Families London SW Issue 219 September 2012

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

September 2012

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ISSN ue 21 9 135 4-95 Est 53 19

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® South West Find us online:

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The French Nursery school Bilingual education in SW7 and SW1 • 2-5 years French • Spanish See our advert on page 8 For more information please call on 0207 259 2151 or email: marie-laurence@thefrenchnurseryschool.com

Picture credit: F&F School wear www.tesco.com

•Huge clubs and classes feature •School Open Days •Back to school •Huge What’s on

WINDOW CLEANING

SJ Bridgeman • Established

• We make appointments • We start at 7am, ideal • We like to pre-book • We are reliable,

in 1977

and always stick to them for busy working people our visits to suit you conscientious and trustworthy

020 8538 3777 & 07780 697862 sjbridgeman@btconnect.com

Pilkington Construction Design and build • Loft conversions • Extensions • Side returns Joinery, decorating and refurbishments Email: david@pilkingtonconstruction.co.uk Mobile: 07812 168515

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Tel: 020 8696 9680 FamiliesSouthWest.co.uk

is already here o n ear heaven Everyt th be in hing that o t is supposed

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SouthWest

September 2012

Contents 04-05

Local news & information

Picture credit: F&F School wear www.tesco.com

06-07

06-07

Mums know best Share your tips and knowledge

10-11

Talking matters How to deal with grief

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

Children’s health

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Bedwetting: confronting the night-time challenge

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Health and nutrition Should our children eat less wheat?

Next issue: October 2012 Deadline: early September •“Families® South West” heads a group of magazines. All franchised magazines in the group are independently owned and operated under licence.

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CLUBS & CLASSES FEATURE

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What’s On

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

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.

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- School news - Open Days - Help with reading

•There are over 38 UK local editions with a print run of more than 600,000 copies in all, in which you can advertise too. Oh, and we have a very useful website… familiesonline.co.uk • MOVING? Families® magazines can be be franchised in new areas. Read initial franchise information on the website or call.

Education

40-45

• Drama • Events • Exhibitions & Museums

46-47

Diary dates, directory and classified

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September 2012

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News & Views Beautiful cards Two mums-of-three from Barnes have set up Little Page, selling gorgeous stationery for kids and adults alike.

Inspired by cherished toys and favourite things with a vintage twist, their personalised Christening invitations have become a favourite amongst the residents of Barnes, but you can also find thank you notes, party invitations, birth announcements and correspondence cards. Designed and produced in Barnes, a Little Page invitation is guaranteed to become the pride of any mantelpiece. And for an even longer-lasting keepsake they will print your christening invitation onto linen – a perfect framed piece for any nursery. www.littlepage.co.uk

Green Apple Awards

Nannies with like minds For all your babysitting and ad hoc childcare needs, go to Like Minders - a local members club offering parents flexibility when they need it most. Whether it be evening sitting, daytime help, holiday nannies or last-minute emergency cover they can help – it’s a service you can dip in and out of as and when you need. The agency prides itself on using the very best childcarers, all of whom are CRB checked and have passed a strict selection process, ensuring their standards remain high. All the benefits of a nanny without the long-term commitment! Call 0844 879 7189, email Info@likeminders.co.uk. www.likeminders.co.uk

Donate please!

Next time you’re passing through Fulham, please drop off your donations of food at the Foodbank, located in Christ Church on Studdridge Street, SW6. As food and utilities prices continue to rise and jobs are lost or hours decreased, people are finding it increasingly hard to support themselves, and the Foodbank always needs more food. As long as it’s in-date and non-perishable, they want it! You can even download a foodbank shopping list to see just what they need. www.hffb.org

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Family favourite Morden Hall Park has won an award in the 2012 Green Apple Built Environment Awards, Europe’s longest running environmental awards. The National Trust property’s Stable Yard has won the Green Apple for Best Retrofit, after the Stable Yard was renovated and opened to the public in November 2011. The Victorian yard is now one of the most energy efficient historic buildings in the country, providing an interactive centre for learning about sustainable green living and new energy-saving products, as well as an exhibition space, craft stalls and café. For more details see http://nationaltrustmordenhallpark.blogspot.com

Family charity in Wandsworth As part of Small Charities Week, HomeStart Wandsworth recently opened its new offices, with help from local MP Jane Ellison.

The charity is based in York Road, Battersea, and although relatively new it has already worked with many young, vulnerable Wandsworth parents in their homes, helping them build strong, healthy and happy families.

The new offices will help the charity meet the challenges of continuing to support families in need, as well as securing vital funding and volunteers. A very worthy cause. www.homestartwandsworth.co.uk

Support for dads Fathers Reaching Out is a support group for men whose wives or partners are suffering from postnatal depression. When a woman is suffering it can have a massive effect on their partners men can find themselves having to carry out all the main duties at home whilst working, caring for their wife and their new born child, with sometimes other children at home too. These responsibilities can cause a lot of stress, but www.fathersreachingout.com provides an outlet where men can express their feelings and emotions without being judged, and talk to others who have been in the same position. The focus of the site is to provide men with the support they need to cope at this difficult time.

Visit bootieboutique.com for all your Jubilee- and Olympic-themed gifts and accessories this year. The brainchild of local craft-lover Kirsty Kissell, www.bootieboutique.com sells unique personalised handmade gifts for babies and young children, ranging from bunting and booties to Bugaboo accessories, all of which are just gorgeous.

Worth a look!

Tel: 020 8696 9680 FamiliesSouthWest.co.uk

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

News

Artisan brings gold to Putney In this Olympic year, a local business wins gold! Artisan Coffee Shop on Upper Richmond Road, Putney, has picked up a gold award for Coffee Bar Independent of the Year, the first time a coffee shop in South West London has won this. “It’s great to finally have somewhere that serves coffee as it should be,” says local resident and customer, Matt. “It’s clear that a lot of passion and time goes into each cup.” “It’s a fantastic achievement,” adds owner Edwin Harrison. “We have only been open 6 months so credit goes to the team who have all put in a fantastic effort to get us to where we are today.” www.artisancoffee.co.uk

Art at the Royal

Picture credit www.ruthcorney.com

A new Sleep and Ventilation Unit opens this September at The Royal Brompton Hospital, and local charity The Octavia Appeal has funded the artwork decorating the Unit, which will be installed in the main corridor, at reception and in each bedroom. Created in collaboration with young respiratory patients, the project was specifically supported by Zebedees Nursery School in Fulham who held a sponsored Dance earlier this year, raising over £3,500! The fundraising continues with a family morning at Twice Times Nursery in South Park, SW6 on 29 September – come along for lots of fun and some yummy Hummingbird Bakery cupcakes. www.octaviaappeal.org

Writing competition This summer Hornsby House School pupils scooped both winner and runner-up prizes in the Polka Theatre writing competition. Two Year 6 pupils won the top prizes in the short story Writing the World competition, the theme of which was "London" in honour of the 2012 Olympic Games. Winner Charlie Barber, aged 11, wrote ‘The Thames Murder’, which was performed by actors at the Polka Theatre at their Writing the World festival in July, and Isobel Laughton, also 11, won the runner-up prize for her story, Lucy's Promise. "Writing the World is an excellent project and the London theme of this year's competition inspired some wonderful stories,” said Carmel Regan, Year 6 English teacher. “We are very proud that Charlie and Isobel's stories were chosen as winner and runner-up." www.hornsby-house.co.uk

Be careful with music A new survey by Baby Sensory has discovered that many parents are unaware of the risks of playing music through headphones to their baby bump. The research by the baby development classes found that 89% of parents are unaware of the risks involved when playing music to their unborn child: that the amniotic fluid within the womb actually doubles the level of decibels a child hears from 60 to 120. Baby Sensory founder, Dr Lin Day says, “It is widely researched and publicised that playing music to an unborn child helps mother and child bond and assists with brain development, which I fully support. However, the problem with playing the headphones directly on the abdomen is that the amniotic fluid works as a conductor of sound and can amplify the music which causes it to be far louder for the baby. This can, in some circumstances, lead to hearing problems to the child from birth.” Find out more at www.babysensory.com

Party perfection Try local children’s party caterers Hats and Bells to wow your little ones at your next party. They now offer a quintessentially English tea and a fullyfledged circus fantasia, and everything else in between! From mini organic shepherd’s pies to handmade cakepops and irresistible cookies, they can create healthy, not so healthy and positively naughty food. However big or small your party, they will work their magic and won’t fail to impress. www.hatsandbells.com

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Alice in Bloomsbury This summer children from Wimbledon and across SW London came together for a dance production of Alice in Wonderland at the Bloomsbury Theatre. The children, all students of the Dance Fusion Academy, formed a cast of 150, including some as young as 2! Founder Sarah Preston comments, “All of the children were outstanding and to achieve what they did in 3 months has been amazing.

They have made Dance Fusion Academy, their parents and the community proud and we hope that this experience will stick with them throughout their years.” Dance Fusion also had a summer school over August – find out more at www.dancefusionacademy.co.uk

Yummy treats For the best frozen yoghurt in London, try Milk In It near Clapham Common Tube Station. Their healthy alternative to ice cream has just been named Best Frozen Yoghurt by the Financial Times. It was set up by local business woman Antonia Kadri, who not only cultures the yoghurt herself but who you will often find selling her wares from her ice cream trike in Clapham Common! What a treat! www.milkinit.co.uk

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mums know best The page where parents share their knowledge (because raising the next generation is, you know, only the most important job in the world).

Compiled by Helena Foss

At Families South West, we have plenty of seasoned mums (and the odd dad) on staff who like to chat about everything from the tear-yourhair-out challenges to the exquisite, heart-melting joys of bringing up our children.

Seeing as we are all constantly making mistakes (yes, we hold

our hands up!) and learning on the job, it makes sense to pool our experience. “Mums know best” is our new forum for sharing the tips, secret weapons and handy hints we have learned whilst toiling away at the coal-face of parenting.

Now, if we like to share tips (“kids too buzzing to sleep? Tell them to run up and down the stairs ten times.

Works for me!” says our editor and mum of five Pascale), we thought our readers would enjoy this too. In fact, so eager are we to hear your tips that we have prizes to give away for the best contributions.

That’s right mums and dads, get thinking because our readers need....... YOU!

September This month we are talking about: Back to school

A lovely time to chat with your children

Walk to school, walk everywhere for better health and safer communities In Sweden, children learn none of the three Rs until the age of six.

Instead they are encouraged to play and are taken on nature walks every day (even in the bitter Scandinavian winter). And guess what? By the age of ten, Swedish children rank amongst the most literate in Europe (which is higher than the UK). OK, so we may not be able to change the national curriculum overnight, but we can at least make sure our children get their daily dose of nature, if only by ditching the car and scheduling walk-to-school time. Through the park or along a tree-lined street if feasibly possible, collecting leaves, blackberries (for a pie perhaps?) and conkers along the way. Set off early enough and this could create relaxed, quality time to chat with your child. A great start for both of you, don’t you think?

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Children need downtime too

Give them opportunities to develop their Emotional Intelligence (EI) We 21st century mothers are very good at being ‘human doings’ rather than human beings, forever chasing the ends of our To Do lists for a spot of that elusive me-time. Well, children need downtime too, especially once the autumn term is in full swing. Remember, we work and learn best in short spurts of 45 minutes or so with breaks in between. In fact, our EI (emotional intelligence) is a higher indicator of success in life than our IQ, according to Daniel Goleman, author of the landmark book Emotional Intelligence (see: http://danielgoleman.info).

Happy and relaxed children are more creative and absorb information much more easily. It is as simple as that.

If your child is willing, encourage her to try a children’s yoga class at the Sivananda Yoga Centre in Putney: www.sivananda.org/london or www.yogabugs.com Or a meditation class at the Thai Buddhist Temple in Wimbledon: www.buddhapadipa.org

Tel: 020 8696 9680 FamiliesSouthWest.co.uk

mums know best Think about this: “The world will be saved by the Western woman.”

– The Dalai Lama

Tips for a healthy breakfast Television advertising can be an insidious thing. One recent advert for a chocolate hazelnut spread suggested that it constitutes a healthy breakfast due to its components of “hazelnuts, skimmed milk and cocoa powder.” But do not be fooled. According to AdvanceNutrition.co.uk the top ingredient of this spread is, in fact, sugar, ranking in at a hefty 56 per cent. Next is vegetable oil.

Nutritious fuel to help your child focus at school? We don’t think so.

Have a child who refuses to eat breakfast? Don’t give in with sugar loaded popping rice. Tempt him to kick off the day with a smoothie: it’s easy to accept as it is a sweet drink but it’s healthy too. Choose a glass of liquid (yoghurt, juice, coconut water, rice, oat or almond milk), add some fruit fresh (or tinned) and a few green leaves or even avocado (trust us, they will never know) and add a spoon of hemp protein powder (from health food shops). Raw cocoa powder is a great addition: as long as it is raw, its health benefits are off the scale; it has extremely high levels of anti-oxidant flavanoids, Vitamin C, magnesium, iron and zinc. You can always add some date or agave syrup to sweeten if necessary—no sugar! Blend it all up. Sip slowly.

Now that is what we call good nutrition.

Hide protein and vitamins in a yummy smoothie

The multi-tasking trampoline Who says trampolines are just for vertical bouncing up and down? AnneSophie Hulett from Tooting (mum of 11-year-old Toscanie and nine-yearold Matisse) came up with the ingenious idea of tipping it on its side: “My children now use our old trampoline for tennis practice,” she says. Bouncier and much more fun, apparently, than just hitting the ball against a wall (could it work for football too?) “It keeps them busy for hours, not to mention wearing them out before bed.”

Advantage, Mrs Hulett!

Have a parenting tip to share?

Reader TIP of the month

Reasons why it is all worth it “Mummy, can I stroke your boobies bery [very] gently?” my four-year-old boy (who still gets his ‘v’s and ‘b’s mixed up) asked me one evening as we were cuddling on the sofa. “Why would you want to do that?” I asked. He looked up and sighed: “Because they are bery lobely.”

(Helena Foss, Families SW writer)

Post your inspired ideas and stories on our Facebook Page: www.facebook.com/familiesSW The hottest parenting tips will be published and the Tip of the month will win a copy of The Politically Incorrect Parenting Book: 10 no-nonsense rules to stay sane and raise happy kids, by Nigel Latta (Vermillion, £12.99).

September 2012

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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

Bilingual education since 1996 The French Nursery School For children from 2 years old to 5 years old.

(Toddler group from 1yr) Morning or afternoon sessions available Full time sessions 9h - 15h

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

The Belgravia Nursery School Bilingual Nursery school French/ English.

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

Toddler Group from 1 year old

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

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Tel: 020 8696 9680 FamiliesSouthWest.co.uk

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

www.thewillownursery.co.uk

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Talking matters

Supporting your child through grief It’s a sad fact, but at some point in their young life, your child will lose a loved one. How do you help them process their grief and when do children need professional support?

We interviewed Dan, who supports children dealing with the very worst sort of loss – often a parent - and says there are as many different ways of grieving as there are children.

“Everyone grieves in their own way, at their own pace,” explains Dan. “Most model their parents, especially younger children. Very young children tend not to understand and so don’t accept the person has gone. They think they’re coming back. Death doesn’t mean the same to a young child as it does to you and me. That changes when they get to about 6 years old.

Then they begin to understand the person who has died, isn’t coming back. They will have feelings but at that age, can struggle with verbalizing them.”

Honesty and direct, real language are the key to communicating with children. There’s a natural instinct as a parent to want to protect your child from sadness and loss, but most of the children Dan works with say they prefer to know what’s going on. It gives them the chance to ask questions, and gives parents the chance to explain things. Open and honest language is also vital.

woken, or they can be scared to go to sleep themselves.”

Dan’s work combines individual and family counseling with group workshops. Those workshops use art, drama, dance and sport to either focus the children’s mind on working through their grief, or providing a positive distraction with young people going through the same experiences. At the moment Dan’s planning a sailing trip and some self defence classes.

A most poignant exercise with the help of art Art is a big part of the therapy and Dan uses drawing with the children. When the words run out, drawing a picture can be a way of communicating feelings. The walls of the art room are covered with work from both those being treated here and the children they leave behind.

“A useful exercise to do with a child is to divide a piece of paper into three sections,” explains Dan. “This is before, during and the future. Get the child to draw a picture in each area. It helps to start a conversation, acknowledge what’s happened but importantly to see there’s a future. This can take some children 10 minutes and others much longer.”

“Most children are OK. Yes, they will be changed. Yes, the experience will stay with them for life. But they’ll be OK.”

“Be clear with the words you use. Don’t be afraid to say ‘death’ and ‘dying’ otherwise the child will be confused,” Dan explains. “If you say you’ve ‘lost’ someone, a child thinks they can be found. If you say someone has ‘fallen asleep’ a child thinks they can be

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Useful Websites • Child Bereavement Charity www.childbereavement.org.uk • Child Bereavement Network www.childhoodbereavementnetwork.org.uk • Winston’s Wish www.winstonswish.org.uk

WHAT DO I SAY TO MY CHILD? Tell them the truth. Excluding them can make them feel left out and resentful. By talking to them YOU control the information and keep communication channels open.

Use clear, real language.

Let your child know it’s OK to ask questions. They will have worries and concerns and verbalizing them can help keep them in perspective. Younger children will ask the same question over again. Be patient.

Don’t hide your emotions from your child. By showing you are upset, you are giving them permission to show they are upset.

Keep your boundaries in place.

Children become confused when the boundaries they’ve lived with disappear. If they’re badly behaved, tell them. If they’ve got a routine, stick to it. You’re giving them a stability at a time when life feels very unstable.

Look out for changes in behaviour – anger, anxiety, worry, fear of being abandoned. Their fears may be irrational but listen and respond in a straightforward and truthful manner.

Consult the professionals. If you feel your child isn’t communicating or coping then ask for support.

Tel: 020 8696 9680 FamiliesSouthWest.co.uk

Talking matters

The story behind ‘The Copper Tree’ Three years ago Families Leeds Editor Sarah Butters had to tell her then 5 year old daughter about the death of a young relative. She searched for a book to help her. Three years on, she’s found that book and has been along to chat to its Yorkshire author, Hilary Robinson.

The Copper Tree is the story of a class of children who learn how to cope with the death of their teacher, Miss Evans. We witness the youngsters finding out she’s unwell, her final visit to the school and how they deal with the news of her death.

and hospices around the country.

“There were three main considerations,” explains the author.

“Firstly the importance of using real people, not animals. Secondly, you’ve got to avoid euphemisms. If you tell a 5 year old they’ve ‘lost’ someone, they’ll think you’ll eventually find them.

Finally there should be no whimsical notions of heaven. What do we really know? It’s up to parents and teachers to explain as they feel fit.”

“The aim of the book is to celebrate the life lost and find a way to continue the memory,” explains Hilary. “Experts call this Continuing Bonds Theory. The children in Miss Evans’ class are encouraged to remember the character and qualities she imparted and to pass them on. It means the person who has died, lives on in a sense.”

Hilary would like The Copper Tree to be used as a resource in schools and shared in classrooms across the country as a way of encouraging children to communicate. The message the book gives is that a life lived is to be celebrated and those touched by that life should pass on what they’ve learnt. To Hilary and her family, the publication of The Copper Tree is a celebration of the short but full life her sister in law Caroline lived. Her spirit, courage and memory will now live on in the pages of this amazing book and in the hearts of those who read it.

However sad the theme, this isn’t a sad book. It is a story about loss, but it’s also a story about the gifts we give each day to each other. It’s written from the point of view of Olivia, one of the children, so there are places where the narrator’s mind wanders to observe a three legged dog winning a race at Sports Day, or a classmate’s obsession with bats.

The Copper Tree is £6.99 and available to order from www.amazon.co.uk or through the official website www.thecoppertree.org Useful Websites • The Childhood Bereavement Network, 020 7843 6309. www.childhoodbereavement network.org.uk • www.jigsaw4u.org.uk 020 8687 1384 • www.chasecare.org.uk • www.trinityhospice.org.uk

The beautiful illustrations and simple story disguise a book that’s been well researched and given the support of experts in the field of child bereavement. Hilary was keen to make sure she handled the delicate subject matter with sensitivity and responsibility and as a result, she’s won the support of leading charities

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Children’s health

Bedwetting: confronting the night-time challenge Bedwetting is a common childhood complaint, affecting up to one in 10 children up to the age of nine. In the lead up to Urology Week on 17-21 September, Mr Feilim Murphy, Urology Consultant at The Portland Hospital for Women and Children, shares his expert insights into bedwetting and how to combat it.

• Bedwetting affects more boys than girls and can run in families, with children tending to grow out of it around the same age as their parents did • In the vast majority of cases, bedwetting is temporary and will quickly disappear with parents and child working together as a team.

In those children where it persists, you should consult your doctor. Many parents are reluctant to do so due to embarassment or concern that it is too trivial, but it is important to rule out any medical causes for bedwetting • Wetting the bed can be a sign of a minor delay in the maturity of the nervous system, where a child doesn’t recognise the signs that they need the toilet during the night. A lot of children who wet the bed could also have undiagnosed day time toileting problems, which are reinforced at night time. Only by fixing the days can you fix the nights • Bedwetting can feel extremely isolating and shameful. It can get worse due to anxiety about school trips or sleepovers. It is extremely important to reassure the child that it is not their fault and neither they, nor their bladder, is ‘lazy’ • Reassurance, praise and support are important to give your child confidence, and remove feelings of guilt or blame. Reward systems like star charts for dry nights will reinforce this and can be very effective • To begin to combat bedwetting, make sure your child drinks lots of fluid during the day, and teach them to recognise the signs of needing the toilet.

Encourage them to use the toilet regularly, especially in school, or out and about • Alarm systems, which wake the child (and sometimes the whole house) upon contact with moisture, have also been shown to be an effective therapy in a majority of cases, with a low relapse rate • In more severe cases, for instance, children who have never been dry at night or who have daytime accidents, need to be referred to an appropriate specialist. Children older than seven can be prescribed medication to decrease the amount of urine produced All children are different, but their active participation in dealing with their own bedwetting enables them to regain control of their bladder.

The key factor for success is the child’s motivation; gradually winning the child over is the fundamental step. In children in which the alarm or medication has not made a significant improvement I use a protocol driven child centred treatment program

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with the assistance of my excellent clinical nurse specialists which allows the child to gain control over their own body and the condition •Mr Feilim Murphy is a Consultant Urologist at The Portland Hospital for Women and Children.

The Portland Hospital is the UK’s largest independent children's hospital, devoted to caring for babies and children up to the age of 16 years. It is 'home' to more than 70 top paediatric related consultant specialists - the largest group of private paediatric specialists in the UK - many of whom are considered to be amongst the world's leading clinicians.

We asked some therapists for their advice Lower spine should be checked "Osteopaths working with children have found that there is frequently a connection between bed-wetting and a particular region of the lower spine, the second lumbar vertebra being the most common level. This appears to be a reflex phenomenon, which may be a result of an irritable bladder or a significant factor in the cause of bed-wetting. Clinical experience shows that correcting the mechanical disorder by gentle manual means can result in an improvement in bladder control. Minor injuries, like falling out of a tree, can be responsible for disturbing the mechanical integrity of the spine and this can destabilize the nervous system enough to diminish bladder control.

Bed-wetting quite often is distressing for children and distress, too, has its physical picture, mostly through increased muscle tension in particular parts of the body. Specific osteopathic treatment is an effective way of reducing the physical stress in the body, and this in turn promotes better bladder control."

•Stuart Korth DO, DPO, FICO, Director of Osteopathy, Osteopathic Centre for Children, www.occ.uk.com 020 8875 5290. The Foundation for Paediatric Osteopathy, trading as the Osteopathic Centre for Children (OCC) Registered Charity No: 1003934

Hypnotherapy and treatment of enuresis from MG Hypnosis: “To start, it is imperative to build a sensitive and positive rapport with the child. After a detailed medical background, we then use a variety of tools to help your child find the right solution for them. Kids often can fix their own “problems” using their brilliant imaginations. We use techniques like pretending, relaxation and imagery, metaphors, time distortion, and always confidence boosting to help them over come bedwetting. The keys factors in helping your child is for the parents to be relaxed about it, and continue to encourage your child (even when it feels frustrating).

•Call Marygrace on 07931 547414 for more information, or to discuss your personal situation.

Details at www.mghypnosis.co.uk

Energise and strengthen the kidney “The organ relating to urination is the kidney and in Chinese medicine if the kidney is deficient the bladder becomes unable to regulate urination. A lot of children experience nocturnal enuresis or ‘bedwetting’ due to a deficiency of the kidney energy which manifests as fear or anxiety. Acupuncture can treat to strengthen the kidney and resolve this fear to enable a child to have more control of bladder function. Research shows that acupuncture can modulate brain function and influence the parasympathetic innervation to the urinary tract.

(W.F. Bower, 28 October 2012).

•For more information please contact Serena Forbes MBAcC, BSc (hons), BA (Hons), Lic Tui Na: info@serenaforbes.com 07786 473 746. www.serenaforbes.com References: W.F. Bower, M. Diao. Acupuncture as a treatment for nocturnal enuresis; Autonomic Neuroscience: Basic and Clinical; 28 October 2012 (Vol. 157, Issue 1, Pages 63-67)

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Health and nutrition

Should your children eat less wheat?

By Elisabeth Dolton

For centuries wheat has been at the centre of our diets. Over the last 10,000 years, the earth's population has doubled ten times, and wheat is one food source that has helped enable this. Wheat feeds more people in the world today than any other food. Yet nutritional therapists are starting to advise reducing our consumption of wheat, in some cases even eliminating it from our diets totally. Why? Wheat is a common part of our and our children’s diets. It is in almost every meal we have - cereal, bread, crackers, biscuits, cakes, pastry, and pasta.

It is also recommended by many world governments as an essential part of our daily intake. However, wheat grown today looks very different from how it used to look. Chemicals are used to grow wheat today, as well as preservatives, and the most notable difference is how it’s processed. Today most wheat-based foods are highly processed, removing most of the nutrients.

Perhaps therein lies the reason, as wheat is increasingly being linked to common allergy, sensitivity, ADD and hyperactivity in kids, celiac disease, fatigue, weight gain and more.

Wheat contains fibre and other nutrients that are beneficial for health and wellness. However, sensitivity to wheat and gluten (a large protein found in wheat) is increasing. Some people have a severe allergic reaction to gluten, known as coeliac disease, which affects as many as one in 300 in the

UK. But wheat intolerance is also more prevalent. Symptoms occur after the body reacts to wheat and interferes with its normal processes, causing everything from irritable bowel syndrome to thyroid disorders, arthritis, diabetes, asthma and eczema. Indeed, many nutritional therapists believe too much wheat causes headaches, a feeling of ill health, bloating, tiredness and even depression. There's little mainstream scientific evidence to support this, but that hasn't stopped nutritionists advising their patients to cut down on wheat intake or use alternatives to wheat such as spelt, rye, barley, rice and soy.

It is very easy to overdose on wheat and end up eating it for breakfast, lunch and dinner – toast, sandwiches, a pizza. Try cutting wheat down to one meal a day for the family, and eat the most natural and unrefined wheat such as wholemeal or wholegrain bread and whole-wheat pasta. While it may not be necessary for most of us to cut out wheat completely from our diets, it’s worth the effort to reduce excessive wheat intake.

Wheat-free lunch boxes Good quality proteins, complex carbohydrates and healthy fats are the key to a super wheat-free lunch box.

• Quality proteins - Deli meats, cheese and cheese spreads, salads (chicken, turkey, tuna), soup, yogurt, protein bars, hard-boiled eggs, falafel • Complex carbohydrates - Vegetables and fruits (celery, carrot sticks, sugar snap peas, broccoli, cauliflower), rice, whole grain gluten free bread and crackers, hummus, gluten free pasta with pesto and pinenuts, rice cakes with fun toppings (nut butters, jam, cheese) • Healthy Fats - Olive oil, raw nuts/seeds, dried fruit, avocados, olives

Fish power for those little brains Uniforms, shoes and stationery are just some of the stresses to face parents at this time of year, but how do you ensure your child is on the road to a healthy development if they are a fussy eater? Recent studies have shown that children who have an omega-3 enriched diet have a significantly higher cognitive performance, are protected against some childhood diseases and go on to have better health in adulthood. Persuading your child to eat fish 2-3 times a week can be a struggle. Nordic Naturals range of chewable gummies are an easy way to get all the benefits of omega-3s and multivitamins into our children’s diets. Each product is naturally fruit-flavoured and free from any fishy taste – choose from favourites like Omega-3 Gummy Worms and Nordic Berries.

Not all fish oil supplements are the same, so how do you ensure high quality?

• Third–party test results for purity and freshness.

• Is the fish oil manufactured according to international quality standards?

• Does the fish oil smell or taste fishy? If so, the fish oil has most likely been exposed to oxygen and is becoming rancid.

• Supportive scientific research to prove the efficacy of the fish oil brand.

• Sustainable fishing practices. Any environmentally responsible fish oil manufacturer should offer transparency into their fishing practices.

Nordic Naturals is available at health food stores and pharmacies. www.nordicnaturals.com/uk

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School feature How To....

Simple, quick guides from Families® to help you help your family…

Series 1

How to encourage reading

By Elisabeth Dolton

Many of us know the value and enjoyment of reading. Good readers become better writers, better learners and well rounded individuals. Taking an active part in helping your children become interested in reading is vital. Despite busy days, tired kids, limited time and many distractions, we outline five simple steps that can help.

Step one – Set up reading time every day Decide when and where a reading session will take place, which fits into your household schedule, and keep it. 10 minutes is fine.

Encourage your child to read aloud. They don’t have to get every word right, and praise them often. If they are discouraged by their own reading, you read aloud. The pleasure of listening to you read can restore their enthusiasm. Offer to read every other sentence, page, chapter, and have conversations and discussions about the content.

Make it fun. Children love sound effects, different voices, pulling faces.

Step two – During reading time Introduce the bookmark. Stop after a few pages and pick up where you left off at another time Provide an accessible, special place for children to keep their own books Use special incentives, e.g. an extra 5 minutes to finish a chapter, a promise to take them to see the film of the book, sticker charts and certificates Notice what attracts your children's attention, even if it’s only pictures, and build on that interest. Gather more information on the same subject.

Listen to audio books (in the car too). These help develop visualisation, a critical pre-reading skill.

Let them choose their own books. Don’t worry the books are too young or too easy, early reading success can came from several "nontraditional" sources such as comics.

Buy a special notebook and record all the books they have read, add their thoughts and a star rating.

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Step three – See the teacher and judge where they are Find out what reading programme the school follows, get to know the levels, and aim to supplement the programme at home.

Prepare a timetable. Know what level your child is at and the next, with some idea of when it can be achieved. There is no race to be the first to read, it just puts things into context.

Step four – Plan specific reading linked activities Extend your child's positive reading experiences, e.g. If they enjoyed reading about dinosaurs, visit the Natural History Museum.

Helping reading for children with learning difficulties

Encourage activities that require reading, e.g. read a recipe, instructions, and directions, play games that require reading, use a reference book to look up something you have seen.

Give books as gifts.

Books and Audio Follow a book as the audio book plays. Listen to a chapter, and then read it together Turn on the TV subtitles Sub-titles on your TV or DVD help increase sight word vocabulary, whilst developing a sense of flow of written and spoken language Make your child the star of their own audio book Your child can read into a recorder, then follow the book together during playback Everyone joins in Reserve thirty minutes each evening for family reading time. Each family member reads different material and then shares information about it, or take turns reading aloud from the same book.

Leave books, magazines, and colourful catalogues around your home.

Support their learning

Visit the library and give your child their own library card. They can choose their own library book or listen in on story-time.

Step five – Be a role model Let your children see you reading for pleasure.

Read aloud everyday items - menus, road signs, food labels.

Write short notes for your child to read.

Reading opens up new worlds to your children and gives them a chance to use their imaginations.

There are many ways to encourage your child to read, and the best ways always include participation on your part.

Help ensure your child doesn’t get behind in reading material necessary for school subjects, ask for help with obtaining textbooks on CD. Together identify unfamiliar words you come across and show your child how to look up the meanings of words. Children with specific learning difficulties and dyslexia could benefit from the PQ4R strategy (http://learningdisabilities.about.com/od/instru ctionalmaterials/a/pq4rstrategy.htm)

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School feature

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School feature

School News

Backing the proposals, Fulham and Chelsea MP Greg Hands said: “I was elected MP for Fulham on a platform of creating more secondary school choice, and I have given this proposal for a new Fulham Boys School my wholehearted support. I urge all residents from SW6 and beyond to register their support.” www.fulhamboysschool.org Another proposed school for South West London is a primary on Franciscan Road. Local parents know that Tooting desperately needs additional primary places to keep up with the growing demand, and to address this problem Graveney School is working with Wandsworth Council and the support of other primary and secondary schools in the area to open a new school in September 2013 on the site of the Professional Centre. The school would admit 60 pupils into two reception classes each year, eventually creating a school with 420 places from reception to Year 6. At present they are undergoing consultation and are asking for feedback from future parents to establish the level of demand.

Find out more at www.graveney.org

Hot on the heels of the announcement of new independent school Wandsworth Prep opening this September, the team to head the school has been confirmed. Melissa McBride was appointed Head of School, with Bridget Saul as Deputy Head. Currently Head of Year 8 and Head of PSHCE at Thomas’s London Day School in Battersea Melissa, a Wandsworth resident, has a wealth of experience to bring to the school.

Bridget, who also joins from Thomas’s, has fifteen years of teaching under her belt and eleven years’ experience as Head of Department.

“Wandsworth Prep School will aim to turn out intellectually curious pupils who are ready to take a full, active and positive role as a global citizen,” says Melissa, “and above all strive to instill in pupils a love of lifetime learning and foster an atmosphere of mutual respect.” www.wandsworthprep.com

There is also good news for Fulham parents, as a group of local residents are hoping to open a new Church of England boys secondary school next year. If successful, Fulham Boys School will open in September 2013 with its first intake of Year 7 boys. “From speaking to parents locally, it’s clear there’s very real demand for more choice at secondary level, for boys in particular,” said Alex Wade, chairman of the group. “Fulham hasn’t got a secondary faith school for boys, other than the excellent but heavily oversubscribed Oratory School, and our ambition is to fill this gap with an outstanding school with inspirational teaching planned specifically to bring out the best in boys.”

Whilst the plans are for a Church of England school, organisers are actively encouraging support from across the community. Their vision is for a truly inclusive school with at least half of the places each year open to applicants of all faiths and none.

The proposed South London Jewish Primary School is also collecting registrations to measure its support - over the past few months they have been preparing themselves for approval by meeting other Jewish schools, and have had their interview with the Department for Education. If the application is successful the school will open in September 2013, welcoming pupils across all sections of the Jewish community as well as children of other faiths. “The opening of the first Jewish primary school in South London will be real milestone for our community and for the provision of education to all children in South London,” says Shirley Lee, director of the SLJPS. “We are very proud of being able to offer a cross communal, mixed school, dedicated to creating an environment in which children can grow to their fullest potential as responsible and dedicated members of British society and of the Jewish community.” www.sljps.org.uk

Open Morning for Prospective Parents & Girls

Saturday 13 October 2012

Please visit us at www.jags.org.uk James Allen’s Girls’ School 144 East Dulwich Grove, London SE22 8TE Tel: 020 8693 1181 / Fax: 020 8693 7842

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School feature Directors Tina aged 9, Sophia aged 10, Suhayl aged 9 and Mirsab aged 9. The ‘Fruit Universe’ team recently spent the day with award-winning social enterprise company fruit to suit, learning business skills and putting together a business plan to present to their head teacher before they could commence trading. To date, 7 Wandsworth primary schools have set up healthy tuck shop businesses using fruit to suit training programs.

“The launch of this project reflects the type of learning that we are passionate about at Alderbrook,” says Kate Baum, Head teacher.

“Children are applying a range of skills from several areas of the curriculum to develop life long skills and experiences that they will remember and cherish for many years to come.”

Outstanding Nursery A Wimbledon-based nursery has just been awarded “Outstanding”! South London's only Jewish nursery, Apples and Honey, has achieved an 'Outstanding' rating across all areas of its recent Ofsted inspection, reflecting its exceptional commitment to providing the highest quality early learning environment. “The nursery is outstanding in meeting the needs of children,” Ofsted said.

“There are meticulous procedures in place to ensure that all children are treated as individuals, whose care and education is of paramount importance.” Apples and Honey, an independent nursery for two-and-a-half to five year olds is based at Wimbledon and District Synagogue on the edge of Wimbledon Common, and welcomes children of all faiths, while being centred on the values and traditions of Judaism. “I’m thrilled that my daughter has been attending such an exceptional nursery,” says Naomi Reiniger. “She has thrived during her time here thanks to the care and dedication of her teachers and the positive interaction she shares with her wonderful classmates.” applesandhoney.org

A playground for the Jubilee Lion House Nursery and Pre-Prep School in Putney are celebrating the opening of their new Jubilee Playground. The Playground, in co-operation with Putney Methodist Church, was officially opened by Justine Greening, MP, and doubles the outside space available for the children at break times. Costing £16,000, it has a soft surface and trim trail and allows children from Lion House School and the church’s Sunday School to climb, jump, scramble and swing on the new equipment in safety. The opening was a huge success thanks to the hard work of Lion House parents who baked and sold an array of wonderful cakes and biscuits which made a profit of over £600 for Christian Aid. lionhouseschool.co.uk

SPACES AVAILABLE FOR 2012/2013 We are an independent nursery school in the heart of Balham. We provide children with a warm and friendly environment and hold traditional values.

Ages 2.6 - 5 years.

"Children are happy and settled in this bright, welcoming and inclusive nursery" Ofsted January 2012

Please phone 0208 675 8258 with any enquiries.

Young entrepreneurs at Alderbrook Primary School have recently launched a healthy tuck shop enterprise business. Year 5 and Year 4 pupils set up ‘Fruit Universe’ Healthy Tuck Shop, headed up by

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School feature New checks for children— is your child’s phonics decoding up to scratch?

Exam boards get tough

Following on from a pilot scheme last year, new phonics tests were introduced to all Year 1 pupils this year. The Year 1 phonics screening check is a short assessment to confirm whether children have learnt phonic decoding to an appropriate standard, and will apply to all Year 1 pupils in maintained schools, academies and Free Schools. The test took place between 18 and 22 June 2012, with the aim of identifying children who need extra help and who can then be given support by their school to improve their reading skills. According to the Department of Education, the check comprises a list of 40 words and non-words or nonsense words, which a child will read one-to-one with a teacher. Half of the words cover phonics skills that tend to be learnt in Reception, while the other half are based on Year 1 phonics skills. The aim of the DfE is that the tests will not be daunting, but are merely there to check that children at the end of Year 1 have the foundations they need to learn to read, such as skills for blending sounds into words and the phonic knowledge of recognising the sounds for basic letters and letter combinations. Find out more at http://www.education.gov.uk/schools/teachingandlearning/pedagogy/phonics.

Congratulations to Nightingale Nursery!

Following the success of Nightingale 1 Montessori Nursery, Nightingale 2 Montessori Nursery opens its doors in September 2012 at St Stephen's Church Hall, 35 Weir Road SW12 0NU, Balham.

The Montessori method of teaching is based on encouraging and developing the child's interest and independence through a wide range of exercises using specific materials working individually or in a group.

“Everything we do is geared to the enjoyment of learning.”

The first years of life have a great influence on a child's mind and character, thus the aim of the School is to encourage the child to have a desire to discover, learn and gain independence.

Open Monday – Friday 9:15 am – 12.30 pm. Now Contact Vicky Barnett BA, MSc, PGCE taking registrations for 2013/2014.

Tel: 020 8876 2553 www.nightingalemontessori.co.uk 07930 401769 barnes@firstclasslearning.co.uk putney@firstclasslearning.co.uk www.firstclasslearning.co.uk

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Finally, exam boards are listening to the cries of parents and teachers that GCSEs are becoming too easy! The exams regulator, Ofqual, has announced that it will be making changes to GCSEs in English literature, maths, history and geography, tightening them up and ensuring students study the whole curriculum. This comes amid concerns that pupils are only studying topics likely to come up in exams, rather than the entire course. "We are tightening GCSEs in these key subjects to make sure students cover the whole curriculum,” says Ofqual chief executive Glenys Stacey. "We want our young people to have the best possible educational experience, with qualifications that prepare them for the future.

The exam boards have welcomed this steer from the regulator and are to look again at these qualifications and how the rules are interpreted to make sure that young people taking them have to study an appropriate range and depth of the subject." This spring’s announcement is part of a move away from teaching to the exam and to encourage wider study. Changes to GCSE geography will be introduced for teaching from this September, with maths from November and history and English literature papers from September 2013. "It is vital confidence is restored in the exams system,” added a Department for Education spokesman. “We are committed to raising standards for all pupils and are pleased Ofqual is taking action to ensure that GCSEs in these subjects are more challenging.”

Tel: 020 8696 9680 FamiliesSouthWest.co.uk

School feature

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Picture credit Start-right shoes

School feature

Open Days •Westminster Under School •Westminster School •Eaton Square School •Streatham & Clapham High School •Streatham & Clapham Junior School •Gems Hampshire School •Ecole des Petits •Eridge House School •Fulham Pre-prep •Sinclair House School •The London Oratory RC •Ravenstone •Ecole de Battersea •Dolphin School •Thames Christian College •The Dominie •White House Prep School •Harrodian School •Ibstock Place School •The Lion House School •Putney Park School •Bertrum House School •The Roche School •Donhead School •The Study Prep School •Portland Place •Ravenstone Pre-prep •International School of London •Arts Educational School •Heathfield House School •The Falcon School for Girls •Latymer Prep School •Latymer Upper School •Fulham Prep •St James Junior School •Fulham Pre •Alleyns Junior School •JAGS •Sydenham High GDST •Coloma Convent Girls School RC •Haberdashers’ Aske’s Boys’ School •Eton College

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The October Open Days will be published in the October issue.

SW1 SW1 SW1 SW2/16 SW2 SW3 SW6 SW6 SW6 SW6 SW6 SW7 SW11 SW11 SW11 SW11 SW12 SW13 SW15 SW15 SW15 SW17 SW18 SW19 SW19 W1 W2 W3 W4 W4 W5 W6 W6 W14 W14 SW14 SE22 SE22 SE26 CR9 Herts

7-13 B 13-18 B 6th Form G 3-13 Co-Ed 11-18 G 3-11 G 3-13 Co-Ed 3-6 Co-Ed 2-11 Co-Ed 4-7 Co-Ed 2-11 Co-Ed 11-18yrs B 2-11 Co-Ed 3-10 Co-Ed 3-10 Co-Ed 11-16 Co-Ed 6-11 Co-Ed 4-11 Co-Ed 4-18 Co-Ed 3-18 Co-Ed 3-7yrs 4-16 G 4-8 B 2-7 Co-Ed 2.5-11 Co-Ed 7-11 B 4-11 G 9-18 Co-Ed 1-7 Co-Ed 3-18 11-18 Co-Ed 4-11 3-11G 7-11 Co-Ed 11-18 Co-Ed 7-13 Co-Ed 4-11B 4-10G 4-13 Co-Ed 4-11 Co-Ed

Windsor

13-18B

11-18yrs G 5-18B

7+/8+ entry 17/9 and 8/10. 11+ entry 1/10 By appointment By appointment By appointment 29/9 10-1pm 22/9 10-12 noon Individual tour by appointment By appointment 6/10 9.30-1pm By appointment By appointment 10, 18, 25 Sept 6.30pm 1st Oct 2.30pm By appointment By appointment Weekly tours 19/9 11-1pm, 25/9 11-1 pm, 6 Oct 10-1pm By appointment By appointment 11+ Open morn: 12/10 2/11 Advance booking essential Jnr: 28 Sept, 16 Nov 9.30am, Snr: 22 Sept 5-7pm 6 Oct 10am-12 22/9 10.30-12 noon Showrounds by appointment 22/9 10.30-1pm By appointment By appointment Tours: 20&27 /9, 4/10 9.15-11am. Open ev: 3/10, 5-6.30pm.

By appointment By appointment 4/10 5-8pm Y 7-11 entry, 5/10 6-8.30pm for 6th.

By appointment By appointment Open days throughout Autumn term. By appointment.

8/9 and in Nov, 11+ entrance only (child in Y6). Tickets required By appointment 13 Oct 10am-12 noon.

By appointment 22/9 10-12.30 13 Oct Junior: 22 Sept, 3&9 Oct, Senior school 19 September, 6+11 October 18th Sept 7-9pm, 6th Oct 10-12 6 Oct 1-4pm (Main School and Prep School) 13 Oct Prep School by appointment only.

By appointment

020 7821 5788 020 7963 1003 020 7931 9469 020 8677 8400 020 8674 6912 020 7352 7077 020 7371 8350 020 7371 9009 020 7386 2444 020 7736 9182 020 7385 0102 020 7225 3131 020 7371 8350 020 7924 3472 020 7228 3933 020 7720 8783 020 8674 9514 020 8762 6321 020 8876 9991 020 8780 9446 020 8788 8316 020 8767 4051 020 8877 0823 020 8946 7000 020 8947 6969 020 7307 8700 020 7262 1190 020 8992 5823 020 8987 6666 020 8994 3385 0845 638 5700 0845 638 5721 020 7371 9911 020 7348 1793 020 7371 9911 020 8693 3457 020 8693 1181 020 8557 7000 020 8654 6228 020 8266 1700 01753 671000

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Clubs and classes feature

Choosing afterschool activities

By Elisabeth Dolton

As the new school year starts, so does the time to choose after-school activities, but take a quick look and you will find a whole range of classes available, from Scouts to Ballet, from French to Karate. How can we know which ones are the best for our child, offer value for money, and critically, which ones they will enjoy?

After-school activities definitely offer value to your children. Reports indicate those who participate in after-school programs have better school attendance, higher grades and loftier aspirations.

They’re less likely to get into trouble and are at lower risk of obesity. It is also a great opportunity for children to develop social and leadership skills.

The benefits are there, but under which classes?

Talk to your child and find out how they feel about the activity, and let them choose at least one club or activity themselves. Help them choose activities that reflect who they are and what they want to learn, don’t impose your preferences.

Explain that it’s important and fun to try new things, and remember switching activities is normal amongst children.

Always check out the quality of an activity.

Discipline-based activities that create a quality product over a period of time are great, e.g. putting on a play. Don’t think that high cost equal high quality, some activities are cheaper to run like football. Staff members should be professionals with skills and experience.

Consider the mix of activities. The benefits of exercise are huge, so including a sport would be a good start. Extracurricular activities are ideal for children to explore and practice what it means to be a group leader, e.g. Brownies. If you are stuck between two similar activities, consider the usefulness, e.g. drum lessons might be cool, but the guitar might have wider applicability.

Finally, remember logistics. The afterschool programme affects you too. Avoid signing on to too many activities that leave you scrambling from one to the next. No one will have fun doing anything if it means arriving late, leaving early, and

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going without dinner on Tuesdays and Thursdays.

Look hard for places you can walk to, it reduces your carbon footprint while keeping you fit for free! Finally do build in some downtime.

Children need to have independent play as well as the structured activities, so ensure time is built in for dinner, watching T.V. and relaxing. Leave some activities perhaps for the summer, when different interests can be tried, without the pressure of school demands.

After-school activities can provide enrichment, adventure and variety. They can enhance knowledge and build character. Spend a bit more time choosing the right activity programme for your child and you will reap the benefits.

St James’s Church Hall, Welham Road SW16 6NT Enquiries: info@abcballetschool.org Tel: 020 8769 4337 www.abcballetschool.org

Principal: Alison Allen Classes from age 2 1/2 onwards Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays

Consideration for special needs children • Consider your child’s interests, rather than their needs. Many regular activities can use technology or planning to help their participation, e.g. drama, athletics, cooking, academic • Evaluate your child's stamina. Check they have the energy for an extracurricular activity?

• Talk with the activity leaders about your child's unique medical and communication needs.

Provide them with emergency contact information.

• Make sure family downtime is a regular part of the schedule. Sometimes your family needs to have nothing to do — as a group.

Remember the inclusion of children with special needs is beneficial to all. Special needs children achieve more, improve behaviour, and enhance motivation. Children without special needs learn from working cooperatively and grow in confidence through helping others.

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Clubs & classes feature

Finding the balance for busy Finding a balance families Top Tips for parents:

By Elisabeth Dolton

As parents we want our children to take advantage of opportunities and have enriching experiences, whilst keeping on top of our own demands and duties.

So it’s no surprise that families can often find themselves over-committing and running from one activity to another. An over-busy schedule impacts on us all.

Parents feel pressured to maximize every opportunity for their children, and with less family time relationships can suffer. Too much structured activity can contribute to anxiety, stress, and even depression in children. Finding a balanced lifestyle is key.

There are several signs of an overly busy family.

Children become tired, overwhelmed and irritable as a result of no downtime, activities are being done out of habit or because everyone else is, or your children spend so much time in activities that you don’t know what else is going on in their lives.

Back-to-school makes you think back-to-stress!

If your family is overscheduled, ease the pressure by simplifying the daily routine. This is achievable in two ways - cutting back on extracurricular activities, and getting more organized.

Scale down extracurricular activities. Limit the number of activities you have in a week to one artistic, one athletic, and one social for example. Focus more on creating a manageable family schedule.

As you cut down on outside activities, set aside dedicated time for the family to be together. If

you feel it’s important to eat dinner together a few nights a week, or have a set time when you and your children can just chat, arrange the schedule to make it happen. Reserve time to play and hang out.

Streamline household routines to make time at home more relaxed. Keep spaces that you use every day, like the kitchen counter, free of clutter.

Keep things where you use them. After dinner, lay out breakfast, make lunches and gather everything needed for tomorrow’s activities. Have your children lay out their clothes before going to bed.

Once you create some organisation in the house, it’s likely to spread. But almost contradictorily, let go of the idea of being a perfect parent and resist feeling guilty if the house is less than immaculate.

Take a few minutes to relax after getting home; don’t immediately dive into meal preparation.

• Listen to your children. If they appear fatigued, irritable or overwhelmed they may be over-scheduled.

• Talk to your children. Find out which activities they love and which they could live without.

• Ask yourself: "Does my child want to be involved in all these activities, or do I want them to be? Your best intentions may be adding to the pressure • Don’t forget ‘me time’. Don’t sacrifice your own wellbeing. Find time to recharge and rejuvenate.

Considerations for Special Needs The balancing act of keeping a busy family with special needs on track through school, therapy, doctor visits, and fun can be tough.

• Focus on priorities, exploit resources for planning, and continually communicate as a family.

• Provide a structured lifestyle – everyone benefits psychologically from predictability. Planning family schedules together goes a long way towards reinforcing disability independence.

• Implement effective routines – getting dressed, loading the car, and eating meals can take substantially more time for children with disabilities.

• Integrate flexibility into family schedules that allow opportunities to practice disability independence – children can learn valuable benefits of teamwork and planning ahead to meet their goals.

• Keep supplies handy. Portable containers for equipment and medications enable smooth transitions to the car and back for instance.

With flexible diligence, parents of children with disabilities can lead families to a fulfilling and well-balanced life, where disability activities are just part of a reliable, reassuring family pattern.

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Clubs & classes feature

News round up of your local

Clubs & Classes Compiled by Amanda Butterworth

Tumble Tots

Cupcake Cupcake’s comfortable, modern environment is designed with the whole family in mind.

Membership includes classes for the whole family; the Cupcake Crèche and After School Clubs; fun ball-pool playroom; our fabulous café. Located in the heart of Parsons Green, visit us today for a tour. Cherish the moments at Cupcake.

020 7186 6000 www.cupcakemum.com mumcierge_parsonsgreen@cupcakemum.com

lessons, they find it comforting and like to be presented with a topic they have already heard about. This allows the lesson to have a strong routine in which to modify the pattern gradually week by week. It is absolutely true what the experts say: “learning is relearning”. Stefania Frigieri-Baldwin www.italianlearning.co.uk

West London Dance Academy

Tumble Tots Tumble Tots is the country’s leading physical play programme and is now in its 25th year in your area. Using specifically designed equipment, Tumble Tots classes offer a structured programme designed to build self-confidence and develop essential listening and language skills along with the key motor skills of balance, agility, co-ordination and climbing. Classes start from 6 months to 5 years old. julia.forrest@tumbletots.com or 020 8464 4433 for more information or to book a trial class.

Club Italiano The tutor’s point of view: “Every week I discover something new about how children learn. Recently I’ve noticed the importance of: Repeating, repeating and more repeating.” Children are happy to repeat the activities done in previous

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SING, DANCE & ACT at Stagecoach Wimbledon Classes for all ages (4yrs 18yrs) and all abilities (beginners to advanced).

Whether you want to build confidence, learn new skills, perform professionally or just to have fun, Stagecoach Wimbledon has a class to suit you.

020 8 946 3400, wimbledon@stagecoach.co.uk www.stagecoach.co.uk/wimbledon

Club Petit Pierrot Songs, rhymes, dances, fun language games, roleplay… Est 1993, the popular Club Petit Pierrot, with its stimulating and innovative programme, offers fun French lessons. From 8m (parent/toddler) to 8yrs, they also teach in many schools and can even organise private tuition at your home. NEW: creative classes in French Chelsea/Putney + NEW parent/toddler groups Northcote Lib on Wed afternoons. They continue to offer p/toddler group, and a drop-off class for 4-6y in Wimbledon. www.clubpetitpierrot.co.uk 020 7385 5565 for bookings and FREE TRIAL.

An IDTA accredited school, offers classes in ballet, boys' ballet, musical theatre and tap dance to children. Classes are taught by qualified teachers in Chiswick, Ealing, Fulham and Wimbledon.

07771 984 590 info@westlondondanceacademy.com 8 www.westlondondanceacademy.com p26

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Clubs & classes feature

Mange Tout

for kids and the freshest funkiest choreography for teens and adults, there’s bound to be a BE.Dance class for you. Classes are based in Wandsworth, as well as after school clubs at Honeywell and Emanuel Schools. BE.Inspired!

New students: Free trial lesson and 15% off the first terms fees - book now for September – becca@bedance.co.uk or 07545 697352. www.bedance.co.uk

Perform Watch your child’s self-esteem soar with Perform’s unique drama, dance and singing weekly workshops. Book now for September’s spellbinding Magician’s Chamber theme. Try a FREE class at over 200 venues across London and the South East, 0845 400 4000 to book or visit www.perform.org.uk/venues

Tiny Tiptoes baby massage

Stagecoach Battersea

Ecole de Danse of Balham

Enjoy a fabulous 2012 Autumn term at Stagecoach in Battersea! They will have a few places in some of the classes for the September 2012 new term ... so book now at www.stagecoach.co.uk/battersea Fabulous classes in dance, drama, singing and musical theatre ... every weekend at Honeywell School.

020 8946 2986

provides classes in Ballet including Pointe work for dancers of all ages. They offer a caring, safe environment which helps nurture and improve student confidence and self-esteem. 0797 316 72 23 jpcabardos@ecolededanseofbalham.co.uk www.ecolededanseofbalham.co.uk

Ruggerbeez provide exciting and professionally run weekly play sessions to children aged 2yrs - 7yrs across London. They operate in schools, parks, clubs and nurseries providing birthdays, camps and lessons.

Try them out for FREE. No membership fee, join any time. www.ruggerbeez.com 0844 544 6784. Nominated 'Best Community Programme' Rugby Expo 2011

Be.Dance Stagecoach Battersea

Come to a BE.Dance class and learn the coolest commercial choreography! With fun and games

Learn the basics of how to massage your baby to improve sleep, soothe colic and gas, increase and stimulate babies’ growth. Classes held weekly and include baby massage techniques, baby yoga movements and sensory play and development.

Visit www.tinytiptoes.co.uk or 0845 5196 442 for more details.

Mange Tout As seen on BBC1’s “Fast Food Baby” is not just for the fussy eaters out there, it is a great interactive class that introduces fruit and vegetables in an exciting and fun way whilst teaching children songs, colours, numbers, coordination and sharing. The weekly fact files offer parents nutritional info and recipes too! Lucy also specialises in private one to one sessions and courses in your home www.mangetoutkids.com 020 8672 2400 and book a FREE trial.

Blueberry Playsongs are classes where little ones can participate in the joy and experience of live guitar-accompanied music. Talented group leaders will get the best from every child with nursery rhymes, action songs, instruments, games and dancing. Classic

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

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

NEW: Learn the way of the Samurai sword, children ages 9yrs and over Hapkido teaches: •Respect •Fitness •Discipline •Confidence •Control & sensitivity •Inner calm & peace •Defence •Strength & agility Instructor: Jon Bailie, 2nd Dan Qualified Hapkido Instructor and fully insured Classes available @ St Luke's Community Hall SW12, Broomwood Hall SW11, The Contact Centre SW4 and other venues

For all enquiries/bookings, please call on

07932 667 336 Private tuition/home visits also available

www.semokwan-hapkido.co.uk

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Tel: 020 8696 9680 FamiliesSouthWest.co.uk

Clubs & classes feature familiar songs, new ones to learn and props add to a fun and lively class! Established 1991.

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

Blue Wave Swim School

Allsorts drama for children hold their popular classes on Fridays at More House School, SW1 ages 4-6, 4pm - 5pm ages 7-11, 11-14, 14-18, 5pm - 7pm.

Saturdays at Notting Hill Prep,Lancaster Road, W11 and South Hampstead High, Netherhall Gardens, NW3 ages 4-6, 10am - 11am and ages 7 -11, 11-14 and 14-18, 11am - 1pm. To book a free trial class 020 8 969 3249 or visit www.allsortsdrama.com

Monkey Music Award winning music classes for babies and small children from 3 months to 4 years. Monkey Music’s award winning classes have an enviable reputation as a ‘must do’ activity! Specialist, age specific music classes offer weekly fun and giggles as the children are mesmerized by original songs, specialist percussion instruments, dance, movement, puppets, props and lots of bubbles!

Monkey Music

Music’all Is a local dynamic music school running on Saturdays in Parsons Green, Fulham. A charity with bursaries, from foundation with instrument tasters, to advanced, they provide high quality affordable music tuition to all. Pupils also take part in communal music making: choirs, ensembles & orchestras. www.musicall.org.uk 07590 691265.

Theatrebugs

To book your complimentary class in: • Chelsea, Belgravia, Gloucester Rd: 020 8767 9827 NEW! 3-4yrs classes from Sept • Fulham, Putney & Barnes: 020 8480 6064 • Clapham, Battersea & Balham (SW12) 020 8699 0977 • Southfields, Wandsworth, Earlsfield, Tooting, Balham & Streatham: 020 8764 5185 • Wimbledon, Southfields and Raynes Park: 020 87041852

Blue Wave Swim School Quality swimming lessons for all ages and all abilities including “Adult and Child” lessons (suitable for babies and toddlers). Private, semiprivate and small group lessons delivered by qualified and experienced teachers. Weekday and weekend swimming lessons in SW17 & SW19. For more information visit: www.bluewaveswim.co.uk or call 07764 615 047.

BabyBug Caterpillar Club new to Clapham, Balham, Barnes and Battersea! Birth to 2 years, enchanting parent and baby drama sessions brought to life for you and your baby.

Cocoon Club new to Clapham, Balham, Barnes and Battersea! 2-3.5years, your little bugs will go on an imaginary journey each week -meeting lots of animals, copying their moves and sounds and coming up with great solutions to save the day!

Afterschool Butterfly Club in Clapham, Balham, Barnes and Battersea! 3.5-6 years, an action packed all singing, all dancing, all acting after school club that will really knock your socks off.

See website for full details of dates! www.theatrebugs.co.uk 0800 975 5290 Book your free trial online!

Amanda’s Action Club Amanda’s Action Club provides stimulating, physical development classes for babies, toddlers and pre-school children. It's all about fun, fitness and music – an early-learning workout that kids just love! Weekly classes in Chiswick, Parsons Green, Wandsworth, Battersea, Putney, Ealing and Ravenscourt Park. New venue: Will Baki will be hosting the classes in the Eat, Play, Love cafe on Battersea Park Road every Tuesday and Thursday morning at 10am. There will also be extra classes at the Common Ground Café on Wandsworth Common. Plus, they have designed two brand new party formats for 5-12yr olds: breakdancing workshops with top breakdancing specialists or ‘Strike A Pose’ Parties for girls who want to feel

like young ladies! 01895 623 999 See www.amandasactionclub.co.uk

Waterlife Swim School Specializing in baby, toddler and pre-school swimming. 6 days a week various locations in SW London and Surrey. www. waterlifeswimschool.com 020 8947 2149

The Budokwai Toddler Gym classes are both educational in concept and a child’s first steps into exercise and sport.

Taking place in a traditional dojo with soft floor children can develop a range of important skills such as agility, balance and coordination, in addition to improving their space awareness. 020 7370 1000 office@budokwai.co.uk www.budokwai.co.uk

Safrey Academy BACK with fresh new classes in Dance and Singing!

Based in Streatham their highly skilled teachers will make you feel at ease, building on confidence and performance skills. Children will have opportunities to perform at local events as well as competitions. To register email: info@safreyarts.co.uk

Cookie Crumbles There’s a lot happening at Cookie Crumbles this Autumn. They’re just launching their first range of healthy baking mixes for children, the closest a baking mix can come to home baking. The range comprises a moorish “awesome wholesome Brownie Mix”, a utterly delicious “Vanilla and Blueberry Muffin Mix”, a “Sunny Sunflower Cookie Mix” and a “Granola Energy Bar”. All mixes contain all natural ingredients. Prices start from £4.99 and the mixes are currently available from Cookie Crumbles at cookiecrumbles.co.uk as well as selected delis.

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September 2012

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Clubs & classes feature ABC Ballet School

Rugbytots

A local school catering for children from the age of 2 ½ upwards. From 6yrs children may be entered into ballet exams following the Cecchetti Method.

There is a ballet show every other year. The aim of the school is to pass on the love of dance whilst working on life skills such as friendship, confidence, musicality, deportment and a knowledge of the ballet world. 020 8769 4337 07703 154 777 www.abcballetschool.org

The first UK rugby specific play programme for children between 2 -7 years. Rugbytots combines the multiple skills used in rugby, and other sports, with a fun, enthusiastic and energetic programme designed to enhance your child's social and physical skills. New classes coming in September; they also do birthday parties! 0845 481 6444 lorna@rugbytots.co.uk

Caterpillar Music

Fancy Footwork Their classes Ballet, Tap, Modern & Jazz, Musical Theatre, and Movement to Music are a great foundation for girls and boys 2 years to 18 to learn the art of dance and the opportunity to perform in shows and study for RAD/ISTD exams in a fun, inspiring atmosphere. Locations in SW11, SW12, SW18 and all are assured a warm welcome.

0845 094 1774 info@fancyfootwork.co.uk www.fancyfootwork.co.uk

Act drama This Autumn 2012… Join Act to take part in their fantastic Christmas Panto… Saturday classes, for 5-16 year olds, are high energy, fun and inspiring.

The classes are led by professional actors who teach drama and performance. Students are encouraged to free their imagination and express their creativity. Act builds confidence and selfesteem. Contact Jane Cameron, 07976 873 161. actdrama@googlemail.com www.actdrama.co.uk

Has been offering exciting fun music sessions since 2001 across the UK. Children are inspired to learn through exciting sessions of fun music making, learning the songs and actions with their parents and friends. At each class, every child is given a percussion instrument and puppet to use - even the youngest members! Classes are unique as some babies are as young as just 6 weeks. For a Free Trial Session and information on classes in: Battersea, Clapham, Earlsfield, Southfields and •Tooting, call Shumi 020 85401762, •Fulham call Charlotte 020 76109695, •Wimbledon call Helen 020 8286 3754 www.caterpillarmusic.com

La Sylvaine and Wendy Bell Schools Impressive high results in RAD Upper Grades.

Proceeds of annual shows have paid for the refurbishment of a studio and a wooden sprung floor (Chelsea Theatre), £2200 sent to A.Bah, 4th year in MedicalSchool. Read this amazing story on the school website www.lasylvaine.co.uk

Funky Moves bringing out the fun in funky! A range of fantastic funky street dance classes for kids aged 4-16 years.

Classes start in September in Wandsworth, Barnes and Chelsea. Kids learn great moves and grooves to the coolest tunes around at the moment!

Courses run for 12 weeks and finish with an amazing finale performance for the parents. All class information is on their website. www.funkymovesdance.com info@funkymovesdance.com 07810 431 101

La Sylvaine and Wendy Bell Schools

Crouching Tiger Karate

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Photo by Charles Teton

Offers Shotokan Karate and self-defence classes for children and adults in South-West London including: Kew (Richmond), St. Margaret's (Twickenham), Putney, Barnes and Chiswick. The classes are a great way to exercise and learn selfdefence in a friendly and enjoyable atmosphere.

020 8560 5267 07734 655 057 www.crouchingtigerkarate.co.uk

Tel: 020 8696 9680 FamiliesSouthWest.co.uk

Clubs & classes feature Swimway

Tin Pan Annie Music Experts agree that music is the single most important tool in the learning and development of babies and young children, Tin Pan Annie Music classes (as seen on TV) are tailored to specifically allow your little ones to gain the very most from participating in live music. They are brilliant fun too. Classes are from 4months to 5 years and are held every weekday morning and afternoon all over South London – call the office to arrange your FREE TRIAL. 020 8670 0644 tinpanannie@btinternet.com www.tinpanannie.co.uk

Kiddikicks

Le Club Français

"STAGE FORWARD"

Provide fun French clubs and classes to primary school children throughout Wandsworth, Merton etc. Their mission: to allow primary school children to learn languages in a fun and positive manner and to promote the teaching of foreign languages by native and fluent teachers.

They provide extra-curricular Fun Primary School Language Clubs, PPA Modern Language Teaching and Fun Music for Toddlers. 020 8542 2709

Speech and Drama Clubs SW6 Prepare for LAMDA grades in 'Acting' or 'The Speaking of Verse and Prose' Develop communication skills Learn new acting and performance techniques All ages welcome (classes are held by age group) Call or email Emily for more info: 07717 798145 emily_gash@hotmail.com

Le Club Tricolore

Musical Express

This buzzing language club was set up in 1987 by Teresa Scibor, acclaimed French teacher and author and is thriving thanks to her unique method of teaching. Children absorb French naturally and with a good accent. Weekly immersion French classes with art and craft for 2½ – 5 and 5 – 6½ year olds, fun French for older children, a mother and toddler group. Trial sessions available. As a retired examiner, Teresa also prepares pupils for Common Entrance and GCSE examinations. For more details about her classes, call Teresa on 020 7924 4649 07889 967 003 www.leclubtricolore.co.uk

A fun filled music class for pre-schoolers. With musical stories, puppets and lots of time for free play with real percussion instruments giving children the freedom to explore their environment and learn through play. Visit www.musicalexpress.co.uk for more information or call Ali 07808 587606.

Kiddikicks is the very best football coaching for children aged 18m to 5 years. They are pleased to announce their new multi-sport programme 18m to 8 years and Ligasoccer, mini match play for Under 8’s. Available SW1V; W2; SW7; SW6; SW14; SW19. www.kiddikicks.co.uk, www.ligasoccer.co.uk 020 7937 7965 sarah@kiddikicks.co.uk; coach@ligasoccer.co.uk New term starts Sept 12 2012.

Available for nursery, private, school settings and birthday parties.

Swimway SwimWay will be running small group parent and baby lessons at their newly refurbished pool in a private house, (Gordon Avenue, East Sheen SW14 8DZ). This newly refurbished private house pool is the perfect location to introduce your baby to the water, the pool has just been restored and renovated and the water is kept at an ideal 32 degrees. SwimWay is the leading home visit Swimming School in London, providing swimming lessons to children and adults in exclusive private Kiddikicks

Todos a Cantar Since 2003 has been running a weekly session of fun action songs, puppets and stories in SPANISH for children under 4s. Sessions are run by Cecilia, who is originally from Argentina, and who has three children ages 6, 8 and 10.

NEW! from September 2012 new classes in Battersea, Wimbledon and New Malden. 020 8870 4624 todoscantar@hotmail.com www.todosacantar.blogspot.com

FOOTSTEPS School of Dance and Drama Principal Maryrose Meadwell, RAD Registered, AISTD. STSD. LGSM.

Established 1983

EXPERT IMAGINATIVE CLASSES in PRE SCHOOL DANCING from 21/2 years.

Speech & Drama. Classical Ballet. Tap & Jazz.

Coaching, FestivalsGrades 100% pass rate. West Wimbledon SW20

Thursdays: Fulham Fridays: Chelsea Also: Italian for adults in Barnes and Richmond

STEFANIA Tel: 020 8748 6418

Approx £121 per term.

www.italianlearning.co.uk

020 8540 3090 September 2012

Il Club Italiano Italian for children aged 3-11, 4 to 5pm

www.racc.ac.uk Italian for adults classes in Richmond.

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TODOS A CANTAR - Spanish for children Todos a Cantar is a session of fun action songs, games, puppets and stories for under 4s.

All nationalities welcome Sessions totally in Spanish, Classes in Clapham, Battersea, Wimbledon, Wimbledon Park, New Malden.

More information and bookings - Contact Cecilia todosacantar@hotmail.com www.todosacantar.blogspot.com

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Clubs & classes feature developments, homes and schools around London, as well as in 5 sites open to general public.

0208 871 3972 babies@swimway.co.uk

Dove-studios.com

Semokwan Hapkido martial arts Teaching Hapkido, Hankido and Hangumdo classes for Children, Teenagers and Adults in the Clapham area.

Contact 07932 667 336 or visit www.semokwan-hapkido.co.uk

Dove-studios.com Dove-studios in Chelsea offers: • New Saturday art clubs starting in September (5-16years), • New 'boys only' Friday art class!

• Wednesday and Thursday term time after school activities resume in September with drawing, painting, sculpture, stories, and crafts for fun and to complement school learning.

Contact Cornelia on 0777 568 2094 for further details or see dove-studios.com

Mini Crotchets Mini Crotchets is celebrating its 20th birthday in September and it is still ‘probably the best music group in South London’. Not being a franchise, Mini Crotchets classes are all run by Joya and the counting songs, nursery rhymes, instruments, finger puppets all come with a dose of ‘Joya magic’and with a live piano accompaniment – Come and see for yourself! www.minicrotchets.co.uk 020 8675 1052.

Upbeat Pop and Rock parties Sing, dance, record a CD, learn how to play drums and guitars. End of term performances.

All children from 5 - 15 welcome and grown-ups too! Holiday courses and parties also available.

For more information, contact UPBEAT 07816 901396 upbeatmusic@btinternet.com www.upbeatmusiccourses.co.uk

Little Gym The Little Gym offers a diverse range of activities filled with movement, music, learning and laughter.

Their age-appropriate sessions, where children from four months to 12 years progress at their own pace, are designed to enable them to build their confidence and have fun as they develop their

skills. Please contact them to arrange your free introductory class - 020 8874 6567. Email: wandsworth_fulham@thelittlegym.co.uk

Trailer Film and Television Academy based in SW London, the academy has been created by Graham Theakston, a BAFTA winning Film and Television Director (who has worked with children and adults on Film and Television shows throughout the world) and Linda Magistris, a professional Actress/Author and Television Presenter with over 30 years experience in the industry. Trailer will be offering MOVIE MAKING COURSES from the Autumn in the holidays as well as a new AFTER SCHOOL FILM CLUB where their ‘film crews’ will be taught all the skills involved in making a film on a weekly basis over a 6 week course. www.trailerfilmandtelevisionacademy.com contact@trailerfilmandtelevisionacademy.com 020 8946 3310 07767356350

Eddie Catz Eddie Catz is a hub of pre-school classes. Enrol in a class and you get a FREE play on the day! At Putney there is Amanda's Action Club, Playball, NCT Postnatal and Weaning, Monkey Music, Little Kickers, Tiny Tutus Ballet, Club Petit Pierrot French, London Mums Playgroup, Zumba for Mums & Babies while you can join Twinkle Toes Ballet, Little Kickers, Playball, Babyccino Italian Playgroup, Musical Express, Dynamic Dance and

Martial Fitness at Wimbledon.

0845 2011268 www.eddiecatz.com Visit them on Facebook Following the huge success of the WOW Toys play area installed in Eddie Catz softplay in Putney in October of last year, Eddie Catz Wimbledon debuted its own purpose built WOW play area where under 5’s can play freely with a selection of WOW’s battery-free, high quality, British-designed, developmental toys.

SouthWest London Yoga SouthWest London Yoga was set up by Serena Davis, a Qualified Yoga Teacher, certified by the British Wheel of Yoga and Yoga Alliance. In addition to teaching Hatha yoga to adults and children, Serena is also a Pregnancy and Postnatal Yoga Teacher with a genuine passion for yoga.

Serena’s teaching style is focussed on breath awareness and alignment in each posture, with some Vinyasa Flow sequences incorporated in her classes. Serena teaches private classes and small groups in her candlelit Wimbledon Village studio. www.southwestlondonyoga.co.uk

Dramabuds Imaginative Drama for 2 – 7 year olds. Each week they explore a new exciting story through drama, movement and song! Dramabuds is a great place to make new friends, build confidence, be creative, use your Imagination and have lots of fun!

Classes on Tuesdays mornings for 2- 5 Year olds at

Yoga classes in Wimbledon Village Classes for adults, children, pregnant and postnatal women. Classes are held in a beautiful, tranquil studio in Wimbledon village.

New term commences Saturday 8th September.

See website for details

www.southwestlondonyoga.co.uk

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Tel: 020 8696 9680 FamiliesSouthWest.co.uk

Clubs & classes feature South Wimbledon Community Centre. Nursery classes and After School clubs throughout SW London too. www.dramabuds.co.uk 020 8669 2355

West Wimbledon Dance Academy

Helen O’Grady Drama Academy Melanie Moore, Principal of the Helen O’Grady Drama Academy says: “Our curriculum is designed to develop children’s confidence and communication skills, children are part of something positive, fun and successful” 0207 274 5616 or email swlondon@helenogrady.co.uk to find out about our affordable classes and to book a free trial. www.helenogrady.co.uk

Life Element Kundalini Yoga at ReCentre Balham : Life Element has teamed up with reCentre to bring the experience of Kundalini Yoga to the local area.

Their teacher, Perla, will be at reCentre every Friday, where you can come and talk to her about how Kundalini Yoga can support and significantly improve your life. www.lifeelement.co.uk info@lifeelement.co.uk 020 8672 4455

West Wimbledon Dance Academy The school continues to flourish. Two classes have entered their first Ballet exam and three more classes are entering in October. The Pre-Primary and Primary groups have also performed twice during the last year. The Principal, Caroline has been asked by the ISTD to become an examiner for the Imperial Ballet and regularly teaches the Scholarship classes at the ISTD Headquarters.

Ballet, Tap and Modern for girls and boys age 2 ½ years upwards.

07956 606 648 info@westwimbledondanceacademy.co.uk

Cupcake The comfortable, modern environment is designed with the whole family in mind. Membership includes classes for the whole family; the Cupcake Crèche and After School Clubs; fun ball-pool playroom; their fabulous café. Located in the heart of Parsons Green, visit them today for a tour.

Cherish the moments at Cupcake. 11 Heathmans Road, London SW6 4TJ 0207 186 6000 www.cupcakemum.com mumcierge_parsonsgreen@cupcakemum.comsout hwestlondonyoga@gmail.com

Butterfly Ballet, Barnes Magical and creative Ballet classes for children age 18 months+ encouraging confidence, coordination and musicality through the art form of dance. Classes are taken by Catherine Loveless, a former professional dancer with English National Ballet and a RAD registered teacher. Saturdays and weekdays. www.butterflyballet.co.uk 07547 483699 info@butterflyballet.co.uk

Music

Safrey Academy of Performing Arts Street Dance, Ballet, Musical Theatre, African Dance.

Safrey gained 3rd Place at the Dance Classes: The British Home, Streatham, SW16.

Challenge National Finals 2012.

Ages 4-16 Our aim is to provide stimulating and exciting classes held by teachers who have all worked in the profession in theatre and TV

www.safreyarts.co.uk info@safreyarts.co.uk Free taster class & 1/2 price registration

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Dance

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

020 8683 0222 classes held in Southfields and Wimbledon

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

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Dance/Languages/

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Drama

September 2012

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Family club/Arts/Sports

Tel: 020 8696 9680 FamiliesSouthWest.co.uk

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Sports

Tel: 020 8696 9680 FamiliesSouthWest.co.uk

Clubs and classes feature

Sports

Children’s private lessons and hacking from 4yrs old Saturday Club and After School Riding on Wimbledon Common Half term and Holiday courses

Ridgway Stables 93 Ridgway Wimbledon Village SW19 4SU Tel 020 8946 7400 www.ridgwaystables.co.uk ridgwaystables@freeuk.com

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What’s On

Out and About Sophie and I met at a playground in Fulham well over 15 years ago, she has been writing our What’s on column ever since. We thank her for her dedication and painstaking efforts: it’s a lot of work to compile such a huge document! Sophie has decided to move to new interests and develop her creative interests, including photography (see www.mcastex.com). We wish her all the best and of course, we stay very good friends!

From now on, our What’s on listings are compiled by Joanna Parry.

Please send your events to be listed to Joanna on: whatson@familiesmagazine.co.uk for her consideration.

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

DRAMA APOLLO THEATRE 31 Shaftesbury Avenue W1D 7EZ 0844 412 4658 nimaxtheatres.com / nickjr.co.uk/shows/dora To 16 September. Dora The Explorer Live! – With the help of the audience, Map, Backpack, Boots, Diego and theirncourageous friends, Dora uses her map-reading, counting, musical and language skills to pass through the number pyramid and the mixed-up jungle to reach the City of Lost Toys. From £13

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BFI SOUTHBANK Belvedere Road, South Bank SE1 8XT 020 7928 3232 bfi.org.uk 9 Sep. Peppa Pig and Friends Family Funday – As part of the Thames Festival, come along and meet some of the top creative minds from Astley Baker Davies, the animation studio behind Peppa Pig and Ben and Holly's Magic Kingdom. Watch brand new episodes, learn about how they are made and watch Peppa Pig and her friends on the big screen.

COLOUR HOUSE THEATRE Merton Abbey Mills, Merantun Way SW19 2RD 020 8542 5511/ 07944 868385 colourhousetheatre.co.uk 8 Sep-11 Nov. Robin Hood and Maid Marian – Everyone in Sherwood hates the greedy, evil Sheriff because he’s taxing the poor, but Robin Hood and his Merry Men have hatched a clever plan to stop him. Performances on Saturdays and Sundays, 2 and 4pm, £9/£10.

NATIONAL THEATRE South Bank SE1 9PX 020 7452 3000 nationaltheatre.org.uk To 27 October. The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time – An adaptation of the touching and bleakly humorous award-winning novel by Mark Haddon.

13yrs+ 8 Sep. Roald Dahl Day with Michael Rosen – A morning of brilliant stories about Roald Dahl, celebrating his birthday and a new book about him, Fantastic Mr Dahl, written by the former Children’s Laureate Michael Rosen. 10.30am, Cottesloe Theatre, £3/£4.

POLKA THEATRE 240 The Broadway, Wimbledon SW19 1SB 020 8543 4888 polkatheatre.com 29 Sep-27 Oct. Sticks and Stones – It’s August 2011 and riots are spreading. It’s summer, it’s hot and the entire country is holding its breath...9-13yrs, £8-12

LYRIC HAMMERSMITH Lyric Square, King Street W6 0QL 020 8741 6850 lyric.co.uk 3-22 Sep. Morning – Simon Stephen’s play written especially for the young performers of the Lyric Young Company, transferring to London after premiering at the 2012 Edinburgh Fringe.

15 Sep. The Golden Cowpat – Come on down to the farm and meet farmer Hector and his naughty cow Betty, as they embark on a quest to find their fortune. 11am and 1pm, 37yrs, £8 21-22 Sep. Clockheart Boy – When a boy with no heart is washed ashore, a professor vows to bring him back to life. Fri 2pm and 7pm, Sat 11am and 1.30pm, 6-11yrs, £8 28-30 Sep. Handa’s Surprise – Travel to Kenya with Handa as she sets out on a journey to surprise her best friend. 10.30am, 11.30am, 1.30pm and 2.30pm, 2-5yrs, £8

Polka Theatre 29 Sep and 2–5 Oct. Little Sunshine, Little Rainfall – Meet head-gardener Little Sunshine and still-learning gardener Little Rainfall in their magical Japanese garden – a theatrical experience blending Japanese folklore with traditional music. 3-7yrs, £8-10. Performances 29 Sep 11am and 2.05pm, all other days 10.35am and 2.05pm

Tel: 020 8696 9680 FamiliesSouthWest.co.uk

What’s On PUPPET THEATRE BARGE The barge will be moored opposite 87 Petersham Road, Richmond on Thames TW10 6UT 07836 202 745 / 020 7249 6876 puppetbarge.com 1, 2, 8, 9, 15, 16, 22, 23, 29 and 30 Sep. Brer Rabbit Visits Africa – Brer Rabbit decides to visit his grandma in Africa and gets himself into trouble.

All ages, 2.30pm, £8.50/£10 1, 8, 14, 15, 21, 22, 28 and 29 Sep. Bottom’s Dream – by William Shakespeare. Age 8+, 7.30pm, £8.50/£10

PUTNEY ARTS THEATRE Picture credit Pawel libera

Ravenna Road, Putney SW15 6AW 020 8788 6943 putneyartstheatre.org.uk 18-22 Sep. Daisy Pulls It Off – Combining the talents of Group 64’s teenagers and Putney Theatre Company, this rip-roaring tale inspired by Angela Brazil and Enid Blyton will enthrall and delight. Tues £5/£7, Wed-Sat £7/£10

REGENT’S PARK OPEN AIR THEATRE Inner Circle, Regent’s Park NW1 4NR 0844 826 4242 openairtheatre.org To 8 Sept. Ragtime – Set at the turn of the 20th century, this powerful musical unites three families separated by race and destiny. £17.50/£44.50 To 5 Sept. A Midsummer Night’s Dream – With original music, movement and its unique setting, this magical, comedic and seductive tale is set to be one of the theatrical highlights of the year. £17.50/£44.50

RICHMOND THEATRE The Green, Richmond TW9 1QJ 0844 871 7651 atgtickets.com/Richmond 12-15 Sep. Great Expectations – A lavish, spectacular and unashamedly theatrical production of the Dickens favourite. £15-£29.50

SHAKESPEARE’S GLOBE THEATRE 21 New Globe Walk, Bankside SE1 9DT 020 7401 9919 shakespearesglobe.com Dates throughout September – performances of Shakespeare’s plays The Taming of the Shrew, Richard III, Twelfth Night and As You Like It 15 Sep. Study Day – An exploration of theatrical perspectives on The Taming of the Shrew, £40/£50

SOUTHBANK CENTRE Belvedere Road SE1 8PX 020 7960 4200 / 0844 847 9910 southbankcentre.co.uk

Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre 3-6 Sep. Hairy Maclary – A must for the whole family, with music, singing and your favourite Hairy Maclary stories. £10

ST JAMES’S THEATRE 12 Palace Street SW1E 5JA 0844 264 2140 stjamestheatre.co.uk 18 Sep-27 Oct. Bully Boy – Part of the first season at the new St James’s Theatre. Sandi Toksvig directs a play tackling the moral issues of contemporary military occupation and its effect on the mental health of serving soldiers. £20-£30

THEATRE ROYAL, HAYMARKET 18 Suffolk Street, SW1Y 4HT 0845 481 1870 (Theatre Royal) trh.co.uk 020 7452 3000 (National Theatre) nationaltheatre.org.uk 18-29 Sep. Private Peaceful – A National Theatre production based on the book by the third Children's Laureate, Michael Morpurgo, award-winning author of War Horse.

Private Tommo Peaceful is a young First World War soldier awaiting the firing squad at dawn.

During the night he looks back at his short but joyful past growing up in rural Devon, and the battles and injustices of war that brought him to the front line. 8yrs+

THREE SIXTY THEATRE Kensington Gardens (by Kensington Palace), Dial Walk W2 2UH 0844 871 7693 / 0844 871 7627 atgtickets.com To 9 Sept. The Lion, The Witch And The Wardrobe – This new adaptation of CS Lewis’s classic childrens novel takes place in a specially designed tent in Kensington Gardens, and combines puppetry and hi-tech multimedia with Imax-style video backdrops. The ultimate summer experience in the Park! £25 -£60

EXHIBITIONS AND MUSEUMS BANK OF ENGLAND MUSEUM Threadneedle Street EC2R 8AH 020 7601 5545 bankofengland.co.uk/museum To 10 Nov. Titanic Documents – See these claims for the replacement of Bank of England notes from the relatives of victims of the disaster, on display to the public for the first time.

To 10 Nov. Gold and the Bank of England – An exhibition examining the part that gold has 8 played during the Bank's long history. page 42

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September 2012

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What’s on BRITISH MUSEUM Great Russell Street WC1B 3DG 020 7323 8299 britishmuseum.org To 9 Sep. Winning at the Ancient Games – To celebrate the London Olympics, follow a family victory trail around the collection.

To 30 Sep. The Horse: From Arabia to Royal Ascot – Discover the epic story of the horse, a journey of 5000 years that has revolutionised human history.

To 25 Nov. Shakespeare Staging the World – Discover the world of William Shakespeare and the emerging role of London as a global city through objects and contemporary performance. £12/£14, under 16s free.

FOUNDLING MUSEUM 40 Brunswick Square, Camden Town WC1N 1AZ 020 7841 3600 foundlingmuseum.org.uk To 9 Sep. Trail: Adventures in Vauxhall Gardens – Illustrator Nina Cosford has created a free activity trail for younger visitors, exploring the sights, sounds, tastes, smells and feelings of the current exhibition The Triumph of Pleasure: Vauxhall Gardens 1729 - 1786.

To 24 Nov. Dickens and the Foundling – A fascinating new display exploring the relationship between Charles Dickens and the Foundling Hospital.

GEFFRYE MUSEUM 136 Kingsland Road E2 8EA 020 7739 9893 geffrye-museum.org.uk 22-23 Sep. Ceramics Celebrations – As part of the Ceramics in the City fair the museum is hosting free craft activities for children on both days. 2-4pm

IMPERIAL WAR MUSEUM

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

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

• NEW- a dedicated Maths tutor up to A Level available for home-visits in central London Tuesday Tutors has placed many children in top state and private schools. It is advisable to contact us early, as high demand may mean that your child will be placed on our waiting list.

Experienced tutors welcome Tel: 020 7735 8268

07906 312541

tuesdaytutors@hotmail.co.uk tuesdaytutors.com

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Lambeth Road SE1 6HZ 020 7416 5320/5321 iwm.org.uk 6 Sep-1 Jan 2013. Cecil Beaton: Theatre of War – A major new exhibition exploring the impact of the Second World War on photographer, designer, writer, cartoonist, diarist and socialite Cecil Beaton’s life and work. £6/£8, under 15s free 21-23 Sep. Build the Truce – Call a truce, whatever your differences, and hear a slimy story of slugs, snails and truce time tales. Find out what united the slugs and snails in this funny and inspiring tale and make your own unique artwork inspired by the story. 11am-1pm and 2-4pm 22 Sep. International Day of Peace – Storytelling and art sessions for children, 10.30am-5pm To 30 Nov. War Story – First-hand experiences of British service personnel currently serving in Afghanistan.

To 1 Jan 2013. A Family in Wartime – Experience life on the Home Front through the eyes of one London family

cushion or T-shirt. 5yrs+, 12.30-1.30pm, 2-3pm and 3.30-4.30pm Please note that the Museum of London Docklands will be closed until 16 Sep.

NATIONAL ARMY MUSEUM Royal Hospital Road SW3 4HT 020 7730 0717 nam.ac.uk To Jan 2013. Jubilee: 60 Years of the Sovereign and Her Soldiers – A display exploring different aspects of the relationship between the Queen and her Army.

To March 2013. War Horse: Fact and Fiction – A major new exhibition exploring the true history behind the popular War Horse novel - interactive displays, costumes and props from the Spielberg film, and material from War Horse author Michael Morpurgo and the National Theatre.

Victorian Soldiers Action Zone – Quizzes, games and hands-on activities to learn about life as a Victorian Soldier and the part they played in the shaping of Britain’s Empire.

Kid’s Zone – A new play area exploring aspects of army life from camping to clothing, with a soft play space for babies, art and crafts and dressing-up. Small fee

THE NATIONAL GALLERY Trafalgar Square WC2N 5DN 020 7747 2894/2885 nationalgallery.org.uk To 23 Sep. Metamorphosis – An exhibition looking at change and transformation.

9, 16, 23, 30 Sep. Family Sundays – Activities designed especially for families to enjoy and learn together.

Studio Sundays are hands-on workshops that start in the Gallery, followed by a studio session (2 hours).

Drawing Sundays explore National Gallery paintings as inspiration for your art (80 minutes).

Magic Carpet Storytelling for children aged 2-5.

Sundays 10.30-11am and 11.30am–12pm. Fly away on the magic carpet, which comes to land in front of a different painting each day.

NATIONAL MARITIME MUSEUM Park Row, Greenwich SE10 9NF 020 8858 4422 rmg.co.uk 16, 23 and 30 Sep. Discover Sundays –

MUSEUM OF LONDON London Wall EC2Y 5HN 020 7001 9844 museumoflondon.org.uk 9 Sep. Finds from the River – Walk along the foreshore of the River Thames and see what exciting archaeological finds you can discover. 12-2pm 16 and 30 Sep. Museum Explored – Join one of the Museum's Hosts and explore the galleries through fun, hands-on activities. 5yrs+, 11.30am-1.30pm and 2-4pm 23 Sep. Perfect Pattern – Using digital technology, design a pattern for a

Natonal Maritime Museum Be inspired by our maritime past and explore your personal connections to the sea. 11.30-1.30pm

Tel: 020 8696 9680 FamiliesSouthWest.co.uk

What’s on and 2-4pm, all ages 15, 22 and 29 Sep. Explore Saturdays – Meet a character from the past and take part in an exciting performance that will bring maritime history to life. 12pm, 1pm, 2pm and 3pm, 6yrs+ 11, 18 and 25 Sep. Play Tuesdays – Young children can have fun with their families as they explore the Museum through making, music, dance and stories. 10.30am, 11.30am, 1pm and 2pm, under 5s

NATURAL HISTORY MUSEUM Cromwell Road SW7 5BD 020 7942 5000 nhm.ac.uk To 31 Oct. Wildlife Garden – Escape the city and wander through the tranquil corners of the Wildlife Garden. With woodland, meadow and pond, the garden is a haven for thousands of British plants and animals.

8 Sep. Nature Live Event– Discover more about the work of the 300-plus Museum scientists and world-class experts in an interactive event. 2.30pm, free Saturdays and Sundays in Sep. Hands-On Nature – Visit the handling station and explore some interesting specimens with the help of specialist science educators. 2-5pm

SCIENCE MUSEUM Exhibition Road SW7 2DD 0870 870 4868 sciencemuseum.org.uk To 28 Oct. Ariel 1 – A special exhibition celebrating the 50th anniversary of the launching of the world’s first international satellite, Ariel 1. Free

TATE BRITAIN Millbank SW1P 4RG 020 7887 8888 tate.org.uk To 16 Sep. Another London – International Photographers and City Life 19301980 brings together some of the most celebrated names in international photography. £13.50/£15.50 To 23 Sep. London 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games posters – Twelve leading contemporary artists have been commissioned to create the official posters for the London 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games, displayed at Tate Britain as part of the London 2012 Festival.

TATE MODERN Bankside SE1 9TG 020 7887 8888 tate.org.uk 2 Sep. Family Event: The Tanks – Explore the vast spaces of the Tanks through action, sound and performance.

Under 5s Zone – A new play space for under 5s, inviting children on a creative, physical and sensory exploration of themes inspired by Cubist art works.

V&A MUSEUM OF CHILDHOOD Cambridge Heath Road E2 9PA 020 8983 5200 museumofchildhood.org.uk To 9 Sept. Beautiful Games – An exhibition exploring what makes an athlete successful, and how the latest technology helps us to become faster and stronger.

To 28 Oct. Mascots of the Olympic Games – A display showcasing over 50 mascots from the last 44 years of summer and winter Olympic Games.

14 Jul-9 Dec. Happy Birthday Mr Punch! – As part of The Big Grin, a nationwide celebration of Mr Punch!

September 2012

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THE WALLACE COLLECTION Hertford House, Manchester Square W1U 3BN 020 7563 9500 wallacecollection.org To 16 Sep. The Noble Art of the Sword: Fashion and Fencing in Renaissance Europe – Discover the untold story of this fascinating and little known area of Renaissance art, revealing the skilled artistry behind the rapier.

To 16 Sep. Making the Renaissance Sword – Featuring stages in the construction of a rapier, this display reveals that the Renaissance swordsmith relied on a unique tradition of craftsmanship dating back to the early Middle Ages.

DAYS OUT AUDLEY END HOUSE AND GARDENS Off London Road, Saffron Walden, Essex CB11 4JF 01799 522842 / 0870 333 1181 english-heritage.org.uk/daysout/properties/audleyend-house-and-gardens 1, 2, 8, 9, 15, 16, 22, 23 Sep. Bringing Audley End to Life! Come and see the Service Wing and Stables brought to life by Victorian costumed characters.

Discover how this country house estate worked and played as the summer draws near.

29 and 30 Sep. Apple Weekend – Visit Audley End's thriving organic Kitchen Garden and enjoy a variety of apple themed activities, stalls and refreshments throughout the day.

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BATTERSEA PARK CHILDREN’S ZOO Battersea Park, Chelsea Bridge Gate SW11 4NJ 020 7924 5826 batterseaparkzoo.co.uk Throughout Sep – With a zoo, animal encounters, play area and café, a visit to the world famous Battersea Park Children's Zoo is a must see.

ELTHAM PALACE Court Yard, Eltham, Greenwich SE9 5QE 020 8294 2548 / 0870 333 1181 elthampalace.org.uk 4 and 18 Sep. Art Deco Tours – Join an expert guide to tour the 1930s house and view its stunning interiors and furnishings, reflecting the high fashion of the 1930s. 11am and 2pm, £2/£3 11 Sep. Medieval Tour – Tour the remains of the Royal Medieval Palace, explore the ruins in the grounds and examine the history of the Palace from 1066 through to the Restoration. 11am and 2pm, £2/£3

HAMPTON COURT PALACE Hampton Court, East Molesey. Surrey, KT8 9AU 0870 758 8080 hrp.org.uk To 30 Sep. The Wild, The Beautiful and the Damned – A new exhibition about the story of beauty, debauchery and decadent art at the late Stuart Court.

1-2 Sep and 6-7 Oct. Live Tudor cookery – King Henry VIII’s famous Tudor kitchens are now home to food archaeologists, bringing the kitchens to life experimenting with traditional recipes to prepare feasts fit for a king!

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What’s on HMS BELFAST The Queen’s Walk SE1 2JH 020 7940 6300 iwm.org.uk 8-9 Sep. Points on a Compass – Find out more about the countries, cultures and journeys HMS Belfast has taken whilst in service.

11am–12.30pm and 2–4pm, all ages.

Gun Turret Experience – A chance to see what fighting at sea would have really been like.

Interactive Operations Room – Imagine what it would have been like to control HMS Belfast from the Operations room, the nerve centre and brain of the entire ship.

KENSINGTON PALACE Kensington Gardens W6 4PX 0844 482 7777 hrp.org.uk/kensingtonpalace To 4 Nov. Jubilee: A View from the Crowd – This new exhibition celebrates Queen Victoria’s Diamond Jubilee of 1897, from the point of view of those who celebrated it, from duchesses to newspaper sellers.

LEEDS CASTLE Maidstone, Kent ME17 1PL 01622 765400 leeds-castle.com To 21 Oct. What the Butler Saw – Life above and below stairs at Leeds Castle in the 1930s. Featuring archive material and photographs, visit this bygone era of high society and the rich and famous.

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

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

Incorporating art, music, yoga, sport, cooking, drama and all aspects of the Early Years Curriculum.

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

Ramsden Hall, 21 Ramsden Road, London SW12 8QX Capture the excitement of learning at Oaktree Nursery School. Where children become independent, inquisitive and motivated in a happy caring environment. Incorporating art, music, yoga, sport, cooking, drama and all aspects of the Early Years Curriculum.

Ofsted Outstanding - Dec 2011 Please come and see us in action.

Annabel Dixon 020 8870 8441 dixonannab@aol.com www.oaktreenurseryschool.co.uk

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techniques at a special traditional craft workshop.

10am–4pm, £45pp 2 Sep. The Birdlife of Portugal – Join Portuguese birding expert João Jara for a fascinating talk on the birdlife of Portugal. 2.303.30pm, £3 6,13 and 20 Sep. Big Bat Walk – See these amazing flying mammals and their astonishing aerial acrobatics and learn more about them from a bat expert. Time varies with sunset, £10 9 Sep. Reptile Walk – Look for some of the shyer residents of the reserve. 11.30am–12.30pm 29 Sep. Peruvian Amazon Adventures – Join biologist James Borrell to discover science in the rainforest. How does field research translate into practical conservation measures and what does the future hold for this small corner of the Amazon? 2.30-3.30pm, £3

DIARY DATES/ EVENTS BANDSTAND MARATHON Battersea Park SW11 4NJ bandstandmarathon.org.uk 9 Sep. Join the Bandstand Marathon and be part of one of 500 events nationwide on the same day, 1-5pm.

MORDEN HALL PARK

BBC PROMS

Morden Hall Road, Morden SM4 5JD 020 8545 6850 nationaltrust.org.uk/morden-hall-park Explorer Packs and Trails – Explorer packs are available from the second-hand bookshop (a deposit is required), containing themed activities around the park. Follow trails around the park with activities to complete.

Royal Albert Hall, Kensington Gore SW7 2AP 020 7589 8212 bbc.co.uk/proms To 8 Sep. Up to seventy world-class concerts, plus a series of chamber concerts in nearby Cadogan Hall. Plenty for kids too!

OPENING OF PARLIAMENT TOURS Houses of Parliament, Parliament Square, St Margaret Street, Westminster SW1A 0844 847 2498 parliament.uk/visiting/visiting-andtours/summeropening 19 Sep-6 Oct. Tours take in some of the most important areas of the Palace in which Parliament meets and explain what Parliament does, what it has meant at different times and how it came to be what it is today. £6/£10/£15

TOWER OF LONDON Tower Hill EC3 0844 482 7799 hrp.org.uk To 31 Dec. Royal Beasts – For 600 years, wild and exotic beasts were held captive in the Tower. Discover why they were imprisoned and experience how they would have lived at the Royal Menagerie.

29 Sep-7 Oct. Ranulf Flambard’s Great Escape – When King Henry I succeeds his brother William II, his first act is to imprison his brother’s hated tax collector in their father’s impregnable new fortress, the Tower of London. But the wily Ranulf Flambard is soon scheming to get out. Timings to be confirmed.

WWT WETLANDS CENTRE Queen Elizabeth’s Walk, Barnes SW13 9WT 020 8409 4400 wwt.org.uk/visit-us/london 1 Sep. Wildlife Walk – A wildlife walk for members - spot some sensational seasonal wildlife. 1pm, £2 2 Sep. Willow Weaving and Basket Making – Try out basket making and willow weaving

BRITISH LIBRARY 96 Euston Road NW1 2DB 020 7412 7332 bl.uk/whatson 21 Sep. The Hobbit at 75 – In the run up to the release of part one of Peter Jackson’s filmed version of the tale, join a celebration of this fabulous and hugely influential book, with readings, conversation and special guests. 6.30-8pm, £5/£7.50

DULWICH PICTURE GALLERY Gallery Road, Dulwich SE21 7AD 020 8693 5254 dulwichpicturegallery.org.uk 2 and 30 Sep. Artplay – Get creative at these drop-in workshops with a variety of art activities. 2-3.45pm To 16 Sep. Andy Warhol: The Portfolios – Featuring some of Warhol’s most iconic print portfolios as well as lesser known sets

FULHAM PALACE Bishops Avenue SW6 6EA 020 7610 7169 fulhampalace.org 6, 13 and 20 Sep. Movies on the Lawn – Enjoy an outdoor movie on the main lawn while having dinner on the terrace of the Drawing Room. Or bring a picnic and a rug and find a spot on the grass. 6 Sep – Casablanca, 13 Sep – Romeo and Juliet, 20 Sep – The Artist.

7.45pm, tickets £8.50/£12.50 from whereisthenomad.com

ICKLE PICKLES SUMMER PARTY Tooting Bec Common, by Dr Johnson Avenue SW17 8JU 0845 2011268 www.icklepickles.org/Event/The-ickle-

Tel: 020 8696 9680 FamiliesSouthWest.co.uk

What’s on Pickle-Summer-Party 2 Sep. A spectacular fundraising event with funfair rides, bouncy castles, face painting, fantastic food, children’s entertainment, music, medieval stocks, Punch & Judy, welly wanging and more!

Supported by Eddie Catz, raising funds for lifesaving neonatal equipment. 11am-5pm.

LANDMARK ARTS CENTRE Ferry Road, Teddington TW11 9NN 020 8977 7558 landmarkartscentre.org 19 Sep. Kids Comics Club – Draw your own comic strips, make up your own comic story and learn all about different comic forms. 4-5.30pm, ages 7-12, £60 for 6 Wednesdays 8 and 29 Sep. Kids Art Club – Fun workshops supervised by professional art educators including drawing, painting, relief making, printing and collage. 10am-12pm, £12

plus songs from best-loved musicals such as Carousel, Kismet, Showboat, and Bernstein’s legendary West Side Story. £22.50/£25, gates open 6pm

PANTS IN THE PARK Battersea Park SW11 4NJ 020 8394 7969 pantsinthepark.org 22 Sep. Family 5K Fun Run – Run, walk, toddle or push a pushchair and raise money for Prostate Action. Decorate your pants and display them to the world - a great family day out!

9.30am, race starts 11am, £5/£10, under 5s free ROBIN FARQUHAR-THOMSON Wonderful Pictures of Children

LITTLE BIG PEACE EVENT Streatham, littlebigpeace.com 17-23 Sep. Peace Festival – A free mini-festival celebrating the idea of culture and peace. See website for details

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

MAYOR’S THAMES FESTIVAL Mallside, The Bargehouse, Oxo Tower Wharf, Bargehouse Street SE1 9PH 020 7928 8998 thamesfestival.org 8 and 9 Sep. Join in the final celebrations of the London 2012 Festival as the London 2012 Games draws to a close. Includes: Scharnhorst - World première of a spectacular performance,combining international choirs and young percussionists performing live after dark on the historic HMS Belfast. 8 and 9 Sep, 9pm and 8pm Night Carnival – an amazing scene of illuminated structures and costumes. 9 Sep, 7.15pm Kids’ Choir – 9 Sep, 1pm Firing on the Foreshore – fire clay pots on the riverbank and discover the Thames’ history. 8 Sep, 12-5pm Barge-Driving Races – 9 Sep, 1-5pm Blue Ribbon Village - the Festival's family-friendly river and environmental zone on Potters Fields Park Rivers of the World Exhibition – featuring artworks created by pupils who participated in this year’s international arts project

NCT PUTNEY AND FULHAM parentcoordinator@nctputneyfulham.org 4 Sep. Hypnotherapy – Birth Option and Beyond - Discover more about Hypnobirthing and how hypnotherapy can help with sleep issues, post natal blues and building self confidence and self esteem. Free, email to book your space

OCTAVIA APPEAL Twice Times Nursery, South Park, Fulham SW6 octaviaappeal.org 29 Sep. Fun Charity Morning – Shop, have fun and treat yourself to some yummy Hummingbird cupcakes while raising money for a great cause. 10am-12pm

PAINSHILL PARK Portsmouth Road, Cobham, Surrey KT11 1JE 01932 868113 painshill.co.uk 14 Sep. Opera Gala – A night of opera in The Conservatory. Enjoy a selection of arias from La Traviata, The Pearl Fishers, Samson and Delilah and The Barber of Seville, performed by principal singers from The Royal Opera House, English National Opera and international opera houses throughout the world,

September 2012

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Pump House Gallery

PUMP HOUSE GALLERY Battersea Park SW11 4NJ 020 8871 7572 pumphousegallery.org.uk 29 Sep. Halloween Kids Workshop – 12-4pm 12 Sep-25 Nov. Beauty Is The First Test – Exhibition exploring the relationship between mathematics and craft.

London’s professional mobile bicycle mechanics •Bicycle servicing, repairs, sales, restoration and fleet maintenance.

•Bikes and scooters road side assistance and recovery.

We come to you anywhere in London and Greater London.

0800 0910 500 www.cycledelik.com

ROYAL OBSERVATORY GREENWICH Greenwich SE10 9NF 020 8858 4422, rmg.co.uk 21 Sep-Feb 2013. Astronomy Photographer of the Year 2012 Exhibition – See the spectacular winning images from this year’s competition - from distant galaxies to our very own Milky Way and neighbouring planets, the entries reflect our enduring fascination with the night sky.

SNAKES AND LADDERS SYON PARK Syon Park, Brentford, Middlesex TW8 8JF 020 8847 0946 snakes-and-ladders.co.uk 19 Sep. Pirate Day! – Arrrrr Shipmates! Follow the Perishing Pirate Trial to earn bountiful booty.

WILDLIFE WATCH CLUB Wimbledon Common, near the Windmill 020 8540 6154 Meet on the first Sunday of each month at the Information Centre near the Windmill. 10am12pm. 6-14yrs. £1 registration fee and £2 per session.

9 Sep. Apple Pressing and Making Natural Cloths – Bring any spare apples from your garden so you can take a bottle home.

ZIPPO’S CIRCUS Twickenham Green, Richmond 0871 210 2100 zipposcircus.co.uk 20-25 Sep. Gold! – Britain’s favourite circus brings you an action-packed 2 hours of the best of both traditional and contemporary circus acts – expect the unexpected! £6-£22, family tickets available.

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CLUBS AND CLASSES

•WHYOGA 01372 459 400 www.whyoga.com askvicky@whyoga.com Creative pregnancy yoga (7pm 8pm) and all levels yoga (8pm 9.30pm) in Balham Library and Earlsfield Library Monday and Wednesday evenings.

•THE BABY CARE COMPANY Grandison Road SW11 020 7228 1041 thebabycarecompany.co.uk 5 and 19 Sep. 2nd Baby Preparation Class – Discover the tricks of coping with 2 children and learn simple techniques to avoid jealousy, while maintaining that special relationship with your first child. 8.15pm 18, 20, 25 and 26 Sep. Get prepared for life with baby – A set of 3 classes to get you ready and fully equipped with techniques for life when you bring your baby home.

Times vary.

•ECOLE DE DANSE OF BALHAM Heaver Studios, 239 Balham High Road SW17 7BE 07973 167223 ecolededanseofbalham.co.uk 8 Sep. Open Day –- For booking and information please contact JeanPascal jpcabardos @ecolededanseofbalham.co.uk •EDDIE CATZ WIMBLEDON 42 Station Road SW19 2LP 0845 201 1268 eddiecatz.com 19 Sep. Smallprint Fingerprint Jewellery – Create stunning silver keepsakes with your children’s fingerprints – choose from pendants, charms, cufflinks, keyrings and more.

10am-12.30pm •FIRST AID FOR LIFE Balham and Westminster 020 8675 4036 firstaidforlife.org.uk 11, 15, 28 Sep – First Aid for Babies – A course covering care of the unconscious baby and child as well as most commonly occurring injuries and illnesses such as choking, bleeding, breaks, bleeds, burns, head injury and febrile convulsions. 9.30am-12.30pm, £60/£65.

•THE PAPERED PARLOUR 7 Prescott Place, Clapham SW4 020 7627 8703 thepaperedparlour.co.uk 23 Sep. DIY Screenprinting – Immerse yourself in the world of contemporary printmaking. From creating fine art editions to revamping your wardrobe, get the skills you need to take your ideas to the next level. 12-5pm, £77.50 30 Sep. Hand Printed Wallpaper with CUSTHOM Design – Join bespoke wallpaper artist Jemma Ooi to explore the wondrous world of block printing. Taking inspiration from natural forms and geometric shapes, you’ll begin by carving your own wallpaper block to create a distinctive design. 12-5pm, £133

•KUNDALINI YOGA at ReCentre Balham Every Friday 12:00-13:30 visit: www.lifeelement.co.uk 020 8672 4455 MUMS LIFE 2 The Awareness Centre, 41 Abbeville Road, Clapham SW4 9JX 020 8769 0993 theawarenesscentre.com/mumslif e2 / ginamusa.com 28 Sep. Group Programme – Do you want to know who you are as well as being a mum? Join this 4-week group programme for mothers who want to spend some time thinking about their own needs and wants. £195 for the course. Email coaching@ginamusa.com

Earn Extra Money?

Capital Focus Groups are looking for people to take part in Market Research and give their opinion on a variety of subjects.

If you would like to earn extra cash please call Liz on 07761 128059 or e-mail e.dahlgren@btinternet.com

BOOKS

HEALTH •Hanna Evans Acupuncture Pregnancy and Birth Enjoy your pregnancy and prepare for birth with local acupuncture specialist for morning sickness, breech turning, acupuncture induction and acupressure for labour.

020 7384 1851 07799 417924 www.hannaevans.co.uk •MOBILE SPORTS MASSAGE THERAPIST 07711 724129 www.tsportsmassage.com Theo has 20+ years’ experience of Relaxing to Deep Tissue and Sports Massage in the comfort of your home.

Business Award Winner 2012

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

THEO THE MAGICIAN “The Magic Circle, Equity & CRB” Fun Magic for Children & Adults Free Magic Wand & Certificate for Birthday Child 07711 724129

www.magictheo.com

BABIES

•Baby Massage 07843 224079 www.helenmartinrolls.co.uk Regular baby massage classes at Neal's Yard Remedies, SW11 and SW19/20. Private tuition for individuals and NCT groups.

CHILDCARE •PROBLEMS WITH YOUR KIDS? 07932 339416 Sleeping, eating, boundaries... Seeking parenting support? Contact Maya, professional Super Nanny / troubleshooter. Over 20yrs experience, ask for my references.

Mayalazabeille13@yahoo.com

SERVICES •WINDOW CLEANER As used by Families South West office! Niaz is meticulous and even cleans the window frames beautifully!

Call 07737 905 224 for a truly sparkling job.

•Moreplumbing www.moreplumbing.co.uk 07855 530771 A Fulham based plumbing and heating company, covering the whole of South West London. Moreplumbing carries out plumbing and heating installations, maintenance and emergency call out.

Moreplumbing is Gas Safe registered, therefore can install and service gas appliances.

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

The Unique Birthday Experience The theatre of Peter Pan, Superheroes, Fairies,Arabian Nights and more...

In your home! Unforgettable Bilingual English/French www.lydieparties.com

www.charlietheclown.co.uk

07808 732 390 clown pirate story-teller wizard

Tel: 020 8696 9680 FamiliesSouthWest.co.uk

Classified PAINTING & DECORATING

TUITION

Learn to massage your child

Massage is relaxing and brings loving closeness.

Learn simple techniques in your own home or your friend's.

Hands-on parent and child workshop by qualified massage therapist and aromatherapist.

Call Lorraine on 079101 14153

Interior / Exterior Experienced, Reliable, Clean Fully Guaranteed / Insured FREE ADVICE & QUOTE John:- James & Lamont

020 8462 4646 - 07802 535695

MUSIC

Reliable Handyman • Garden maintenance and building work (fences, patios, sheds, etc..)

• Jobs around the house (carpentry, painting, fitting furniture, etc…)

• Computer maintenance (repair, teaching) £20/hour or packages possible.

Call Brian: 0774 513 6424

PIANO TUITION

Friendly, experienced and qualified teacher of children 6+ and adults.

Take exams or learn purely for pleasure.

Different styles covered.

Home visits possible.

Mark Lester MA, CT ABRSM

020 8870 7830 www.marklester.biz

HEALTH Building Insurance Claim?

Counsellor/Psychotherapist Family/Couples/Individuals Fathers’ Group Over 10 years’ extensive experience including: Addiction, Anger/Rage, Bereavement, Depression, Relationships Problems, Crime/Trauma Christopher Clow UKRCP, BACP (Accred), 07791 833 279 / 020 7585 1399 c.clow@yahoo.com swlondontherapy.co.uk

Been asked to get two quotes?

Call All Property Claims…

Not only do we provide a quote, we'll get it agreed with insurers and start your building repairs faster than anyone else—we promise!

Unique FREE service We get insurers to agree to all the repairs you are entitled to and will start building works within 48 hours from insurer's authorisation.

020 8764 0007 www.allpropertyclaims.co.uk

HOLIDAYS Individual Tuition Public Speaking, Elocution, Comprehension, Drama Confidence Building, Speech & Interview Technique Clare Price. LGSM, ALAM, SRD.

(020) 7735 3156 www.speechspecialists.co.uk

Come all the family and learn Spanish with Pedro.

Group and individual lessons.

HOLIDAY FLAT IN PROVENCE Vaugines (Luberon), 30 min from Aix/ Marseille. In the centre of an historical village a flat on the first floor, accommodation for 2 to 5 people.

One room with double bed, and mezzanine two small beds.

Huge living room looking on to the Durance valley.

Perfect pied a terre to visit and discover this part of Provence.

Price 400 Euros/week Dep 250 Euros.

Please contact l.metge@hotmail.com Ring us 00 33 474 67 59 17 fax 00 33 474 67 50 29.

SERVICES

Please phone in English to check availability…

Affordable rent!

AMITY COMPUTER SERVICES

2 cottages in Cornwall

Call Pedro on 07956 699963

- including sports facilities and

Home and business computers repaired & managed.

Consultancy and tuition also available.

indoor & outdoor pools.

Please phone for details 01483 282471 or e-mail nancyshafee@tiscali.co.uk.

Phone Danny on

8944 0681 or 07961 428 596

Cots, highchairs etc can be arranged too!

E-mail: acs@amitygrove.com

September 2012

®

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The PRIMARY Place where children learn and have fun!

‘The Primary Place’ is a new way of providing childcare for primary aged children AFTER they leave day nursery. Wonderful workshops, homework club, nutritious food and escorted travel.

Try our summer history workshops in July and August too!

Designed by Shirley Trimmer

1 Hide Place • London • SW1P 4NJ 020 7592 0195 • 07956 661891

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Tel: 020 8696 9680 FamiliesSouthWest.co.uk