Families London SW Issue 230 Oct 13

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October 2013

•School Feature •School Open Days •Fireworks •Halloween •Half term activities

Credit The Stephen Perse Foundation

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

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Tel: 020 8696 9680 FamiliesSouthWest.co.uk

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SouthWest

October 2013

Contents 04-05

News & info

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Personal development

Credit The Stephen Perse Foundation

Inspire yourself, change your life!

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Extra news Prime Minister to hear about wi-fi in schools 14-15

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

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Halloween Events

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Parenting

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

Say goodbye to being shy

Adverts/artwork: adverts@familiesmagazine.co.uk

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Events, diary dates, what’s on info: whatson@familiesmagazine.co.uk

Sports Feature, Part 1

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Next issue: November 2013 Deadline: early October •“Families® South West” heads a group of magazines.

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

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• School news • Open days • Let them fight their own battles • Dyslexia • What’s on the plate in your school dining hall?

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

• Printed by Ridgeway Press Ltd, Basingstoke, Hants.

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

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

35-42 Find us on Facebook & Twitter FamiliesSW

October 2013

SCHOOL FEATURE

Half-term activities listings

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What’s On • • • • •

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Theatre Museums & Galleries Days out Out of Town • Diary dates FIREWORKS! (and see our website)

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News

Make being good fun!

Radical Reward Charts, the brainchild of a busy mum of 4, are the perfect way to encourage your little one to behave. A parent’s best friend, the charts not only provide a unique experience for kids but are also works of art on your wall.

Effective and fun, they can be personalised so that positive behaviour is reinforced, making learning even more fun. Climb the chart with your own specially created character in your choice of environment, from Grungy Garden to Gruesome Graveyard or ‘Orrible Ocean. £14 including delivery. Worth a look! www.radicalrewardcharts.com

Do you run a small business?

Would you like publicity in our Local Christmas Gift Guide?

Families is about giving exposure to local companies and businesses. If you are local, sell products or services that parents might like to give as a present to an adult or a child then write to me, editor@familiesmagazine.co.uk, to check out availability and conditions.

Keep checking our What’s On calendar!

Our new online Calendar lets you search per category, age group, date or location. You can search for a museum activity, a show, a holiday workshop, a day out.

You can filter per age group, exact date or category.

It should save you hours Googling when planning a family day out!

Enjoy!

www.familiessouthwest.co.uk

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Wimbledon primary raises ££££ Bishop Gilpin Primary School in Wimbledon has found an innovative way around the government’s spending squeeze and has raised £1,000 towards a new playground. Parents and teachers have signed up to Give as you Live, a giving platform that lets users raise money for charities and good causes just by shopping online. Give as you Live claims back a percentage of your spend whenever you shop online – it is free to use and incurs no extra cost to the shopper at the same time as supporting any of the UK’s 200,000 registered charities.

Whenever users shop at over 2,400 participating online stores, Give as you Live collects a small donation from the retailer.

‘Now we’ve completed the playground, our next project is to improve the school library,’ said Jo Whelan, Friends of Bishop Gilpin PTA member. ‘Give as you Live is money for nothing and a vital revenue stream for the school. Because it’s free and so easy to install, schools across London should be reaping the benefits of this clever way to fundraise.’ www.giveasyoulive.com

French for children Don’t miss the new classes at Club Petit Pierrot this term. Two new Parent and Toddler groups are beginning at The Vestry, Christ Church SW3 on Mondays 3.45pm4.30pm for 1 to 3 year olds and 4.35pm-5.20pm for 2 to 4 year olds. Plus there is a drop-off class for older children at Christ Church Primary School, 1 Robinson Street SW3 on Mondays 3.45pm-4.30pm for 4 to 6 year olds. All classes are fun and stimulating and include activities such as songs, rhymes, dance, language games, sensorial activites, role-play, arts and crafts, puppets and more. Call 020 7385 5565 to book a free trial lesson. www.clubpetitpierrot.co.uk

National Poetry Day Mark this 3 October with a nationwide celebration of poetry. Poetry is for everyone, everywhere, from assemblies, bus-queues, cafes, greengrocers, hospitals and ice-rinks to waiting-rooms, yacht clubs and zoos. This year’s theme is water, with Coleridge’s great phrase ‘Water, water, everywhere’ as inspiration. Check out the website for a myriad of poems on the subject, together with ideas on how to turn the theme of water into lines of poetry. Participants this year are challenged to smuggle poetry into the most unlikely places, not just in libraries and classrooms but on fishing boats and ferries, via postcards, mobile phones and announcements on station platforms. Find out more at www.nationalpoetryday.co.uk

On the go?

Beat body issues

A new Map App solves the frustrations of London parents on the go, advising us where to find pramfriendly Tube stations and handy baby changing spots.

Gobaby offers more than 1,000 locations for easy baby changing as well as detailed accessibility information about the Tube and DLR stations. No more changing babies on dirty toilet floors or struggling, sweaty and tearful, up a long escalator.

Quick, reliable and easy to use, Gobaby is your new survival tool around the capital. Available from the App Store. www.gobabyapp.com •To find child friendly events near you browse our popular Whatson Calendar: go to www.familiesouthwest.co.uk

Beat children’s body image issues through play says a new report, claiming that active play gives less sporty children the confidence to beat anxieties. Counselling psychologist Dr Linda Papadopoulos, who has contributed to a new report written by the Make Time 2 Play campaign, says that with children as young as five expressing concerns about the way they look, parents, schools and policy makers must work together to improve children’s body image issues. With body confidence problems on the increase the report examines how play can be just as important as sport in getting children to participate in physical activity. www.maketime2play.co.uk

Tel: 020 8696 9680 FamiliesSouthWest.co.uk

News

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

Unwanted electricals?

To get rid of all your unwanted furniture and electricals try the British Heart Foundation. Their furniture and electrical store will collect everything from sofas, beds and tables to TVs, DVDs, washing machines and fridges. They will often collect right from your door and all proceeds go to an extremely good cause. Call 0844 417 9040 or book online at vhf.org.uk/collection. British Heart Foundation Furniture & Electrical Store, 36-38 Acre Lane, Brixton SW2 5SP.

New nursery Fledgings at the Palace Nursery is an exciting new childcare facility opening this autumn in Fulham Palace, SW6. Managed by Childcare & Business Consultancy Services, a charity providing childcare for over 50 years, the nursery is set in extensive grounds and aims to enhance children’s learning and development in a safe, secure and nurturing environment.

Contact them on 020 7738 1958 or info@cbcservices.org.uk to find out more. www.cbcservices.org.uk

Budding filmmakers If you have a future Kubrick, Lynch or Spielberg on your hands, why not sign them up for Studio Film School this autumn? Their Saturday Film Shoots inspire creativity and imagination in film, drama and music, as well as helping to develop confidence, and at the end of term your little one will bring home a DVD of their work as well as contributing towards a Red Carpet screening event. Older children explore different film styles from around the world as well as developing a host of practical skills in directing, acting for camera, camera operation, scriptwriting, set and costume design and editing. Sessions take place at Broomwood Hall School, Balham, and cost from £125 per term. www.studiofilmschool.co.uk 0845 533 3763.

The Big Draw The largest drawing festival in the world returns throughout the month of October, taking place in 20 countries across the world and offering 1400 events in the UK alone. The Big Draw connects people of all ages with museum and gallery collections and urban and rural spaces in new and enjoyable ways, offering unlimited scope for those who love to draw and those who think they can't.

Why not hold a Big Draw event in your school or local library? Get inspired and find out how to organise your own event, plus discover what events are taking place near you at www.campaignfordrawing.org/bigdraw

Forgot your lunch?

If your kids are always forgetting what to pack for school try TomTag, a brand new tool that helps them to remember everything. TomTag is a colourful daily checklist, personalised to a child’s own schedule that attaches easily to any school bag. Using fun pictures to show the items a child needs to remember, these visual clues make it perfect for younger children or non-readers as well as older kids and those with additional needs such as dyslexia, dyspraxia, autism or ADHD. Get them organised and make morning routines easier! £9.99 from www.orkidideas.com

New Battersea toyshop Have you checked out Marmalade250 yet? This independent toyshop supplies an extensive range of contemporary gifts for children, plus some great vintage finds and a few things for mum too. The shop has a retro theme and specialises in quality wooden toys and stocking fillers, along with colourful and playful learning gifts. They source unusual products from around Europe and boast a selection of well made quirky children's and baby clothes. www.marmalade250.com 250 Battersea Park Road, SW11 3BP.

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Award winning carrot cake Battersea-based Flapjack Fabulous Food celebrates the news that its carrot cake has wowed the judges in Great Taste 2013 by being awarded 2 Stars! “As the owner of a small artisan catering company I am delighted to have my delicious cake recognised by such a prestigious award,” said Caroline Goldston of Flapjack Fabulous Foods. The famous and fabulous carrot cake is available at Bertie and Boo and Adventure Island in Balham, along with a range of other Flapjack products, and is soon to be available in many new locations.

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It’s all about love actually

Inspire yourself, change your life!

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

Q: Are you haunted?

Are you always looking backwards, being haunted by the past? Does it impact on your today and your tomorrow?

When we become aware of our past we are often surprised at how much it affects our present and our future. Mostly we don’t think about it and so we miss vital clues that, if we had been able to read, would have helped us construct a much healthier life.

Most of us have “baggage” which we carry from our past. Often it is painful and so we tend to avoid opening up those heavy cases. Too many Jack in the Boxes stored, waiting to bounce out and bop us one!

If we could consciously relate ourselves with our past, we could finally work out why, for instance we are nervous about handing in our work assignments, which impacts on our self-esteem, which makes our boss not value our work, which would mean we didn’t get a raise, which would make us feel unappreciated, which would add to our lack of self-esteem, which means that we also might let our partners also not treat us with respect……. And all that because we had a particularly virulent teacher when we were a child who used to make us feel small when we handed in our homework!

See? The effects can really be way more pervasive than you might imagine and can extend throughout many areas of your life. However, it is only when we take stock that we can trace it back and work it out.

It is important when something in our lives keeps popping up that we take the time and BE WITH IT. Look at it from all angles, sense the feelings, acknowledge what is going on for you. Running away can only keep us going for a certain amount of time and obviously does nothing to resolve the situation.

So, however painful it may be, when you know that something is causing you discomfort try and remember that it is a useful reminder of an issue that hasn’t been dealt with.

Do yourself a favour and lighten your load, lay those ghouls to rest by revisiting them with your adult eyes. With a little bit of mature understanding you will be able to exorcise them and change your life.

Picture credit: Fotolia

Could we consciously examine some of our ways of being and relate them to our past?

Q: My husband is constantly shouting at the children and he’s bad tempered with me. He’s no sooner through the door after a day out working than he’s at it with everyone. I’m with them all day and I’m not screaming at them the way he does. I’d appreciate some recognition for keeping my cool and some well-earned rest and cooperation from him.

Sounds as though both of you are feeling fairly stressed by your very full days. I know it probably feels as though he might be getting the easy end of things by leaving to go to work, but in a man’s world he feels just as burdened as you do because he is going out “hunting” for all of you and that is his main preoccupation.

You need a break at the end of the day and so does he but we go about it in different ways. Men need time to veg out and empty their minds, whereas women need to feel appreciated and cared for (which is what you have been doing all day for your children) which recharges their batteries so they can carry on with their multitude of tasks.

Perhaps you could first see with each other what you would each like to have at the beginning of the evening and put a system into place which gives you both what you need. For instance, maybe he could agree to give you a huge hug each evening and tell you how great you are and give five minutes of hugs and attention to the kids first before heading off to relax. Set a time limit for the chilling period and when he’s ready he can come back refreshed and able to help out with some of the household activities. You should find that this will give everyone what they need and will set the stage for a calmer, happier evening.

www.inspiredlivingandpsychotherapy.com If you would like your questions answered for free (in full confidence), then please write to Amanda@familiesmagazine.co.uk For more on this article and others on relationships and personal development see www.familiesonline.co.uk/loveactually

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

Tel: 020 8696 9680 FamiliesSouthWest.co.uk

Extra News We wish you a super anniversary!

Families wishes to congratulate Paint Pots Montessori Schools and Creative Classes who are celebrating their 25th anniversary this year. This heart centred family run business has grown with love since being founded in the mid-80’s by Georgina Hood. Georgina delivers the invaluable gift of ‘lessons in life’ to all the children within the community of Paint Pots. The mission is to empower families, inspiring the youngest members and challenging young minds, through creative programmes with a strong Montessori foundation throughout. All three Paint Pots Montessori Schools are MEAB accredited, and are glued together by creative classes in Chelsea and Notting Hill. The classes are tailor made for families with children from as young as 6 months of age.

•For more information and booking online visit their new website www.paint-pots.co.uk or contact 0845 6434441.

This year’s must have gift: SLEEP!!!

There are few happier sights than the sight of your own happy child.

We know that tiredness makes children unreasonable, irritable, stubborn and grumpy.

Sleep is when our children’s bodies repair and grow. Children need a lot of sleep because their young bodies are growing at a great pace. So much of their energy is needed for this growth period that they become far more tired than we often realise. Although we and our children may not know how tired they are we do notice the effects!

It stands to reason that children who sleep well should develop better than those that don’t. A child that that doesn’t get enough sleep is noticeably more irritable and may also have a shorter attention span, poor concentration and generally less energy than her peers.

K Bajwa has worked with Beyond Bedtime Kids’ Pillows to develop pillows that are made just for kids’. He says: “Children's proportions are different from grown-ups and adult pillows often fail to provide the best support for a child's head and neck. In the same way that kids feel comfortable in the right size shoes the right size kid’s pillow will make them more comfortable and help them sleep better.”

•K Bajwa, Consultant Osteopath at SOS Clinics UK & “Beyond Bedtime” Kids’ Pillows www.beyondbedtime.co.uk

Prime Minister to hear concerns about wi-fi in schools Research studies have shown that prolonged exposure to wi-fi signals, mobile and cordless phones can have adverse effects on our health, with children and teenagers being more vulnerable than adults. You may well ask why WI-FI is widely installed in schools! Read Humanity At The Brink, an enlightening article by Barrie Trower on http://bit.ly/1aN4ZJe We have just heard that Barrie has received an invitation to meet the Prime Minister to talk about wifi in schools!!

Barrie says: “The argument against installing safe wired options is the cost.

Compared to the future medical costs (forgetting the human cost), phone/fibre-cable shows to be a very cheap option.”

Simple tips to keep your family safe • Always turn off your wi-fi router off at night (just a switch) • Never put your mobile close to your baby’s head, nor let them use it as a toy. Think twice about whether your cordless baby monitor is necessary, or place it as far as possible from baby. These devices also emit EMR; they work with wi-fi after all.

• Carry your phone in your bag, not your pocket. Manufacturers’ small print warns users to keep mobiles away from the body, even though advertising campaigns show the opposite.

• The NHS advises children and teenagers to text or make short, essential calls only. The further away from the body/ ears the better.

• Do not use your phone as an alarm clock next to your head.

• Go back to a corded house phone. Radiation from cordless (DECT) phones is intense, and in some cases higher than a mobile phone (models/ devices vary in intensity - check SAR levels).

• Use your internet through the mains. No re-wiring is required, simply buy two Ethernet boxes to plug in computers and laptops to your regular electricity socket, simple!

• Get informed. Families has collated lots of useful websites, articles, reports and videos, online at www.familiesonline.co.uk/radiation

The nits are coming...

New research reveals that a whopping 63% of primary school children have been infested with lice. The survey also reveals that 50% of parents do not tell friends when their child has head lice, with 1 in 10 admitting it is because they are too embarrassed. Usefully, shampoo makers Vosene have launched an interactive ‘Nitwatch Heat Map, which tracks head lice outbreaks as they happen, allowing parents to find out instantly if an infestation hits their area. The map tracks Twitter conversations all over the country, including those with the hashtag #nitwatch. Parents can also ‘register a concern’ on the website, where they’ll be entered into a free prize draw for the chance to win a mini Vosene Kids 3in1 Shampoo & Defence Spray set and a back to school goodie bag. Find the map at www.vosene.co.uk/nitwatch, and be prepared with the comb and lotions...

At Families we have found that the simplest way to tackle the beasts is to cover your child’s hair with olive oil overnight. Olive oil is one of the most effective natural remedies for head lice because it acts as a suffocating agent. Select the least expensive grade. In the morning simply nit comb away. Sustained and regular combing, say every Sunday night, is the best way to keep your children nit free, naturally. Avoiding the potential absorption of a chemical pesticide and understanding that head lice may become resistant to various chemical pesticides are two good reasons to choose olive oil.

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Tel: 020 8696 9680 FamiliesSouthWest.co.uk

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Halloween Great Halloween events in town Battersea Park Children’s Zoo Battersea Park, Chelsea Bridge Gate, Battersea SW11 4NJ 26 October – 3 November. Halloween October Fun – Including Pumpkin Trail, The Big Draw, Hedgehog Day, Turbo the Snail Day and Halloween Fun Day 0207 924 5826, batterseaparkzoo.co.uk

Golden Hinde SE1 9DG www.goldenhinde.com 26 October. Drake Fun days Find out all about Sir Frances Drake at 11am and 2pm. For age 6+ 26 October. Family overnight experience Children will be dressed as Tudor sailors and become members of the crew. After learning the ship’s rules, they will be trained in navigation, barber surgery and gunning, before bedding down to sleep amongst the weapons on the Gun Deck. A Tudor style dinner and continental breakfast is provided.

For age 6+ 30 and 31 October. Halloween Fun day Fancy dress competition, gruesome games and a haunted treasure hunt taking place around the ship. For ages 4+ 30 and 31 October. Halloween Fright Night Join the creepy crew for a horrifying Halloween evening on board. With terrifying tales, and gory games this event is sure to fright and delight. For ages 6+

London Eye Westminster Bridge Road SE1 7JB 26 October – 2 November. Halloween Witch Academy Join the ghoulish fun at the iconic London landmark. On the Halloween Storytelling Capsule, kids can join the High Witch to take on the ghastly Grimly Grim and help to foil his despicable plans to steal the Crown Jewels. londoneye.com

Pottery Painting & Craft Studio Don't be Scared ! Come to paint fun pottery at our Halloween party 31st October 1­6pm Free Snacks & Games Childrens’ parties Pottery & T­Shirt Painting, Decopatch Hen do’s & NCT groups all welcome Baby Footprints & Silver keepsake jewellery Open Mon­Sat 10am­6pm, Sun 11am­6pm 85 Nightingale Lane, Wandsworth SW12 8NX 020 8772 8702 www.smartypaints.co.uk

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Morden Hall Park Morden Hall Road, Morden SM4 5JD 30-31 October. Halloween Spooktacular Join them this Halloween for spooktacular activities and trails, including pumpkin carving and creepy crawly bug hunts! 11am-3pm, £4 per child or £6 for two children.

020 8545 6850, nationaltrust.org.uk/morden-hall-park

ZSL London Zoo Outer Circle, Regent's Park NW1 4RY 26 October – 3 November. Boo at the Zoo – With a spooky schedule of activities including spooky storytelling and creepy crafts there’s enough to make everyone scream with delight. The zoo will be getting a macabre makeover as it hosts lots of Halloween family fun including frightening face painting, menacing mask-making and other devilish delights such as terrifying touch tables and eerie enrichment-making workshops.

0844 225 1826, zsl.org

Great Halloween events out of town Eltham Palace Court Yard, Eltham, Greenwich SE9 5QE 27-29 October. Time Travellers Go…Ghosts and Ghouls Let your little horrors scare themselves silly this Halloween with creepy crafts and spooky activities! There's ghost hunting galore at Eltham Palace this half term. Step into the past and don't forget to bring your Time Travellers passport to collect your event sticker. 11am-4pm 0870 333 1181, elthampalace.org.uk

Audley End House and Gardens Off London Road, Saffron Walden, Essex CB11 4JF 28 October – 1 November. Game Week – This half term come to Audley End and watch Mrs Crocombe, Audley End’s resident cook, make the most of the hunting season with her amazing recipes. Visitors can see the entire process of gaming, from the sky to the skillet, as their falconers provide you with incredible arena displays that will teach you about the Victorian art of hunting and our cooks will show you how it would have been prepared. 11am-4pm 31 October – 2 November. Halloween Ghost Tour – Come to Audley End House and Garden this Halloween and experience some chilling tales and spooky goings on. 7.30pm-9pm 01799 522842/0870 333 1181 english-heritage.org.uk/daysout/ properties/audley-end-houseand-gardens

Tel: 020 8696 9680 FamiliesSouthWest.co.uk

Events Bodiam Castle Bodiam, Nr Robertsbridge, East Sussex TN32 5UA 26 October – 1 November. Hallowe'en Trail – Look forward to Hallowe'en with separate events for children and adults.

Children can follow the clues to solve the mysterious puzzle and claim a prize. £2 per trail. 11am-4pm.

2-3 November. All Souls' Weekend Adults will need to brave the castle after dark in an interactive ghost hunt that is part theatre, part adventure game. 5.30pm & 8.00pm. £12 per person. Booking essential on 01825 831320.

01580 830196, www.nationaltrust.org.uk/ bodiamcastle

The Hop Farm Paddock Wood, Kent TN12 6PY 26 October – 1 November. Half Term Halloween Fun – The family park will be a spook-tastic feast of fun for the half term holidays! Dress up in your best Halloween fancy dress and come and join in. Enjoy magic, halloween games, indoor entertainment and all the favourite outdoor attractions at The Hop Farm.

01622 872 068, www.thehopfarm.co.uk

Kent & East Sussex Railway

Leeds Castle Maidstone, Kent ME17 1PL 26 October – 3 November. Halloween at Half Term – Half term fun for the whole family with creepy crafts, face painting and a pumpkin trail through the grounds. Are you brave enough to venture into the ‘spooky maze’? Raggedy Jack will be on hand with ghostly tales and stories. Come dressed to scare for their daily fancy dress competition at 2pm with prizes for the best costume.

31 October. Blood, Boils and Black Death: Evening Halloween Tour – Discover a distinctly unpleasant side to “the loveliest castle in the world”!

Join the castle guides for an All Hallows Eve tour through a horribly diseased and gruesome history - hear tales of a castle ravaged by the grisly Black Death and ruthless 16th Century ‘sawbones’ surgery. £15 per person. Some stories may be unsuitable for younger children.

01622 765400. www.leeds-castle.com

Osterley Park and House Jersey Road, Isleworth, Middlesex TW7 4RB 26-27 October. Halloween Pumpkin Festival – Family friendly Halloween fun. This Halloween take part in silly games, carve your very own scary pumpkin and listen to spooky stories. Plus create creepy craft items to take home. Come dressed up and receive a small treat. 12pm – 4pm 26 October – 3 November. Autumn half term family fun trails Visit Osterley this half term and see if you can explore the gardens and grounds with an exciting trail. Complete the trail and claim your reward.

12pm – 3.30pm 020 8232 5050 nationaltrust.org.uk/osterley- park

Painshill Park Painshill, Cobham, Surrey 28 October – 1 November. Painshill Halloween Adventure Camp Have a wild time this Halloween with den building, woodland craft, campfires, treasure hunts and extreme adventures. For children aged 8 to 13 years. £35 per day or £150 for 5 days, 9am – 4.00pm 01932 868113. www.painshill.co.uk

National Motor Museum

Odds Farm Park

Beaulieu, Brockenhurst, Hampshire SO42 7ZN 26 October – 3 November. Ghosts and Ghouls Half Term Hauntings – If you're looking for something spooky to do this October half-term, look no further than Beaulieu. Follow the Halloween quiz trail and take a lucky dip in the mysterious box of delights, listen to spooky stories from the costumed guides in Palace House and take a ride on the moan-a-rail - if you're feeling brave! 10am–5pm.

01590 612345. www.beaulieuevents.co.uk

HP10 0LX www.oddsfarm.co.uk Every Weekend In October and daily at half term Halloween Family Fun Carve a Pumpkin, enjoy the madness and mayhem of crazy entertainers and follow the Black Cat Trail. Plus, brave the new Boo Barn…if you dare! Also, there is a Giant Indoor Playbarn, with a massive adventure play area including a 4 lane Astra Slide, 2 large drop slides, a netted area with zig zag chicanes and tunnels, swinging ropes and a special Toddler and Under 5’s area. Outdoors, there is an Adventure Maze, Go-Karts, Log Play Areas and Crazy Golf.

Pictures credit to Wilkinson

Station Road, Tenterden, Kent TN30 6HE 28 October – 1 November. Halloween Fun and Fright Nights – Pumpkin carving and spooktacular entertainment, plus be frightened silly on their Halloween Howler Fright Night train rides.Come in fancy dress, the scarier the better!

01580 765155, www.kesr.org.uk

See your local Fireworks on page 42!

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Tel: 020 8696 9680 FamiliesSouthWest.co.uk

Calling Mums!

Could you spare 45 minutes to talk about your parenting experience?

If your child has an ongoing health or developmental problem I’d love to hear from you. £20 thank you voucher Please contact: Julia Finlay 07779 017965 juliafinlayosteopath@gmail.com

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Say goodbye to being shy

How to help your child overcome shyness

By Elisabeth Dolton

So your child has now settled at school—or has he/she? Settling into school is hard for any child but it can be agony for a shy child.

Take Holly’s experience with her 6 year old son, Thomas, “Thomas is a lovely little boy but when he met anyone he hadn’t met before he was unable to speak, he lost all his manners and just looked at the floor.” This is not unusual. Shyness is a perfectly normal trait in childhood, but when lives become restricted by shyness, we must take action as there is no question that shyness robs us of opportunities that other people take for granted. The good news is that there are a lot of practical things that can gently encourage a shy child to be more outgoing.

Mixing in society Start by inviting one friend over for half an hour at home, then moving to more friends, more time and then outside the home.

Children learn social skills from watching others so model the kind of interactions you want to encourage: be warm and friendly with people you don’t know, introduce yourself to new people, ask people for help, and compliment friends.

Drama queens (and kings) Shyness doesn’t necessarily mean low self-esteem; it usually comes from fear or feeling worried about what other people think. Simple acting techniques from drama classes soon equip children with the ability express themselves more clearly in front of others.

Equally, presenting ourselves in a confident manner by sitting up straight and making eye-contact, even when we don’t feel like it, will make any child feel bolder because of the positive way others will react to them.

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Shaking off shyness for a child with SEN Children with learning disabilities need to be given a healthy dose of praise and constructive criticism to develop into shy-free, confident adults.

Positivity - A child with learning disabilities is prone to undergo more stress and frustration than the average child. Praise all victories, big and small Provide simple responsibilities in social situations – distraction from feeling shy Pair your shy child with another child in each important setting Coordinate your efforts with those of other relevant adults Help them find his or her areas of strength - explain the significance to them and offer many chances to use them Discuss the various aspects of your child’s life with them: school, friends, homework, teachers etc.

Facing up to it

Dress rehearsal

Perhaps the most effective way to help your child to be less shy is to talk openly with them about it.

Refer to situations that are daunting and empathise “sometimes I feel worried about speaking up at work, but I always make and effort and feel good afterwards”. Holly added that she “used to read books to Thomas that had themes of facing fears or overcoming challenges”.

Watch what situations trigger shyness in your child then role play them later at home, giving hints on how they can feel more courageous when next out in public. “Thomas always felt nervous going to birthday parties, so we decided to set up a party scene at home, using his favourite toys and acted out the different scenarios: giving the party boy their present; saying hello to other children; asking the adult where the toilet is; saying thank you on leaving. It worked a treat”, said Holly.

Tel: 020 8696 9680 FamiliesSouthWest.co.uk

Parenting

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“I was just genuinely shy. I'd always been a shy kid.”

A karaoke machine or sing along DVD will encourage your child to be more adventurous with their speech and movement. Record them pretending to be a news reader, or presenter interviewing their ‘celebrity’ friend.

Lights, camera, action Trying new activities in a gradual way helps overcome shyness. Holly had always been encouraging Thomas to try out new things, “I knew Thomas had achieved an improved level of outgoingness when in the end-of-term football lesson, Thomas waited 30 minutes for his turn to kick a ball through the cones and straight into the goal - in front of everyone. He has really come out of his shell” Taking trays of nibbles round guests, being photographer at a family occasion, going into a shop and asking for the price are all great ways to take their mind off their shyness. But don’t force them into doing things that make them uncomfortable, play to their strengths. Your child’s shyness will vanish if he is encouraged to get better at things he already excels at.

Above all, being calm will sooth many a shy child.

Relax Kids (www.relaxkids.com) sell a range of CDs that provide ‘chill skills’ that relax children and as a result boosts their confidence.

Our attitude is crucial We all want our children to outgrow their shyness and latest research indicates that how parents respond to shyness is what makes the difference.

Labelling our child as ‘shy’ would certainly be discouraged; they often turn into self fulfilling prophecies. In the same sense, we should always avoid dismissing any feelings of shyness e.g. “don’t be silly, big boys don’t get shy”. Comments like this lead children to feel that their worries are not valid, leading to anxiety. Be supportive by combining empathy with confident assertions, “Ahh, I can see you’re feeling a bit worried, but I’m really confident you’ll be able to handle it”.

A child's ability to comfortably relate to a wide variety of people is one of the most important ingredients to happiness and success. The thing to remember is that the majority of children will find their way through all of this with a bit of guidance, and will soon be waving their hands in the air to answer questions, belting out songs during group sings, and being the first in the queue for trying new things.

Sources •www.bbc.co.uk/radio1/advice/factfile •www.babycenter.com •www.psychologytoday.com/blog

Does your child have learning difficulties or disabilities?

By Stuart Black of BrainTrainUK

As a parent you want the best for your child, a carefree childhood with a bright future, but when learning difficulties and disabilities occur, uncertainty strikes. Uncertainty about you as a parent. Did I do something wrong? Why didn’t I notice anything sooner? Is it our genes, our parenting skills or lifestyle?

You might have uncertainties and sadness about your child’s development.

Why doesn’t my child listen or behave? Is she unhappy? How come he doesn’t achieve higher results, while he’s trying so hard? Will she be able to go to university? Why isn’t she invited to that birthday party? What should I tell him?

Finding help for your child can cause even more uncertainties. Should we put him through the emotional wringer of a diagnostic process? What if he gets a diagnosis? Should she take medication, which could influence her personality and have negative side effects? And when medication isn’t an option, what else can I do ?

There may be hope. 12 months ago the American Academy of Pediatrics, the professional body for paediatricians in the USA, graded Neurofeedback at the highest level of evidence-based intervention for ADHD. Read the paper here to learn why: http://goo.gl/ua7yIB

October 2013

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Elton John

Why choose Neurofeedback?

One reason is it doesn’t need a diagnosis; by using it early you can stop the symptoms and avoid diagnosis. Neurofeedback is a natural solution with no harmful side effects. Even better, it seems the results last, with evidence that they last up to 10 years after training ends.

Controlled trials show Neurofeedback activates poorly-performing parts of the brain. See here http://goo.gl/uDEPWG

So what’s actually involved in Neurofeedback?

Neurofeedback provides feedback on how well your brain is working back to the brain through video and audio.

There’s a choice of games and videos that respond to how your brain is functioning.

The feedback goes faster, louder or bigger when the brain is working well. The brain ’tunes in’ to the feedback and adjusts in response. Through this direct, real-time feedback, the brain learns to work better without the computer.

What can Neurofeedback help with?

Children with ADHD, ASD, Dyslexia, Dysgraphia, Dyspraxia and Down Syndrome have all been helped with Neurofeedback. http://goo.gl/G6DL9s •Stuart Black, BrainTrainUK. BrainTrainUK are now practicing Neurofeedback training in Battersea. www.braintrainuk.com or 020 8144 7821.

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Sports feature Part 1 We know how hard it can be to settle the children in school and in their various after school activities. Making sure they get enough physical activity is an important concern. There is so much choice out there we thought we’d run a listing of each and every sport available available from A to Z. Here is the first instalment. All parts will be uploaded on www.familiessouthwest.co.uk Let us know if we have missed any, please, so we can edit the online version.

Sports Listings A-F ARCHERY Barn Elms Sports Centre Archery sessions for Juniors run on Tuesdays and Fridays, 4.30-6pm. £4.50 per session.

For details call 020 8876 9873

ATHLETICS Battersea Park Millenium Arena For children aged 8-13. Wednesdays 4.30-5.30pm, drop-in session, £2.70.

An introduction to all the athletics disciplines.

020 8871 7537.

Herne Hill Harriers Tooting Bec Athletics Track Coaching and competitive opportunities for complete beginners up to national level for children aged 10+. Wednesdays 5.30-6.30pm and Sundays 10.30am-12.30pm.

Contact Steve Bosley on 020 8773 8733, steve@envoy-freight.co.uk, www.hernehillharriers.com Tooting Bec Athletics Track Athletics sessions for children aged 7-12, Mondays 5-6.30pm, £2.60.

Also BootCamp, Saturdays 10.3011.30am, £4.60 and Circuits, Wednesdays 6.30-7.30pm, £4.60 Contact Richard Pettigrew on 020 8871 7171.

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compiled by Joanna Parry

Battersea Sports Centre Hope Street, Battersea SW11 2DA, www.wandsworth.gov.uk/bsc Practice your running, jumping and throwing in a fun and friendly environment. Activities are indoors and have suit children of all abilities.

Tuesdays 4-5.30pm, 6-12 years, £2.20 Telephone bookings and enquiries 020 8871 8529, email bsc@wandsworth.gov.uk Wimbledon Common Park Run On the Common by Windmill Car Park. Offers weekly 5km, free, timed runs open to all ages and abilities.

Younger children can just do one 2.5 km circuit. Register online and get your time recorded. 9am Saturdays. www.parkrun.org.uk/wimbledon

BADMINTON Battersea Sports Centre Hope Street, Battersea SW11 2DA, 020 8871 8529 www.wandsworth.gov.uk/bsc Meet new friends, learn new skills and improve your technique.

Wednesdays 5.30-6.30pm, 11-15 years, £2.20 Call 020 8871 8529, email bsc@wandsworth.gov.uk Wimbledon Racquets and Fitness Club Badminton coaching sessions for all abilities. Saturdays at 9.30am, 6yrs+, £6 per session members, £10 nonmembers.

Contact 020 8947 5806, www.wimbledonclub.co.uk

BASKETBALL Battersea Sports Centre Hope Street, Battersea SW11 2DA, 020 8871 8529 www.wandsworth.gov.uk/bsc All-weather outdoor basketball court ideal for schools, small-sided games and 3 v 3 tournaments. Also available for casual use. bsc@wandsworth.gov.uk

Urban Ascent Rock Climbing

BOATING AND CANOEING Westminster Boating Base 136 Grosvenor Road, SW1V 3JY A children's charity teaching young people to sail, canoe and kayak.

Courses run Mondays 5.45-9pm, Tuesdays and Wednesdays 4.45-8pm, Thursdays 5.45-9pm and Sundays 10am-1pm and 2-5pm, age 10+.

020 7821 7389 www.westminsterboatingbase.co.uk Barn Elms Boat House Queen Elizabeth Walk, Barnes, SW13 0DG Junior Learn to Row and Junior Intermediate Rowing, 12 week courses each.

Call 020 8876 9873 for details, www.wandsworth.gov.uk/barnelmsb oathouse

CAPOEIRA A Brazilian martial art that combines music, dance, acrobatics and fighting.

Capoeira gives you strength, flexibility, coordination and balance.

Tribo Capoeira at MALOCA 10 Point Pleasant, SW18 1GG, 020 8877 1055 Mondays and Thursdays 4-4.45pm for age 3+, Fridays 5.30-6.30pm for age 6+. Professor Polvo also runs after school clubs and social projects focussed on vulnerable teenagers.

Contact Professor Polvo on 07775 755318, triboinfo@me.com, www.capoeira4u.com

Danca da Liberdade Capoeira School 136 Streatham High Road, SW16 1BW Beginners classes for 3-5 years on Mondays 5.15-6pm and Saturdays 99.50am, 5-7 years on Wednesdays 5.10-6pm and Saturdays 11-11.50am.

Intermediate classes for 7-11 years Fridays 5.30-6.30pm and Saturdays 12-1pm, 12-17 years on Wednesdays 6-7pm. Advanced classes for age 8+ Fridays 6.30-7.30pm and for age 11+ Thursdays 5.30-6.45pm.

Contact 07739 973 890, www.dancadaliberdade.com

CHOI KWAND-DO 36 Aberconway Road, Morden SM4 5LF The children’s martial art programme designed to promote health, selfdefence and personal success.

Monday to Friday 4-4.45pm for children 4-6 years and 4.45-5.45pm for 7-12 years.

020 8665 2214, instructors@cassaracademy.com, www.cassaracademy.com / www.mordenmartialarts.co.uk

CLIMBING Westway Climbing Centre 1 Crowthorne Road W10 6RP Climb indoors safely and unsupervised. All equipment provided. After school sessions for 56 year olds, Mondays and Wednesdays 4-5pm on a 1:4 ratio to

Tel: 020 8696 9680 FamiliesSouthWest.co.uk

Please mention you found them in Families when you call! allow for close supervision. Entrylevel sessions for Juniors 7-14 years, Mondays and Wednesdays 4.30-6pm, £5.50. The Breakfast Club for age 714, for those wanting to climb but unable to commit to the whole term, Saturdays 9-10.30am, £10. Family Session, open to all levels of climber, Saturdays 4-5pm and Sundays 1011am and 5.30-6.30pm, £12 adults, £7.50 children, age 5+ Contact 020 8969 0992, www.westwaysportscentre.org.uk/cli mbing

8+, and Sundays 10-11am 5-7 years and 11am-12pm age 8+, £12.

Contact 020 7751 0913, info@urbanascent.co.uk, www.urbanascent.co.uk Brixton Recreation Centre 27 Brixton Station Road, SW9 8QQ Climbing wall providing a fantastic range of new activities for novice climbers - whatever your age, experience or fitness.

020 7095 5100

CRICKET The Spencer Club Fieldview, off Burntwood Lane, Earlsfield, 020 8874 2717 www.spencerclub.org Trains boys and girls of all abilities.

One of the largest colts sections in the country turning out teams in every age group from the U8s through to the Academy squad.

The Old Rutlishians Cricket Club Poplar Road, Merton Park SW19 3JS. Children aged between 5 and 16 interested in playing cricket are welcome. Squads have a range of abilities, no need for previous experience.

020 8542 3678, www.oldrutscricket.org.uk Richmond Cricket Club Old Deer Park, 187 Kew Road, Richmond, Surrey TW9 2A Regular coaching sessions on Sundays for 6-11yrs. Older players coached on Friday evenings.

Contact 020 8332 6696, www.richmondcricketclub.com Ken Barrington Cricket Centre The Kia Oval, Kennington SE11 5SS Six cricket nets and indoor sports facilities. Nets available for hire by clubs, individuals, schools, groups and cricket organisations, along with expert tuition for juniors from experienced and qualified coaches.

0844 375 1845, www.kiaoval.com/nets Kew Cricket Club The Pavilion, Kew Green, Surrey Colts training sessions for Under 9s, Under 11s, Under 13s and Under 15s on Friday evening and Sunday mornings.

020 8940 9155, www.kewcc.co.uk

Imperial College Climbing Wall 7 Prince's Gardens, SW7 1NA Kids Breakfast Climbing sessions on Sundays at 9am. The two-hour session costs £12 per child.

020 7594 6660, www3.imperial.ac.uk/sports/facilities/ ethos/ethosfacilities/climbingwall Aspire Centre Southfields 337 Merton Road, SW18 5JU, 020 8875 2603 www.aspirecentre.com A 7m high main wall with routes from the simple to the technically complex. Certificated climbing courses for children Saturday mornings 9-10.30am and 10.30am12pm. These courses lead to bronze, silver and gold awards, £5 a session, plus £2 equipment hire. Family climbing sessions Sundays 9am-1pm for independent adult users [inducted adults] and up to 2 children, £10 inclusive of equipment hire. Also offers FREE parent and child classes on Tuesdays and Wednesdays 4-5.30pm.

Contact 020 8875 2603 Urban Ascent Rock Climbing Unit 5 Parsons Green Depot, 33-35 Parsons Green Lane, Fulham SW6 4HH Progressive climbing classes on Mondays 4.30-5.30pm and 5.306.30pm for age 8+, Tuesdays 4.305.30pm and 5.30-6.30pm for 5-7 years, Fridays 4.30-5.30pm and 5.306.30pm for age 10+, £80 per term.

Also one-off sessions Saturdays 1011am 5-7 years and 11am-12pm age

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Barnes Cricket Club Barnes Sports Club, 261 Lonsdale Road SW13 9QL Colts Coaching sessions throughout the summer term, plus winter nets.

Under 9s upwards. Sessions also take place at Barn Elms. www.barnescc.co.uk

CYCLING It is a challenge to prepare your child for the rigours of cycling in the busy streets of London. CTC have a list of cycling instructors who have been trained by Accredited Instructor Training Providers to provide safe cycle training for children and adults, ctc.org.uk Other providers are: •Cycle Training UK, 020 7231 6005, www.cycletraining.co.uk •London School of Cycling, 020 8801 8628, www.londonschoolofcycling.co.uk •London Recumbents at Battersea Park and Dulwich Park. Cycle training away from traffic for all abilities. Call 020 8299 6636, www.londonrecumbents.com

Sports feature weeks. The fundamental moves of fencing through to match fighting with an introduction to the rules and equipment for the Olympic sports of Foil and an overview of Epee and Sabre. Free additional fencing sessions for the remainder of the term available to Course graduates! www.streathamfencing.org Salle Coton Fencing Club Tooting Leisure Centre, Greaves Place, Wandsworth SW17 0NE Autumn Junior (under 12 years) Fencing Course, Saturdays 910.30am, Autumn Cadet (12-15 years) Fencing Course, Saturdays 1.30am-12pm.

Phone Anthony Coton 020 8640 4702 or 07930 575481, www.sallecoton.com Wimbledon Fencing Club Ursuline High School, Merici Sports Centre, The Downs, SW20 8HF Training juniors from age 10 progress by fencing adults in the club. The 10-week course is based on the British Fencing Association grading criteria. Wed 6.30-7.30pm, £80. Foils, jackets, plastrons, gloves and masks provided. www.wimbledonfencingclub.org.uk

DIVING Dive Balham/Dive Wimbledon Offering a full range of scuba diving courses for children aged 8+, from snorkeling to certification as PADI Junior Open Water divers or Advanced divers. They also run children’s scuba diving parties.

Sessions take place at Putney Leisure Centre or Wimbledon Leisure Centre.

For further details contact Roger on 020 8540 6874, www.divebalham.co.uk, www.divewimbledon.com

FENCING Streatham Fencing Club Dunraven Sports Hall, 94/98 Leigham Court Road SW16 2QB Training for Juniors aged 10-16, Thursdays 6-7pm, £60 for 10

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Tel: 020 8696 9680 FamiliesSouthWest.co.uk

School feature

School

NEWS

English courses for au pairs Milner School is a small, friendly school conveniently located in central Wimbledon. It offers English courses for au pairs in both mornings and afternoons. Students benefit from a professional friendly environment and small classes.

Why we should all walk to school Beat the traffic and get you and your kids out in the fresh air during International Walk to School Month this October. Each year, primary school children from across the UK join forces with over 40 countries worldwide to celebrate the benefits of walking to school and this October is no different, with the month-long activity encouraging pupils to walk to school at least once a week.

Many parents know that walking is actually quicker and less stressful than taking the car and they value the opportunity to spend quality time with their children. It also increases air quality with fewer cars on the streets and strengthens communities, where children and parents are seen in the streets!

Stop moaning about the traffic … start clearing it! www.livingstreets.org.uk

Au pairs receive discounts. Milner has free WiFi, student lounge and cafe, free Pronunciation Classes, library, and complimentary membership to the Wimbledon Leisure Centre.

•020 8545 0300. info@milnerschool.co.uk www.milnerschool.co.uk

A great start for Sinclair House School

Preparing for the entrance exam season

Congratulations to Sinclair House School for relocating their Upper School to new and fantastic premises on Fulham High Street in Fulham. We were very impressed by the huge, bright rooms

The Roche School James Roche, Principal, explains: “At The Roche School, each class (including the Nursery!) puts on a play every year in which every child has a distinctive part. While some may be hesitant in early rehearsals, the costumes, music, lighting and staging soon work their magic so that the children each find their own style in telling the story to the audience of families and friends. Even 4-year-olds seem to forget their own personalities in entering into the feelings and actions of the characters, often with great conviction and humour and it is wonderful when a child who is reticent in class gives a really vivid performance.”

•office@therocheschool.co.uk Call Mrs Clark: 0208 877 0823

James Allen’s Girls School Perhaps there’s something in the fact that they’ve been around since 1741 – they are proud of who they are – and they know where they are going.

James Allen’s Girls’ School has rocketed towards the top of the league tables with record results at A level and GCSE in 2013 (73% of all GCSE entries graded A*!) The range of social, cultural

Children may have to take the exams but it also requires a battery of skills and knowledge from parents to make sure their children reach exam

and economic backgrounds of their pupils, aged 418, contributes to their success and lively character. They are busy with active community partnerships, outstanding creativity and national achievements in sport, music, art and drama. Visit their website and go to find out more for yourselves.

•Call : 020 8693 1181 alison.venn@jags.org.uk www.jags.org.uk

Thames Christian College

Sinclair House Year 2 Upper School children enjoy! Sinclair House School have been very busy in September working hand in hand with charities such as the Marvellous Roald Dahl for Children on the 13th of September, the Jeans for Genes on the 20th and the MacMillan Cancer Support on the 27th. On October 4th, they will participate in the Harvest Festival in aid of St Thomas of Canterbury Church in Fulham.

Children have a full diary with numerous trips and day excursions planned. These include visits to the London Zoo, the National Army Museum, the Royal Albert Hall, the Discovery Story Centre, the National Army Museum, Florence Nightingale, Natural History Museum, Royal Albert Hall, Lyric Theatre and Newbury Theatre. Phew … so much learning and so much fun to be had!

•59 Fulham High Street SW6 020 7736 9182 www.sinclairhouseschool.co.uk

season possessing a quiet confidence and selfbelief, secure in their English and maths knowledge and well-practised in exam techniques.

Fleet Tutors advise: “Start early is the mantra you’ll hear from parents who’ve been through the experience. Whether you use a tutor or do-it-yourself, a steady structured programme prepares a child, not just for exams, but for the big changes they face when they start ‘big’ school in year 7.

Don’t lose sight of your child in all of this. Focus on what they are doing right. Confidence drives self-belief which encourages learning and also establishes an outlook that will serve them well throughout life.”

Fleet Tutors have been providing private home tutoring for over 35 years.

•Call 020 8580 3911 or go to www.fleet-tutors.co.uk

A*s abound. Pupils of Thames Christian College celebrated their best GCSE results to date this year, as 22% of grades attained were A*. There were also tremendous successes in individual subjects, with the school achieving a high standard in Physics with 30% achieving A* and 20% gaining A*s in both Chemistry and Biology. “I’m pleased to announce that the GCSE results at Thames are exceptional this year,” said Stephen Holsgrove, Executive Head.

“Typically at Thames pupils achieve at least a grade higher across all subjects than their standard prediction tests indicate and well ahead of the National average. The fact that the majority of pupils have been offered places at their first choice sixth form demonstrates that not only do our pupils aim for the top grades, but they also leave with the level of maturity, interpersonal skills and steadfast values that set them apart from other young people when competing for school places. cont next page...

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School feature Eridge House Eridge House believes in educating the whole child. Each child will become an independent learner, a creative thinker and someone who questions with their curiosity very much alive.

Their pupils are challenged and encouraged to learn within a nurturing, stimulating environment.

Gifts are identified and translated into achievements just as they notice difficulties and take early steps to offer support. Classes are small and class teachers are supported by skilled assistants. The pupils belong to the community and they develop a generosity of spirit. They thrive with the school and when they are long beyond their lovely premises.

•020 7371 9009 www.eridgehouse.co.uk office@eridgehouse.co.uk Head: Ms Pippa HoggAndrews. Admissions: Mrs Zein Al-Rifaii

Maths, English and 11+ Tuition Study Centres Contact Vicky Barnett BA, MSc, PGCE Tel: 020 8876 2553 barnes@firstclasslearning.co.uk putney@firstclasslearning.co.uk www.firstclasslearning.co.uk

Thames Christian College pupils’ stunning performance of the musical Evita at The Clapham Grand.

Hannah Newland playing the part of Evita A night of a thousand stars! The audience was awestruck by the exceptional talent of Thames Christian College pupils’ stunning performance of the musical Evita at The Clapham Grand.

Catherine MacGreevy, a parent, said: “I was blown away by the show and was not expecting it to be so professional. The staging, costumes, choreography and singing were spectacular and a real credit to the school.”

Dance is a recent addition to the curriculum, taught by LIPA trained Charlie Steer who choreographed the show. Drama is also integral to school life and an option at GCSE. Pupils may additionally study for the LAMDA graded Acting Awards with excellent results in the past.

Find out more about Thames Christian College at their Open Days on 5 and 9 October or by visiting •www.thameschristiancollege.org.uk 020 7228 3933.

Hornsby House After a successful year of trialling a class set of 20 ipads across the school, Hornsby House School has made a major investment in mobile technology with the purchase of 60 additional ipads, enough for four classes to use at any one time. Mobile technology is the fastest growing area of IT and it

Tuesday Tutors • We coach children for state and independent school and entry tests: VR, NVR, English, Maths and interview preparation.

• NEW- a dedicated Maths tutor up to A Level available for home-visits in central London

Experienced tutors welcome Tel: 020 7735 8268

07906 312541

tuesdaytutors@hotmail.co.uk tuesdaytutors.com

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The children have returned enthusiastically to life at The White House School this September and have been greeted by exciting changes in the school. The school has welcomed a new

headmaster, Mr Daniel Cummings, who replaces Mrs Elizabeth Davies. Mr Cummings has been impressed by the children at The White House School and is looking forward to working with them for many years to come.

The school curriculum has also seen major developments with Spanish and Latin being added to French in the languages department and Drama Performance for all classes as part of the regular timetable.

After school clubs continue to offer the children at The White House many opportunities to discover new talents in a variety of subjects.

•Call 020 8674 9514 www.whitehouseschool.com office@whitehouseschool.com

Happy Birthday Alleyn’s Junior School

• We are also happy to offer Maths and English support for children in school, and Home Education.

Tuesday Tutors has placed many children in top state and private schools. It is advisable to contact us early, as high demand may mean that your child will be placed on our waiting list.

The White House

has opened up a wealth of new opportunities for teaching and learning. The ipads are used for accessing a wide variety of apps to facilitate mobile learning, both in school and off-site, in addition to accessing the internet for research purposes.

•www.hornsbyhouse.org.uk

Although Alleyn’s has a magnificent lineage going back to 1619 when that most famous of Shakespearean actors, Edward Alleyn, opened its doors for 12 poor scholars; the Junior School (AJS) was only founded 21 years ago and the current Junior School pupils celebrated their 21st anniversary by sharing a cake on 10th September 2013. The Junior School offers its community an enlightened and active curriculum along with an ethos that encourages independence and confidence, and continues on in this 21st year of the school.

•020 8557 1519 www.alleyns.org.uk juniorregistration@alleyns.org.uk

Tel: 020 8696 9680 FamiliesSouthWest.co.uk

School feature Streatham and Clapham High School Streatham & Clapham High School is hosting the 2013 GDST Art Exhibition, an exciting new art event which celebrates the enormous talents of young artists, showcasing work by GCSE and A Level art students from 20 GDST schools. Work will include sculpture, textiles, video and photography.

The exhibition takes place at 42 Abbotswood Road SW16 and is open to the public on Friday 18 October, from 2.30 pm to 5.30 pm and Saturday 19 October, 10 am to 3 pm.

Students considering studying art at GCSE or A Level will find this of interest.

•For more information visit www.schs.gdst.net

Maths Doctor Maths Doctor is an award winning company, run by qualified teachers.

Over 500 tutors provide one-to-one maths and physics tuition across the whole of the UK. The service starts with a free online assessment of your child’s level and learning style, which enables Maths Doctor to hand pick the best tutor for your requirements.

•To request a tutor, register your details on www.mathsdoctor.co.uk or call 020 7193 1871 to arrange a free, no obligation assessment.

Newton Prep Newton Prep is a successful, dynamic and vibrant school with high standards and expectations. They are interested in education in the fullest sense, and seek to provide a proper balance of academic excellence, fun and activity. They strive to present exceptional opportunities for personal development, adventure and achievement to allow the children to become well-informed and conversant individuals. With their committed teaching staff they encourage the children’s curiosity and imagination at every stage of school life, and provide important foundations for a love of life and learning in this formative period.

•Newton Prep, 149 Battersea Park Road, SW8 020 7720 4091.

THE WILLOW NURSERY IS MOVING As from January 2014 we will be located in a fantastic new premises next to Clapham Common, in Grafton Square, London SW4 Situated in a quiet, leafy, residential area, our new premises will provide us with superior facilities for the children, including increased indoor space and a fabulous large outdoor play area.

The Willow Nursery is a private, independent nursery school which prides itself on providing a safe and happy environment where learning is a joyful and rewarding experience. We are renowned for our creativity in art, craft, music and drama, and believe strongly that praise in work and play builds the crucial foundations for instilling self-esteem and confidence in children.

2 ½ to 5 year olds, mornings only, term-time only Please contact: 0207 498 0319 admin@thewillownursery.co.uk www.thewillownursery.co.uk October 2013

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Picture credit: © kolett - Fotolia.com

School feature

Open days Westminster Under School Westminster School Eaton Square School Streatham and Clapham High School Streatham and Clapham Junior School Gems Hampshire School Eridge House School Fulham Pre-prep Ecole des Petits Sinclair House School Ravenstone Newton Prep Ecole de Battersea Dolphin School Thames Christian College The Dominie White House Prep School Hornsby House Harrodian School Ibstock Place School Bertrum House School The Roche School The Chelsea Group of Children Donhead School The Study Prep School Portland Place Ravenstone Pre-prep Arts Educational School Latymer Upper School Godolphin and Latymer School Fulham Prep Alleyns Junior School James Allen’s Girl School Sydenham High School GDST (Juniors) Sydenham High School GDST (Seniors)

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SW1 7-13 B 7+/8+ entry 5/10 7821 5788 SW1 13-18 B By appointment 7963 1003 SW1 3-13 Co-Ed By appointment 7931 9469 SW2/16 11-18 G 15/10 10-12 noon 6th Form 9/10 6.30-8.30 pm 8677 8400 SW2 3-11 G 5/11 2-3.30 pm 3/12 2-3.30 pm 8674 6912 SW3 3-13 Co-Ed Individual tour by appointment 7352 7077 SW6 2-11 Co-Ed 5/10 9.30-12, by appointment 7371 9009 SW6 4-7 Co-Ed By appointment 7386 2444 SW6 3-6 Co-Ed By appointment 7371 8350 SW6 2-11 Co-Ed By appointment 7736 9182 SW7 2-11 Co-Ed By appointment 7225 3131 SW8 3-13 Co-Ed 10/10 6/11 6/12 11am 7720 4091 SW11 3-10 Co-Ed By appointment 7371 8350 SW11 3-10 Co-Ed By appointment 7924 3472 SW11 11-16 Co-Ed 5/10 10am-1pm 9/10 11am-1pm 7/11 11-1pm 7228 3933 SW11 6-11 Co-Ed By appointment 7720 8783 SW12 4-11 Co-Ed 9/11 9.30am- 11.30am. By appointment 8674 9514 SW12 5-11 Co-Ed 10/10 9 am 8673 7573 SW13 4-18 Co-Ed 11+ Open mor: 9/10, 7/11 Advance booking essential 8762 6321 SW15 3-18 Co-Ed Jnr: 13/11 9.30am 6th Form 3/10 6-8pm 8876 9991 SW17 2-7 Co-Ed 14/11 23/1/14 27/3/14 9.45-11am 8767 4051 SW18 2.5-11 Co-Ed 10/10 9.30-11 22/11 9.30-11 8877 0823 SW18 4-11 Co-Ed By appointment 8946 8330 SW19 7-11 B By appointment 8946 7000 SW19 4-11 G Tours Tuesday 9.30-10.39 by appointment 8947 6969 W1 9-18 Co-Ed Tours 19&26/11 9-11 am Open Mor 9/11 10-12 noon 7307 8700 W2 1-7 Co-Ed By appointment 7262 1190 W4 11-18 Co-Ed 2/10 6-8pm for Year 7-11 entry 1/10 6-8.30pm for 6th Form 8987 6666 W6 7-18 Co-Ed Jnr: By appointment. 9/11 11+ entrance only. Tickets required 0845 638 5721 W6 11-18 G 15/10 4.45-7pm 8741 1936 W14 7-13 Co-Ed By appointment 7371 9911 SE22 4-11 Co-Ed 7/11 1.30-3pm 19/11 1.30-3pm 8693 3457 SE22 11-18 G 5/10 10-1pm 26/9 & 12/11 10.30-12 noon 8693 1181 SE26 4-11 G 8/10 6/11 13/11 9.30-11 8557 7000 SE26 11-18 G 3/10 5/11 12/11 9.30-11am. Taster Morning 9/10 9-11.45 8557 7000

School feature

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Tel: 020 8696 9680 FamiliesSouthWest.co.uk

School feature

Memo to self: let them fight their own battles

By Joanna Moorhead

Are you forever rushing into school to talk to your child’s teacher, or phoning other parents to talk about playground squabbles? Think again, says Joanna, a mother of four daughters.

One of my daughters is disgruntled. I am, she says, a bad mother. “Other mums support their children,” she says. “When they have a problem, the mums go into school to talk to the teachers.

You never do that.”

She’s not entirely correct; I’ve had children at school for the last 15 years or so, and there might have been one or two occasions when I’ve gone in to talk to a teacher or a head outside of parentteacher meetings. But I could certainly count those times on the fingers of one hand; and, thinking about it, probably even on one finger.

Why so? Well, the raison d'être of parenting is to make your child independent: and it seems to me that if I wade in at every opportunity to smooth my child’s path in life, I’m not helping her to learn to do it for herself. And what message does it give if, when she tells me about a problem she’s experiencing, my response is to say ‘I’ll come in to talk to your teacher about that’?

What message are you giving?

What it says is: you can’t sort this out for yourself; you’re not smart enough or capable enough or eloquent enough. You can’t do it, but I can. And that doesn’t help my daughter develop those skills, and it doesn’t help her become experienced and confident at learning to problem-solve for herself.

Sometimes, over the years, my daughters’ problems have been significant ones – and certainly many of them have seemed significant to my daughters, even if they didn’t seem all that important to me. On at least one occasion, the problem has been a clash between them and a teacher, and listening to the story it’s been difficult not to agree that, yes, it sounded as though the teacher was in the wrong.

How to empower our own children But this is what I tell my daughters: teachers are only human. Teachers, like everyone else in the world, have some people they like better than others. So of course it’s possible that a teacher might not favour you, might even pick on you,

October 2013

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Picture credi: © Zlatan Durakovic - Fotolia.com

I hope I’m not a bad mother; and I know there are some problems – and bullying is foremost among them – when a meeting with a teacher has to be arranged, and fast. But bullying apart, I believe that my daughters are better helped if I hang back from making appointments, and arm them instead to negotiate their own issues, and fight their own battles, at school.

because he or she doesn’t like you. And, yes, of course it’s a terrible shame if you end up with an unfriendly-seeming teacher in a subject you really love.

But rather than race in to school to have it out with the teacher, I tell my daughter to find a way of dealing with it; and if possible, I help her work out what that might be. Could she start the ball rolling on building a better relationship with the teacher in question by being nicer to her, or by working harder in the subject, or by making more contributions in class? Because the truth is that, all through life, there will be individuals who will seem to stand in the way of what we want – and learning to work with these people, or round them, is a hugely important life skill.

Talking to your child about what’s going on will also help her process her own feelings; and again, this is an important learning curve. Help your child see that it’s not the case that someone has got it in for her, but maybe just that the teacher or the other child has issues in their own life. And instead of encouraging your child into negative feelings (“that teacher/child has always been a total pain, I’ve been saying it for years”) turn things round into something positive (“everyone has bad days; what could you do tomorrow that could start to improve this relationship?”).

Similarly problems with other children: I long ago made a resolution never, ever to get involved at parental level over my daughters’ squabbles. Not only is life far too short, but more importantly, learning to get on with their peers is what childhood and adolescence is for.

None of this means, by the way, that I’m abdicating responsibility for how my girls behave. It’s just that talking to other adults isn’t how I believe my offspring will learn to treat others well; that comes, I think, from modelling what I hope are good relationships in my own life, and in listening to the issues they have in their lives (when they want to talk about them) and helping them find a way of dealing with them.

It’s more important to talk and listen So it’s really important to make time to listen when they’re experiencing problems at school; and it’s crucial to validate how they’re feeling, to reflect back that I understand their worries and can see that it’s a genuine issue. But what should happen next is far more about equipping them to go back into school and work out how to put the problematic relationship on track, than it is about grabbing your coat and racing in to try to solve the difficulties yourself.

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School feature

Dyslexia Some common myths and how to recognise it

By Corrina Shepherd

© Lambros Kazan - Fotolia.com

According to the British Dyslexia Association, 10% of the population are dyslexic and 4% severely so. But how can you identify if a child is dyslexic? Author and campaigner Corinna Shepherd explains what dyslexia is and when parents should seek help.

My interest in dyslexia and my passion to help those who struggle with it started around seven years ago. At that time my son was struggling with literacy and was reluctant to learn. At the same time I was on a workplace course, learning about dyslexia and other learning difficulties. Because of what I learnt, I suspected he might be dyslexic, so I had him assessed privately by an educational psychologist. She confirmed that he was indeed mildly dyslexic. In response the school did not offer much support and advice, as they felt he was performing adequately. But I knew he was not reaching his potential and he was not happy in that learning environment. Had I not known the signs to look out for, his dyslexia might not have been picked up and he would have been labelled an average child, who was reluctant to learn at school, along with countless others.

My personal experience and interest in dyslexia led me to establish The Chilterns IDL (Dyslexia) Centre in January 2007. Since then I have completed over 2,000 hours of one-to-one assessments and tuition with children and adults, who struggle with words. Out of my work with these children, I came to realise there was little on the market to engage and inspire dyslexic children specifically with the world of words and imagination. I decided it was up to me to do something about it, so I developed the Dancing Kites Creative Learning brand with a range of interactive, illustrated books for the age range 4 to 15.

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So what exactly is dyslexia?

Dyslexia is often misunderstood, hard to diagnose and those affected by it often do not receive adequate support. So what is it and how does it affect children?

The word dyslexia comes from the Greek, literally meaning “difficulty with words”. The condition can affect spelling and reading and many people believe that is all it is. But it can also affect individuals in other areas, such as: • • • • •

confusing dates and times confusing left and right difficulties getting ideas down on paper sequencing numbers and information following verbal instructions.

Also working memory is usually poor. This shows itself when new information needs to be processed effectively and quickly.

While dyslexia can be viewed as a learning difficulty, it can also be seen as a gift. Some talents shared by dyslexics include the ability to think in pictures, being creative and intuitive, being good with their hands. They are often highly aware of their environment and have vivid imaginations.

Children with dyslexia often have above average intelligence, yet they struggle with words and processing new information.

I have regular conversations with parents about their child, who is struggling at school, yet the school says he or she is doing fine. The child is often frustrated and has poor self-esteem. He or she might be seeking attention or not concentrating as a way of coping. By the time the parent phones me, their child is often falling further and further behind, in literacy especially, and they do not know where to turn to for help and advice.

Having an assessment is a positive step towards getting the support your child needs. Rather than seeing this as a label, view it as a step towards unlocking your child’s potential.

Who is affected?

Dyslexia is generally thought to affect between 8% and 15% of the population, 4% severely. So, in a class of 30 children, 3 are likely to have dyslexic tendencies, maybe mild or possibly severe. So everyone is likely to know at least one child or adult who is dyslexic. Children with dyslexic tendencies are likely to be resistant to traditional teaching methods and benefit from a one-to-one, multi-sensory, creative learning environment.

Dyslexia often runs in families, with a close relative struggling with it too. Most are born with it and do not grow out of it, though learn to cope with it. It is not directly linked to intelligence. Children and adults with other learning difficulties or sensory disabilities may have dyslexic difficulties also.

Tel: 020 8696 9680 FamiliesSouthWest.co.uk

School feature Can you grow out of dyslexia?

More information can be found on my website at www.dancingkites.co.uk/resources/dyslexia-test The BDA and Dyslexia Action are also good sources of information. Find them at www.bdadyslexia.org.uk/about-dyslexia.html and www.dyslexiaaction.org.uk

As children grow up, they learn to compensate for their difficulties, the more successful ones using their strengths to overcome their condition.

Support during the formative years is vital to help overcome difficulties and unlock their potential in literacy and in other areas.

There is much you can pick up about your child as a parent or carer, just by sitting down with your child and a good book, appropriate to their developmental stage and interest level. Areas of difficulty to look out for include:

I think my child might be dyslexic.

What do I do now?

• Does your child struggle with reading or spelling?

• Does he or she avoid picking up a book?

• Does the child guess at a word, looking at the whole word or just the initial letter?

• Does he/she forget how to read or spell a word as soon as he/she has turned the page?

• Can he/she find it hard to sound out individual letters in simple 3 letter words e.g. cat, bat?

• Does the child find it hard to rhyme simple words?

• Does he/she skip little words, such as and, the?

• Does he/she miss out words when reading?

The presence of any, most or all of them does not necessarily mean your child is dyslexic, but I would recommend further investigation if you have any concerns.

October 2013

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© Ilike - Fotolia.com

How to recognise dyslexia

• Speak to an educational specialist, such as your child’s teacher.

• Corrinna can also be contacted for a confidential chat on 07721-368978 or visit her website for the Chilterns IDL Centre at www.dancingkites.co.uk/dyslexia-support/chilternsidl-centre For more information on her books and a mini dyslexia test visit www.dancingkites.co.uk/resources/dyslexia-test • You could try Texthelp, a leading manufacturer of dyslexia support software. They would love to offer you advice on solutions that can help your child with their dyslexia. For more information please visit http://texthelp.com/uk/campaigns/readwrite-gold

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Tel: 020 8696 9680 FamiliesSouthWest.co.uk

School feature

What’s on the plate in your school dining hall?

By Joanna Moorhead

The campaign for better food in Britain’s schools is getting yet another boost – but what else needs to be done, and how can parents help? Joanna investigates.

What, though, has the campaign achieved?

Where has it left school food today – and as the government prepares to implement a new round of improvements in the shape of the school food review, what are the outstanding issues that still need to be tackled?

For starters, the big task ahead is getting more children to actually eat school food. Only around 38% of secondary school pupils, and 44% of primary pupils, take the option of school lunches, while the rest bring in their own: and that matters because a study carried out at Leeds University in 2010 found that just 1% of packed lunches meet basic dietary standards. In other words, it’s extremely challenging for parents to put together a lunchbox that’s anywhere near as healthy as the food the school provides; and though many parents believe it’s cheaper to provide their own, another study found that in fact it probably costs around £2 a lunch, a sum very similar to the cost of a school-provided lunch.

But if school food wins out against packed lunches, what’s on the dining room menu still has a way to go. Only around 25% of schools provide at least one portion of fruit and veg per pupil per day, and – despite all those years of the Oliver campaign – a shocking 50% of all secondary schools continue to offer pizzas and starchy food cooked in oil on most days.

Beyond all this, there’s the even trickier subject of how you actually get children to make healthy choices. Even when healthy food is offered, around a third of pupils don’t choose it.

October 2013

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Picture credit: © senkaya - Fotolia.com

It’s almost a decade since Jamie Oliver began his indefatigable campaign to revolutionise school lunches, taking TV cameras into schools and drafting in army cooks to teach the nation’s dinner ladies how to make good food on a large scale and to a tight budget. There’s no doubt that Oliver shone a torch into a dark corner of the school larder and found it wanting, and there’s no doubt at all that he had all the right instincts about educating children about good food and healthy eating, and educating teachers and support staff about why good food and understanding its production and preparation should be part of every child’s education.

One huge advance the Oliver campaign has brought about is the realisation among parents that they have a voice in the school dining room, and that policies on how food is sourced, how it’s prepared and what’s on offer can be shaped by their intervention. Here are some of the more imaginative and successful changes already in operation at some schools in the UK – if you like the sound of them, why not talk to staff and governors at your child’s school to see if a similar project is possible there?

School farms are in the middle of a huge revival.

In 2006, there were only 60 of them in Britain; today, there are more than 100, and at least 100 more schools have plans in operation to open one. And the big boom isn’t in rural settings, it’s in urban ones; schools in the very middle of cities now have patches of land where vegetables are grown and where chickens and other animals can be housed. Some schools even send their own animals to slaughter and put meat and homemade sausages on canteen menus or sell them through school shops.

Children learn at close quarters about how food is produced; they then go on to learn how it’s prepared and cooked, and then they find out how it tastes.

If you’re interested in trying to get the ball rolling on a farm at your school, start by visiting farms at similar-sized and similarly-located schools; see www.farmgarden.org.uk, the website of the School Farms Network, for more ideas.

At some schools, parents and carers are invited to eat alongside children one day each term or one day each year. It’s easier to talk to your child about the food they had at school if you’ve got a sense of where they eat, what the place smells like, and what the system is for them to choose their meal.

More schools than in the past now have cooking classes and cookery clubs, and at secondary schools cooking is on the curriculum. If a school farm is too ambitious, growing some or all the ingredients for the cookery classes is usually possible – even using home-grown herbs help children make the connection between growing and eating.

Pupil visits to farms are a regular part of the school year in many areas. If your school isn’t organising trips to a farm, ask why not. Make sure the farm trip includes informative input on how animals are reared, and how crops are grown – and what happens to the meat and vegetables once they leave the farm.

In some schools, the dining hall is now known by a more exciting name (‘Le Bistro’, perhaps) and children eat from china plates and have virgin olive oil and balsamic vinegar to dribble on their salad. To make food more attractive, you have to boost the quality of the whole eating experience. If your child’s school is still providing plastic lunch trays or grubby melamine plates, ask them to think about an overhaul.

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Half term activity listings Compiled by Joanna Parry

London Transport Museum

Central London golf centre

Eddie Catz Halloween Party Putney

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.

Fun with Fimo Clay

Do also check our online calendar for latest events, workshops and courses we may have added since going to press. www.familiessouthwest.co.uk Feel free to send in your events for inclusion! whatson@familiesmagazine.co.uk

Arts & Crafts Artyard Handmade 318 Upper Richmond Road West, East Sheen SW14 7JN 020 8878 1336, info@artyard.co.uk. www.artyard.co.uk 28 October – 1 November.

Half Term Halloween Fun Make 3D haunted houses, gruesome ghouls, trick or treat sacks and much more! 5 - 12 years. £36 per day. Bring a snack and a packed lunch, wear old clothes and come prepared for the unexpected and lots of creative fun!

Dulwich Picture Gallery Gallery Road SE21 7AD 020 8299 8732, l.mckie@dulwichpicturegallery.org.uk www.dulwichpicturegallery.org.uk 27 October.

Halloween Lanterns and a Disappearing Lion Get creative together at this practical drop-in session. 2-4pm, free with a gallery ticket, otherwise £3 per child 3 November.

The Big Draw: London Tomorrow Inspired by this year’s theme ‘Drawing Tomorrow’, use card, plastic and tape to construct a city of the future Erica Parrett. £ 3 per child, 2-4pm

Little Hands Design 67 Belsize Lane, NW3 5AU 07739 535684, info@littlehandsdesign.com, www.littlehandsdesign.co.uk 21-25 October, 28 October-1 November.

Halloween Holiday Course 2013 A Halloween themed holiday week where you can create that spooky show stopping costume for Halloween! There are some great classics, from Witches Dress to sparkling eye masks on offer. 94pm (full days or 5 mornings or 5 afternoons), 6-8 years and 8-18years, £225 full days/£120 half day week including fabrics and haberdashery

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Urban Ascent Rock Climbing

Eddie Catz Putney First Floor, 68-70 Putney High Street SW15 1SF 0845 201 1268 eddiecatz.com 28 October.

Crazy Science Workshop A show all budding scientists will love! Wizz, pop, bang – in this workshop kids have a chance to be hands on with science. £22, 10am-1pm, age 5-10 30 October. Annual Family Halloween Party Dance in the Halloween disco with a Wacky DJ, see magic with Twitch the Witch and Count Dracula and join in the fancy dress competition.

2-8 yrs, 5.30pm, £4 adult, £13 children

Eddie Catz Wimbledon 42 Station Road SW19 2LP 0845 201 1268 eddiecatz.com 29 October.

Halloween Make a Bear Workshop Choose, stuff, fluff and adopt your very own lovable teddy this Halloween. £22, 10am-1pm, 4-8 years 31 October.

‘Halloween Mayhem’ with Dynamic Dance Learn a Halloween themed routine along with some spooky games and a ghoulish performance.

10am-1pm, 5-10 years, £22

West London 020 8992 3767, fimofun@tiscali.co.uk www.funwithfimoclay.co.uk 22 and 30 October, 4 November.

Craft Activity Sessions Fun and creative, fully supervised and non messy! Recommended for ages 6 +. Workshops take place in a private home in West London, morning refreshments are provided, but remember your lunchbox. 10.15am-4.15pm, £50

Smarty Paints Pottery Studio 85 Nightingale Lane, Balham, SW12 8NX 020 8772 8702, info@smartypaints.co.uk www.smartypaints.co.uk 31 October. Halloween Party Face painting, lucky dip and games, plus handmade Halloween sponges, stencils & statues. 1-6pm

Music & Drama Amanda’s Action Club Wandsworth, Putney, Parsons Green, Southfields, Battersea 01895 623999, info@amandasactionclub.co.uk www.amandasactionclub.co.uk Throughout half term.

Music classes and workshops Fun, fitness and music for children 4 months to 4 years.

Allsorts Drama Fulham Palace Bishops Avenue SW6 6EA 020 7751 2432, www.fulhampalace.org 29 October.

Romans Workshop Handle artefacts, try on costumes, and get stuck into roleplay and craft activities. Age 8-12, 10.30am-3.30pm, £13, booking essential 30 October.

Fulham Palace Fun Day A day of Hallowe'en-themed family fun including crafts, drama and dressing up. Drop-in, 10am-3pm, free 31 October.

Halloween Crafts and Pumpkin Parade Come and enjoy free Hallowe'en themed crafts from 2-4pm. Plus face painting at a small charge.

Don't forget to bring your pre-carved pumpkin along for the pumpkin parade at 4pm. Free

More House School, 22-24 Pont Street, SW1X 0AA 020 8767 5298, info@allsortsdrama.com www.allsortsdrama.com October dates TBC. Half Term Workshops Be inspired by dynamic and experienced teachers.

Write a script, use music, props, costumes and your imagination to create, entertain and surprise family and friends in a sensational end-of-course show. Ages 4-6 and 7–11, 9.30am–12.30pm, £120 with 20% sibling discount.

Chickenshed Kensington and Chelsea Chelsea Theatre, 7 Worlds Ends Place, SW10 0DR 020 8292 9222, lucyd@chickenshed.org.uk www.chickenshed.org.uk/kc 29 October.

Tel: 020 8696 9680 FamiliesSouthWest.co.uk

Half-term activities listings

Funkey Monkey

Perform Drama

Chickenshed Kensington and Chelsea Family Arts Project As part of the Family Arts Festival 2013 Chickenshed KC will be delivering a fun, family-friendly introduction to Chickenshed's inclusive performance style. A great opportunity for all the family to experience Chickenshed's work. 11am-12pm, all ages

Chickenshed Chase Side, Southgate N14 4PE 020 8292 9222, www.chickenshed.org.uk 28 October – 1 November.

Autumn Shed All-day Workshops Explore and develop a wide range of performance skills through workshops that involve drama, dance, singing and story making. Parents and friends will be invited on the final afternoon to see a performance. Age 5–12, £130, 10am-4pm

Funky Moves Kids Club The Exhibit, 12 Balham Station Road SW12 9SG 22, 24, 29 and 31 October. Kids Club Eat a packed lunch provided by The Exhibit in a private cinema, watch a film and learn a cool dance. Films include Epic, The Aristocats, How to Train Your Dragon, Hotel Transylvania.

1-4pm, 5-12yrs, £15 020 8772 6556, exhibit@exhibitbars.com exhibitcinema.com/kidsclub

Funky Monkey Keyboard Classes Dulwich, Herne Hill and Streatham 0800 107 7949, mail@funkymonkey.info www.funkymonkey.info 28-21 October.

'One Hit Wonder' One Day Taster Workshop Beginners aged 4-8 can come and try the electronic keyboard, enjoy art, musical games, quizzes and learn the basics all in one fun-filled day. £30, 10am-2pm, book early!

Kensington Imaging Lancaster Gate, near Kensington Gardens 020 7993 6527, info@kensingtonimaging.co.uk www.kensingtonimaging.co.uk October dates tbc.

Young Film Makers Club A fun hands on workshop to discover the world of filmmaking. Children will explore the various stages of the film production process from storyboard to film cover. Age 8-15, 10-1pm and 2-5pm.

October dates tbc.

Digital Photography Discover your digital camera, learn about settings, light, composition and basic rules. Studio and outdoor work. 2-hour workshops.

October 2013

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Ridgeway Stables

The Music House for Children 306 Uxbridge Road, Shepherd's Bush W12 7LJ 020 8932 2652, notes@musichouseforchildren.co.uk www.musichouseforchildren.co.uk 28 October.

Musical Storytelling Based on the much loved children’s story “Brown Bear, Brown Bear, What do you See?” Children will bring the story to life with puppets, scarves, instruments, singing and dancing. 10am-11.15am, £10, 2-5yrs 28 October.

Make and Shake Make bean shakers, rubber band guitars, cardboard saxophones and even create your own instrument to perform together in the ‘Make and Shake’ band. 11.30am-1pm, £10, 2-5yrs 28 October.

Singer-Songwriter and Music Technology Workshop Become the new Bush Hall artist! Compose songs and rhymes using instruments and vocals. Families and friends will be invited to a performance of all compositions. 10am-1pm, £25, 6-11yrs 29 October.

Drum and Guitar Workshops Fun, creative and expressive workshops exploring rhythm games, chords patterns and composition.

Families and friends will be invited to a performance of all compositions. 10am-1pm / 2pm-5pm, £25, 6-11yrs (both workshops £50 including lunch).

Perform Battersea, Kensington, Kew, Putney and Esher 0845 400 4000, enquiries@perform.org.uk. www.perform.org.uk 23-25 and 28-30 October.

Rapunzel Half Term Holiday Course Bring to life the classic fairytale Rapunzel in a magical drama, dance, and singing adventure in a perfect half term holiday treat. Age 4-8, £93, times vary

Polka Theatre 240 The Broadway, Wimbledon SW19 1SB 020 8543 4888. www.polkatheatre.com 29-30 October. Halloween Scene Create your very own stop frame animation short film inspired by Halloween. £60 for two days, 10.30am–3.30pm, 8-13yrs 31 October.

Stage Fright Ever wondered how we make blood, wounds and scars for the stage? Work with a professional make-up artist to create special Halloween themed make up effects. £25, 6–10 yrs 10am–12.30pm,

Wild Learning

10–13 yrs 1.30pm–4pm 1 November.

Make a Monster Create and design your very own monster shadow puppets and gather round as the storyteller brings them to life in this drama and craft workshop. £15, 3 4 yrs 9.45–11am, 5–6 yrs 11.30am–12.45pm

Song Academy Singing and Songwriting holiday workshops Fulham and Hammersmith 7-12 year olds and teens workshops Wednesday 23rd and Thursday 24th Oct, 2-5pm Tuesday 29th and Wednesday 30th Oct, 2-5pm www.songacademy.co.uk To book call 07710 023743 or email contact@songacademy.co.uk

Studio Film School Broomwood Hall School, Balham 0845 533 3763, info@studiofilmschool.co.uk www.studiofilmschool.co.uk 28 October – 1 November.

Halloween Holiday Horror Both new and experienced filmmakers can enjoy challenging their skills as they produce the scariest film of the year. Develop and produce a Hallowe'en Horror film, creating lots of creepy special FX and even creepier characters! 10am4pm, £215

Sports Battersea Sports Centre Hope Street, SW11 2DA 020 8871 8529, bsc@wandsworth.gov.uk www.wandsworth.gov.uk/bsc 28 October – 1 November.

Enjoy a variety of sports, fun and games, arts and crafts, dance, trampolining, martial arts and much more. £10.00 per day or £45 per week, 10% sibling discount. 10am-3pm, registration from 9.30am, 7–13yrs.

Central London Golf Centre Burntwood Lane SW17 0AT 020 8871 2468, golf@clgc.co.uk www.clgc.co.uk 28-30 October.

Half-term Junior Golf Activity Sessions Golf tuition followed by fun and informal competitions - the perfect way to entertain your kids this October. 10am-2pm, £35 per session.

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Half term activity listings Chelsea FC Soccer School

all events, 10.30am-2.30pm, £10 per day or £45 for the week

•Battersea Park, Prince of Wales Drive SW11 4NU •Chestnut Grove School, Chestnut Grove, Balham SW12 9JZ 020 7957 8220, londondevelopment@chelseafc.com or soccerschools@chelseafc.com. www.chelseafc.com/soccerschools 28 October – 1 November.

London Soccer School For boys and girls aged 3-13. Times vary according to course, from £28, 9.30am-3.30pm

Inspire Life and Leisure

Fit For Sport •Barnes Primary School, Cross Street, SW13 0QQ •Bishop Gilpin CofE Primary School, Lake Road, Wimbledon, SW19 7EP •Ethos Sports Imperial College, 7 Princes Gardens, South Kensington, SW7 2BB •St Joseph RC Primary School, Cadogan Street, Chelsea, SW3 2QT •Sheen Mount Primary, West Temple Sheen, London. SW14 7RT •Wimbledon Park Primary School, Havanna Road, Wimbledon, SW19 8 EJ 0845 456 3233, www.fitforsport.co.uk October dates tbc.

Childrens Holiday Activity Camps Keep active, have fun and make new friends with a wide range of sports and activities. Ages 3-12, call for details of times and prices

Fulham FC Foundation Venues in Fulham 0870 442 5432, holidaycourses@fulhamfc.com www.fulhamfc.com October dates tbc.

Half Term Holiday Courses Holiday courses for all abilities from beginners to regular players in a fun and challenging environment. 3-5yrs - 9-11am, 6-14 yrs - 9am3pm, from £12 per day.

Furzedown Soccer School Furzedown Recreation Centre, Ramsdale Road SW17 9BP 020 8871 7171, tglenn@wandsworth.gov.uk www.wandsworth.gov.uk 28 October – 1 November.

Half Term Soccer School 10am – 3pm, 6 to 12 year olds, £50.00 per week (£45.00 if booking 2 or more children)

Henry Lamb Tennis Barnes, Fulham, Putney 0203 478 4903, enquiries@henrylamb.co.uk www.henrylamb.co.uk 21 October – 1 November.

Half term tennis camps Age 5-8 and 8-15, times vary depending on venue.

Herne Hill Harriers Tooting Bec Athletics Track, Tooting Bec Road SW17 3NP 07721 555 688, stevebosley1@aol.com, www.hernehillharriers.org 28 October – 1 November.

Star Track Athletics Holiday Weeks Athletics training for age 8-14 from top coaches in

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Wandsworth Common SW18 07939 054551, inspirelifeandleisure@live.com www.inspirelifeandleisure.com 29-31 October.

Half Term Holiday Football Fun Come and join the Inspire Team for lots of fun and action to keep your children busy over half term.

Presentation on the last day, prizes, certificates and lots more! 10am-2pm (early bird 9:30am drop available), 3.5-12yrs, £20 per day or book all 3 for £50

Kiddikicks Across South West London October dates TBC. 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 summer holidays. Or arrange a bespoke session (1 to 3 hours) for your player and their friends: pick your sport and they’ll provide the coach, equipment and place. 020 7937 7965, email sarah@kiddikicks.co.uk. www.kiddikicks.couk

Ridgway Stables 93 Ridgway, Wimbledon Village SW19 4SU 020 8946 7400, ridgwaystables@freeuk.co.uk. www.ridgwaystables.co.uk, www.merton.gov.uk/activeplus 22-25 October. 4-day Horse Riding Courses Merton Active Plus are running 4-day horse riding courses for children 8-16yrs, 10am-12pm and 24pm, £120. Children from 4yrs can try an introductory half hour lesson.

SW Sports Camp Clapham Common Tennis Centre, Clapham Common West Side, Wandsworth SW4 9AN 07802 851453, julian@tennis-teaching.com. www.tennis-teaching.com 21-25 October and 28 October-1 November.

Half Term Sports Camps Sports camp including football, tennis and minivolleyball. Ages 3-12, 10am-3pm. £150 for 5 days, £35 per day

Urban Ascent Rock Climbing Unit 5 Parsons Green Depot, 33-35 Parsons Green Lane, Fulham SW6 4HH 020 7751 0913, info@urbanascent.co.uk www.urbanascent.co.uk October dates tbc. Half Term Climbing Club Ensure your kids get the most out of this half term and bring them rock climbing in Parsons Green.

1.30-2.30pm age 5-8, 3-4pm age 8+, 4.30-5.30pm age 5-8. £12 or 5 sessions for the price of 4.

Wigmore Tennis Club 43 Becmead Avenue, Streatham SW16 1UJ 07816 004 992, juliasearle31@gmail.com www.wigmoretennis.com 28 October – 1 November.

Tennis Holiday Camps Sessions for 3-4yr olds run from 10am-11am, while

5-14yr olds can choose to come for the morning session or the all-day session. The camps are suitable for players of all standards.

Youngstars Multi-Sports and Activity Camp Balham, Clapham, Putney and Parsons Green 0845 222 1313 / 07920 426499 campbookings@young-stars.co.uk www.young-stars.co.uk 28 October – 1 November.

Youngstars Holiday Camps Lots of fun, games and the introduction of several sports in a non-competitive environment. 3-7 years, times vary

All-Day Camps Activ Camps Emanuel School, Battersea Rise SW11 1HS 07896 547067, www.activcamps.com 28 October – 1 November.

Fun-packed Holiday Camps For the last action-packed fun holiday of the year, look no further than Activ Camps. 4-14 years £40 per day, £25 half day (4 year olds only).

Wild Learning Wimbledon Common SW20 Putney Heath SW19 01483 424400, jon@wild-learning.net www.wild-learning.net 21 October – 1 November.

Outdoor Woodland Holiday Camp Den building, rope bridges, mud sculptures, woodland games and much more. Play learn and explore, all outdoors. Age 6-12, 10.15am-4pm, £40.

Chelsea Physic Garden SW3 4HS www.chelseaphysicgarden.co.uk FAMILY ACTIVITY DAYS Pre-booking and prepayment essential. Call 020 7349 6453 or education@chelseaphysicgarden.co.uk 29 October Lotions & Potions - An introduction to herbal medicine Find out about the history of medicine and the amazing power of plants. Try your hand at making some ointments, syrups and scented bags to take away. 10.30am2.30pm, for ages 7+ 30 October The Big Draw Draw plants and develop your observational skills and drawing techniques in the inspiring setting of the Garden.

Part of The Big Draw festival.10.30am - 2.30pm, for ages 6+ 31 October Creepy crawling Meet Vic Taylor from Mynewt Enterprises and his marvellous menagerie including a hissing cockroach, giant millipede, corn snake, giant African snail and Mr. Jelly Belly the tree frog. Find out how they are suited to their environments and hold them (…if you dare).

10:30am-12pm or 1-2:30pm, for Ages 4+

Tel: 020 8696 9680 FamiliesSouthWest.co.uk

Dawmouse Montessori Nursery Schools WWW.DAWMOUSE.COM There are now two established Montessori Nursery schools in Fulham bearing the Dawmouse name. The original Dawmouse Brunswick in Haldane Road, SW6 7EU and Dawmouse St Peter’s at St Peter’s Terrace, SW6 7JS. Both schools offer a wide range of Montessori equipment and have outdoor play areas. They will offer a safe, stimulating and active environment in which children can have fun and achieve.

The broad curriculum covers all areas of the Early Learning Goals and includes science, drama, cookery and music lessons.

Project work will give the children scope for creative development as well as an increased understanding of their world.

We insist on our staff being Montessori trained teachers.

For a prospectus and a visit to view the schools please contact : www.dawmouse.com or speak with Miss Emma 020 7381 9385

Harrington Nursery South Kensington 1 Harrington Road SW7 3ES Children from 2 years to 5 years

For more information Call: 020 7584 7926 Fax: 020 7581 0161 harringtonnursery@btconnect.com

October 2013

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Tel: 020 8696 9680 FamiliesSouthWest.co.uk

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

What’s on

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

Theatre Adelphi Theatre WC2R 0NS reallyuseful.com/theatres/adelphitheatre The Bodyguard Another West End adaptation of a big Hollywood blockbuster…

Ambassadors Theatre West Street WC2H 9ND www.theambassadorstheatre.co.uk Stomp. Celebrating its 10th sensational year in London, Stomp is now fresher, faster and funnier than ever before. 3pm and 8pm, £26-£52.50 Every Mon, Tue, Wed, Thurs, Fri, Sat, Sun from 01 October The Lyric Hammersmith Three Billy Goats Gruff & Other Furry Tails

Arts Depot 5 Nether Street N12 0GA artsdepot.co.uk What the Ladybird Heard Two crafty robbers, one tiny ladybird, and a whole farmyard of fun!

10am, 11am, 2pm, £7-£13 10-13 October Tube A new interactive, multi-sensory show for children aged 6 months to 2 years in which the wonders of the tube take centre stage...10.30am, 1.30pm, £7 18-19 October Just a Bit of Paper Fold, tear, scrumple, scrunch, scribble and imagine! Join Scribble and Scraps in their playground of paper and let your thoughts unfold and your imagination take flight. 10.30am, 1.30pm, 3.30pm, £8 20 October Room on the Broom A spellbinding half term treat from the creators of The Gruffalo. 11am, 2pm, £7-£13 26-31 October

The Barbican Theatre Barbican Centre, Silk Street EC2Y 8DS www.barbican.org.uk/theatre The Curious Scrapbook of Josephine Bean. In her laboratory, scrapologist Patricia Baker looks after old scrapbooks: she pours over pages filled with all sorts of things that have been flattened and squashed, in order to find out who they belonged to. 11am, 2pm, 5pm, £8.50 29 October – 5 November

The Battersea Arts Centre Lavender Hill, Battersea SW11 5TN www.bac.org.uk A Borrowers Tale: The Great Escape. Over the October half term, explorers aged 6 – 11 are needed to join a secret agency and take part in a mission, using their super sleuth skills to uncover evidence for the existence of Borrowers (the small people who live under the floorboards). 11am, 3pm, 7pm, £12/£9 30 October – 3 November

The Chelsea Theatre 7 World's End Place, Kings Road SW10 0DR www.chelseatheatre.org.uk/how-to-catch-a-star/

October 2013

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How to Catch a Star. Based on the bestselling children’s book by award-winning author Oliver Jeffers. Adapted for the stage with music and lyrics. 11.30am and 3pm, £8 13 October The PoetryJoe Show. Join PoetryJoe, star of CBeebie’s Rhyme Rocket, performer, writer and – of course! – poet, in his light-up, pop-up world of fabulous foods, beastly bugs and peculiar pets.

11.30am and 3pm, £8 20 October Don’t Let The Pigeon Drive the Bus! A show full of fun and feathers for children 3 and up!

11.30am and 3pm, £8 27 October

The Chelsea Theatre 7 World's End Place, Kings Road SW10 0DR chickenshed.org.uk Chickenshed Kensington and Chelsea Family Arts Project. As part of the Family Arts Festival 2013 Chickenshed KC will be delivering a fun, family-friendly introduction to Chickenshed's inclusive performance style. A great opportunity for all the family to experience their work. 11am-12pm 29 October

The Colour House Theatre Watermill Way SW19 2RD www.colourhousetheatre.co.uk Pinocchio. A wonderful musical show for all the family, 2pm & 4pm, £10.00/£8.00 Every Sat, Sun to 10 November

Globe Theatre SE1 9DT www.shakespearesglobe.com Until 12 Oct A Midsummer Night’s Dream Hermia loves Lysander and Helena loves Demetrius – but Demetrius is supposed to be marrying Hermia…

Until 13 Oct Macbeth When three witches tell Macbeth that he is destined to occupy the throne of Scotland, he and his wife choose to become the instruments of their fate and to kill the first man standing in their path, the virtuous King Duncan.

The Lilian Bayliss Studio Roseberry Avenue EC1R 4TN www.sadlerswells.com Gobbledegook — In A Deep Dark Wood.

Taking inspiration from fairy tales, In A Deep Dark Wood is a fun and interactive show about a little girl who bravely ventures into a dark and mysterious wood.11am, 1pm, 3pm / £7 26-28 October

The London Palladium 8 Argyll Street W1F 7TF www.royalalberthall.com The Nutcracker on Ice. International ice dance sensation The Imperial Ice Stars take to a specially frozen London Palladium stage for the West End premiere of a dazzling new production of The Nutcracker on Ice for fourteen magical performances only. 7.30pm / £21.00 - £76.00 Every Mon, Tue, Wed, Thurs, Fri, Sat, Sun from 24 October to 03 November

The Lyric Hammersmith Lyric Square, Kings Street W6 0QL www.lyric.co.uk The Sorcerer’s Apprentice. Enchanting puppets and a dash of real magic bring this family favourite to life. 11am, 1pm & 3pm 05 October Yummm! An imaginative food-filled production where tables can dance, plates can spin and the audience is given the chance to join in with dinner time fun. 11am & 1pm (for under 4s) | 35 mins & 3pm (for ages 4-8) 12 October The Boy Who Cried Wolf. A brand new tale inspired by the much-loved Aesop fable. Friday 11am & 1.30pm and Saturday 11am & 1pm 18 October Three Billy Goats Gruff & Other Furry Tails Are you sure you know what happened to the wolf and those three little pigs? What about Goldilocks? All is revealed with fun storytelling and beautiful puppets. 11am & 1pm 26 October The Many Whoops of Whoops Town. Awardwinning theatre company Look Left Look Right bring a brand new show to the Lyric this half term.

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What’s on

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

Tuesday-Friday 11am & 1pm and Saturday 11am, 1pm & 3pm 29 October

National Theatre Upper Ground SE1 9PX www.nationaltheatre.org.uk The Light Princess. A new musical with music and lyrics by Tori Amos. A dark fairytale about grief, rebellion and the power of love. Times and dates vary as this production is in rep.

Every Mon, Tue, Wed, Thurs, Fri, Sat, Sun to February 2014

The New Wimbledon Theatre The Broadway, Wimbledon SW19 1QG atgtickets.com/venues/new-wimbledon-theatre Scrooge the Musical. The record-breaking London Palladium production Scrooge goes on tour! 7.30pm / £12.90 - £43.40 23-26 October

The Polka Theatre 240 The Broadway, Wimbledon SW19 1SB polkatheatre.com Tea Time. A wonderfully silly celebration of meal times in words, song, music and dance, inspired by the games we all play around the kitchen table.

Wed 30 Oct 11am and 2pm, Thu 31 Oct 11am (Watch with Baby performance) and 2pm, Fri 1 Nov 11am and 2pm, Sat 2 Nov 1pm and 3.30pm, £8 - £12 30 October – 2 November The Planet and Stuff. One simple question: ‘How can we solve climate change?’ The children at Polka want a straight answer, but so far no one has been able to help. Today all of that is going to change. Or else! £12/£8 Every Mon, Tue, Wed, Thurs, Fri, Sat, Sun to 26 October Gorilla. Hannah loves gorillas, but she’s never seen a real one. It’s the night before her birthday and something amazing is about to happen... £8-£10 Every Tue, Wed, Thurs, Fri, Sat from 16 October – 15 February 2014

Puppet Theatre Barge Little Venice, Blomfield Road W9 2PF www.puppetbarge.com The Hare and the Tortoise and other tales from Aesop. These well-known fables from Aesop’s famous collection are brought to life with drama and humour. Staged with beautiful lighting and carved marionettes. For ages 3+3pm, £10/£8.50 28 October – 2 November

Ambassadors Theatre West Street WC2H 9ND www.theambassadorstheatre.co.uk Romeo & Juliet and Prince of Denmark / Tory BoyzNational Youth Theatre in Rep at the Ambassador's Theatre. Times vary, prices vary Every Mon, Tue, Wed, Thurs, Fri, Sat, Sun to 27 November

Richmond Theatre TW9 1QJ atgtickets.com/Richmond The Reduced Shakespeare Company: The Complete Works of William Shakespeare (abridged) All 37 plays in 97 minutes! The bad boys of abridgement are back with their irreverent, fastpaced romp through all of Shakespeare’s comedies, histories and tragedies in one wild ride that will leave you breathless with laughter.

7.30pm, £16

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The Puppet Theatre Barge

30October Family Arts Festival 2013 As part of the first UK-wide Family Arts Festival, Richmond Theatre will be hosting a series of free, Shakespeare-themed family events.

19, 26, 29, 31 October and 2 November

Rose Theatre Kingston 24-26 High Street, Kingston KT1 1HL www.rosetheatrekingston.org What the Ladybird Heard Based on the award-winning picture book by Julia Donaldson & Lydia Monks.

Two crafty robbers, one tiny ladybird and a whole farmyard of fun! £12, pit cushions £8 29 October – 3 November

from 05 October to 03 November Henry the Fifth. What’s the difference between a king and any other man? Kings need crowns and castles to prove themselves, and so does Henry.

Henry the Fifth, that is, of England. But Henry is running out of cash and all he can think about is that his neighbour’s castle is bigger than his. £10£16 Every Mon, Tue, Wed, Thurs, Fri, Sat, Sun from 08 October to 17 November Nosferatu. A Halloween treat for the bravest. A young lawyer named Hutter travels from his small town to the Carpathian mountains to close a sale for a mysterious Count. / £10-£16 Every Mon, Tue, Wed, Thurs, Fri, Sat, Sun from 31 October to 02 November Dora. Dora is a storer. You could even call her a hoarder. Birdcages and books, bicycles and balls, boxes and biscuit tins, Dora finds and keeps everything. £10-£16 Every Mon, Tue, Wed, Thurs, Fri, Sat, Sun from 01 October Sensacional. After a sell-out visit in February 2013, Sensacional is back to charm the very youngest audience members. £10-£16 Every Mon, Tue, Wed, Thurs, Fri, Sat, Sun from 01 October

Museums & Galleries Bank of England Museum

Rosebery Avenue EC1R ww.sadlerswells.com Penguin Café Triple Bill / The Sleeping Beauty Birmingham Royal Ballet returns to Sadler's Wells with two contrasting evenings: classic ballet The Sleeping Beauty and three short works from Artistic Director David Bintley. 7.30pm, £24-£32 15-19 October

Threadneedle Street EC2R 8AH www.bankofengland.co.uk Cartoons & Caricatures. This exhibition consists of published and unpublished material from the Bank of England's own collection of prints and drawings. 5.30pm-9pm Every Mon, Tue, Wed, Thurs, Fri, Sat from 01 October to 9 November The Big Draw – Designs on your money. Learn about banknote security features then design your own secure banknote. Enter the competition with prizes to be won. 10:00am – 4:30pm 28 October – 1 November

The Tara Arts Theatre

British Library

356 Garratt Lane, Earlsfield SW18 4ES tara-arts.com Sita's Story. Tara Arts’ captivating 50-minute show about Diwali - India’s greatest festival - for ages 5 – 11. 10.30am & 1.30pm / £8-£10 31 October – 2 November

96 Euston Road NW1 2DB www.bl.uk/whatson/events Peter Pan and the Ticking Crocodile. Be inspired by Peter Pan and friends! Help their artist create a giant Peter Pan installation. Come dressed as your favourite character to win a prize! 11.0013.00 and repeated at 14.00-16.00 / Free 29 October

Sadler’s Wells

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

The Unicorn Theatre 147 Tooley Street, Southwark SE1 2HZ unicorntheatre.com Luna. Luna is bored up in the sky by herself with nobody to play with. Although she is surrounded by stars, they never quite understand her – it's certainly lonely being the only moon. / £10-£16 Every Mon, Tue, Wed, Thurs, Fri, Sat, Sun

The Design Museum 28 Shad Thames SE1 2YD designmuseum.org The Future is Here: A New Industrial Revolution. Ever wondered what the fuss over 3D printing is about? Want to know more about how the things around you are made? From £8.40 Every Mon, Tue, Wed, Thurs, Fri, Sat, Sun from 01 October to 29 October

The Geffrye Museum 136 Kingsland Road E2 8EA www.geffrye-museum.org.uk Autumn Gardens Family Day. Use fallen leaves and conkers from the Geffrye gardens to make autumnal accessories, create garden animals from clay, hear stories about hibernating creatures and

Tel: 020 8696 9680 FamiliesSouthWest.co.uk

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

What’s on

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

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

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

DOG THERAPY CRANIOSACRAL THERAPY Amanda James Dip ESAO Dip ESMT

Unicorn Theatre have a last look at the period gardens before they close for winter. 10.30am - 4pm 20 October

Horniman Museum 100 London Road, Forest Hill SE23 3PQ www.horniman.ac.uk Amazon Adventure: Vicious Fishes and Other Riches. A fun family trip along the Amazon River.

Learn about exotic creatures including piranhas, see live tetras and stingrays, feel the simulated zap of an electric eel and discover the environmental dangers facing the Amazon. 10.30am to 5.30pm / £3 Child, £6 Adult, £15 Family Every Mon, Tue, Wed, Thurs, Fri, Sat, Sun from 01 October Busy Bees. Join lively sessions for under 5s.10.45am, 11.30am, 12.15pm Every Tue, Fri from 01 October to 25 October Art Makers. Have fun with different art techniques to create something fabulous to take home. 1.30pm & 2.45pm / £3 Every Sat from 05 October to 26 October Hands on Family Workshops. Handle different museum objects each week in these popular themed sessions. 11.45am & 1pm Every Sat from 05 October to 19 October

Imperial War Museum Lambeth Road SE1 6HZ www.iwm.org.uk Architecture of War. Bringing together highlights from IWM’s art collection, Architecture of War presents artists’ responses to the impact of warfare on our surrounding landscapes and environments.

Every Mon, Tue, Wed, Thurs, Fri, Sat, Sun from 01 October - 5 May 2014 Martin Brown Draws Horrible Histories®.

Horrible Histories® illustrator Martin Brown will share his top tips for bringing the characters from this best-selling series to life. 12pm and 3pm / £8, under 4s go free.

19 October

The London Transport Museum Covent Garden Piazza WC2E 7BB

October 2013

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www.ltmuseum.co.uk Explore the Puppet Zoo. Join London Transport Museum this October half term for a week of family fun in celebration of the 150th anniversary of the London Underground. Story time: 11.00 and 14.00, Make and Take: 11.30 and 14.30 / Admission fees apply 28 October – 3 November

London Transport Museum Acton Depot 2 Museum Way, 118-120 Gunnersbury Lane W3 9BQ www.ltmuseum.co.uk/whats-on/museum-depot Depot Open Weekend. As well as having a rare opportunity to explore the Museum’s treasures there will also be a number of activities for the family and adults to enjoy throughout the three day Open Weekend. / £10.00 for adults and kids go free 01 November Behind the Scenes workshops.

Travelling Time Capsules, Depot explorers: family tours, Snapshots of the future, Cab it! Family tours.

Times vary / Prices vary depending on workshop.

28-30 October

• Eases Pain • Reduces stress • Helps behaviour animalcraniosacraltherapy@gmail.com 07932 046 888 www.animaltherapy.webeden.co.uk

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

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

020 7381 3511 020 7736 8729

The Museum Of London London Wall EC2Y 5HN www.museumoflondon.org.uk The Cheapside Hoard: London’s Lost Jewels.

This extraordinary and priceless cache of late 16th and early 17th century jewels and gemstones – displayed in its entirety for the first time in over a century – was discovered in 1912, buried in a cellar on Cheapside in the City of London.

Every Mon, Tue, Wed, Thurs, Fri, Sat, Sun from 11 October Beowulf and Grendel. An interactive storytelling session retelling and reliving some of the highlights of the action packed Anglo-Saxon story of Beowulf. 1pm, 2.30pm & 3pm 26-27 October Sea monsters. Explore the world of sea monsters and the sailors who saw them and make some monsters of your own. 12.30pm & 2.30pm Every Fri, Sat from 26 October to 01 8 November page 38

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What’s on Fantastical monsters. A digital art workshop with a chance to create a London inspired monster to take home, so don't make it too scary...12.30pm, 2pm & 3.30pm. free 28 October Monster Attack! As part of their Monster takeover project and the National Big Draw campaign join professional puppeteer Oliver James Hymans in creating a giant monster puppet.

11.30am & 2pm 28 October City dragons. A creative art workshop about the official boundary markers of the City of London.

12.30pm & 2.30pm 29 October Penny dreadfuls. Will you be brave enough to stay to the end? Hear the background to some of London's most gory monster stories and help the storyteller bring them to life. Age 7+, 1pm, 2pm & 3pm 30-31 October Hybrid monsters. They have found some of the scariest, sweetest, largest, oldest and most exciting monsters around London for you to explore whilst designing you own monster fit for a London statue or building. 12.30pm & 2.30pm 31 October and 3 November Grrh. Bring only your imagination and creativity and join this art workshop based on some of the most fascinating monsters in London's history.

12.30pm & 2.30pm 1-2 November Monster Alive! Celebrate the creation of their monstrous creature by seeing it come alive and hearing it roar. 12–4pm 01 November A monster: real or fake? A story of magic, belief and mystery, come and hear how a 19th century sailor brought a mermaid to London. Or did he?

1pm, 2pm & 3pm 2-3 November

The Museum of London Docklands West India Quay, Canary Wharf E14 4AL www.museumoflondon.org.uk/London-Wall Phantom Bears and Lions. Hear about a phantom bear that lives in the Tower of London, strange footprints on Hackney Marshes, and what happened the night an old lion died at London Zoo. 12.30pm, 2.30pm & 3.30pm 28 October Monster Spotter. There are monsters all around the museum! Find out their stories and see if you can spot them all. 11.30am, 1.30pm & 3.30pm Every Thurs, Sat from 31 October to 02

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

November Creepy scenes. What's lurking in the city? Create an eerie London landscape to take home. 12.30pm & 2.30pm Every Fri from 01 November to 01 November

The National Army Museum Royal Hospital Road SW3 4HT www.nam.ac.uk A Soldier's Life in...Workshops. Drop in to these one-hour Saturday workshops and learn about the life of a soldier. 2pm and 3.30pm Every Sat from 05 October First World War Week. This half-term bring along your little soldiers and find out how the two World Wars changed the country forever. 11am and 4pm Every Mon, Tue, Wed, Thurs, Fri, Sat, Sun from 26 October to 03 November

The National Gallery Trafalgar Square WC2N 5DN www.nationalgallery.org.uk Walk and Draw. On this family drawing tour you’ll explore how artists use gesture and body movement. Basic materials will be provided, but you’re welcome to bring your own sketchbook.

10, 1pm and 3pm Every Mon, Tue, Sun from 27 October to 03 November Family Sundays. Activities designed for families to enjoy and learn together. 11am and 3pm Every Sun from 06 October Magic Carpet Storytelling. Fly away on the magic carpet, coming to land in front of a different painting each day. Ages 2-5, 10.30am and 11.30am, free Every Sun from 06 October

National Maritime Museum Park Row, Greenwich SE10 9NF www.rmg.co.uk Nelson, Navy, Nation. A major new permanent gallery looks at how the Royal Navy shaped individual lives and the course of British history over the tumultuous 18th century.

Every Mon, Tue, Wed, Thurs, Fri, Sat, Sun from 21 October Spooktacular family fun day. Put on your scariest fancy dress and join them for a spooky, funfilled day this Halloween at the bewitching Queen’s House. There will be ghostly activities and scary entertainment for all, and prizes for the best costume. 11.00 – 16.00 / £12 per person, £40 for a

family ticket (2 adults, 2 children), free for under 3s 31 October Half term holiday events - Island Nation. What does the sea mean to Britain? What does it mean to be an island nation? Come along and discover more about Britain, its navy and its connection with the sea. Times vary 28 October – 1 November

The Natural History Museum Cromwell Road SW7 5BD www.nhmskating.com Natural History Museum Ice Rink. Skate at London’s most enchanting ice rink for a truly magical experience / Children (12 and under) £9 peak / £8 off peak Adult £13.50 peak / £11.50 off peak Every Mon, Tue, Wed, Thurs, Fri, Sat, Sun from 31 October – 5 January 2014 Night Safari. There’s no need to go to Africa for your safari fix – come face to face with nature’s weird and wonderful creatures in an exclusive evening tour. Discover some of nature’s most fascinating specimens in the mysterious setting of the Museum at night. 19.00 - 22.00 / £28 31 October Dino Snores for Grown-ups. One of the UK’s most extraordinary events, this sleepover offers an unforgettable evening of music, art, science and cinema in the mysterious setting of the Museum at night. All you need is an enquiring mind, a sense of adventure and a sleeping bag, of course. / £175, £160 for Members 19 October

Sir John Soane's Museum 13 Lincoln's Inn Fields WC2A 3BP www.soane.org Halloween Art Sessions for Families. 11am – 3pm, free 26 October – 1 November October half term holiday workshops. A range of holiday workshops for ages 6+, including Create a Canopic Jar, Ghastly Gargoyles and City in a Box. Booking essential. 10.30 – 3pm / £25 30 October – 3 November

V&A Museum of Childhood Cambridge Heath Road E2 9PA www.museumofchildhood.org.uk Heroes and Sheroes. Faster than a speeding buggy. More powerful than a clockwork locomotive. Is it a bird? Is it a plane? It’s YOU! Transform into a superhero and test your powers

HUGE SALE OF NEW AND SECOND-HAND SKI CLOTHES FOR ADULTS AND CHILDREN SKISUITS, JACKETS, SALOPETTES, GLOVES, SNOWBOOTS, GOGGLES, HELMETS, ETC. BIG REDUCTIONS ON LAST YEAR'S STOCK PLUS THIS YEAR’S NEW COLLECTION Tuesday November 5th and Wednesday November 6th 9.00am-7.30pm At 22 Northbourne Road, Clapham, SW4 7DJ

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

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

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Green Shoots Day Nursery, SW8 1AR Open for 0 to 5yr olds 8am to 6pm 0207 582 3133 www.greenshootsday nursery.coop Tel: 020 8696 9680 FamiliesSouthWest.co.uk

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

What’s on Ahoy captain! Meet Captain Woodget, Cutty Sark’s longest serving master, and hear tales of his voyages across the high seas. 11am, 12pm, 1.30pm, 2.30pm. Admission fee applies 6 October

Fulham Palace Bishops Avenue, Fulham SW6 6EA fulhampalace.org The Big Draw. Make a giant picture on the Bishops Meadow out of things found in Bishop's Park and the Palace's gardens such as fallen leaves, twigs and bark. The more people, the bigger it will be! 10am-12pm 6 October Apple Day. Ecology and craft activities, dress up as a Victorian gardener, storytelling, apple tasting, apple juicing, horse and cart rides, live music.

11am-3pm 13 October

Golden Hinde Sir John Soane's Museum in the Superhero Skills Station. 10.30-16.00 28 October – 1 November Play in a Day. Children are challenged to make a play in just one day based on popular children’s stories about superheroes: Nat Fantastic on Tuesday, My Mum Has X-Ray Vision on Wednesday and Super Daisy on Thursday. Participants will design and create every aspect of the play and put on a stunning performance at the end for family and friends. 10.30-16.00 29-31 October The Big Draw: Drawing Tomorrow. Work with creative geniuses from CIA (Central Illustration Agency) to create unique artwork. As part of the Big Draw, kids get to be art directors and tell the professionals what to draw. Demonstrations, workshops and drop-in activities. 12.00-16.00 12 October

The Wallace Collection Hertford House, Manchester Square W1U 3BN wallacecollection.org A Soldier’s Life for Me! Meet some Dutch Guards and learn what life was like as a soldier in seventeenth century Holland. Handle some original and replica objects and then learn to rivet some armour! 11am-2pm 29 October Double Double Toil and Trouble. Meet an Elizabethan innkeeper who needs a theatrical entertainment to rival Mr Shakespeare for her

Hallowe'en celebrations. 11.30am and 2pm 31 October The Little Draw. Free drop-in drawing workshop for all ages and abilities. 1.30pm–4.30pm 06 October

Days Out Cutty Sark King William Walk, Greenwich SE10 9HT www.rmg.co.uk Family fun weekend: Damru Drums. Make and decorate a traditional drum inspired by the ship’s voyages to India and the cargoes she collected there. Drop-in workshop. 11.30, 2pm. Admission fee applies 5-6 October Cutty Sark Rangoli patterns. Design a colourful floor pattern underneath Cutty Sark’s spectacular hull, inspired by Indian rangoli patterns used for celebrations and bringing good luck. Drop-in workshop. 11.30, 2pm. Admission fee applies 28-30 October Ship shadow puppets. Create a shadow puppet inspired by Cutty Sark’s journeys to India and see it come to life in your very own puppet show.

Make your shadows spooky for Halloween! Dropin workshop. 11.30, 2pm. Admission fee applies 31 October

Unit 1 & 2 Pickfords Wharf, Clink Street SE1 9DG www.goldenhinde.com Tudor, Pirate and Drake Fun Days. Step back in time and learn the history of the House of Tudor in a unique way that children will love. Times vary, £7 Adults, £5 Children, £20 Family Every Sat, Sun from 05 October to 26 October

Hampton Court Palace KT8 9AU www.hrp.org.uk Until 3 Nov Secrets of the Royal Bedchamber An exhibition exploring the bedchambers of the 17th and 18th Century royal court.

5 and 6 Oct, 2 and 3 Nov Tudor Cookery Watch the cooks toiling in the Kitchens of King Henry VIII, preparing the exotic dishes for his majesty.

2 and 9 Nov Family Ghost Tour Join the State Apartment Warders for an early evening walking tour to hear stories of ghostly apparitions and paranormal activity at Hampton Court Palace.

6.30pm for 60-75 mins.

HMS Belfast The Queen's Walk SE1 2JH www.iwm.org.uk/visits/hms-belfast Tattoo T-Shirts. Get creative designing your very own tattoo shapes and drawing them onto t-shirts.

As you draw, you will learn about different tattoos worn by people in the navy, and what they mean.

Part of the Big Draw 2013. 11am–12.30pm and 2–4pm. Admission fees apply 8 26 October - 3 November page 40

Ramsden Hall, 21 Ramsden Road, London SW12 8QX

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

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

Great outdoor space!

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

October 2013

®

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

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

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What’s on

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

Kew Gardens TW9 3AB kew.org IncrEdibles Festival This autumn, Kew’s IncrEdibles festival celebrates the amazing bounty of the plant world. Whether you want to try boating around a floating pineapple on the Palm House pond, travel the world in our global kitchen garden or join a tea party with a twist, there is something for the whole family to get their teeth into.

To 3 November

Osterley Park and House TW7 4RB nationaltrust.org.uk/osterley-park The Secrets of Trees If trees could talk, what would they tell us? Join the Warden for a walk in the park and gardens taking in some of Osterley's rare and veteran trees and learn their secrets as part of the Great British Walk. 2pm–3.30pm, admission fees apply 20 October Halloween Pumpkin Festival Family friendly Halloween fun. This Halloween take part in silly games, carve your very own scary pumpkin and listen to spooky stories. Plus create creepy craft items to take home. Come dressed up and receive a small treat. 12pm–4pm. Admission fees apply 26-27 October Play Conkers - 50 things to do before you're 11 ¾ Can you become a conker champion? Take part in lots of exciting games to find out. Complete number 10 of the '50 things to do before you're 11 3/4' by playing conkers. Osterley is full of conkers and you can challenge all the family to a game!

12pm–4pm 30 October Autumn half term family fun trails Have a go at a family focused trail this half term week and receive a prize.

Visit Osterley this half term and see if you can explore the gardens and grounds with an exciting trail. Complete the trail and claim your reward.

12pm–3.30pm 26 October – 3 November Craft Cart Visit the free craft cart to find fun craft activities for families - a different theme every time. 12-3pm 31 October

The Royal Observatory

An independent nursery school for children 2 to 5 years

• EYFS and Montessori Method of teaching (only accredited Montessori nurseries in SW12) • French, Ballet and Music classes • Morning, afternoon and full day sessions (term time only) Nightingale 1 Montessori: St Luke's Church Hall, 194 Ramsden Rd, SW12 Ofsted outstanding and MEAB Accredited Nightingale 2 Montessori: St Stephen's Church Hall, 35 Weir Rd, SW12 Ofsted good and MEAB Accredited Contact: info@nightingalemontessori.co.uk Nightingale 1 Montessori 07958 567210 Nightingale 2 Montessori 07930 401769 www.nightingalemontessori.co.uk

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Blackheath Avenue, Greenwich SE10 9NF www.rmg.co.uk Until Feb 14 Astronomy photographer of the year 2013 The very best in astrophotography from around the world.

Ongoing events Meet the neighbours Meet our neighbours in space in this entertaining interactive show, where you decide which planets to visit. 5yrs+, £6.50/£4.50. Mons and Weds in term-time and everyday in the school holidays.

Solar system, galaxy, Universe Exploring the scale of the Solar System, Galaxy and Universe and how we measure it. 5yrs+, £6.50/£4.50. Every Tues and Weds in term-time.

Space safari Join Ted the teddy bear for live music and rhyme as he journeys throughout the solar system looking for the Great Bear in the sky. Age 7 and under, £6.50/£4.50. Tues in term time and every day in the weekends and holidays.

Sky Tonight Live A live show presented by a Royal Observatory Astronomer takes visitors on a tour of what can be

seen in the night sky. 12.30, 2 and 3.30pm, 5yrs+, £6.50/£4.50 We are aliensExplore how our understanding of life on Earth guides the hunt for alien life elsewhere in the Universe, in this exciting new planetarium show narrated by Rupert Grint

The Tower Of London Tower Hill EC3N 4AB www.hrp.org.uk/TowerOfLondon The People of the Mint. Find out more about the lives of the men who lived and worked at the Mint – where did the gold and silver come from and how was it turned into coins? Admission fees apply To 25 October

The London Wetlands Centre Queen Elizabeth, Barnes SW13 9WT www.wwt.org.uk October half term at WWT London Wetland Centre. Join their fun family craft sessions where you’ll be making bird-based face masks and hats using natural and recycled materials. Or try a spot of autumnal pond dipping: grab a net and see what’s swimming around under the surface of the water. 9.30–11am, admission fees apply 26 October – 3 November

Churchill War Rooms SW1A 2AQ www.iwm.org.uk/visits/churchill-war-rooms Located in the heart of Westminster, visitors to the Churchill War rooms can view this complex of historic rooms left exactly as they were in 1945.

ONGOING IN 2013 - Undercover - Life in Churchhill’s bunker First-hand personal accounts of those who worked in the Cabinet War Rooms during the war. Learn what life and conditions were like underground and experience the authenticity and emotional resonance of walking through the corridors where Churchill made history.

Diary Dates/Events Dulwich Picture Gallery SE21 7AD dulwichpicturegallery.org.uk First and last Sunday of October. Family Sundays Enjoy a range of free drop-in activities. Get creative together at Artplay, and participate in interactive storytelling. 2 – 4pm, free for families with a gallery ticket.

3 November. The Big Draw: London Tomorrow Inspired by this year’s theme ‘Drawing Tomorrow’, use card, plastic and tape to construct a city of the future Erica Parrett. 2-4pm, £ 3 per child

NCT Wimbledon & Wandsworth www.nctpregnancyandbabycare.com Monday Munchkins. Every Monday in October, 10am-12pm at Elim Church, High Path, South Wimbledon.

Breastfeeding Drop-in. Every Thursday in October, 10am–12pm, Gooseberry Bush Café (upstairs studio) Bumps and Babes. Every Friday in October, 10.30am–12pm, Wimbledon Park Pavilion Post-natal meet up. Every Friday in October, 1.30–3.30pm at Mood Food Café, 131 Penwith Rd, Earlsfield, SW18 4PZ

Tel: 020 8696 9680 FamiliesSouthWest.co.uk

What’s on Merge Festival

Barbican Centre

Bankside www.mergefestival.co.uk To 20 October.

The annual arts, music and performance festival celebrating the contemporary culture and rich heritage of Bankside, returns to London’s dynamic cultural and business district.

Silk Street EC2Y 8DS www.barbican.org.uk 22 October – 9 February 2014. Pop Art Design Brash, colourful and playful, Pop Art was a movement that signalled a radical change of direction in the postwar period. Pop Art Design brings together around 200 works, by over 70 artists and designers.

25 October – 3 November. London International Animation Festival 2013 An exciting, inspiring, sometimes controversial and always intriguing collection of animation.

Clapham Opera Festival Church of the Holy Spirit, Narbonne Avenue, Clapham SW4 http://claphamoperafestival.wordpress.com 4 and 11 October.

Singers and players from the Royal Opera House, English National Opera and the Royal College of Music play themed concerts, presenting opera from different periods. £11.25/£7.50 per event

Wathen Hall, Barnes SW13 http://classicalcomedy.wix.com/now#!

12 October. A mixture of comedy and classical piano with acclaimed pianist Alex Ainley. In aid of Elizabeth’s Legacy of Hope, a local Barnes charity offering children who have lost limbs a bright and active future. 7.45pm, £15

Bach to Baby Concert www.bachtobaby.com The critically acclaimed classical concert series specifically designed for babies and carers to enjoy together. Treat yourself and introduce your wee ones to live classical music during the crucial years. Be amazed at how your child will appreciate the likes of Bach, Beethoven, and Brahms!

15 October at St. John's Fulham, North End Road SW6 1PB 16 October at Holy Trinity Church, 234 Broadway, Wimbledon SW19 1SB, 10.30am 17 October at St. Gabriel’s Church, Warwick Square SW1V 2AD, 10.30am 18 October at St Luke’s Church, 194 Ramsden Road SW12 8RQ, 10.30am

National Youth Film Festival www.nationalyouthfilmfestival.org 21 October - 8 November A 3-week programme of free screenings, pupil premieres, curriculum-linked resources, workshops, Q&A sessions and other hands-on activities which teachers can use to inspire young people and bring learning to life through film. Ages 5-19

October 2013

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walk, identify the flora and fauna and seek out minibeasts. For all ages, 12-4pm, free, drop-in.

28 Oct 1 Nov Half term Holiday Activities Nature themed, outdoor and creative activities for children. Outdoor activities are based in the wooded area. 10am-12 noon and 2-4pm, (ages 510) or 11am-3pm (ages 8-12). Advanced booking required.

Lucid Love Tantra At Battersea Yoga Centre, 119 Altenburg Gardens, SW11 1JQ www.batterseayoga.com/home For more information: www.lucidlovetantra.com

The Baby Show London Olympia, SW5 www.thebabyshow.co.uk 25-27 October A haven for all expectant mums and dads and parents of young children, the show is the nation’s most exciting and informative family experience.

Over 300 trusted brands will showcase top of the line infant essentials alongside new and innovative baby products as well as trendy clothing for babies, toddlers, mums and mums to be. Tickets from £10.95 Quoting FAM03

History of London Theatreland Tours Central London location walkingtours@solttma.co.uk 27 October. Official London Theatre’s annual Theatreland Walking Tour.

Take in some of London’s quirkier theatrical sights including a Victorian music hall, the first theatre to host a strip show in the entertainment district, the home of Revudeville variety and London’s most elegant stage door. 2.30pm, £9.50, age 12+

Saturdays: Oct 5, Oct 19, Nov 2, Dec 7th.

Discover tantra as a unique, intelligent and refined path to wellbeing, celebrating freedom of body and spirit.

These heart-centred classes expand our connection to self, others and life. Classes are experiential, fun and illuminating.

Tantra class for EVERYONE 10am - 12.30pm Tantra class for WOMEN 1.30 - 3.30pm Tantra class for COUPLES 4 - 6pm. £20/£30

Benjamin Franklin House WC2N 5NG benjaminfranklinhouse.org 29 October. 18th Century Toy Workshop Discover how Georgian children entertained themselves through long winters. Discover the past and make 18th century toys, such as whirligigs, cup-and-ball, optical illusions, and paper dolls! Suitable for 5-11 year olds, 11am, £5 per child, free for adults

Holland Park Ecology Centre W8 6LU www.rbkc.gov.uk 12 October Autumn wildlife area Open Day A great chance to explore a secret corner of the park in its autumnal colours. Enjoy a woodland

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Fireworks in South London These events, like all the events listed in this magazine, appear in our online Events Calendar first. Check out www.familiessouthwest.co.uk

Bonfire Night Barnes Sports Club, The Club House, Lonsdale Road, Barnes SW13 9QL 0208 748 6220 barnessportsclub.org 2 November – SW London’s best fireworks display with a huge bonfire, live music, hot food and family entertainment.

Gates open 5.30pm, bonfire 7pm, fireworks 7.45pm (timings subject to change). Admission fees TBC

Battersea Park Battersea Park SW11 0208 871 7534 wandsworth.gov.uk/fireworks 2 November – Marvel at an impressive display of fireworks at Battersea Park, one of London’s flagship fireworks events.

Expect traditional Guy Fawkes fun all evening, with stunning pyrotechnics, bonfire and traditional attractions. Gates open 6pm, bonfire 7.30pm, fireworks 8pm, advance tickets only £6-£10, children under 10 need a free ticket.

Clapham Common

Lord Mayor’s Show

Richmond

Clapham Common SW4 020 7926 9000 claphamcommon.org 5 November – Clapham Common will be alive with traditional fireworks fun on Bonfire Night. Display takes place at 8pm, free entry

River Thames, between Waterloo Bridge and Blackfriars Bridge www.lordmayorsshow.org 9 November – The Lord Mayor’s Show London celebrates an 800-year tradition in grand, historic style. Take to the streets to enjoy parades, festivities, fireworks and more in this historic London event. The fireworks display (cancelled in 2012 but promising to return this year) starts at 5pm, from a barge moored between Waterloo and Blackfriars bridges. Watch from the banks or grab a prime position on one of the bridges. Admission is free.

Richmond Athletics Ground, Richmond 0208 940 0397 richmond.gov.uk/firework_displays 3 November – A real favourite for locals, the Richmond fireworks display remains incredibly popular thanks to a family friendly atmosphere and a display of the highest quality. Mulled wine, hog roast, bonfire and funfair. Gates open 4.30pm, fireworks 7pm. Advance tickets £8 adults, £5 children, under 5s free, from Richmond Athletic Association club house. Prices on door £10 adults, £5 children

Coram Fields Coram Fields, 93 Guilford Street WC1N 1DN 0203 384 2202 coramsfields.org 1 November – Designed with young children and families in mind, the Corams Fields fireworks display is small but delightful. Plus hot drinks, homemade cakes and glow sticks. Gates open 5pm, fireworks 5.30pm. Admission free, but donations on the door for charity

Crystal Palace Crystal Palace Park SE19 2AA crystalpalacefireworks.co.uk 5 November – Not one but two fireworks displays, plus a family funfair and stalls selling traditional food and drink. Gates open 6pm, children’s fireworks 7pm, main display 8.30pm. Funfair runs until 10pm.

Tickets £6 adults, £4 children, under 3s free.

Bishops Park

Ealing Fireworks

Bishops Park, Fulham SW6 3LA 020 8753 5999 lbhf.gov.uk 1 November – Doors open 6pm, children’s fireworks 7.15pm, main fireworks 8pm. Plus funfair rides and food stalls. Tickets £7 on the door, under 5s free. Advance tickets £5 from Lyric Theatre box office

Ealing Cricket Club, Corfton Road W5 2HS 020 8997 1858 www.ealingcc.co.uk 2 November – If you like your fireworks displays to be dramatic and set to rousing music, then head to the Ealing Fireworks Display. Plus bars, BBQs, mulled wine and children’s rides. Gates open at 6pm, display 7.30pm. Prices £6 adults, £4 accompanied children under 14.

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Compiled by Joanna Parry

Morden Park London Road, Morden SM4 5HE merton.gov.uk/newsevents/events/fireworks 2 November – Expect plenty of Bonfire Night action at Morden Park, with two separate displays and traditional Guy Fawkes bonfires. Gates open at 5.15pm, first bonfire lit at 6.30pm, children’s fireworks 6.45pm, second bonfire lit at 8.15pm, fireworks 8.30pm. £8 adults, £6 children, under 4s free. Tickets on the gate

Ravenscourt Park London W6 020 8741 5378 lbhf.gov.uk 2 November – Gates open 6pm, children’s fireworks 7.15pm, main fireworks 8pm. Expect rockets, bangers, food stalls, rides and more. Tickets £7 on the day, £5 in advance from Lyric Theatre box office. Kids under 5 free

South Park Gardens South Park Gardens, King’s Road, Wimbledon SW19 1RY 020 8545 3678 southparkgardens.org 2 November – Fireworks at 6pm. A family show especially for young children, with plenty of colour but not too much noise! Tickets must be bought in advance

Wimbledon Park Wimbledon Park, Park Road SW18 5NR 020 8545 3667 merton.gov.uk/newsevents/events/fireworks 5 November – Two bonfires, two fireworks, plus a fairground. Gates open at 5.15pm, first bonfire lit at 6.30pm, children’s fireworks 6.45pm, second bonfire lit at 8.15pm, fireworks 8.30pm.

Fairground, stalls and refreshments.

Tickets on gate, £8 adults, £6 children, under 4s free

Tel: 020 8696 9680 FamiliesSouthWest.co.uk

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October 2013

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PIANO TUITION

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Tel: 020 8696 9680 FamiliesSouthWest.co.uk