programmes there is plenty to inspire your little ones. Babies and toddlers are welcome to crawl, dance, sing, cry, nappy change and more, so you can relax and enjoy

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At OSO Arts Centre, 49 Station Road, Barnes SW13 OLF : richmond.gov.uk/arts 9 June Family Explorers Enjoy parent and child-led play with art activities. Plus Adventure Time, group songtime, storytime and an interactive imaginative journey with props and nursery rhymes.

Frame Film Festival

Southbank Centre Belvedere Road SE1 8XX : southbankcentre.co.uk/RoaldDahl Until 3 July The Wondercrump World of Roald Dahl Did you know that Roald Dahl used to be a spy? And a fighter pilot, inventor and historian of chocolate? Embark on a magical and interactive journey and discover the secrets of a writer beloved by gazillions of children. Ages 7–12

Orleans House Gallery

First Aid Course Battersea ( 8133 8552 : firstaidtraininglondon.co.uk info@firstaidtraininglondon.co.uk Accredited Paediatric First Aid Check website for details. £80+vat

Cutty Sark King William Walk SE10 9HT : rmg.co.uk/cuttysark 4-5 June Family Fun Weekend Celebrate Portugal Day by making your own colourful cockerel decorations to take home.

11.30am-1.30pm, 2-4pm, all ages.

Included in price of admission.

Across SW London : framefilmfestival.com 9-12 June A selection of new and classic feature films celebrating dance and movement, including a tribute to Gene Kelly. With workshops, seminars and exhibitions, plus a live performance from BalletBoyz.

Royal Opera House Screenings at Trafalgar Square : roh.org.uk/about/bp-bigscreens/london 10 June La Boheme Enjoy operatic royalty in Puccini's best-loved opera in the heart of Trafalgar Square. 7.30pm

Museum of London Docklands No.1 Warehouse, W India Dock Road E14 4AL Fulham : museumoflondon.org.uk 11-12 June Recycle Challenge Join the fun to find new ways to look after our city and planet at this family festival weekend. 12-4pm, age 5+ FREE 25 June Stay Afloat Create your own clay ships based on the examples in their collection in this art workshop. 12-1.30pm and 2.304pm, age 5+ FREE

Mum2Mum Market Ricards Lodge High School, Lake Road, Wimbledon SW19 7HB : mum2mummarket.co.uk 11 June Check out this award-winning nearly new sale for all of your baby and children’s bargains.

Everything for sale is pre-loved and of a quality brand in great condition. All at bargain prices too! 2-4pm

Cheeki Monkeys Markets Broomwood Methodist Church.

June 4 & 25, July 16 : cheekimonkeys.co.uk/#!londonsw11/cp45 Buy and sell second-hand market.

Museum of London 150 London Wall EC2Y 5HN : museumoflondon.org.uk 3-4 June The London Tower Help design the London Tower at this interactive storytelling session. 22.30pm and 3-3.30pm FREE 4-5 June London Bridge is Falling Down Design the perfect bridge at this art drop-in. 12.30-2pm and 2.30-4pm FREE

Copyright Museum of London Docklands Maeve

We took every care in preparing these entries but sometimes events are cancelled or times changed.

Please double check event with the organiser to avoid disappointment.

Venues across Hammersmith and Fulham : hf-artsfest.com 6-12 June Celebrating the cultural richness of the borough including theatre, music, dance, film, art and literature workshops and events.

Check the website for events.

Bedford Park Festival St Michael and All Angels Church, Chiswick, Bath Road W4 1TT : bedfordparkfestival.org 10-26 June One of London's best arts and community events, attracting thousands of people from the local area and further afield and raising money for local charities and the work of St Michael and All Angels Church. There is something for everyone.

Italian Summer Bazaar Chelsea Old Town Hall King Road, SW3 5EE

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June 2016

What’s on Portsmouth Road, Cobham KT11 1JE : painshill.co.uk 19 June Father’s Day Spend the day with your father in the beautiful landscape. Free to fathers when accompanied by their children.

10am-6pm

Ham House Ham Street, Richmond-uponThames, Surrey TW10 7RS : nationaltrust.org.uk/hamhouse-and-garden 19 June Father’s Day Join them for lots of fun and activities and see if you can complete their Father’s Day challenge. 10am-5pm

Giffords Circus’ Wild West Extravaganza – The Painted Wagon Chiswick House and Gardens W4 2QN : giffordscircus.com 30 June -18 July Giffords Circus all-new show The Painted Wagon is a wild west extravaganza promising more vintage magic with an original whip-crackin', horse-wranglin', hell-raisin' show.

Splash Fest Book now!

Battersea Park SW11 4NJ : splashfest.co.uk 7 August London's first family-friendly aqua obstacle course! Featuring five zones of water-themed challenges over a 2.5km trail – as well as a lively event village – Splash Fest will see families conquering slides, foam, water spouts and more.

Organised by the Royal National Lifeboat Institution, Splash Fest is ideal for families with children aged 7–12 and promises to be one of this summer’s unmissable events. Tickets on sale now, from £10, all profits to RNLI.

Kids Week Book now!

Across London : kidsweek.co.uk 1-31 August Now in its 19th year, Kids Week encourages young people to experience the magic of live theatre, with one child aged 16 or under going free to a wide range of shows when accompanied by an adult paying full price. Choose from Wicked, Mamma Mia!, The Comedy About A Bank Robbery

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and more. Children can also take part in a fantastic range of free activities and events at many of the West End’s iconic venues, often with the cast and crew.

Tickets on sale 14 June.

DRAMA See more events in our online What’s On calendar

Battersea Arts Centre Lavender Hill SW11 5TN : bac.org.uk 4-5 June Grandad and Me A living storybook about loss, longing and the treasures of memory and imagination. A little girl traces her grandad’s footsteps on a magical adventure through time and space. For ages 5+, 11am and 2.30pm, £12.50/£10

The Cambridge Theatre Seven Dials, 32-34 Earlham Street WC2H 9HU : uk.matildathemusical.com Throughout June Matilda The Musical Inspired by the twisted genius of Roald Dahl, Matilda revels in the anarchy of childhood, the power of imagination and the inspiring story of a girl who dares to change her destiny.

Bookings for Kids Week theatre start 14 June favela. This year the Olympics are coming to his famous city and Leandro dreams of running for Brazil and winning gold medals but with no athletics club for him to join will he succeed? £7/£5, 2pm and 4pm Every Sunday 3 July – 28 August Pinot the Musical A fun, family singalong-in-French show suitable for all ages but especially for 8–14 year olds (Key Stages 2 and 3). A young Russian cyclist has a dream to win the Tour de France in memory of his champion-cyclist great-grandfather. So he and his Cossack-dancing friends escape from Russia and enter France illegally…2.30pm, £10/£8

The Chickenshed Theatre Chase Side, Southgate N14 4PE : chickenshed.org.uk 17-25 June Tales from the Shed at Dugdale Centre Vibrant, interactive theatre shows perfect for young children. They are informal, lively and amazingly engaging as the performers and audience share the same space children are always encouraged to make a lot of noise and to make the story happen. Age 0-6, £6, free to babies under 1 year.

25-26 June The Youth Theatre Weekend Itch Ever thought about applying to join their Youth Theatre? Are your friends members but you have no idea what they do? If so, then this two-day taster is the perfect chance to find out and join in. Age 13-17, 10am-5pm, £10

Colour House Theatre Watermill Way SW19 2RD : colourhousetheatre.co.uk 2 July Leandro Welcome to the life of Leandro, an 8-year-old boy who has lived his whole life in a Rio

The Little Angel Theatre 14 Dagmar Passage, Cross Street N1 2DN : littleangeltheatre.com 18-19 June The Snitchity Titch Show Snitch meets a Dodo bird on Dodo Island. This particular Dodo has a very special magic safe full of gold, but as luck would have it a robber comes along and steals the gold! Can Snitch get it back for Dodo? Find out in this hilarious glove puppet show.

To 26 June We're Going on a Bear Hunt A family go on an expedition of a lifetime – running down the grassy bank, wading through the cold river, squelching over the oozy mud, then peering into a cave… what will they find?

29 June – 3 July Tom Thumb DNA Puppetry & Visual Theatre present England’s oldest tale of a tiny hero in changing times. Follow Tom’s magical journey from wizard Merlin and the Fairy Queen to his quest from King Arthur to defeat a fearsome dragon.

New Wimbledon Theatre The Broadway, Wimbledon SW19 : atgtickets.com/venues/newwimbledon-theatre 1-2 July English National Ballet School: Summer Performances English National Ballet School’s talented young dancers will be showcasing their skills at the School’s annual Summer Performances. The programme features a classical repertoire along with world premieres. £16.90 15-16 July LazyTown Live 2016 A 60 minute nonstop highly interactive and energetic show, jam-packed with singing, dancing, spectacular acrobatics and music, featuring original tracks from the hit TV show. From £14.75 20-30 July Chitty Chitty Bang Bang One of the world's favourite musicals, Chitty Chitty Bang Bang will have audiences of all ages flying high with its mixture of madness, intrigue and exuberance. From £20

The Polka Theatre 240 The Broadway, Wimbledon SW19 1SB : polkatheatre.com 10-12 June Boxy and Sticky Welcome to the gloriously imaginative world of two characters revelling in the games familiar to all children. An entrancing, mischievous theatrical adventure from Sarah Argent (who created Grandad, Me and Teddy Too at Polka and Out of the Blue). £12/£9 22 June -14 August Chester Tuffnut Meet Chester, the daredevil treemole on a summer Woodland escapade.

Chester Tuffnut isn’t your ordinary treemole, in fact he is one of kind. Age 2-5, £19/£9

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What’s on Putney Arts Theatre Ravenna Road SW15 6AW : ticketsource.co.uk/putney artstheatre 21-25 June Lady Windermere's Fan Lady Windermere is young, aristocratic, beautiful and a bit of a prig. Supposing her husband to be unfaithful, she flees to the arms of her long-time admirer Lord Darlington and so brings herself to the brink of social suicide. The plot thickens and finally all is well...except that it isn't…

The Royal Albert Hall Kensington Gore SW7 2AP : royalalberthall.com Every Wednesday in June Storytelling and Music Sessions Session for babies and toddlers, encouraging interaction between parents and their little ones using musical instruments,

singing, movement and stories.

Ages 0-4, 10am and 11.30am, £5 1-12 June Swan Lake With 60 swans, stunning costumes and sensational lighting, experience a choreographic kaleidoscope as the Royal Albert Hall is transformed into a magical lake.

2.30pm and 7.30pm 18 June African Drumming for Kids Music and humour are central to this workshop as the participants discover the surprising origin of djembe drums and are an essential part of the action throughout. It also includes some South African gumboot dancing!

10am, 12pm and 2pm, age 3+

Southbank Centre Belvedere Road SE1 8PX : southbankcentre.co.uk To 3 July The Wondercrump World of Roald Dahl Did you know that

Roald Dahl used to be a spy? And also a fighter pilot, inventor and historian of chocolate? Embark on a magical and interactive journey and discover the secrets of a writer beloved by gazillions of children. Ages 7-12

MUSEUMS & GALLERIES See more events in our online What’s On calendar

Bank Of England Museum Threadneedle Street EC2R 8AH : bankofengland.co.uk/education From 25 July Every Image Tells a Story Make your Museum visit a day to remember by creating your own photo album. Choose your favourite museum objects from a selection of images and use your

HALF TERM ACTIVITIES

East Molesey, Surrey KT8 9AU : hrp.org.uk/HamptonCourtPalace Throughout June The Magic Garden A brand new imaginative play garden for families, inspired by the palace’s past. Located in King Henry VIII’s former tiltyard discover something new around every twist and turn in an immersive world populated by mythical beasts, including a 25m dragon!

Besiege the battlements, storm the Tiltyard Towers and explore a mysterious secret grotto!

Included in palace admission.

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Royal Arsenal, Woolwich SE18 6ST : firepower.org.uk Throughout June In Their own Words An exhibition about the Great War bringing to life artillerymen of different nations, through extracts from their diaries, letters home and photographs.

Horniman Museum 100 London Road SE23 3PQ : horniman.ac.uk Every Saturday in June Hands on Family Workshop Fun family sessions exploring a different theme each week using real museum objects.

11.45am–12.30pm and 1–1.45pm Every Saturday in June Art Makers Have fun with art skills and exciting techniques to create something fabulous to take home. 1.30pm–2.15pm and 2.45–3.30pm

Trafalgar Square WC2N 5DN : nationalgallery.org.uk Every Sunday in June Family Sundays Activities designed for families to enjoy and learn together, 11am and 2pm, age 5-11 FREE

Vauxhall City Farm

Hampton Court Palace

Firepower - The Royal Artillery Museum

The National Gallery

Please see : familiessouthwest.co.uk for the longer listing which we keep updated

165 Tyers Street, SE11 5HS : vauxhallcityfarm.org To 5 June Half Term Activities Celebrate the official launch of the Farm’s new café and education centre with a fun filled week of farm, gardening, cookery and horse riding activities. 11am-4pm, entrance free, activities individually priced.

creative talents to tell your own story. 10am-4.30pm

Natural History Museum

National Insect Week at RHS Wisley

Golden Hinde Units 1 & 2 Pickfords Wharf, Clink Street SE1 9DG : goldenhinde.com Throughout June Golden Tour A new tour through stories, firing of the guns and raising of the anchor.

Including a special visit from a 16th century Barber Surgeon who discusses the hardships and illnesses that came with life at sea.

Age 6+, £15

RHS Garden Wisley Woking, Surrey, GU23 6QB : rhs.org.uk Just down the A3, Wisley is perfect for a day out from SW London. Late evening opening every Thursday in June.

28 May – 5 June May Half Term and Budding Gardeners As part of the RHS

Familiessouthwest.co.uk ( 8696 9680

Campaign for School Gardening, local schools have built their own mini show garden, which will be on show until 5 June and there will also be the chance for the public to vote for their favourite.

During May half term, bring the family for scouting-themed activities with an interactive orienteering trail around the garden.

4 – 5 June Birds of Prey Meet wonderful birds of prey up close and learn all about them during this weekend. Watch the birds in agility displays at 11am and 2pm each day.

23 – 26 June National Insect Week Immerse yourself in the hidden world of insects. As part of National Insect Week (20 – 26 June). RHS entomologists will be on hand to help you find out more and answer your questions.

Cromwell Road SW7 5BD : nhm.ac.uk 11 June Dino Snores Discover what really happens at the Museum when the staff and visitors have gone home. Dino Snores is for children aged 7–11, 7pm, ends 9.50am the following day, £60 (£54 Members) Throughout June Sensational Butterflies Follow chomping caterpillars turning into beautiful butterflies and along the way discover fascinating facts about one of our planet’s most amazing life cycles. Now in its eighth year, the tropical butterfly house is a favourite for children. £6.50, family £22

Science Museum Exhibition Road, South Kensington SW7 2DD : sciencemuseum.com Throughout June Leonardo da Vinci: The Mechanics of Genius The Mechanics of Genius brings the intricate mechanical concepts of

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June 2016

What’s on

V&A Museum of Childhood Cambridge Heath Road E2 9PA : vam.ac.uk/moc/events 15 June Multi-Storey Orchestra Concert Explore the museum during this atmospheric late-night performance by Multi-Story Orchestra, as part of the Spitalfields Music Summer Festival. 8.30pm, £15, book at spitalfieldsmusic.org.uk 15 June Pictures from the Park Talented young musicians from the borough perform alongside the Multi-Story Orchestra in the premiere performance of a piece

by Kate Whitley. Drop-in, all ages, 5pm FREE

DAYS OUT See more events in our online What’s On calendar

The Chelsea Physic Garden 66 Royal Hospital Road, Chelsea SW3 4HS : chelseaphysicgarden.co.uk 12 June Sunday Funday An assortment of drop-in activities for families.

12-4pm, admission fees apply.

Cutty Sark King William Walk, Greenwich SE10 9HT : rmg.co.uk 4-5 June Colourful Cockerels Celebrate Portugal Day by making your own colourful cockerel decoration to hang up at home. 11.30am1.30pm and 2-4pm, included in admission price.

Fulham Palace SW6 6EA : fulhampalace.org.uk 12, 19, 21 June Monthly Historical Tours Learn

June 2016

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the secrets of Fulham Palace on this Historical Tour through the grounds and public rooms of the Palace. £6, children free, no booking necessary.

16 June Palace Stories Hear the Palace’s history brought to life in these tales of the characters who lived here and stories inspired by their beautiful surroundings. No booking necessary. FREE 6, 7, 13, 14, 20, 21, 27 and 28 June The Palace Explorers Weekly parent/carer and toddler sessions for children aged 2-4. £3 per child, which includes a drink and healthy snack, booking essential.

12 June Bee Keeping at Fulham Palace Join their volunteer beekeepers for a demonstration and talk about the habits of bees, the life of a hive and how to look after a hive of bees.11am, £10, booking essential.

19 June Edwardian Garden Party The Bishops of London were well known for holding garden parties at Fulham Palace. Help them celebrate this tradition and come along for a day of family fun in the garden. 1-4pm FREE

A FEW GREAT SUMMER FAIRS London Steiner School’s Medieval Family Fayre The Rookery, top of Streatham Common, Covington Way SW16 3XB : waldorflondon.co.uk 11 June Roll up! Roll up! A great day of old fashioned fun for all the family. With archery, market stalls, Medieval face painting, acrobatics, live entertainment, food, drink and storytelling in the Enchanted Wood. Under 18s free, adults £2.50, 12-6pm.

Wimbledon Guild Village Fair Wimbledon Common, Southside : wimbledonguildvillage fair.org.uk 18 June

A favourite with families, this fair offers two amazing Food Villages plus a music stage, jazz tent, a jousting event, zorbing and a farmers’ market. Highlights for 2016 include a fabulous dog show, mini funfair and an Adventure Village. 10.30am-5pm.

FREE

Friends of Dunraven Summer Fair Dunraven Primary School, Leigham Court Road SW16 2QB friendsofdunraven@yahoo.com 25 June Entry just 50p per adult with attractions including face painting, food and drink, bouncy castle, go karts, local traders, music, entertainment and much more! 11am-2pm.

The Abbeville Fete Abbeville Road, Clapham SW4 : abbevillefete.com 25 June Celebrating its 20th Anniversary, the annual Abbeville Fete returns to Clapham this summer with over 60 street stalls, a BBQ, dedicated kids zone, a fancy dress parade (this year’s theme seaside), live music and even a dog beauty pageant. 12pm to 6pm.

HMS Belfast The Queen's Walk SE1 2JH : iwm.org.uk/visits/hms-belfast 1-5 June and 18-19 June Tattoo T-Shirts Impress your friends and family by designing your very own t-shirt, inspired by traditional Navy tattoos, and the sailor legend of Davy Jones's Locker. 11am-12.30pm and 24pm

Wimbledon Guild Village Fair

Check out our website and What’s On calendar online for more wonderful info, you lucky people: familiessouthwest.co.uk

Morden Hall Park Morden Hall Road, Morden SM4 5JD : nationaltrust.org.uk/events 12 June Nature in the Park Join one of their guided walks led by members of Morden Hall Park's Nature Group, explore nature and learn more about the animals in the park. 2-3pm, admission fees apply.

The London Wetlands Centre Queen Elizabeth, Barnes SW13 9WT : wwt.org.uk To 5 June Pirate Treasure Hunt Ahoy there shipmates! Help Captain Blackbird find his lost treasure.

Aaarrr! £1 per trail (includes a small prize), plus paid admission

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Leonardo da Vinci’s restless and curious mind to life in a major interactive exhibition. £10 Throughout June Fox Talbot: Dawn of the Photograph A major exhibition exploring the work of British photography pioneer William Henry Fox Talbot. £8/£6 From 20 June Beyond the Lab: The DIY Science Revolution This exhibition explores the innovative ways in which members of the public are playing a greater role in ground-breaking scientific research than ever before.

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What’s on to the Centre. 10am–4pm.

9, 10, 16, 17, 23, 24 and 30 June, and 1 July.

Robin Hood - an interactive promenade play! With Richard the Lionheart absent, corruption and injustice are rife in England.

The country cries out for a champion and in the heart of the forest, a legend stirs… This summer, local theatre company Shadow Road Productions will bring a brand new, open air, promenade production to the London Wetland Centre. 6.30pm and 8.15pm, ages 8+, £20 9, 10, 16, 17, 23, 24 and 30 June, and 1 July Lates at London Wetland Centre Unwind with an evening stroll along the west route at London Wetland Centre. Bring your camera to make the most of the soft evening light, watch the wildlife or just enjoy relaxing in this tranquil nature reserve.

11 June – 17 July Weekend Family Activities The wildlife reserve is at its most colourful this time of year, with flowers in full bloom and the gardens looking glorious. Join them for pond dipping, outdoor crafts and plenty of naturethemed fun for families.

DAYS OUT OF TOWN See more events in our online What’s On calendar

Alice Holt Forest Bucks Horn Oak, Farnham, Surrey GU10 4LS : forestry.gov.uk/aliceholt 18 June Forest Survival Day Learn survival skills like Ray Mears and Bear Grylls. For ages 8+ with an adult, pre-book on 01420 476808, 07989652757 or email caroline.netley@sky.com. 10am3pm. £15 per child

Birdworld, Holt Pound Farnham, Surrey GU10 4LD : birdworld.co.uk 19 June Father’s Day Paper Plane Competition In celebration of Fathers Day, Birdworld will once again be holding their popular Paper Plane Competition. Great prizes for the furthest distance flown. 11am-4pm

Chiddingstone Castle Hill Hoath Road, Edenbridge , Kent TN8 7AD : chiddingstonecastle.org.uk 19 June Summer Vintage Fair

Firepower at the Royal Artillery Museum Colourful Summer Vintage Fair with stalls, refreshments, dancing and entertainment from bygone days. 11am-4pm

Hever Castle & Gardens Hever, Nr Edenbridge, Kent TN8 7NG : hevercastle.co.uk 19 June Father's Day: Supercars at Hever Castle The Henry Surtees Foundation presents a collection of Ferraris, F1 cars, classic motors and motorbikes. 10.30am-6pm, standard admission applies.

25-26 June Hever’s Home Front Step back

to the 1940s as re-enactors show what it would have been like to live and work in the country during the Second World War.

Leeds Castle Maidstone, Kent ME17 1PL : leeds-castle.com 12 June The Queen's 90th Birthday Party Join in their birthday party fit for the Queen with family games on the Pavilion Lawn. With a stilt walking band, Punch and Judy shows, plus raffle tickets drawn to win one of 90 cupcakes from their giant royal cake tower!

Included in the price of admission.

Violin and Piano Tuition Passionate about teaching.

Experienced. Conservatory diploma.

SW15 based. Home visits possible.

0208 785 6494 /07956 307624 Rustemvinni@mail.ru

FamiliesSouthWest.co.uk Tel: 020 8696 9680 Editorial: editor@familiessouthwest.co.uk News: news@familiessouthwest.co.uk Adverts/artwork: adverts@familiessouthwest.co.uk Events, diary dates, what’s on info: whatson@familiessouthwest.co.uk Next issue: July/August 2016 Deadline: Early June 2016 ISSN 1354-9553 All content ©Families SW 2016

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June 2016