Families upon Thames Issue 102 May-June 2015

Free

upon Thames

May/June 2015 Issue 102

www.familiesuponthames.co.uk

Parties Special!

WIN Theatre Tickets and a Day at Hobbledown!

RECRUITING NOW

Successful ‘business mum’ is seeking 5 working partners to work part-time from home, alongside & without compromising family commitments or current career.

Babysitting and Flexible Childcare

If you have a supervisory, managerial, sales, marketing, recruitment or self-employed background, or you wish to develop an extraordinary lifestyle,

S 100% DB D CHECKE RS E R A CHILDC

• Babysitting • Flexible Daytime Childcare • Temporary Nannies

please call Diana Page

01235 533362 07747 086518 SC5 Families Upon Thames Advert.qxp_Layout 1

• Part Time Nannies • Permanent Nannies Holiday Nannies

10/04/2015 09:44 Page 1

0844 879 7189 www.likeminders.co.uk

Enrolling Now! Call your local school for details

Chertsey Cobham Hinchley Wood Hounslow Kew

07725 176 102 01932 348 844 01372 238 238 020 8873 7140 020 8487 1456

New Malden Richmond Staines Twickenham Weybridge

020 8540 7791 020 8332 6741 01483 235 216 020 8977 0843 01932 422 664

QUALITY TRAINING ESTABLISHED 1988

For parents/carers of kids from 0 -12 in North Surrey and the boroughs of Richmond, Kingston and Hounslow

A safe and creative environment in which your child can thrive in their experience of sport and develop a love for playing the greatest game on earth!

oNe GrEaT BiG aDVeNTuRe

Check us out on

Facebook + Twitter for regular Competitions and Discount Codes

CRB checked and FA qualified coaches

@kiddikicks

• Hobbledown is a 50-acre farm park adventure featuring towers, tunnels, mazes, aerial walkways, a daring high ropes course and a 14,000 sq ft indoor play barn

Training sessions, courses and parties across London

KiddikicksHQ

For spring and summer events go to our website or follow us on Facebook.

• With our own Zoo Licence, we have more than 150 animals

try us for free get in touch with your local kiddikicks for details

Follow us on facebook; hobbledownuk

Kiddikicks HQ

NW Surrey

Twickenham

Includes Richmond, Sheen, Brentford and Chiswick

Includes Kingston, Weybridge and East Molesey

Includes Hampton, Twickenham, Feltham, Teddington, Isleworth

020 7937 7965

020 3560 9256

020 7937 7965

www.kiddikicks.co.uk

nwsurrey.kiddikicks.co.uk

twickenham.kiddikicks.co.uk

F E S T I VA L O F F U N :

LEAVE R EA LIT Y BEH IND WHEN YOU ENTER T He MYSTER ICA L WOR LD oF HOBBLEDOWN

and twitter; @Hobbledown

Find us at:

Hobbledown Horton Lane, Epsom, Surrey KT19 8PT T: 0843 289 4979 E: thehobblers@hobbledown.com

www.hobbledown.com

HOB10234_QuarterPgAd_133x91mm_FamiliesKingston.indd 1

06/02/2015 14:44

Summer at Strawberry goes

Medieval

S U N D AY 3 1 M AY , 1 1 A M – 4 . 3 0 P M

C

Sponsored by

alling all kings, queens, knights and princesses...

Your family can enjoy a day of medieval mayhem in the grounds of Strawberry come rain or shine.

From falconry to hobby horse jousting and a chance to dance the maypole. Make your own prince or princess headdress and listen to mystical stories in the shade of the magical woodland grotto.

Refreshments available to purchase or bring your teddy and picnic in the garden.

Free entry, some activities will be charged.

www.strawberryhillhouse.org.uk 2

www.familiesuponthames.co.uk

May-June 2015

LINDA STONE, Editor m: 07530 283330 t: 020 8241 0423 e: editor@familiesuponthames.co.uk www.familiesuponthames.co.uk Find us and like us on Facebook Facebook.com/familiesuponthames @FamiliesuponT Now more than 6200 followers!

Don’t miss our Super Summer Fun issue, published on 30 June!

Contents

TO ADVERTISE IN THIS MAGAZINE CONTACT:

Page 4 Page 6 Page 8 Page 10 Page 12 Page 15 Page 20 Page 23 Page 28

Health and Wellbeing Parenting Early Years Care and Education Pregnancy, Birth and Beyond Summer Days Out Kids Parties May Half Term and Summer Camps and Workshops Classes, Clubs and Activities What’s On

If You Have a Child Under 2, Don’t Miss For Sanity’s Sake’s Parenting Event Eat, Play, Sleep & Be Healthy!

Award-winning website and event provider, For Sanity’s Sake (www. forsanityssake.com), has lots to offer local parents at its Eat, Play, Sleep & Be Healthy parenting event at Movers & Shapers in St Margarets on Tuesday, 19 May! The event will help parents of children ages 0 to 2 get expert baby sleep and feeding advice, try play and developmental sessions for babies and young toddlers with the best local providers, and meet and chat with local childcare and health providers.

Tickets are just £9.95 for a parent and child and include access to workshops, play sessions and exhibits..

Sponsored by Dreamfeeds (www. dreamfeeds.co.uk), feeding workshops will be presented by its International Board Certified lactation consultants, Lyndsey

Tuesday 19 May

Hookway and Judith Brenner. Lyndsey’s company Little Sleepers (www.littlesleepers. co.uk) will present sleep workshops. All workshops will focus on the questions and issues with which you are struggling and be available on a “first come, first served” basis, so it’s worth booking your ticket early!

Movers & Shapers is a bright, spacious group personal training facility which is new to St Margarets. It will be offering ‘no sweat’ fitness taster classes throughout the day which you can enjoy with your little one in a carry cot or similar - you don’t even need to get changed!

The facility is conveniently located within yards of the St Margaret’s train station and H37 bus stops and the walk from Richmond and Twickenham is approximately 15 minutes.

For more information and to book tickets, visit www.forsanityssake.com

WIN! COMPETITION! WIN! WIN a Family Ticket to see Gorilla at Polka Theatre in Wimbledon this Summer!

This is an opportunity for one lucky family to WIN a family ticket to Polka Theatre’s hit production of Anthony Browne’s award-winning children’s book Gorilla, which returns to the stage between 17 July and 16 August.

The captivating Gorilla is a heart-warming tale of friendship, celebration and love which is brought to life with puppetry, music and a giant sprinkling of Polka magic. It is suitable for children ages 4 to 7 but children younger than 4 can attend an All Ages Welcome performance.

Hannah loves gorillas, but she’s never seen a real one. It’s the night before her

birthday and something amazing is about to happen...When Hannah’s toy gorilla comes to life, dressed in her father’s coat and hat, they embark on a thrilling, moonlit adventure.

Meet the world’s friendliest gorilla for the perfect summer holiday treat!

For further information and booking, visit www.polkatheatre.com or call 020 8543 4888.

To Enter: Go to our website at www.familiesuponthames.co.uk, click on Competitions and answer the following question: Who wrote the book on which the Polka’s production of Gorilla is based?

To Enter: Go to our website at www. familiesuponthames.co.uk, click on Competitions and answer the following question: Who wrote the book on which the Polka’s production of Gorilla is based?

Closing Date: Friday, 26 June. Terms and Conditions Apply.

Winning ticket will be valid for any available performance in July or August.

The Ice Queen Summer holiday fun for 4–7s Put on a fantastic show at our fun-packed drama, dance and singing courses and have the coolest summer ever!

Call 0845 400 1284 or visit perform.org.uk/icequeen May-June 2015

www.familiesuponthames.co.uk

3

FAMILY HEALTH AND WELLBEING A DAY IN THE LIFE OF A BUGGYFIT TRAINER

By Marina Koutsoudis Bhuller

As a local Buggyfit trainer, I offer postnatal exercise classes to mums which they can attend with their babies and little ones in a buggy or pram. Like many people whose jobs bring them into contact with babies and small children, I love multi-tasking between the roles of personal trainer, mini crèche provider, children’s entertainer and Pilates instructor – and do so with great ease!

My sessions always start with some instruction on correcting poor posture, followed by a really good mobility session to get warmed up and flexible. I tend to ease into the start of the sessions, rather than start with a bang though. This is often necessary in order to accommodate both restless little ones and sleep-deprived mums who may need to go back to their cars to fetch forgotten items including buggies and babies!

After our warm up, we move into a walk at a moderate pace, before progressing to a power walk. This is when you start to burn fat….. and when you sometimes also need a toilet! There is a reason why pelvic floor exercises are necessary after having a baby and each of my sessions includes group exercises which strengthen and tone particular muscle groups, with the focus on restoring core, pelvic floor and posture.

But we don’t expect you to be perfect all at once. Sometimes it’s just not possible to hold on until you get home or reach a public

PLAGUED BY EAR INFECTIONS? Clare Jeffries advises

convenience, so we are trained to turn the other way if you need to have a quick wee in the bushes between walking intervals!

As I’m sure you are gathering by now, Buggyfit sessions are fun, friendly and unpressurised and everyone works at their own level. Some mums stop to feed their babies, joining in again when they are ready.

When babies cry, I rock the buggy, push it around or hold babies so they can be close to mum while she exercises. It’s also perfectly acceptable to bring along a family member or carer to the session. Although don’t be surprised if you are the one who ends up holding the baby, whilst your mother gets stuck into the training!

All sessions end with a cool down, a stretch – and a chat!

extra

Marina Koutsoudis Bhuller runs Buggyfit sessions in Marble Hill Park in Twickenham and in Osterley Park and also offers personal training and 1:1 pilates sessions, as well as a pilates class in Kingston on Monday afternoons.

For further information or a no obligation chat, contact Marina at marina@mkbhealthandfitness.co.uk or call her on 07788 204503

Ear infections are one of the most common childhood ailments and after colds, account for the most number of GP visits for babies and young children. So are ear infections just an inevitable part of childhood that must be endured, or can they be avoided or the number of occurrences reduced?

It is natural to want to ease a child’s pain and fever when suffering from an ear infection, and so we generally expect to receive a prescription for antibiotics and to be told to give our child paracetamol for pain or fever.

However, researchers have now concluded that most ear infections take approximately four days to clear up, with or without prescribing antibiotics. To avoid risk of side effects and antibiotic resistance, antibiotics should no longer routinely be given, although in practice they often still are, especially to children under 2 years of age.

What’s the Alternative to Antibiotics for Ear Infections?

Whilst ‘killing off’ the bacteria causing ear infections, antibiotics do the same to the healthy, beneficial bacteria we need, not only in our digestive systems, but also lining the ear nose and throat area. Think of these healthy bacteria as our ‘foot soldiers,’ which together with our immune system, help fight off infections, without the need for drugs. If repeated courses of antibiotics are given, the levels of healthy bacteria are lowered and a child becomes more prone to future ear and other infections.

It is possible to restore a child’s health and

Dietary Advice for Children.

Fussy Eaters ● Dental Problems ● Constipation or Diarrhoea ● Food Allergies ● Eczema ● Frequent llness ● Skin Rashes Clare Jeffries Nutritional Therapist

●

19 Sheen Road (Opposite Waitrose car park), Richmond-upon-Thames, Surrey, TW9 1AD

(BSc NT, mBANT, mCNHC)

www.healthyinfluence.co.uk clare@healthyinfluence.co.uk 07977 535 383 4

www.familiesuponthames.co.uk

May-June 2015

FAMILY HEALTH AND WELLBEING

Nutrition HOW CAN RELUCTANT COOKS INSPIRE THEIR CHILDREN IN THE KITCHEN?

By Susan Carmichael

Nutrition increase their resistance to infection, through adjustments to their diet and with carefully tailored supplements. Advice varies depending on individual medical history, number of antibiotics taken, how well they eat (and whether they have any nutritional deficiencies), possible food intolerances and any other symptoms present.

As a qualified Nutritional Therapist, I general advise the following: ✿ A good quality probiotic placed under the tongue at night ✿ Boosting the immune system by increasing foods rich in vitamins and minerals such as Vitamin C, D, A and E, zinc and selenium and Essential Fats ✿ Reducing or eliminating dairy intake for a time, but ensuring calcium intake from other sources ✿ Allowing fever (up to 38ºC) to run without paracetomol or other pain medication to help fight infection and holding off antibiotics for four days to allow the body time to heal itself ✿ A good quality multivitamin and children’s fish oil The body is an amazing machine, and with the right support will often ‘fix’ itself, so let it have the chance if you can!

extra

Clare Jeffries (Bsc (hons) NT) is a Registered Nutritional Therapist based in Weybridge.

Clare specialises in the nutrition and health of babies, children and pregnant mothers, holding workshops and one-to-one consultations. If your child is suffering repeated ear infections, do get in touch with Clare for a consultation. For more information, visit www.healthyinfluence.co.uk

For some of us, cooking is a chore - something we endure reluctantly to feed ourselves and our families. At the same time, even the most reluctant cooks generally still want their children to appreciate that home cooked food can be healthier, better tasting, less costly, and more time-saving than ready-prepared options, and that it can also be a creative and fulfilling past time which can be shared with family and friends.

So here are some tips that will help reluctant cooks encourage a passion for cooking in their children: KEEP IT SIMPLE Not all cooks who seamlessly turn out delicious family meals and dinner party dishes are highly skilled – often their recipes are very simple but include ‘new’ and appealing flavours and colours. Whatever food you like, your cooking experience can be transformed into something enjoyable by choosing a simple recipe, making sure you have the correct ingredients and checking you can follow the instructions.

Invest in cook books and magazines with simple, clear instructions and images to demonstrate various steps – if your little chef isn’t at reading stage, they can then follow the pictures to understand the recipe.

BE PREPARED It gets messy when you are cooking with children – and the reluctant cooks amongst you are even less likely to tolerate this than most! So make sure you both have aprons, roll up your sleeves and have damp cloths within easy reach. Encourage your sous-chefs to clean up their work surface and wash their dishes after each step – children will soon learn that fewer dishes and equipment is used this way. Bowl licking is the best part of cooking and sticky fingers are part of it – but encourage just one finger at a time and have that damp cloth ready to wipe little hands!

created for REAL Mums with REAL Your local buggyfit trainerlives for Twickenham and Osterley is

Your local buggyfit trainer for Twickenham and Marina Koutsoudis-Bhuller Osterley is Marina Koutsoudis-Bhuller

E marina@mkbhealthandfitness.co.uk E marina@mkbhealthandfitness.co.uk M 07788204503 Your buggyfit trainer for M local07788204503 FB facebook.com/Buggyfittwickenham.osterley Twickenham and Osterley is TW twitter.com/BuggyfitHQ FB facebook.com/Buggyfittwickenham.osterley

Marina Koutsoudis-Bhuller TW twitter.com/BuggyfitHQ

E marina@mkbhealthandfitness.co.uk CONTACT BUGGYFIT HQ M 07788204503 FB facebook.com/Buggyfittwickenham.osterley TW twitter.com/BuggyfitHQ

w.buggyfit.com T. 01844 202081

May-June 2015

ALLOW TIME Cooking doesn’t have to take a lot of time but rushing it will add to the stress and dread of the experience. In our busy lives, it may work better to schedule your cooking for when you are both fresh and have plenty of time. This will mean it is more likely to be a creative and relaxing experience.

ENROL IN A COOKING CLASS TOGETHER Look for cooking classes for both of you.

Sassy Stirrers Cooking Club (www.sassystirrers.com) has a new monthly class called Time-Out Together on Saturdays. Cooking together provides a wonderful platform from which to teach children valuable life skills, confidence and social skills.

extra

Susan Carmichael is the proprietor of Sassy Stirrers which offers children’s cooking parties, and a Saturday Cooking Club held one afternoon per month in the areas of Kingston and Esher. Sassy Stirrers also runs Time-Out Together classes for parents and children, as well as holiday workshops, after school clubs and lunch time clubs in local schools. For more information, visit www.sassystirrers.com

Earn extra money each month, work flexible hours or embark on a life-changing career!

If you are motivated and like beautiful jewellery, you can earn 20-40% on all sales with South Hill Designs or multiply your income by growing your own team.

No Low start-up costs minimums Full training & support Excellent compensation plan or target pressures!

Generous hostess rewards.

Call Dawn on 07763 840380 www.dawnbirdi.com

www.familiesuponthames.co.uk

5

PARENTING

constitutes child abuse and may words of a current headmaster have a detrimental effect on them “Try not to send your child to a in the future. pushy school if you think they are How Much Stress is Too Much? likely to be in the bottom half of “We like to think our children the class.” are immune to the growing If your child is not at a school waves of anxiety and misery that that prepares them for the are expressing themselves as entrance exams you want them eating disorders, depression, and to take, then it is wise for your self-harm” Camilla Cavendish child to do some independent from the Sunday Times recently preparation. Try not to make reported. I am here to tell you, a big deal of it. Just create a they are not. In fact, I am seeing schedule and keep to it. Give lots and hearing more and more about of positive feedback about the depression and eating disorders in effort your child is making. children.

Don’t quiz your child about So How Can You Know How exams. Their answers probably Well Your Child is Coping? won’t be a good indicator anyway A person’s ability to tolerate as they are unlikely to be able stress depends on many factors, to be objective about how they including the quality of their performed. Don’t listen to the relationships, general outlook on mums who brag about how hard life, emotional intelligence and their children are working or how genetics. well they are doing either. Every Obvious signs of stress include child is an individual and must having a short temper, a poor find their level. appetite, anxious and/or Making Time for Play and racing thoughts, moodiness, Relaxation depression, isolating It’s really important to keep their themselves, sleeping too much childhood going. It’s a precious or too little, panic attacks, and period which seems to come to nervous tics or habits. an end at an earlier and earlier In order to work out whether age, so make sure they are having your child is experiencing any plenty of time for themselves. of the above symptoms, or to Do whatever you need to do to help if they are, it is important to keep calm too, whether it’s yoga, stay close to them and keep meditation or walking. communicating.

Finally, remember all children Childline advocates the benefits do end up with a school place of talking, advising children that in the end – and if it’s not the

By Alison Banks “bottling up stress and trying one you perceived as ‘the best,’ to deal with it on your own can consider the possibility that it We hold a good education in children there won’t tell each As recommended by make the stress even worse. might, in fact, be the best option high esteem in our society. other who is tutoring their child If you’re feelingastray? stressed or for your child.

Kids’ uniform going Most parents hope their as they don’t want other children BUY OF THE DAY anxious about exams or anything children are going to get good going to the same tutor and else, talking about it with results - and have a happy time reaping the benefits. There is talk someone you trust can be the at school. However, happiness of tutoring for children young ...Youasneed next step.”

Alison Banks is a and hope can go out of the as six to ensure they get into the Make sure YOU are that mother of three window when faced with the ‘right’ school. person and that you are ready and and founder perceived “need” to get our All parents want their child to The easy one-snap available to talk at the first sign and owner of children into the schools we have a great education and it’s way to label clothing! that your child wants to do so.

Parenting Tutor. want them to go to. One local important to support your child Instigate discussion about how Alison holds tuition centre recently reported to do well. However, I believe they arePUSH—CLICK— coping, even if SNAPPED your workshops and consultations ON! that parents who send their pushing any child to an extreme Brought to you by Say It Personally Ltd child does not. which help families develop How to Help Your Child and nurture their interpersonal Call: (0844) 5611994 Stress relationships in the healthiest and Keep tabs on theirReduce clothes... www.snappytags.co.uk Be realistic about your child’s most fulfilling ways. You can have abilities, skills, likes and dislikes, a FREE private coaching session and choose a school that will with Alison. Just quote FUT 20! suit them. Not all our children are For further information, geniuses and that’s okay! In the visit www.parentingtutor.co.uk

How Much Stress is Too Much?

extra

As recommended by

Recommended by Kids’ uniform going astray?

...You need

Buy of the day BUY OF THE DAY

Keep tabs on their clothes

The easy one-snap way to label clothing!

PUSH—CLICK— SNAPPED ON! Brought to you by Say It Personally Ltd

Keep tabs on their clothes...

Call: (0844) 5611994 www.snappytags.co.uk

A one snap solution

0844 5611994 www.snappytags.co.uk 6

www.familiesuponthames.co.uk

May-June 2015

PARENTING

How to Help Your Daughter Have a Positive Body Image By Lisa Parkes

High self-esteem is our child’s passport to happiness in adult life. That’s why it’s important to show them how to love who they are and not what they look like. In a world where the media pressurises us to constantly look good, it is easy for our children, particularly our daughters, to feel “not good enough” purely based on their physical appearance.

Help Your Daughter Recognise and Appreciate True Beauty

Craddock, has recently redefined the search for beauty as follows.

“You do not become beautiful by trying to be beautiful, but by finding the beauty that is already within you, and allowing that beauty to emerge.”

I whole-heartedly agree with her view that our bodies are miracles and having a negative body image means we lack gratitude for everything that our bodies are capable of doing. After all, they are the physical shell that holds everything we are.

“She was beautiful, not like those girls in magazines. She was beautiful for the way she thought. She was beautiful for that sparkle in her eye when she spoke about something she loved. She was beautiful for her ability to make other people smile even when she was sad. No, she was not beautiful for something as temporary as her looks. She was beautiful, deep down to her soul.” F Scott Fitzgerald So this is how to help your daughter like what she sees when she looks in the mirror: Celebrate Her Uniqueness Point out her loving qualities: her kindness, her smile, her thoughtfulness, her intelligence.

You know what it is that you find beautiful about her soul.

Tell her about this and tell her often. Explain that she is beautiful because she is unique – one of a kind. There is nobody else in the

extra

is a funny, intelligent and successful woman and that makes her beautiful to me, even though she is not a stereotypical beauty.

Remember That You Are Your Child’s Mirror Listening, empathising and validating your daughter’s feelings reflects back to her who she is.

Doing this often will play a huge part in how she feels about herself.

Help Your Daughter Appreciate the Miracle of her Body Talk to her about the way her body magically serves her by allowing her to walk, breathe, feel, create and by the million other things she asks of it. Explain that, in return, she needs to treat it with care and respect by getting plenty of sleep, fuelling it with the right foods and treating it with tender loving care.

Lisa Parkes is a Children’s Coach based in North Surrey. She is passionate about helping children become more resilient to life and runs regular workshops for those suffering from shyness, lack of confidence or low self-esteem. For more information and for Lisa’s FREE download which shows you how to pour more love into your family, visit www.lisaparkeslifecoaching.co.uk/love

ssori Nurs e t e on

S ry ol cho

Julia ’s M

As your daughter moves from Disney Princesses to becoming self-conscious about her appearance, buying her first bra, and having her first crush, how do you ensure that she appreciates her full beauty and is not unduly influenced by the shallow trappings of physical appearance?

The media shows us women who are apparently ‘beautiful’ all the time. Experienced Body Confidence Coach, Judi

whole world like her and that is why she is perfect just as she is.

Notice the Way You Talk about Your Own Body Use only positive language about your own body in front of your daughter and don’t put yourself down. Children don’t always listen but they are always watching. If you are unhappy with your own body, don’t express this in front of your daughter. Gently correct her if she is judgemental about her own physical appearance or that of others.

Help Your Daughter Find a Positive Female Role Model Guide her in the direction of female role models who are aligned with her values and qualities. I love Miranda Hart because I think she

Small and caring pre-school in Hampton Ages 2 to 5 Teaches Early Years Foundation Stage.

Curriculum and Montessori Method.

For a prospectus or to visit, call Julia on 020 8335 0666 / 07939 838991 or email juliasmontessori@aol.com May-June 2015

www.familiesuponthames.co.uk

7

. Early Years Care and Education .

A UNIQUE TYPE OF PRE-SCHOOL EDUCATION LEARNING THROUGH DRAMA, MUSIC, DANCE AND SPORT! By Olivia Malaure

Like it or not, children at pre-school are expected to start preparing emotionally, physically and academically for school at ages 3 and 4, in order that they cope well with the rigours of full time education. “Over the past

ten years, nurseries have changed significantly in response to this” says Amanda Johnson, Nursery Director of Active Learning Childcare in Kingston. “There is a much stronger emphasis on school preparation.”

Whitton Baptist Church 29 Hounslow Road Whitton TW2 7BZ

2yrs 6mths - 5 year olds 9.15 - 1.15pm (including lunch club for the over 3’s 12.20 - 1.15)

Full of exciting opportunities for child-initiated play Challenging and enjoyable experiences in all areas of learning and development Nurturing care & support to encourage independence Working in partnership with parents For more info or to visit us, please contact Debbie &Vicky: 07531 930637 info@happyfriendsnursery.co.uk www.happyfriendsnursery.co.uk

But what IS the best way of preparing children for school?

Active Learning Childcare believes its unique concept is the answer - proactively teaching the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) through performing arts, culture and sport. The implementation of this concept ensures children are nurtured as individuals, with their individual talents discovered and developed, and offers a real depth to the EYFS, making it about much more than just ticking the right boxes.

Teaching the pre-school curriculum in this way is exciting, fun and inspirational for young children and at Active Learning, children are introduced to the subjects of art, music, performing arts, and sport as core subjects in their own right. The subjects are led by qualified teachers meaning that all children can attend dedicated sessions in on-site Art and P.E studios. They can then continue to explore the themes and skills introduced in the sessions with their childcare worker, known as their ‘mentor,’ who cares for them on a daily basis.

From very early in childhood, children begin learning through stories, making the performing arts a great way of exploring life through drama, music

and dance. Active Learning Kingston also introduces children to different styles of visual art. “We have an artist of the moment” says Amanda whose high levels of motivation ripple through the Kingston setting, “As well as art being an important part of self-expression, it also introduces children to various mathematical and design concepts.”

Three full time sports coaches work across the nurseries, teaching tennis, rugby, football and multi-sports. Last year, the group organised a multi-nursery event involving 142 Active Learning nursery children, who came together from different centres in different parts of the country for a fun day of sport.

Sessions were led by former England Rugby coaches.

What Active Learning provides is both high concept and high quality – right down to the food it offers. It has teamed with nutrition program Grub4life, which trains staff on the benefits and details of good nutrition.

“The Principals and Vice Principals of Active Learning Nurseries are trained, not just the chefs”reports Amanda.

For further information, visit www.activelearningchildcare.co.uk

ENJOY the Benefits of Aloe Vera and Discover a Healthier Lifestyle for You and Your Children Phone NOW for more details on 07977 209 002 Megan, Independent Distributor of Forever Living Products

Don’t forget to say where you saw the ad!

NUTKIN NANNIES Professionals with the Personal Touch

We make finding child care stress free.

Maternity & Night Nannies, Live-in and Live-out, Permanent or Temporary.

Contact us on 01932 565623 info@nutkinnannies.co.uk www.nutkinnannies.co.uk 8

www.familiesuponthames.co.uk

May-June 2015

. Early Years Care and Education .

HOW THE BEST DAY NURSERIES PROVIDE FOR OUTSIDE PLAY ByOlivia Malaure Research suggests that children playing and learning in an outdoor environment appear more active, absorbed, motivated and purposeful, and develop a more positive attitude towards learning. In addition, children will often be less inhibited outside, and more willing to join in with activities and express themselves. There is also space to run, leap and jump freely, and practise skills like throwing and catching. Outdoors is the perfect place to practice movement – one of the four key ways in which children learn.

“It’s a priority for young children to be able to play outside everyday, regardless of the weather” says Christine Moxon, Nursery Manager of Coombe Day Nursery in Kingston and Aspire

Day Nursery in Surbiton, which opens in June. There are plenty of activities for children to take part in at nursery, even when the weather is wet.“On rainy days children pull on their boots and coats and put bottles outside to fill with rain water” she says.

“We discuss the idea of recycling rainwater and then, when the bottles are full, the children use them to water the seeds they’ve planted.”

The warmer months are ideal for outdoor water play, which encourages the development of hand/eye coordination through actions like pouring, squeezing and squirting. Through water play children begin to understand the maths and science behind why and how things happen and start to learn about problem-solving.

A dream for every pre-school child...

Nurseries for children aged 3 months - 5 years

...and their parents

For example, given sinking and floating objects, a child will soon discover that just because something is large in size does not mean it will sink. “We experiment with different ways of carrying water through drain pipes and funnels” says Christine. “As well as being great for learning, it’s very relaxing and relieves tension by encouraging children to release their emotions through pouring and swooshing.”

The new Aspire nursery in Surbiton provides a family-orientated, organic learning experience for children

extra

For further information on Aspire Day Nursery in Surbiton, visit www.aspirenursery.co.uk. For further information on Coombe Day Nursery in Kingston, visit www.coombedaynursery.co.uk

Inspiring

Unique programme of art, drama, music, science, literacy and IT with dedicated teaching specialists

Healthy

Innovative

you’d expect in a nursery,

Check our website for upcoming

and more OPEN DAYS! You won’t be disappointed.

A fresh approach to nursery education. www.activelearningchildcare.co.uk May-June 2015

Purpose designed activity studios, sensory room, baby sleep room secure webcams Visit our fabulous

Kingston nursey at

Victoria Hall, Victoria Road KT1 3DW Contact us directly on

020 3031 1519

We are passionate about childcare - and so are our nannies! ♥ Excellent personal service at competitive prices ♥ London, Surrey & Middlesex ♥ Nannies, Housekeepers, Mother’s Helps ♥ Live In & Out Permanent & Temporary Full & Part-Time Day & Night

Specialist sports coaching, organic cafe, adventure playgrounds, holistic education

Everything

and families and Christine is passionate about creating a nursery that is a welcoming part of the community and a natural play space – and not just a building in Surbiton.

‘We’ve created a thoughtfullydesigned space that children can move around in easily” she reports. “The nursery rooms are organically connected to the outdoors with the aim of inviting the outside in.” This natural aesthetic is enhanced by the quality wooden play equipment indoors and the fact that the nursery has been designed to maximise natural light – vital to the immune system and a natural mood enhancer.

Frequent trips to the local park mean that children at Aspire Day Nursery will also be free to explore their wider environment, collecting bugs to take back to nursery and investigate under a microscope and acorns to weigh in the special Discovery Zone. Exploring the world through different textiles, water and sand is also part of the day-to-day experience for babies at the nursery, who are encouraged to explore the outdoors safely and discover different sensory experiences.

Indoors, the sensory play activities continue in a cosy baby area, filled with books and toys, with babies sleeping in a separate cot room.

Aspire offers an all-inclusive service providing nappies, wipes, formula milk and nutritious meals.

Professional activity providers offer baby sensory and music sessions, and toddlers and pre-schoolers can take part in tennis coaching, music and French/Spanish lessons.

info@activelearningchildcare.co.uk

Call Katy: 07902 996240/020 3305 6541 katy@heartnannies.co.uk www.heartnannies.co.uk

www.familiesuponthames.co.uk

9

Pregnancy, Birth and Beyond

The Ideal Birth Experience

By Janine Knight and Teresa Doyle-Toal Picture the scene. A warm, quiet, dimly lit and safe space, flickering candles and soft soothing music. A woman is within herself, allowing her hormones to flow, and her body to labour and birth her baby confidently, without fear.

Her partner is relaxed and confident in the knowledge that all is well. Her doula is with her, supporting and caring for her.

Her what? What is a doula?

Doula (doola) is a Greek word meaning ‘woman servant or caregiver.’ A doula offers emotional and practical support to a woman before, during and after childbirth. A doula believes in the concept of ‘mothering the mother’ and thus enabling a woman to have the most satisfying and empowered pregnancy, birth and post-natal period possible. However, the

support of a doula can also be instrumental in helping the whole family relax and enjoy the experience of having a new baby.

The truth is the role of a doula is not prescriptive – she can be whatever she needs to be for each individual and unique birth. Her roles can include that of supporter, advocate, hand-holder, tea maker,

extra

reassuring presence - the list is endless. Whilst most Doulas have undergone a training course and will have a good knowledge of the physiology of pregnancy and birth, they do not offer medical/ clinical support.

Research* has shown that having a doula present at a birth: ✿ Shortens first-time labour by an average of two hours ✿ Decreases the chance of caesarean section by 50% ✿ Decreases the need for pain medication ✿ Helps fathers participate with confidence ✿ Increases success in breastfeeding Local mother, Verena, speaks positively about her experience with her doula. “My doula was hugely supportive of all my choices and decisions and offered above and beyond what we expected” she comments.

“She made my birth a lot easier than it would otherwise have been. If I have another baby, I would definitely want her by my side again.” Local father, James, concurs. “I was initially reluctant to get a doula but was eventually persuaded because I could see that my wife would find the support useful. However, after now experiencing the support that a doula can offer I would not hesitate to have one at a future birth. Her presence made me feel calmer and took the pressure off, allowing me to support my wife more effectively.” *Findings from “Mothering the Mother” (Klaus, Kennell & Klaus)

Janine Knight and Teresa Doyle-Toal are members of Surrey and Middlesex Doulas, a group of doulas working independently in the Surrey and Middlesex areas. Surrey and Middlesex Doulas provides antenatal, birth and post-natal support and is committed to helping every woman experience their ideal birth. All Surrey and Middlesex Doulas are members of Doula UK and abide by the Code of Conduct and Philosophy set by this organisation.

For further information and to find a doula, visit www.doula.org.uk.

Surrey & Middlesex Doulas Local antenatal, birth and postnatal support

Supporting you and your family through pregnancy, birth and those precious early weeks of parenting.

For more information and to contact your local doula visit www.surreyandmiddlesexdoulas.co.uk 10

www.familiesuponthames.co.uk

May-June 2015

Pregnancy, Birth and Beyond

Why a Home Birth is Fit for a Princess

By Tina Perridge

By the time you read this we will no doubt know whether the rumours about Kate having a homebirth were true or not. But, whether they were or they weren’t, what we do know is that for a woman like Kate, who has enjoyed a straightforward first birth, and is having a healthy second pregnancy, the evidence clearly shows that the safest place for her to give birth is at home or in a standalone birth centre.

Happily, most of the 700,000 women who give birth in England and Wales every year (of whom 40% are first-timers) have a straightforward pregnancy and birth – with about 90% giving birth at full term to a single baby who presents head first. For these mothers, the National Institute for Clinical Excellence (N.I.C.E) now recommends giving birth outside of an obstetric unit – in other words, at home or in a midwife-led birthing unit (which may or may not be attached to a large hospital).

The NICE guidance has recently been reviewed to reflect the most up-to-date evidence that for low risk women planning a second birth, birth at home is associated with more spontaneous vaginal births, less interventions and associated complications, and is safe for the baby. Levels of satisfaction with the birthing experience are also higher. Some low risk women having their first baby may also, having reviewed the evidence, decide that home birth is the right choice for them too.

BUT, I can hear you saying, “What if something goes wrong?”

Although nobody can guarantee a perfect birth, for a healthy woman like Kate, who

has had a straightforward pregnancy and goes into labour at term, the risk of something unexpected occurring in labour is very small indeed. Midwives who care for women at home are experienced in identifying any deviation from the norm and have the necessary skills, regularly maintained, to manage any emergency that may occur. If a transfer to hospital is required, it is nearly always for non-urgent reasons, for example, extra pain relief or some additional help in a very long labour when a woman begins to tire.

There are many benefits to birthing at home – being in her own, familiar space helps a woman to relax. This increases her levels of oxytocin and endorphins which generally leads to a smoother labour. She doesn’t have to worry about getting in the car and travelling to hospital, or whether she will make it in time.

The midwives come to her and are visitors in her home so a woman feels more in control of her environment. Then, having given birth to her baby in her own time and space, she can have a bath and climb gratefully into her freshly-made bed while her partner provides

tea, toast and champagne!

Bliss…. and the midwives don’t leave until everything is cleared away and the baby has had its first feed. An added bonus for Kate would be not having to face the massed ranks of photographers on leaving the hospital… she can just tuck herself away and enjoy a few days of babymoon!

extra

Tina Perridge is one of the highly-qualified, experienced midwives at Neighbourhood Midwives, which offers one-to-one midwifery care throughout pregnancy, labour and the post-natal period, with 24/7 access to support and advice and a dedicated midwife for each pregnant woman.

Neighbourhood Midwives support women at home or in hospital and the choice about where the birth will take place does not need to be made until the day itself.

For further information, visit www.neighbourhoodmidwives.org.uk

Teddington Midwives Private antenatal classes and postnatal support visits

Expecting a baby?

Want to meet local mums to be?

Thinking about antenatal classes?

Award winning classes from newborn to 5 years

Gymboree Walton on Thames

We can offer you classes run by experienced midwives, with up to date unbiased information, in small groups and in a local venue. First-time and refresher classes available.

01932 221 371

waltononthames@gymboree-uk.com

May-June 2015

TeddingtonMidwives

see our page for discounts

ion iat

with K on fd

2013 winner!

‘Best national pre-schooler development activity’

w .w h

020 3609 8007

surbiton@gymboree-uk.com

Gymboree St Margarets 020 8607 9995

stmargarets@gymboree-uk.com .u k

In

@Teddmidwives

Sensory Baby Play, Play & Learn, Music, Art & Parties!

c so

ce en

as

Gymboree Surbiton

ww

Call Wendy or Louise on 07841065936 email: info@teddingtonmidwives.co.uk www.teddingtonmidwives.co.uk

Book a FREE trial class today!

.co es ats on4littleon

gymboree-uk.com

www.familiesuponthames.co.uk

11 11



Summer Days Out

er

su

mm

FUN

Come Make Merry at the Medieval Festival of Fun at Strawberry Hill House! by Olivia Malaure

Impossible princesses and brave knights are invited to the Festival of Fun on 31 May at Strawberry Hill House in Twickenham. Admission is FREE! Pack a picnic, and take part in a range of exciting medieval activities which are all part of Summer at Strawberry, an innovative programme of workshops and activities running throughout the summer from 1 June to 29 August.

FREE Festival of Fun activities include kids’ craft workshops at which children can make shields, helmets, crowns and hats with flowing veils, transforming themselves into

knights and princesses. The varied programme of events will include a spectacular falconry display presented by the Hawk Eye Falconry team, and children’s storytelling and imaginative fun in the garden’s willow grotto.

The London Scottish Community Team will also be there to help budding rugby players practise their rugby passes in the club’s inflatable speed cage.

This year, a new feature of the Festival of Fun will be a Maypole around which families can take part in the May Day dance, an activity which in past ages marked the arrival of summer. Workshops on Maypole dancing will be held throughout the day so children can enjoy and learn the traditional dance. They can also be further transported to times past as they ride hobbyhorses and practise their jousting skills.

Other fun activities include a teddy bear’s picnic, face painting and a bouncy castle slide.

For more information, see pages 28 to 31 for other summer activities at Strawberry Hill House and visit www.strawberryhillhouse.org.uk

Enjoy Super Power Flowers at RHS Garden Wisley!

by Olivia Malaure A national newspaper recently reported that only four out of ten children today have planted their own seeds and watched them grow. If you would like your child to have this opportunity, then RHS Garden Wisley is the perfect place to visit this summer.

With FREE half term activities every day between 23

and 31 May (normal admission applies), families have the opportunity to get planting and learn together about how plants use their superpowers to battle the elements. You can also inspire your family’s green fingers by taking a look at the themed, mini show gardens created by budding school gardeners and vote for your family’s favourite.

Magnificent birds of prey

take to the skies on 30 and 31 May, whilst down on the ground, children can get their hands dirty and sow a sunflower to take home. If you take a photograph of your child’s sunflower when it’s grown, you can visit Wisley again later in the summer and compare your sunflower with those that have won the People’s Choice Award.

The green theme continues

on 20 and 21 June (10.30am to 12.30pm and 1.30pm to 4.30pm), when, to celebrate Father’s Day, kids and their dads can make paper that will grow - yes, it’s messy, mucky and sloppy! Seeds are put into the paper which is then moulded into different shapes. The shapes can then be planted inthe garden at home, the paper dissolves and a growing plant is left behind!

Bocketts Farm Park 23rd - 31st May 2015

SPRING SPECTACULAR FANTASTIC FAMILY FUN THIS HALF TERM! Panning for Gold Birds of Prey (Tues-Fri) flying demonstrations Masses of Indoor and Outdoor Play Visit the Pony Parlour

PLUS

Animal handling, goat milking, tractor rides, pony rides and pig racing daily

www.bockettsfarm.co.uk

#

SPECIAL

OFFER 12

D AR AW WI NN ING !

£1 OFF full price farm entry per person (max 5 people) valid any day in June 2015.

Only with this voucher.

www.familiesuponthames.co.uk

FM

For further information, visit www.rhs.org.uk/gardens/wisley May-June 2015

WIN! COMPETITION! WIN! WIN a Family Day Pass (2 adults + 2 children) to Hobbledown!

This is the chance for one lucky family to WIN a Family Day Pass to Hobbledown in Espom!

This award-winning leisure attraction offers something to suit children of all ages and tastes, with really exciting and unique outdoor and indoor play options, animals, Hobbler character encounters, a Bird of Play arena and much more.

Children 1.3m+ can put their nerves to the test as they balance along tightropes, climb through hoops and whizz down zips wires in the High Rope Trail challenge. Those that prefer adventuring below ground can explore 70m of underground tunnels and secret passageways which weave six feet underground and have seven different entrances – under 5s must be accompanied by an adult!

There are also gentler activities for the less daring, including jumping pillows, a giant wicker swing, a Mining Village where kids can dig for crystals in the sand and enjoy water fun in the water shoots. For rainy days, there’s a really imaginative indoor play area.

Animal lovers of all ages can enjoy magnificent Bird of Prey exhibitions, observe the otters, meerkats, miniature pigs, chipmunks and chincillas at play, and NEW this year, experience animal encounters with mice, guinea pigs and rats.

For more information, visit www.hobbledown.com To Enter: Go to our website at www.familiesuponthames.co.uk and click on Competitions in the top tool bar. Then answer the following question: What is new at Hobbledown this year?

Closing Date: Friday, 26 June 2015 Terms and Conditions Apply

 su

mm

er

Summer Days Out

FUN

www.watercressline.co.uk

26th - 29th May

Meet Peppa Pig here at the Watercress Line!

It’s going to be a really exciting day out!

Come and meet Peppa Pig who will be making personal appearances at various intervals on each day at Alresford station!

And there will be lots of piggy activities to do, including a piggy petting farm, piggy crafts and face painting too*! *small fee applies

www.peppapig.co.uk Peppa Pig © Astley Baker Davies Ltd/Entertainment One UK Ltd 2003.

May Family Fun Fun MayHalf HalfTerm Term Family See ‘Wonderland’ themed mini show gardens and vote for your favourite.

RHS Garden Wisley, Surrey. Near junction 10 of the M25 Marvel at Birds of Prey (30-31 May). Enjoy free* family activities every day.

Buytickets ticketsonline onlineatat rhs.org.uk/wisley Buy rhs.org.uk/wisley RHS Registered Charity Number: 222879/SC038262 *Normal garden entrance applies. See website for garden entry prices and family activities details

May-June 2015

www.familiesuponthames.co.uk

13 13

 su

er

mm

FUN

Summer Days Out Enjoy Outdoor Fun with the National Trust this Summer! by Linda Stone, Editor

SURREY SPORTS PARK, GUILDFORD 10 – 12 JULY 2015

WHERE ACTIVE FAMILIES UNITE The UK’s Family Festival of Sport, Fitness, Dance and Health

from

from

from

from

Child

Concession

Adult

Family

£17 £23 £28 £75 Advanced ticket purchase necessary. If available, tickets will be significantly more expensive on the gate

ACTIVITIES INCLUDING 50 Sports 25 Varieties of Dance and Fitness Classes Coaching from Fulham FC, Surrey Storm, Surrey Smashers, Surrey United, Surrey Cricket Club as well as many more Tournaments, Challenges and Competitions Sporting Icons and Celebrity Appearances Friday and Saturday Night Parties Live Main Stage

Proud sponsors of Macmillan Cancer Support and SportsAid

There’s a lot of fun to be had at local National Trust properties this half term.

Activities at Claremont Landscape Garden in Esher include a Wind in the Willows trail from 23 to 31 May and Children’s Craft Workshops each morning from 26 to 29 May. Older children can enjoy thrilling adventures on zip wires in the treetops in the Big Tree Climbing Trail on 27 May (booking required). FREE drop in activities can also be enjoyed at Ham House between 23 and 31 May. Osterley Park is offering kids an opportunity to try out lots of different sports all in one day at Game On Sports Day on 24 May, as well as providing hands-on, drop-in entertainment for budding gardeners at the Little Seedlings Gardening Club

on 26 May, and arty fun at the drop-in Sticky Fingers Workshop on 28 May. Visit a living history camp and learn about Osterley’s involvement in training for World War II at Home Guard in Osterley Park on 30 and 31 May. The popular Teddy Bears Picnic series return to Claremont Landscape Garden every Wednesday in June, whilst garden games can be enjoyed at Ham House on 6 and 7 June. Meanwhile at Morden Hall, enjoy bug hunts, den building, kite making and wild art in its special 50 Things day on 7 June or visit on 27 or 28 June for a Summer Garden Party amongst the roses.

Don’t forget – FREE entry for dads accompanied by their children at Ham House and Claremont Landscape Garden on Father’s Day!

For further information, visit www.nationaltrust.org.uk

river and enjoy an Why not take to the t as you paddle exciting family day ou of London? the Thames, or canals

Windsor . Hampton Court . Regents Canal

See London and Windsor from a unique angle

For more information and special offers please visit our website

08454 532 002 14

www.familiesuponthames.co.uk

May-June 2015

it’s

party time

Party Your Way

By Olivia Malaure

Many articles about children’s birthday parties start with a nostalgic jump back in time to when we were kids, and then leap forward to conclude that parties today have gone bonkers. Back in the day, we didn’t have entertainers and we didn’t hire halls. We played traditional party games to the tune of our favourite cassette tapes.

As a former children’s entertainer, the smallest party at which I’ve entertained was held at the host’s home and had a guest list of just five children. I entertained five children for two hours and then, as I was leaving, the extended family arrived for a Sunday roast. I’ve also entertained at parties on which families have spent extraordinary amounts of money on incredibly extravagant events for their children.

The media are always quick to accuse parents of ‘one upmanship’ in the kid’s party game, but in my experience, whether you spend a lot of money or a small amount has little to do with this. It’s simply a matter of personal choice. Some families allocate a big budget for birthdays and others do not. Some parties are flamboyant, but some families are too, just as some families are humble. The way we choose to celebrate often reflects our values.

As a parent, I’ve also attended the ultimate social experiment in kid’s parties. Thirty children were invited to a party at a child’s home. There was no entertainment other than free play in the garden. After feeling initially overwhelmed by this idea, myself and the other parents present gradually settled into the idea that the kids were just going to sort themselves out, like they do three times a day, every day, in the playground. No one was hurt and the kids had a fabulous time. The birthday child was

chuffed to have all his friends at his house.

So when we talk about how much simpler parties were in the past, are we really hankering for simplicity or have we just become more aware of the importance of inclusivity during the early years, whilst, simultaneously less tolerant of lots of children playing in our homes? Perhaps our invitation lists have increased in size directly in correlation to the sizes of the classes in our good, but oversubscribed, local schools.

A word on modern party etiquette is also required at this point. Whilst I would recommend drawing a line at charging a No Show Fee to the parents of children who don’t turn up at your child’s party, there are some new etiquettes worth embracing. A recent headline news story involved an email sent to a school class by the parents of two children sharing a birthday party. The email suggested that, without obligation, their guests could club together, contributing cash for a larger gift, rather than buying a small individual one. One child wanted a kindle, and the other a desk. In response, a celebrity parent in the class, publicly mocked the parents in question via social media, and said they were taking the fun out of parties.

Yet what is the harm in the idea of the class contributing to one larger gift?

Children often see their parents put money into

a class collection for their teacher at the end of the term, and this gift is no less meaningful or thoughtful because of it. If I invited the thirty children in my daughter’s class to contribute £3 each, and we bought her a desk, I think my daughter would feel a real sense of being appreciated and belonging as a result.

As parents it’s natural to want our child’s special day to stand out in their mind and be remembered fondly for many years to come.

But is that actually what happens? I put this to the test while writing this article and asked my 4 year old what was the best day she’d ever had. Her reply was “This one!” Determined to get the answer I was looking for, later that evening I asked my 7 year old the same question and she replied “Tomorrow.”

DROP-IN SOFT PLAY SESSIONS St Francis De Sales Church Hall, 16 Wellington Road, Hampton Hill, TW12 1JR

OPEN 10AM-12:15 TUESDAYS, WEDNESDAYS AND THURSDAYS Also available to hire for parties, call Tamara 07734 462 942 *Age Birth to 5

Untitled-1 1

16/04/2015 17:10

Planning a

PART Y?

Complete Kids Party Hire Packages • Peppa Pig • Harry Potter • Pirates • Princesses

• Lego • Dinosaurs • Jungle • Toddlers

• Frozen • Superheroes • Roald Dahl • First Birthday

Games / Decorations / Props / Costumes / Prizes Plus Party Bags Personalised Invitations Tableware

Quote FAMILIES10 for 10% off

Ready Made Parties - Straight To Your Door www.

cK W

.co.uk

info@packawayparties.co.uk / 07739 722 482

May-June 2015

www.familiesuponthames.co.uk

15 15

it’s

party time

Take the Party Outside!

Juliet from party-planning company, Bedazzled Events tells us more

Summer is a great excuse to go bright and bold with your party, following this season’s fashion trends of vibrant yellows and oranges.

The first tip is to find a venue with either great outdoor space or a bright and airy room.

When arranging an outdoor event, it’s a great idea to create stations for activities as this means children have clear stages to follow throughout the party. Find a clear space away from the entertainment and food areas and away from where parents will gather to enjoy the day. This avoids problems with noise and makes it easier to hold the children’s attention.

Decorating outside is always fun as you can make use of lots of levels. At our parties, we love to hang giant honeycombs, fans and bunting in the trees and along fences and this works well for most themes. You then place 3D props and other decorations in the flower beds and along the ground. Avoid helium balloons on really hot or windy days though, as they will either deflate very quickly or get tangled - not very attractive for the

party! If you are holding the party indoors, avoid blocking out light and decorate around the windows, allowing the sun to pour through and create a warm, summery feel.

If you have access to a large outdoor space, this provides a great opportunity to offer something a little different for the entertainment. For example, we often arrange pony parties

during which children enjoy taking turns having rides, petting and grooming the ponies. The ponies ribbons and saddles can be colour- coordinated to match your chosen theme. Another great outdoor activity for budding scientists or little ones who enjoy getting messy, is giant science experiments or group craft activities. For example. making a bottle rocket fly through the air or decorating a large cardboard castle which the children can then play in afterwards.

On the catering front, picnics are great for outdoors AND indoors. Put blankets, cushions and mats out for the children to sit on. Try to choose a spot in the shade or take the food indoors so the children can have a break from the sun. To avoid battles with unwanted insects attracted by uncovered food, it’s a great idea to opt for individual food boxes for

each child.

Prepare for all weather conditions with plenty of water and sun cream to hand – and a Plan B! Sadly, this is the UK, so there is always the risk of rain.

Either have a great marquee on standby or an alternative indoor option.

Fingers crossed for a wonderful Summer filled with lots of special celebrations!

extra

Juliet is the Founder of Bedazzled Events, a London-based party planning service that plans unique parties for all ages, working to your chosen budget and theme of choice to create your perfect party. For help in creating a summer party or for more information, visit www.bedazzledevents.org.uk

A Driving Experience BANSTEAD AND CLAYGATE E: banstead.claygate@monkeymusic.co.uk T: 01932 223 309 KINGSTON AND SURBITON E: kingston.surbiton@monkeymusic.co.uk T: 0208 224 3971 OXSHOTT, LEATHERHEAD AND DORKING E: leatherhead.dorking@monkeymusic.co.uk T: 01483 841 303 RICHMOND, TWICKENHAM AND TEDDINGTON E: kew.teddington@monkeymusic.co.uk T: 0208 847 4031 WEYBRIDGE, COBHAM AND MOLESEY E: weybridge.cobham@monkeymusic.co.uk T: 0208 224 0096

An ideal birthday treat

Age Group 4-8 Yrs

that’s both fun & safe Available At A venue NEAR YOU

Tel: 01932 770770 Follow us on

www.kiddikarts.co.uk 16

www.familiesuponthames.co.uk

May-June 2015

it’s

ACTION AND ADVENTURE

HOBBLEDOWN HIGH ROPES ADVENTURE AND HOBBLINGS PLAY BARN PARTIES Ages: For High Ropes: Min height 1.3m and maximum age 13 A High Ropes Adventure party is the ultimate way to spend an action-packed birthday and perfect if your child has outgrown a typical kid’s party. The birthday child and their friends enjoy exclusive use of Hobbledown’s daring high ropes course, as well as enjoying all of the other attractions that the adventure farm park has to offer, plus a Hobbler Party Feast in a themed party room. Younger children can have a Hobblings Play Barn party, enjoying a fun-packed hour in the Hobblings Play Barn and another hour in one of the themed Hobbler rooms or themed tables for the party feast. As an extra treat the party children are welcome to stay and play at Hobbledown for the rest of the day! Each Party Guest can bring 1 accompanying adult for free.

In: Epsom Contact: 0843 289 4979 www.hobbledown.com KIDDI KARTS Ages: 4-8 Kiddi Karts has the perfect ingredients to create memorable driving experiences for children. Safe, easy-tooperate battery go-karts are set up in a challenging inflatable circuit, all under the watchful eye of fully trained, CRB registered staff who manage everything in a fun and engaging way. Parties consist of driving sessions of 1 hour to 1 ½ hours plus a party tea.

In: Kingston, Teddington, Richmond, Twickenham, Chessington, Staines, Sunbury, Walton and Leatherhead.

Contact: Laura and Frankie 01932 770770 www.kiddikarts.co.uk

ART AND CRAFT

ACE ART NEW Ages: 6-12 Workshops and parties in the local area which offer innovative activities to inspire young minds, and which aim to give your child a memorable, magical and creative experience. There a number of party themes to choose from, such as hand-printed paper flowers, collage self-portraits, bunting and carnival headdresses, or we can create a bespoke activity to fit in with your own ideas or plans. Parties are 3 hours in length with a 2 hour art activity and 1 hour for a party meal and photos.

You will need to arrange catering.

Parties available in your home or hired venue.

In: SW London and Surrey Contact: Justine Line or Nicolene Grigg 07941 954929/07854 838900 justineline7@yahoo.co.uk/fizzpop2010@ hotmail.co.uk www.facebook.com/pages/ Ace-Art/444390945696711

CERAMICA Ages: All Set your child’s imagination free and watch a masterpiece be created, whilst Ceramica puts the ‘art’ into their birthday party. Creative, fun-filled party packages cater for a variety of budgets and needs. Large parties (8 or more painters) are held on Sundays, with a minimum charge for up to 8 painters and a price per head thereafter. Bring your own party food and cake or arrange for a local supplier to deliver to the café.

In: Claygate Contact: Hannah Young 01372 462447 www.ceramica-claygate.co.uk CERAMICS CAFÉ Ages: up to 16 Ceramics Cafe is an ideal venue for kids parties. Party groups of any size can be accommodated. Painting ceramics offers children opportunity for creative fun and expression.

In: Kew Contact: Joanna Wronka 020 8332 6661 www.ceramicscafe.com HAPPY POTTER CRAFT PARTIES Ages: All All sorts of arty parties! Choose from Pottery painting, T-Shirt design, Decopatch or NEW Mosaic party for ages 8+. Messy play parties for little ones. Staff help children create their very own masterpiece. Parties include party tea, with selection of sandwiches served on beautiful cake stands, crisps, sweeties or fruit and mini cupcakes with a choice of drinks. Decorations, party bags and invitations supplied. Party is run for you so NOTHING for you to do but relax with a cuppa! Large garden for kids to run around in. Party food can be enjoyed outside, weather permitting.

Crafts available to take home on the day.

Pottery painting can be collected 5-7 days later. Parties last 1.5 hours for 0-7 years and 2 hours for ages 8+.

At: Happy Potter, 14 Broad Street, Teddington, TW11 8RF Contact: Una Fagan 020 8973 1468 www.happypotterceramics.co.uk

COOKERY

SASSY STIRRERS Ages: 5 to 12 Truly memorable cooking parties in which children are entertained with bowl-licking fun for 2 hours with very little stress for parents. Sassy Stirrers provides all the ingredients, equipment, aprons and fun! Children take home party bags loaded with their freshly baked treats and recipe cards. Very popular, so book early! See what others say –“Thanks for a lovely party, the children had a great time. Hopefully we will see you at one of your cooking clubs soon”. NC Surbiton March 2015 In: SW London and Surrey Contact: Susan Carmichael 07789 792676 www.sassystirrers.com KITCHEN QUEEN’S COOKING PARTIES NEW Ages: 5+ Create a delicious party tea in your own home. All cookery parties are completely tailored, with a selection of ideas from which your budding chef can choose.

Fresh pasta making or homemade pizzas are great fun, or a delicious afternoon tea or summer picnic. Alternatively, the party can be themed and a Chinese/ Moroccan/Spanish feast created - the options are endless! All ingredients, specialist equipment, aprons and Kitchen Queen (or King!) provided, plus recipe cards for guests to take home. Parties last 3 to 4 hours including 2 hours cooking and 2 hours feasting and playing!

In: London and surrounding counties Contact: Hannah Goodyear info@kitchenqueen.co.uk 07967 620317 www.kitchenqueen.co.uk

DANCE

JUST IMAGINE BALLET Ages: 2-10 Just Imagine Ballet creates imaginative theatrical parties for both girls and boys. We deliver a magical story to your chosen theme with dancing games and

challenges and bring colourful props and inspiring music to make your child’s party the one to remember. Packages of 1 or 2 hours available.

In: Richmond and surrounds. SW London with travel expenses payable Contact: The Fairy Godmother info@twinkletoesballet.com 07879 521456 www.facebook.com/Twinkle-Toes-Ballet LATINO BAMBINO Ages: 2 to 7 Latino Bambino parties are unique, high-energy, physical extravaganzas involving Latin/Tropical music, dancing games, colourful props and a lot of fun. The parties get the children up and moving using maracas, pom poms, hula hoops, ribbons, scarves and more for a real FIESTA time!

In: Inside M25.

Contact: Urska Gestrin Mosquera 07961 838349 info@latinobambino.co.uk www.latinobambino.co.uk

DRAMA & STORYTELLING

BRIDGE STORYTELLING ADVENTURES Ages: 18mths and up.

Based on a book/film of your choosing, these party adventures truly bring stories to life. As well as being a lot of fun, the interactive workshops immerse the

BABY AND CHILD DEVELOPMENT

GYMBOREE Ages: 1-5 Gymboree offers Play and Learn parties tailored to a theme of your choice, whether princesses, pirates or Peppa Pig! Babies can enjoy their favourite songs and activities, balls, bubbles, parachutes and tunnels. Gymboree also offers offsite Play and Learn parties at your home or in a venue of your choice, as well as Art and Craft parties.

In: Richmond, Kingston, Twickenham, Kew, Teddington, Hounslow areas and North and West Surrey Contact: St Margarets 020 8607 9995, Surbiton 020 3609 8007 Walton Upon Thames 01932 221371 www.gymboree-uk.com

Professional Face Painting & Balloon Art Suzi 07758 195259 Jackie 07771 540240

paintsandballooons@gmail.com May-June 2015

party time

Try something different!

Solve the crime!

Free party bags

Crime Investigation Parties Dress up in crime scene suits, follow the clues and use a variety of techniques to solve the crime… just in time for tea and cake!

☛ Suitable for girls and boys age 7+

☛ For home or party venues www.thedetectiveproject.co.uk Call Steve on 01737 219375 / 07757 997359 steve@thedetectiveproject.co.uk

www.familiesuponthames.co.uk

17

it’s

party time

children in the world of the story. The parties are full of games and props which are individually designed for each party. Using the story as inspiration, a party can include: games, bubbles, dancing, prizes, parachute fun, singing, pass the parcel, competitions, birthday gift and lots more!

In: London, Greater London and Surrey Contact: Amanda Wright 020 3222 3085 www.bridgeac.com PERFORM Ages: 4-7 and 7-12 Perform Parties are high energy, fun and totally infectious. Based around a colourful theme and involving lots of lively games, Perform uses the power of children’s imaginations to transport them to a different world. We take children on an exciting adventure getting everybody involved.

0845 400 1284 www.perform.org.uk STAGECOACH THEATRE ARTS

Memorable, Inspirational and Creative Art Parties and Workshops for children 6-12yrs Call Nicolene 07854838900 or Justine 07941954929

Ages: 4 to 16 Packed full of fun, lively party entertainment including dramatic games, fabulous songs and fun for everyone, each party is specifically tailor-made for a particular age group. Whether your child wishes to be a fairy, princess, pirate or detective, there’s a Stagecoach party to suit.

In: Chertsey 07725 176102, Cobham 01932 348844, Kew 020 8487 1456, New Malden 020 8540 7791, Richmond 020 8332 6741, Staines 01483 235216, Twickenham 020 8977 0843, Weybridge 01932 422664. www.stagecoach.co.uk THEATREBUGS MAGICAL PARTY PACKAGES Ages: 0 to 8 Theatrebugs offers a full range of exciting, imaginative and affordable party packages for all ages. These now include BabyBugs parties for ages 0 to 2 years, offering a magical sensory adventure full of song, rhyme, puppets, sensory props, bouncy beats and enchanting, interactive puppets and stories! Parties for 2 to 3 year olds introduce a story based adventure, and also include the above elements, whilst 4 to 8 year olds go on an interactive, fun-filled journey, jam packed with unique drama games, improvisation, dressing up and good old-fashioned fun!

Parties last 45 minutes to 2 hours dependent on age.

In: Surrey and Hampshire Contact: Hannah Mason 01483 882244/07971004134 www.theatrebugs.co.uk/surrey. html OR www.theatrebugs. co.uk/epsom.html

DISCOS

Fun Family Dodgeball Classes

Bring out your inner child with your child: ● Suitable

for all abilities ask about child-friendly balls our fun ● Age 6+ (drop off for 8+) dodgeball ● Saturdays 10.30-11.30 themed ● Reeds School, Cobham parties! ● £7pp (£20 per family) ● Get fit while your kids have fun! ● Soft

For some active fun, call Angus 07960 683199 / info@whizzfit.com www.whizzfit.com

DANCEMASTERS NEW Ages: 5-11 Stunning interactive childrens disco showcase from 3D Laser show and themed party specialists. Unique and imaginative performance.

Parties are 2 hours in length.

In: Greater London and surrounds Contact: Mark Colwill/Natalie Harris 07966 625263 www.dancemasters.london

FACE PAINTING

PAINTBOX SMILES FACE PAINTING & BALLOONS NEW Ages: 3+ Face painting and balloon twisting. Parties last minimum 2 hours.

In: South West and West London, Surrey and Middlesex Contact: Suzi Banister 07758 195259 www.paintboxsmiles.com

FARM AND ANIMALS

BOCKETTS FARM Ages: All Fantastic party package includes a day at Bocketts Farm Park, birthday lunch or tea, private animal handling session, free adult entry for every two children, a Bocketts balloon and animal mask and invitations. At Bocketts, children can get up close and feed animals, as well as enjoying two large play barns, one with astroslide, a Young Tractor Drivers Zone, Pedal Go-Karting (with new Mini’s track) and Supersix trampolines. Outside there are swings, slides, climbing frames, sandpits and a maze, as well as tractor and trailer rides.

In: Leatherhead 01372 363764 www.bockettsfarm.com HOUNSLOW URBAN FARM Ages: All 2 hours in the party marquee and 3 activities of your choice including animal encounters, pig race, egg hunt, meet an owl or farm tour. Free family pass after the party. Minimum 10 children and for every ten children, 6 adults go free. You can bring your own catering or the Farm will offer a meal including fun, animal themed lunch box.

In: Feltham Contact: Alice Purdy 020 8831 9658 www.hounslowurbanfarm.co.uk

Claygate, Esher, Weybridge, Cobham, Hersham, Molesey, Kew, Richmond, Twickenham,Teddington, Oxshott, Leatherhead, Dorking Contact: Kingston and Surbiton 020 8224 3971, Banstead, Claygate and Esher 01932 223309, Weybridge, Cobham, Hersham and Molesey 020 8224 0096, Kew, Richmond, Twickenham and Teddington 020 8847 4031 www.monkeymusic.com

SOFT PLAY CENTRES AND CAFES

JUMPING JACKS PLAY CENTRE PARTIES Ages: (+ older children with entertainer at extra cost) 90 minute party Monday to Friday with two timing options. Option 1: 3pm-4.30pm (some parties may start at 3.30/3.45 dependant on rugby training). 45 minutes of free play with time to welcome your guests. 15 minute Birthday tea and Birthday cake. 30 minutes bubbles and disco. Option 2: 1pm-2.30pm for a maximum of 15 children. Jumping Jacks will be open to the general public, but a table and chairs will be allocated for the party. 90 minutes of free play including lunch at which the Birthday cake will be presented.10% DISCOUNT when you mention Families!

In: Hampton and Roehampton Contact: Amanda and Cori 07930 932088/07721 660182 info@jumping-jacks.co.uk www.jumping-jacks.co.uk LITTLE FISHES NEW Ages: 0-5 ORANGE TREE CLINIC CHILDREN’S Stress-free parties for up to 30 children in PAMPER PARTIES big, light, clean and airy venue, with bouncy Age: 7+ castle, ball pit, lots of soft play shapes, Gorgeous children’s pamper parties in a slide, lots of ride-ons and a baby and home beautiful new clinic. Sole use of venue corner, plus many more toys. Craft activities with your own choice of music. Party provided on request. Plenty of room for all includes gentle relaxing facial and nail art your friends and family! Party tables and or hair and makeup. Party invitations and ‘clean and clear’ all included. Plus coffee goody bags included. Deluxe package shop and FREE squash for all children. Free also includes hand massage, cupcakes, parking available. Party length 2 hours or deluxe goody bag and gift for the longer. birthday girl. Products are dermatologiIn: Hampton Hill cally tested and safe for sensitive skin.

07734 462942 All staff are CRB checked. tamarajparker@gmail.com In: Teddington www.facebook.com/LittleFishesSoftplayLtd Contact: Parul Gandhi MUMS PLAY SHOP PARTIES 020 8943 9459 Ages: 1-10 www.orangetreeclinic.com Mums Play shop is a versatile new venue, which offers exclusive use of its extensive premises, including inside soft play frames, BOCKETTS FARM – see Farm and Animals a vast outside play area and a bouncy castle. Disco lights also can be added. Food HOBBLEDOWN – see Action and Adventure and drinks is included as well as birthday tablecloths and decorations. Party length HOUNSLOW URBAN FARM – see Farm and Animals 2 hours.

In: Hampton Contact: Fiona Williams MONKEY MUSIC 020 8941 0766 Ages: up to 4 www.mumsplayshop.co.uk Monkey Music parties are great fun for children and babies of all ages. Each party is individually tailored to suit each FOOTIE TOTS separate occasion and always includes Ages: 3-10 the birthday child’s favourite Monkey Footie Tots teaches basic ball skills, scoring Music songs. lots of goals and having fun on the way. For In: Kingston, Surbiton, Banstead, your party they will provide the coaches,

GLAMOUR

LEISURE ATTRACTIONS

MUSIC

SPORT

0208 943 9459 Little Oranges

Childrens Pamper Parties Mini Facial and Manicure or Hair and Makeup Sole use of Beautiful Clinic All parties include goody bag and invitations

Mention Familie Upon Thames s special gift for for the birthday girl!

£20 per Child Standard Package £25 per Child Deluxe Package (extras include head

2 1

4

massage, nibbles/cakes/drinks and deluxe goody bag)

Orange Tree Clinic and KC Pharmacy 23 Broad Street Teddington orangetreeclinic@gmail.com

18

www.familiesuponthames.co.uk

May-June 2015

it’s

trophies/medals, equipment and help with party venue selection.

In: SW London and Surrey Contact: Andy Scates 07931 707720 www.footie-tots.co.uk KIDDIKICKS-TO-GO Ages: 3-11 Kiddikicks-to-go active party entertainment comes to a venue (outdoor or indoor) of your choice with sports coach, high quality medals, personalised player of the day trophy and all its usual bags of footie, sports day or multi-sports fun. Parties last 1 to 2 hours, there are a variety of themes available and the fun is guaranteed!

In: South West and West London and NW Surrey Contact: Sarah Peel 020 7937 7965 www.kiddikicks.co.uk RUGBYTOTS Ages: 3 to 7 Rugbytots parties are fast-paced, fun and involve everyone. They place even greater emphasis on play and party games than Rugbytots classes. A number of package options are available and all include invitations and a unique gift for the birthday child. No rugby experience necessary!

In: SW London and Surrey Contact: Lorna Belchambers 0845 481 6444 www.rugbytots.co.uk SPORT PARTIES LONDON NEW Ages: 3-16 A wide range of sport themes providing a fun filled and action packed party. Parties range from a Football World Cup or Olympic athletics competition to a dodgeball or parachute and fun games party. With such a wide range of parties available, there is a party to suit everyone’s activity needs. Parties are 1 hour, 1½ hours or 2 hours in length in a venue hired or supplied by you.

In: All over London and Greater London Contact: Matthew Hayman 07729 421949 www.sportpartieslondon.com WHIZZFIT FUN DODGEBALL PARTIES Ages: 6+ Want a party with a difference? Our fun dodgeball themed parties are a great way to entertain and energise your child and his/her mates. Suitable for boys and girls of all ages, we use soft balls to keep your children safe and happy. We can cater for parties of 12, up to 50, and will even include some traditional party games if younger siblings want to join in the fun!

In: South West London, Surrey, Hampshire and Berkshire Contact: Angus Effemey 07960 683199 www.whizzfit.com

SUPPLIES AND PARTY KITS

PACKAWAY PARTIES Ages: 1-10 Themed party hire boxes delivered straight to your door! Host a unique, affordable party

with themes including Frozen, Peppa Pig, Lego, Pirates, Princesses, Harry Potter, Superheroes and Roald Dahl. Each pack contains an easy party plan, decorations, unique games & props, costumes, crafts, music, prizes and a personalised certificate for each child – plus sweet shops and more! A complete party service with invitations, filled party bags and tableware is also available. Party length is 2 hours.

Available: Nationwide Contact: Liz info@packawayparties.co.uk 07739 722482 www.packawayparties.co.uk NEW THE PARTY SUPPLIES The Party Supplies stocks a wide range of supplies for kids party themes, plus dressing up costumes, face painting and much more, all delivered to your door by a speedy and reliable courier service, or available for collection from KT3. Supplies include tableware, decorations, party bags and bag fillers, party games and toys, all listed by theme – everything you need for a magical party for your child!

020 8942 1191 www.thepartysupplies.co.uk

working to a budget and theme of your choice. Package might include entertainment, such as themed games, parachute, dancing, puppets, magic, balloon modelling; decoration of your venue to include large freestanding backdrops, 3D props, character cutouts, flooring, balloons, bunting, as well as incorporating the theme into your party bags, personalised invitations, sweetie tables and catering.

In: London-wide and Surrey Contact: Juliet 07964 708505 www.bedazzledevents.org.uk FUNANDMAGIC.CO.UK NEW Ages: 3-11 Fun and Magic is part of Peter Pinner Entertainments, a family run business that has been providing professional and reliable entertainment since 1968.

Fun and Magic is dedicated to children’s entertainment and specialises in magic shows and full party entertainment. It can also supply face painters, balloon modelling and Punch & Judy. Parties last from 45 minutes to 2 hours.

In: Any place, anytime and (almost) anywhere!

Contact: Richard Pinner 020 7352 3524 ALL SORTS OF FUN NEW www.funandmagic.co.uk Ages: All MAISY’S CHILDRENS PARTIES Pirate theme party. “Captain Cutlass is back from sea, with magic, puppets and Maisy’s Children’s Parties – Magical and balloon twisting galore, laughter, fun and Memorable Ages: 0-12 a whole lot more. So grabs your sword, Here at Maisy’s there is no limit to our find a hat, put on your boots, ring for a imagination so whether you would like map! For the Best Pirate party you will a pirate, princess, fairy or clown, we ever sea, that shipmates, I guarantee!”

Parties last 1 to 2 hours and are available will create the desired magical world for your little guests. With Tiny Tots, at your home or hired venue.

Classic, Adventure or Arty Crafts, we In: SW London and Surrey have a variety of parties to suit all ages Contact: Leigh David Williams and interests for a truly interactive 07845 320001 experience. We love to talk parties so www.allsortsoffun.co.uk give us a call or pop us an BEANSTALK KIDZ PARTIES NEW emai!

Ages: 0-15 Beanstalk Kidz Parties is an exciting party In: Surrey, Greater London and SW London including: entertainment company offering a wide Surbiton, Kingston, range of top quality parties to suit your Richmond, Teddington, budget and theme. It has a spectacular range of handmade Princess, Superhero, Thames Ditton, Cobham, Weybridge, Guildford, Pirates, Fairies, Mermaid, Safari/Jungle Farnham. costumes, entertainers and Mascots to Contact: Ann Marie make your child’s dreams really come true! Plus musical theatre, dance, drama, 020 8123 6484/07779 096129 treasure hunt and puppet parties! 30 minute character appearances, 1 hour to info@maisys-childrensparties.co.uk 1½ hour puppet parties, 2 and 3 hour themed parties (face painting and Mascot www.maisys-childrenshire as add on options to themed party). parties.co.uk THE DETECTIVE In: London, Surrey, Hampshire, PROJECTCRIME SCENE Oxfordshire, Berkshire, Kent plus quotes INVESTIGATION PARTIES available for more distant locations Ages: 7-11 Contact: Kathryn 07876 792187 (anytime) or 01428 608301 Solve a crime detectivestyle! The Detective Project www.beanstalkkidzparties.com will set up a crime scene BEDAZZLED EVENTS AND PARTIES for children in a home or Ages: All party venue. Children work A bespoke party planning service which through a series of clues creates unique parties for all ages,

THEMED

party time

and use forensic techniques to solve the crime in time for tea! White suits and party bags included.

In: Surrey and South London Contact: Steve Sharkey 01737 219375/07757 997359 www.thedetectiveproject.co.uk TOADSTOOL PARTIES Ages: All

NEW

Parties for any age with any theme of your choice! We offer entertainment right through to the complete party planning service. Our troupe of entertainers offers a mixture of age appropriate games, balloon modelling, magic, puppets, bubbles, prizes, parachute games, music, silliness, dancing, treasure hunts, story-telling and laughter. And then a little more laughter for good measure! Party length is flexible.

In: Central London, Greater London and

Home Counties Contact: Sarah 07940 136482 info@toadstoolparties.com www.toadstoolparties.com WHIRLIGIG PARTIES Ages: 0-12 A refreshing mix of classic party games, imagination and fun from a premium children’s party entertainer with more than five years’ experience entertaining children on television, stage and at events. Parties can be tailored to your theme or you can trust in Whirligig’s experience to design a fun, smart, sophisticated party which is guaranteed to make your child feel special!

In: Twickenham and surrounds Contact: Jo Balaram 07939 130980 www.whirligigparties.co.uk

Maisy’s Children’s Parties building confidence through play

Tiny Tots, Classic, Adventure or Arty Crafts we have a variety of parties to suit all ages and interests from 1-10 years!

Lots of fun & giggles

Face Painting Themed Parties Balloon Modelling Interactive magic We love to talk parties so drop us a call or pop us an email.

020 8123 6484/07779 096129 info@maisys-childrens-parties.co.uk Richmond, Kingston, Surrey & SW London

May-June 2015

Sftftftftftftftftftftftftftft Afttft & Cftftftftftftftftft Outdftftft Aftftft Bftuncft Cftfttftftft Biftthdftft ftftfttititi The Yellow Building, Hampton Academy Hanworth Road, Hampton, TW12 3HB

0208 941 0766

www.mumsplayshop.co.uk www.familiesuponthames.co.uk

19

MAY HALF TERM AND SUMMER CAMPS, COURSES AND WORKSHOPS DRAMA AND MUSIC Stagecoach Staines Little Summer Fun Workshop

For Ages: 4-7 27 to 31 July (9.45am-12.45pm. Show time: 12.15pm on 31 July) in Ashford

Big Summer Fun Workshop

For Ages: 6-18 27 to 31 July (10am to 4pm. Show time: 3pm on 31 July) in Ashford From the second they arrive your children will start making friends, having fun and learning some great new skills! During their time at Stagecoach, you’ll see an increase in your child’s confidence, social awareness and fitness. All this while they are taught singing, dance and drama. The week will culminate with a show for friends and family. A week when more than the sun will shine! £139.50 for five day workshop. Sibling price £119.50.

Contact: Natasha 01483 235216/07802 800633 staines@stagecoach.co.uk

Stagecoach Twickenham

All Workshops in Teddington Create a musical in costume on the stage at the stunning Grade 2 listed Normansfield Theatre in Langdon Park, Teddington this Summer! Meet new friends, gain confidence and become part of the Stagecoach

Theatrebugs Summer Holiday Drama Music and Dance Workshop The Lion and the Mouse

For Ages: 3.5-7 3-7 Aug (9am–12pm) in Weybridge 10-14 Aug (9am–12pm) in Claygate 10-14 August (1.30pm–4.30pm) in Cobham Poor Leo the Lion is trapped in a net!

Big Strong Elephant and Crocodile try their hardest to rescue him but can’t! Can Squeaker the Mouse work his magic before he gets turned into Lion Lasagna for Pirate Shouty’s dinner? Five fun filled days of acting, singing, dancing, dressing up and art and craft. On day 5 you hit the stage! £120 for week.15% early bug discount,10% sibling discount (See website for T&Cs).

Contact: Hannah Mason 01483 882244/07971 004134 hannahmason@theatrebugs.co.uk www.theatrebugs.co.uk/surrey.html

Twickenham family.

You don’t have to be a current student to attend and you can bring your friends too.

Through a combination of acting, singing and dancing, children will be caught up in the excitement and creativity of acting, singing and dancing, whilst preparing for the show they will perform at the end of the week for family and friends. £125 for workshops for ages 4-6 and £95 for siblings; £165 for ages 6-18 and ages 4-6 morning and afternoon combined sessions and £135 for siblings.

Revolting Children

Ages: 4-6 and 6-18 27 to 31 July (9.30am to 12.30pm Ages 4-6 and 10am to 4pm Ages 6-18)

Frozen Snowflakes

Ages: 4-6 27 to 31 July (9.30-12.30pm)

Bop to the Top

Step on Stage Academy of Performing Arts Summer Bug Ball Musical Theatre Workshops

For Ages: 3–8 Dates: 18 to 20 August (9.30am to 1pm) in Hampton Hill Soon it will be the annual Midsummer Bug Ball in the forest and everyone is excitedly getting ready.

Except for Clara the Caterpillar, who is feeling sad.

She looks in the mirror and sees a very ugly bug looking back at her. Her friend Lucy the Ladybird sets out to help Clara realise she is very beautiful and will transform into so much more! Three action-packed mornings of drama, dance, music and craft. £80 for three day workshop.

Junior Musical Theatre Summer School

For Ages: 7 - 12 Dates: 3 to 8 August (9.30am to 4pm) in Hampton Hill Classes in acting, dance and music and preparation for a performance of The Wizard Of Oz, which the children perform on stage at the theatre on the last day with costumes, set and live music. Also includes masterclass workshops in skills such as stage combat, or special effects

Ages: 6-18 3 to 7 August (10am-4pm)

Wonderland

Ages: 4-6 3 to 7 August (9.30-12.30pm)

Under the Sea

Ages: 4-6 3 to 7 August (1.30-4pm) Contact: Sarah Chitty 020 8977 0843 twickenham@stagecoach.co.uk www.stagecoach.co.uk/twickenham make-up. £175 for five day workshop.

Senior Musical Theatre Summer School

For Ages: 13-18 Dates: 3 to 8 August (9.30 – 5.00pm) in Hampton Hill Workshops in musical theatre performance, singing, dance, acting and technique and rehearsals for a production of the multi award winning Broadway show, 13 The Musical.

Also includes masterclass workshops with leading industry professionals and talks/Q&As with professional performers, directors, writers and musicians. £199 for five day workshop.

Glee Week

For Ages: 7-13 Dates: 10 to 15 August (9.30am to 4pm) in Hampton Singing, dancing and music exploring a wide range of performance styles and genres and creating a GLEE choir. Performance on stage on the last day. £175 for five day workshop.

Contact: Emma McCauley-Tinniswood 07973 900196 info@steponstageacademy.co.uk www.steponstageacademy.co.uk

Would you like to try something different?

Why not paint your own ceramics?

At Ceramica, we guarantee great fun for all!

Our services include: Children’s birthday parties Baby foot and hand print sessions Evening sessions for adults Annual membership scheme Take home packs & gift vouchers 7 The Parade, Claygate, Esher, KT10 0PD Phone: 01372 462447 Making ceramic painting easy and fun in a creative, enjoyable environment!

www.ceramica-claygate.co.uk

Twitter: @CeramicaEsher Facebook: www.facebook.com/CeramicaClaygate

20

www.familiesuponthames.co.uk

May-June 2015

MAY HALF TERM AND SUMMER CAMPS, COURSES AND WORKSHOPS Mozo Island Music Explorers May Half Term Music and Art Camp

Perform Summer Holiday Drama Courses

For Ages: 4-8 3-7 Aug and 24-28 Aug (10am to 12pm) in Richmond 3-7 Aug (2.30pm to 4.30pm) and 17-21 Aug (10am to 12pm) in Kew 20-24, 27-31 Jul and 24-28 Aug (2pm to 4pm) in Esher Perform is back this Summer with an enchanting holiday course based on the popular Ice Queen story. Children will go on an amazing adventure guaranteed to fire their imaginations, including creating a dazzling ice palace, whooshing downhill on a reindeer sleigh and enjoying singing with a snowman. The energetic team of actors, musicians and dancers will be with them every step of the way to inspire and encourage.

With colourful costumes, original songs and live music, children will enjoy a fun-packed course putting together a fantastic show that will delight family and

friends. With the emphasis on having fun and developing confidence, this course will be the talk of the holidays! £153 for five day workshop. 25% sibling discount.

Contact: Charlotte Godfrey 0845 400 1284 www.perform.org.uk

Ages: 5-8 approx 27-29 May (9.30am-3pm or half day option if preferred) in Richmond Discover musical instruments and basic theory on a tropical adventure!

Enjoy electric/acoustic guitar, ukulele, keyboard, recorder, singing, and drumming with art. Solve puzzles, follow a treasure map and win prizes! The camp allows children the unique opportunity of trying out a range of instruments without the restrictions of individual lessons at school. Fun, relaxed atmosphere! £39 per day for full days or £23 for half days.

Siblings £24 for full days or £19 per half day. Advance booking discount £110 for all 3 days!

Contact: James Tucker 07899 811703 mozoisland@gmail.com mozoisland.com

SPORT Coerver® May Half Term Football Course

For Ages: 7-14 29 May (9am to 3pm) in Kingston and 26 May (9am to 3pm) in Hounslow One day holiday football clinic for U8-U16 players. Each session will be based on the individual 1v1 skills of players such as Lionel Messi, Cristiano Ronaldo, Gareth Bale and Angel Di Maria. Participants will also have the opportunity to use the latest football equipment and win adidas® prizes in Coerver® skill competitions. Just £16 for 6 hours of high quality, professional, technical coaching!

Contact: Amit Sohal 020 3544 2284 westlondon@coerver.co.uk www.coerver.co.uk/westlondon

including diving and structured games. All students will receive a certificate at the end of the course.

Contact: Paul Furness 07915 510720 info@pkswimschool.co.uk www.pkswimschool.co.uk

Teddy Tennis May Half Term and Summer Camps

PK Swim School

For Ages: 2-5 years In: Canbury Gardens, Kingston 25 May to 29 May (9am to 9.45am: 2-3 years 10am-12pm: 3-5 years with a 15 minute snack break at 11am) 27 July to 21 August (Mon to Fri 9am-9:45am: 2-3 years 10am-12pm: 3-5 years with a 15 minute snack break at 11am) Teddy Tennis is a FUN way to encourage children to get active and learn to play tennis. It works by combining Music, Pictures and ‘Teddy Bear’ stories into a totally interactive learning adventure that children love. Teddy Tennis is featured in over 60 schools and nurseries throughout South West London. The camps will feature new, fun, enjoyable games that enable your children to learn tennis the best way possible.

Contact: Charlie 0845 643 1173/07966 005008 bookings@teddytennis.com charlie.p@teddytennis.com www.teddytennis.com

May Half Term Swimming Lessons

Will to Win Junior Tennis Camps

Fit for Sport May Half Term Camps

For Ages: 3-12 26 May to 29 May (8.30am to 5.30pm, 9.30am to 4.30pm and 9.30am to 1pm depending on age) in Twickenham, Sheen, Kew, Brentford, Barnes, Sunbury and Staines Multi-activity sports camps with a Looney-tunes theme! Kids will sweat like the Tasmanian Devil, and hop through circuits like Bugs Bunny, offering them the perfect opportunity to stay fit and healthy while enjoying, fun, energetic games each day.

Contact: 0845 456 3233 www.fitforsport.co.uk For Ages: 2.5 to 15

25, 27, 28, 30 and 31 May

Summer Crash Courses

27 July to 31 July and 3 August to 7 August (10am to 1pm) in Cobham Come and have a FREE lesson during May Half Term to assess your child’s swimming ability! Your child can improve their skill set and confidence. Sign your child up for a summer crash course to improve your child’s swimming. Boost their skill set and confidence. Covers all four main strokes

May-June 2015

For Ages: 3-16 In: Twickenham 26 to 29 May (9.30am-10am: Mini Tots 3-4 years 10am-12pm: Mini Red 5-8 years 1pm-3pm Junior Age (9-16 years) Weeks beginning 20, 27 July and 2, 10, 17 and 24 August For a week of intensive tennis and fun in the school holidays, sign up to a Will to Win camp!

A variety of drills, games and match play are used each day to convey specific teaching

points. The emphasis is on learning and fun.

Contact: Will to Win Richmond 020 8892 3218 richmond@willtowin.co.uk Twickenham Advert.qxp_Layout 1 21/04/2015 11:16 Pa www.willtowin.co.uk

Twickenham Let your child discover the magic of performance. Put on a show in 5 days for family and friends!

0208 977 0843

stagecoach.co.uk/twickenham

Revolting Children Frozen Snowflakes Bop To The Top Wonderland Under The Sea Dates: 27th - 31st July 3rd - 7th August QUALITY TRAINING

ESTABLISHED 1988

www.familiesuponthames.co.uk

21

MAY HALF TERM AND SUMMER CAMPS, COURSES AND WORKSHOPS MULTI ACTIVITY KOOSA Kids Camps

ART AND CRAFT Supercamps

NEW ACTIVITIES FOR 2015! Affordable, Ofsted approved, fun and active childcare in May half term and throughout the summer holidays.

Holiday clubs are running in Sheen, Teddington, Twickenham and Whitton from 26 to 29 May and every week during the summer holidays in Twickenham from 20 July to 28 August, in Teddington from 22 July to 28 August and in Sheen and Whitton from 23 July to 28 August. The standard day runs from 10am to 4pm, with

extended days available from 8.15am to 6pm. Children can attend for one or more days or a full week with an 8% discount. 3rd child goes free!

Holiday fun from £19.25 per day!

0845 094 2322 info@koosakids.co.uk www.koosakids.co.uk

COOKING The Kitchen Queen Cookery Workshops

For Ages: 5+ Available 7 days a week at a time to suit you Private, tailored cookery workshops in your own home – either 1:1 or with your child’s friends or siblings. We’ll put together lots of recipe ideas for you and your children to pick and choose from, send you a shopping list for ingredients to

have available, then come to you at a convenient time to cook. You then get to enjoy a feast afterwards!

A really great way to nurture an interest in food and cooking.From £100 (2 hour lesson for up to 2 people) £150 (2 hour lesson for 4 people). Larger groups/longer lessons available.

Contact: Hannah Goodyear 07967 620317 info@kitchenqueen.co.uk www.kitchenqueen.co.uk

Kitchen Queen

Cooking Parties & Cookery Lessons in Your Home!

For Ages: 4-14 26 May to 29 May (9am to 5pm) in Kingston and Thames Ditton Weekly from 20 July to 28 August in Hampton and Kingston and from 20 July to 21 August in Thames Ditton Fun, multi-activity camps from this established holiday camp provider.

Extended days available from 8am to 6pm. £45 per day or £144 per week with additional £3 per hour for extended days.

Contact: 01235 467300 www.supercamps.co.uk

BABY & CHILD DEVELOPMENT Gymboree Surbiton Summer Workshops For Ages: 3-5 years

The Gruffalo 4 to 7 August

Ocean Adventure 18 to 21 August

Musicals

25 to 28 August Times TBC Join Gymboree Surbiton and kick start the summer holiday in the deep dark woods, venture under the sea or enter the world of musicals! Using theatrical techniques, workshops will explore set design, singing, dancing, acting and including an amazing show at the end! £60 per three day workshop.

020 3609 8007 surbiton@gymboree-uk.com www.gymboree-uk.com/surbiton

Ace Art From Sketchbook to Canvas

For Ages: 6-12 4, 5, 6 August (10.30am to 12.30pm) in Teddington Three connective workshops based on a theme, taking drawing as the base and following through using collage and paint to a canvas.

07941 954929/07854 838900 justineline7@yahoo.co.uk/ fizzpop2010@hotmail.co.uk www.facebook.com/pages/ Ace-Art/444390945696711

Happy Potter Ceramics May Half Term Mosaic, T-Shirt and Cross Stitch Workshops

26-28 May (2pm to 3.30pm) Ages: 7+ (or younger with parental supervision) Half Price studio fees all day on Bank Holiday Monday 25 May. Drop the kids off to make an amazing new mosaic kit (26 May), a T-Shirt (27 May) or a Cross Stitch creation (28 May). Happy Potter staff will guide the children in their craft which will be ready to take away on the day. Snacks included. £20 per head.10% discount for extra days and siblings! Also, Father’s Day Workshop on Saturday, 13 June (2pm to 4pm).

Create unique handmade cards, wrapping paper or gift bag and a mug, plate or bowl for all the useful things in dad or grandad’s pocket! £20 per head. Last day for pottery painting for Father’s Day is 17 June.

Contact: Una Fagan 020 8973 1468 info@happypotterceramics.co.uk www.happypotterceramics.co.uk

Our cookery parties are a perfect way to entertain your little monkeys, no matter what their age; lots of fun and really hands-on - we’ll bring along everything to cook our own delicious party tea!

Tailored cookery lessons also available - one-to-one or small group lessons; a great way to give your children a head start in the kitchen.

T. 07967 620 317 E.info@kitchenqueen.co.uk

www.kitchenqueen.co.uk

22

www.familiesuponthames.co.uk

May-June 2015

Ready? Steady? GoFest!

By Linda Stone, Editor The sweet smell of summer is in the air, the festival season is finally upon us and – it’s nearly time for GoFest, the UK’s Family Festival of Sport, Fitness, Dance and Health!

Between 10 and 12 July, GoFest will transform the impressive Surrey Sports Park in Guildford into a quintessential British festival arena with sport and dance activities, live music and all-day entertainment. With over 75 activities and hundreds of free coaching sessions available, the festival weekend is all set to be the sporting equivalent to Glastonbury! It offers those interested in an active lifestyle the perfect chance to learn, practise and develop skills that will last a life time - in just one weekend!

With special guests being added to the list daily, GoFest will welcome Harlequins RFC to deliver the rugby in GoFest’s GoTry zone, whilst Fulham Football Club will head up the programme for the beautiful game.

There will also be professional coaching from Surrey Storm, Surrey Smashers and Surrey United.

And the action doesn’t come to an end when the sun goes down either, with evening entertainment including the Only One Direction Tribute Band, Take That 2 and Abba Revival to cater for the music needs of the whole family. More acts are still to be confirmed and GoFest is sure to provide everyone with a warm summer evening of

memorable music and dance.

And, if you’re feeling really competitive, the weekend also offers you the chance to enter both a 1 mile and a 5 kilometre run, taking place on both festival days, or a Sunday Sportive for Cyclists with the option

ooney L e h t g ducin

Classes Clubs& Activities

er summ fun

of a 20 or a 40 mile adventure taking in the picturesque sites of Guildford and Surrey.

The countdown to Guildford’s unmissable 2015 family festival has now begun!

For more information and to book tickets, visit www.gofest.co.uk

Tunes

T R O P S R O F T I F Intro

keep your kids active this summer with fun sports and energetic games

Quote “families” when booking for a 10% discount

BOOK NOW F OR SUMMER CAMPS: TM & © Warner Bros. Entertainment Inc. (s15)

May-June 2015

www.fitforsport.co.uk TM & © Warner Bros. Entertainment Inc. (s15)

0845 456 3233

www.familiesuponthames.co.uk

23

Classes Clubs& Activities

er summ fun

Anyone for Tennis?

Olivia Malaure explores the local options and benefits

Tennis provides countless physical benefits for children. It develops hand-eye coordination, gross motor control, fine motor control, balance and body co-ordination, while building speed, strength and agility. Psychologically, children who play tennis develop life skills and strategies; when they’re out there on their own, they learn to accept responsibility for their actions, decisions and mistakes, and begin to manage these more effectively. These three local providers of tennis classes for children all have a different approach, but agree that tennis is a sport that offers something for everyone.

Will to Win

Director of Will to Win, Steve Riley, has successfully changed the way people perceive and play tennis.

“When I was a 12 year old boy growing up in Blackpool we were members of a private tennis club and us kids used to get thrown off the courts so the adults could play!” reports Steve. “In those days, if you wanted to play tennis you traditionally had to be part of a club, and if you couldn’t afford the club fee then you couldn’t play. My goal became about making tennis accessible, social, affordable and fun for everyone.”

Tennis for All is the motto at Will to Win and its vision is to get more people in the UK playing by providing attractive, accessible and affordable facilities in public areas.

Now kids in the Richmond borough can play tennis for FREE! Between 3pm and 6pm

Monday to Friday, children under 16 can borrow a racquet, walk on to a court and play at the eleven venues managed by Will to Win across the borough. These are Cambridge Gardens, Carlisle Park, King George’s Field, Kings Field, Old Deer Park, York House Gardens, Moormead Recreational Ground, Kneller Gardens, Palewell Common and Westerley Ware, Kew. Families can also head to any of the above courts for a Pay Per Play session at the weekend or in the evenings, although booking ahead is available online.Alternatively, at selected venues children can attend a casual weekend coaching session with Will to Win – just call 24 hours in advance to book. These casual sessions are the ideal opportunity for your child to try out tennis, without having to commit to an activity for a full term. After school classes are also available and can be booked online to suit your schedule.

In addition, Will to Win also offers

Teddy Tennis

Kingston

Have you been practising your Amanda Panda Backhander or your Molly Volley?

Amanda Panda and Molly are just two of the ten characters that Teddy Tennis in Kingston uses to coach young children ages 2 to 5 years. Teddy Tennis uses a unique teaching system based upon a series of songs, pictures, teddy bear characters, (delightfully based on real players) and games that present tennis in a way which thoroughly engages and inspires this age group.

Rhythm is key to successful tennis playing and Teddy Tennis

Richmond

netball and football coaching and competitions, and school holiday multi-sport camps, with the emphasis, of course, on fun and learning!

This Year Will to Win Tennis is celebrating its 20th anniversary with FREE tennis and taster sessions for all the family at Great British Tennis Weekends throughout May and June. These are community events which will be held in East

Sheen on 16 May (3pm to 5pm), Sheen on 17 May (10am to 12pm), Twickenham on 16 and 17 May (2pm to 4pm) and Richmond on 14 June (2pm to 4pm). Come on down on the day or register at www.lta.org.uk to avoid disappointment!

For further information, on summer holiday camps, see listing on page 21 and visit www.willtowin.co.uk

uses music in all lessons to provide this, with song words which relate directly to the activity or game being played, and which instruct children on the actions required.

The use of music speeds up the learning process at Teddy Tennis, because young children quickly learn the words and sing along, but, above all, it makes lessons fun.

Pictures of teddy bear characters also show the children what they are supposed to do in each activity or game.“The kids love getting to know the teddies. They all have favourite songs, fruit and drinks!” says Charlie Pollard, Head of Park and Camp Operations at Teddy Tennis.

Another unique feature of Teddy Tennis sessions is that, at the end of the session, children get to coach their own parents/ carers in what they have learned.

‘It’s an important part of their learning process’ reports Charlie.

“Through the process of teaching and explaining, they are affirming the skills and instructions in their own minds.”

Teddy Tennis sessions are 30 to 45 minutes in length. They are held at Canbury Gardens on Saturdays and on weekdays during school holidays.

For more information, see listing on page 21 and visit www.teddytennis.com

Teddy Tennis Spring Camp HOUNSLOW & KINGSTON-UPON-THAMES The UK’s Premier Youth Football Development programme, for 7-17 year olds, that offers an unrivaled level of support, both on and off the training field.

Contact us today to book a FREE trial session for your son or daughter...

Tel: 020 3544 2284 Web: coerver.co.uk/westlondon Mob: 07947 121213 Email: westlondon@coerver.co.uk 24

www.familiesuponthames.co.uk

Fun and exciting tennis classes for children

Canbury Gardens, Kingston 25 May-29 May 9am-9:45am (2-3 years) 10am-12pm (3-5 years)

Call 0845 643 1173 or email booking@teddytennis.com May-June 2015

Classes Clubs& Activities

North Surrey

Top Spin Monkeys When coach and business owner, Andy Low, set up Top Spin Monkeys seventeen years ago, he was a PE teacher who was passionate about getting girls involved in sport.

As a non-contact sport, tennis was the perfectly vehicle for this. Now he sees as many girls as boys enrolling for his term time classes and holiday workshops, and Top Spin Monkeys has gone from

strength to strength offering classes in Weybridge, Epsom, Cobham, East Horsley and a NEW class in West Byfleet.

Top Spin Monkeys provides a positive learning experience in its classes and holiday camps, in order that children have fun, learn tennis skills, but also prepare for primary school. “We use colours, numbers, shapes and letters to help with a child’s educational development” says Andy. “At

Richmond Borough ond

m oss Rich r c a s e u s – 11 ven

nni Junior Te

ourses C l o o h c After S amps Holiday C ns essio Drop-in S

the end of every session or match there’s a high five or handshake too, which teaches kids the importance of sportsmanship and fair play, and encourages them to give their best at all times.”

Top Spin Monkey sessions for children ages 2 to 6 years, include activities and games, which focus on the three areas of skill development required to play

er summ fun

tennis – Movement Skills, Ball Skills and Racket Skills. Andy uses equipment like a swing ball, golf tees and hurdles to teach skills related to the key areas and to make it a fun and varied learning experience that can be applied to other sports too.

Sessions also offer the chance for parents/carers and children to play together and connect.

“It’s up to the adult how much they want to participate. They can do the running if they want, or they can simply be ready with a high five.”

For more information, see listing on page 21 or visit www.topspinmonkeys.co.uk

WEEKLY

LOCAL

CLASSES

with Water Babies, the UK’s leading baby swim school

3 Fully qualified, world class instructors 3 Award-winning programme teaches babies from birth 3 Teaching you to teach your baby to swim 3 Saving lives through water confidence and safety skills To join in the fun call

01932 227 428

classes held. . .

Addlestone, Shepperton, Kingston, Chessington, Morden, Richmond & Cobham

waterbabies.co.uk

r Park

– Old Dee l l a b t unning Junior Ne ue now r

5’s Leag ning sessions h g i H y a d d trai r. n a * Satur s p m a c me * Netball coming this sum

020 8892 3218

For more information or to book now!

www.willtowin.co.uk facebook.com/WilltoWin twitter.com/Will2WinTennis May-June 2015

www.familiesuponthames.co.uk

25

Classes Clubs& Activities

er summ fun

Step On Stage Launches Dance Division!

By Olivia Malaure

Back in 2006, Principal and Artistic Director of Step on Stage Performing Arts Academy, Emma McCauleyTinniswood, enrolled her first Step on Stage students.

From humble beginnings, this award-winning local Academy has grown from 4 students to 240 offering drama, music and musical theatre classes for children ages 3 to 21 years in Twickenham, Hampton Hill and Sunbury.

The recent acquisition of Dance

Fusion, a Twickenham-based dance school, has allowed Emma to set up the dance division of Step on Stage, something that was always part of her original vision.

This acquisition also takes total enrolment figures for Step on Stage to an impressive 350, making it one of the largest independent performing arts schools in South West London.

The new Dance Department caters for children from 2.5 years, offering dance styles including classical ballet, tap and modern and the IDTA dance syllabus. New street dance classes will start soon.

Her own participation in extra curricular performing arts classes whilst she was at school inspired Emma’s passion for the arts, although she eventually discovered she was more excited by teaching than performing. As an experienced triple-threat (she can sing, dance and act), Emma has developed a number of faculties at Step on Stage. The Drama Department provides students with the opportunity to participate in LAMDA exams and classes explore a variety of styles including Commedia Del’ Arte, Physical Theatre and Comedy. There are also popular Musical Theatre and Youth Theatre divisions whilst the

Music Department offers piano, singing and music theory, as well as ABRSM exams.

As a qualified teacher who trains performing arts teachers, it’s no surprise that Emma is very particular when it comes to hiring her own practitioners. She describes Step On Stage teachers as being creative and passionate and, above all else,

loving working with children.“My team are experienced teachers” she reflects“and as an independent performing arts school we don’t have a curriculum forced upon us. Instead, we are able to adjust lesson plans to suit the students in a class and keep the curriculum fresh and relevant.”

For further information, see listing on page 20 and visit www.steponstageacademy.co.uk

Just Imagine Brings the Ballet Train to St Margarets and Teddington!

By Linda Stone, Editor Popular dance school, Just Imagine Ballet is now offering Twinkle Ballet for boys and girls ages 15 months to 5 years in both St Margarets and Teddington, extending the reach of their classes beyond their current locations in Richmond, East Sheen, Kew and Twickenham.

In Twinkle Ballet classes, children jump

MUSIC LESSONS in RICHMOND !

aboard the pretend ballet train and journey to enchanting places, following a ballet syllabus devised for the school by Principal, Miss Jessica.

Magical characters and captivating stories enable children to imagine how a character would move, sound and play and creative thinking is encouraged.

“We’ve had enquiries from parents about the possibility of classes in St Margarets and Teddington for a while” comments Jessica.“It was just a matter of finding the right venue.”

For further information and to book a FREE TRIAL, find Just Imagine Ballet on Facebook at Twinkle-Toes-Ballet or email info@twinkletoesballet.com

Lessons, Holiday-Camps, Courses & Clubs for all ages, including .....

Ukulele & Piano

for pre-school & primary ages with TARA

Singing Tuition

kids-clubs, workshops & vocal coaching with OLGA

Group Guitar, Keybds, Drums Uke, Recorders. Theory & Fun 5-8 yr olds with JAMES ‘Mozo’ RITZ MUSIC & TUITION CENTRE

88 SHEEN RD, RICHMOND TEL: 020 8332-1488 -

WWW.RITZMUSIC.CO.UK

26

FOOTIE TOTS

Welcome to the world of fitness and football for 2.5 to 5 year olds Teaching basic ball skills, scoring lots of goals and having FUN!

FOOTIE WIZARDS For children ages 5 to 8

Hampton, Teddington, Twickenham, Richmond, Feltham and Hounslow, ALL CLASSES call 07931 707720 HELD INDOORS andy@footie-tots.co.uk FOOTBALL PARTIES AVAILABLE

Esher, Molesey, Thames Ditton, Walton, Kingston and Surbiton, call 07828 629531

www.familiesuponthames.co.uk

May-June 2015 BDA Advert_v5.indd 1

31/05/2013 18:47

Cherish Childhood with Gymboree Continues! y Linda Stone, Editor B

Back in March 2015, Gymboree centres across the country invited little ones and their carers to come and have Tea with the Fairies, Tame a Dragon, get messy with Art Activities and hang out with their Daddy at special Cherish Daddy Events. All these events, available for members and non-members alike, were part of the Gymboree and NSPCC Cherish Childhood initiative launched to raise money for the NSPCC’s campaign to fight child abuse.

Cherish Childhood continues into the summer months with Gymboree taking part in the NSPCC’s Play in May event, with play, music and art parties running at Gymboree at which children and parents can enjoy themselves. Play in May is happening at Gymboree Surbiton on 26 May from 1pm to 2.45pm, at Gymboree St Margarets on 25 May from 2pm to 3.30pm and at Gymboree Walton on 26 May from 12.30pm to 2.15pm.

Play in May will be followed by a Cherish Giggles and Gurgles Competition starting in June. This delightful contest will give parents and carers the chance to enter their little ones best giggles and gurgles into the competition and win some great prizes!

In the autumn, Gymboree will also be holding Cherish Picnics which will link into the NSPCC Teddy Bears Picnic.

All the events are open to members and non-members and are FREE. There will be donation buckets at the events for you to contribute towards the NSPCC’s crucial work.

Amanda Church, NSPCC Corporate Fundraising Manager commented “We can all play a part in the fight for every childhood and by taking part in Gymboree’s fantastic events in aid of the NSPCC, you’ll be making a difference to the lives of local children.”

And remember, we only grow up when we forget how to play!

Classes Clubs& Activities

er summ fun

Cherish Childhood events will be held locally at Gymboree St Margarets, Gymboree Surbiton and Gymboree Walton. For further information, visit www.gymboree-uk.com/st-margarets, www.gymboree-uk.com/surbiton and www.gymboree-uk.com/waltononthames

Just Imagine Ballet (formally Twinkle Toes Ballet)

RICHMOND - ST MARGARETS TWICKENHAM - KEW EAST SHEEN - TEDDINGTON Enchanting & magical classes with props, puppets & pictures to inspire & delight children from

15 months - 10 years old

Info@twinkletoesballet.com 07879 521 456 NEW - Classes for 11 - 16 years old

Award Winning Performing Arts School

DRAMA & MUSICAL THEATRE PIANO, SINGING & MUSIC THEORY BALLET, TAP, MODERN, COMMERCIAL & STREET DANCE YOUTH THEATRE & CHILDRENS AGENCY LAMDA, ISTD & ABRSM EXAMINATIONS PUBLIC SPEAKING

SUMMER SCHOOLS NOW BOOKING!

August 3rd to 20th at Hampton Hill Playhouse The Wizard Of Oz, 13 The Musical, GLEE Week & The Summer Bug Ball

NEW - RAD Classical program - optional exams NEW - SEN Dance & Art Therapy Holiday Camps!

May-June 2015

Birthday Parties!

Boys Only Ballet

Adult Ballet

Call Emma 07973 900196 info@steponstageacademy.co.uk

www.steponstageacademy.co.uk

www.familiesuponthames.co.uk

27

what’s on MAY AND JUNE

HAMPTON COURT KAYAK TOURS Public Slipway, Thames Ditton KT7 0QQ Cost: £34.99 Time: Various Kayak your own vessel alongside the wonderful houseboats, observe the wildlife and take in the vista of historical Hampton Court Palace.

Includes equipment and tuition from an instructor.

0845 453 2002 www.londonkayaktours.co.uk 9 MAY RICHMOND MAY FAIR Parish Church of St Mary Magdalene and Richmond Green TW9 1LX Cost: FREE Over 100 charity stalls, craft marquee, vintage carousel and helter skelter, crowning of May Queen, Maypole dancing and food.

020 8607 9600 www.richmondmayfair.org OATLANDS VILLAGE FAYRE Oatlands Recreation Ground, Weybridge KT13 8NA Time: 12.30-4.30pm Cost: £1 Host of fun activities ranging from events in the main arena to refreshment tents, tombola, Punch and Judy and many other stalls. www.oatlandsfayre.org.uk 9 MAY AND 6 JUN 15 MINUTES OF FUN AT CHERTSEY MUSEUM 33 Windsor Street, Chertsey KT16 8AT Time: 1.30-3.30pm Cost: FREE Drop-in family craft session.

01932 565764 www.chertseymuseum.org 10 MAY CHESTNUT SUNDAY AT BUSHY PARK Time: 12.30pm Cost: FREE Celebrate the chestnut blossoms in Bushy Park. Parade starts at 12.30pm at Teddington Gate. Traditional fairground, arena displays, live music, historical re-enactments. www.fbhp.org.uk THE DITTONS FAIR Giggs Hill Green, Thames Ditton KT7 0BT Time: 1pm Cost: FREE A traditional family event including sideshows, dancing, rugby, music and dog gymkhana. www.thedittonsfair.co.uk JACK AND JILL ANNUAL CHARITY MAY FAIR Twickenham Green TW2 5AG Time: 12-5pm Cost: FREE Fairground rides, bouncy castle, live music, face painting, fancy dress competition, balloon man, silent auction, cakes, BBQ, bar and stalls. www.jackandjillschool.org.uk 10 MAY AND 7 JUN STORY CAFE AT RIVERHOUSE BARN ARTS CENTRE Manor Road, Walton KT12 2NZ For Ages: 3+ Time: 3pm Cost: £4 (£2 under 2s) Creative storytelling, themed activity and teatime event.

01932 253354 www.riverhousebarn.co.uk 14 MAY NIGHT AT RICHMOND MUSEUM Whittaker Avenue, Richmond TW9 1TP Ages: All Time: 5.30-8pm Cost: FREE Retro Fashion Night to raise funds for CRUK and RACC. Cat walk, art and craft for the kids.

020 8332 1141 15 MAY NIGHT AT CHERTSEY MUSEUM 33 Windsor Street, Chertsey KT16 8AT For Ages: All Time: 5-10pm Cost: FREE Family event to celebrate European Night of Museums and International Museums Day. Booking required.

01932 565764 www.chertseymuseum.org

28

16 MAY AND 20 JUN YOUNG ARCHAEOLOGY CLUB AT CHERTSEY MUSEUM 33 Windsor Street, KT16 8AT For Ages: 8 to 16. Time: 11am or 2pm Cost: £5 Explore the world of archaeology through site visits, artefact handling and investigation, and art and craft.

Booking required.

01932 565764 www.chertseymuseum.org 16 MAY HAMPTON FUN DAY Beaver Close, Hampton TW12 2XB Time: 11am-6pm Cost: £1 Stalls, rides, mini golf, Pony rides, Fun Fair rides, music, BBQ and Beer tent, Carnival slide and Bouncy Castles.. www.facebook/HamptonFunDay 16 AND 17 MAY JACOBITE RE-ENACTMENT WEEKEND Claremont Landscape Garden, Portsmouth Rd, Esher KT10 9JG Time: 10.30am-4.30pm Cost: FREE with admission Skirmishes, battles, guns, an army camp and Redcoat displays over the two days. Period actors recreate the Jacobite rebellion against the Duke of Newcastle.

01372 467806 www.nationaltrust.org. uk/claremont-landscape-garden 17 MAY CHILDREN’S PHOTOGRAPHY COURSE AT BROOKLAND’S MUSEUM Brooklands Road, Weybridge KT13 0QN For Ages: 7-15 Time: 10.30am-1pm Cost: £35 Professional photographer will teach children to take a well composed photograph using the inspirational grounds of the Brooklands Museum.

01932 857381 www.brooklandsmuseum.com STANLEY SCHOOL MAY FAIR Strathmore Rd, Teddington TW11 8UH Time: 12-3pm Great traditional school fair. www.stanley.richmond.sch.uk 18 MAY LITTLE EXPLORERS AT MORDEN HALL PARK Morden Hall Road, Morden SM4 5JD Time: 10am & 1pm-2.15pm Cost: FREE entry to park.Child £1 Activity session for 18 months to 4 years.

020 8545 6850 www.nationaltrust.org. uk/morden-hall-park 19 MAY FOR SANITY’S SAKE EAT, PLAY, SLEEP AND BE HEALTHY DAY AT MOVERS & SHAPERS 125 St Margarets Road, Twickenham TW1 1RG Time: 10.30 onwards Cost: £9.95 per ticket (for mother and one child) Aimed at mothers with children ages 0 to 2, the event offers baby/child feeding and sleep workshops from local experts Dreamfeeds and Little Sleepers, Movers & Shapers fitness taster sessions, play taster sessions for kids with Movers & Explorers and other local providers, exhibits and 1:1 sessions (additional cost).

More information and tickets: www.forsanityssake.com 23 MAY THE GRAND TOUR AT STRAWBERRY HILL HOUSE 268 Waldegrave Road, Twickenham, TW1 4ST Ages: 3+ Time: 12.30-3pm Cost: £2 Drop in activity. Make your own funky passport and sail boat so that you can explore Horace Walpole’s Wider World.

020 8744 1241 www.strawberryhillhouse.org.uk

MAY HALF TERM

23 TO 25 MAY FOODIES FESTIVAL AT SYON PARK Park Rd, Brentford TW8 8JA The UK’s largest celebration of food and drink is coming to Syon Park with

www.familiesuponthames.co.uk

exciting mix of food and top Chefs as well as Children’s Cookery Theatre.

0844 995 1111 www.foodiesfestival.com 23 TO 29 MAY GEORGIAN PASTIMES AT KEW PALACE Royal Botanic Gardens Kew, TW9 3AB Time: 10am-5.30pm Cost: FREE with admission to Kew Gardens Drop-in Georgian activities including playing traditional games, object-handling and making your own fan fit for a princess.

084 4482 7777 www.hrp.org.uk/KewPalace 23 TO 31 MAY HALF TERM TRAIL AT CLAREMONT LANDSCAPE GARDEN Portsmouth Road, Esher KT10 9JG Time: 10am-4.30pm Cost: 50p per trail plus Normal Admission Trail based on the classic tale of Wind in the Willows.

01372 467806 www.nationaltrust.org. uk/claremont-landscape-garden HALF TERM AT HAM HOUSE Ham St, Ham TW10 7RS Time: 10am-4.30pm Cost: FREE with Normal Admission Outdoor activities as part of 50 Things To Do Before You’re 11¾.

020 8940 1950 www.nationaltrust.org.uk/ham-house TIME QUAKE AT HAMPTON COURT PALACE East Molesey KT8 9AU Ages: 7-14 Time: 10am-6pm Cost: FREE with Normal Admission Step into a 360º cinema experience and witness a time quake which has caused characters from the past 500 years to return to the palace!

0844 482 7777 www.hrp.org.uk MAY HALF TERM AT RHS WISLEY Woking GU23 6QB Time: 10am-6pm Cost: FREE with Normal Admission Get planting and learn about the super powers of plants. Sow a sunflower to take home. See the Wonderland-themed mini show gardens and vote for your favourite.

Free family activity every day. Birds of prey displays on 30 and 31 May. 0845 260 9000 www.rhs.org.uk/wisley ANIMAL ENCOUNTERS AT LONDON WETLAND CENTRE Queen Elizabeth’s Walk, Barnes SW13 9WT Time: 9.30-6pm Cost: FREE with Normal Admission Spot some of the exquisite birds, moths, reptiles and amphibians that call the Centre home. Enjoy bug hunting, reptile rambling, a duckling walk or pond dipping.

020 8409 4400 www.wwt.org.uk SPRING SPECTACULAR AT BOCKETTS FARM Young St, Fetcham KT22 9BS Time: 10am-5.30pm Cost: FREE with Normal Admission Daily bird of prey displays. Meet miniature Shetland ponies at The Pony Parlour. Meet friendly animals and enjoy fun farm activities, indoor and outdoor play and pedal go karts. www.bockettsfarm.co.uk HALF TERM AT HOBBLEDOWN Horton Lane, Horton KT19 8PT Time: 9am-7pm Cost: FREE with Normal Admission Navigate an obstacle course in the sky with High Rope Challenge, or brave the 70 metres of underground tunnels and secret passageways underneath the towers and play equipment of Hobbledown Village.

Dig for crystals in the Mining Village.

View Bird of Prey arena on selected dates.

0843 289 4979 www.hobbledown.com HALF TERM FUN AT HOUNSLOW URBAN FARM Faggs Lane, Feltham TW14 0LZ Special events during including daily animal encounters, piglet racing

and owl display.

020 8821 9658 www.hounslowurbanfarm.co.uk 24 MAY GAME ON SPORTS DAY AT OSTERLEY PARK Jersey Road, Isleworth TW7 4RB Time: 11am-4pm Cost: Charges for some activities Enjoy taster sessions of lots of sports in one day.

020 8232 5050 www.nationaltrust.org.uk/ osterley-park RAILWAY GALA AT KEMPTON STEAM RAILWAY Snakey Lane,Feltham TW13 6XH Time: 10.30am-4pm Cost: Adult £2, Child £1, Under 5s free All of the running stock will be in operation. www.hamptonkemptonrailway.org.uk 24-25 MAY THE MEDICINE GARDEN SPRING FAYRE Downside Rd, Cobham KT11 3LU Time: 10am-5pm Cost: Free Local food, art& craft stalls, hot food, licensed bar and live music. www.themedicinegarden.com 24 TO 25 MAY AND 7 JUNE OPEN DAY THAMES DITTON MINIATURE RAILWAY Claygate Lane, Thames Ditton KT7 0LE Time: 2-5pm Cost: single rides £2, unlimited £7 Enjoy the rides and a family picnic.

0208 398 3985 ww.malden-dsme.co.uk 25 MAY TREE TALES WALK AT OSTERLEY PARK Jersey Road, Isleworth TW7 4RB Time: 11am Cost: Adult £6, Child £3 A guided walk with tales of Osterley’s trees.

020 8232 5050 www.nationaltrust.org.uk/ osterley-park ROBIN HOOD FESTIVAL IN KINGSTON The Fairfield, Kingston KT1 2PS Time: 12-6pm Cost: FREE Step back in time with Kingston Museum with pageant of festivities and fun for the whole family.

020 8547 5006 www.kingston.gov.uk/museum LIFE AT THE WATERWORKS London Museum of Water & Steam, Kew Bridge Road, Brentford TW8 0EF Time: 11am-4pm Cost: FREE with Normal Admission Dress up in Victorian clothes. Travel back in time to discover what life was like for the workers who kept the Kew Bridge Pumping Station in steam. Get to grips with the tools that were used to get London’s water pumping. Enjoy a brand new family trail and chance to handle rarely seen objects from the archive.

020 8568 4757 www.waterandsteam.org.uk 26 MAY LITTLE SEEDLINGS GARDENING CLUB AT OSTERLEY PARK Jersey Road, Isleworth TW7 4RB Time: 12-4pm Cost: FREE with Normal Admission Get hands-on in this drop-in kids gardening session.

020 8232 5050 www.nationaltrust.org.uk/ osterley-park 26 AND 28 MAY HALF TERM FUN AT CHERTSEY MUSEUM 33 Windsor Street, Chertsey KT16 8AT FOR AGES: 5-12 Time: 11am or 2pm Cost: £5 Fun and practical activities relating to the museum collections. Booking required.

01932 565764 www.chertseymuseum.org 26-29 MAY CRAFT WORKSHOPS AT CLAREMONT LANDSCAPE GARDEN Portsmouth Road, Esher KT10 9JG Time: 10.30am-12.30pm Cost: Normal Admission + £1.50 Join in the craft making workshops in the Thatched Cottage.

01372 467806 www.nationaltrust.org.uk/ claremont-landscape-garden

May-June 2015

what’s on

May-June 2015

CRAFTY THURSDAYS AT MORDEN HALL PARK Morden Hall Road, Morden SM4 5JD Time: 10am-1pm Cost: FREE entry to park. £2 per child.

Get creative with drop-in activities inspired by the park and its wildlife.

020 8545 6850 www.nationaltrust.org. uk/morden-hall-park 30 TO 31 MAY HOME GUARD AT OSTERLEY PARK Jersey Road, Isleworth TW7 4RB Time: 12-4pm Cost: FREE with Normal Admission Visit the living history camp and learn about Osterley’s involvement in training for World War II. 020 8232 5050 www.nationaltrust.org. uk/osterley-park 31 MAY THE FESTIVAL OF FUN AT STRAWBERRY HILL HOUSE 268 Waldegrave Road, Twickenham, TW1 4ST Ages: All Time: 11am-4.30pm Cost: FREE A day of medieval mayhem in the grounds of Strawberry Hill House.

Refreshments available or bring your teddy and picnic in the garden.

020 8744 1241 www.strawberryhillhouse.org.uk 3, 10, 17 AND 24 JUN TEDDY BEARS’ PICNIC AT CLAREMONT LANDSCAPE GARDEN Portsmouth Rd, Esher KT10 9JG Time: 1-2pm Cost: Child: £1.50 plus Normal Admission Bring along Teddy and a picnic, with storytelling in the Thatched Cottage.

01372 467806 www.nationaltrust.org.uk 6 JUN CHAINSAW CARVING AT CLAREMONT LANDSCAPE GARDEN Portsmouth Rd, Esher KT10 9JG Time: 10.30am-4.30pm Cost: FREE with admission Come and watch the chainsaw master at work. Opportunity to purchase artworks during the day.

01372 467806 www.nationaltrust.org.uk 6 JUN & 4 JUL BOLD AND BASHFUL BUG HUNT AT STRAWBERRY HILL HOUSE 268 Waldegrave Road, Twickenham, TW1 4ST Ages: 3+ Time: 12.30-3pm Cost: £2 Make a beautiful bug. Then discover bold and bashful mini beasts in the Big Bug Hunt. Booking not required.

020 8744 1241 www.strawberryhillhouse.org.uk 7 JUN WHERE IS THE HEDGEGOG WORKSHOP AT STRAWBERRY HILL HOUSE 268 Waldegrave Road, Twickenham, TW1 4ST Ages: 3-7 Time: 1-3pm Cost: £12 Meet the author, hear the story, go on a habitat treasure hunt and take part in a craft activity. Booking required.

020 8744 1241 www.strawberryhillhouse.org.uk FAMILY ART WORKSHOP IN TEDDINGTON Landmark Arts Centre, Ferry Rd, TW11 9NN Time: 2-4pm Cost: FREE Drop-in session led by a local artist.

No need to book.

020 8977 7558 www.landmarkartscentre.org 50 THINGS TO DO BEFORE 11¾ AT MORDEN HALL PARK Morden Hall Road, Morden SM4 5JD Time: 11am-4pm Cost: £4 Bug hunts, den building, kite making, wild art and outdoor fun.

020 8545 6850 www.nationaltrust.org. uk/morden-hall-park SUNDAY AFTERNOON ART AT ORLEANS HOUSE GALLERY Riverside, Twickenham TW1 3DJ For Ages: 4+ Time: 2-3.30pm Cost: Child £3, extra child £1.50

Drop in family art activities. No booking required.

020 8831 6000 www.richmond.gov.uk/arts 6 TO 7 JUN FUN AND GAMES WITH JAQUES AT HAM HOUSE Ham St, Ham TW10 7RS Time: 10am-4.30pm Cost: Adult £4.50 Child £2.25 Croquet, garden trail, tombola with Jaques prizes, and food and drinks in the garden.

020 8940 1950 www.nationaltrust.org.uk/ham-house 13 JUN SECRET GARDEN AT STRAWBERRY HILL HOUSE 268 Waldegrave Road, Twickenham, TW1 4ST Ages: 3+ Time: 1-3pm Cost: £2 Explore the most secret part of Strawberry Hill’s garden and discover its mystical creatures. Booking not required.

020 8744 1241 www.strawberryhillhouse.org.uk HAM FAIR Ham Common, Upper Ham Road TW10 5LA Time: 11am-4.30pm This traditional village fair boasts a wide variety of stalls with entertainment provided by local schools and other groups. www.hamamenitiesgroup.org.uk SUMMER FAIR AT TWICKENHAM PREPARATORY SCHOOL 43 High St, Hampton TW12 2SA Time: 11am-3pm 13 TO 14 JUN TWICKENHAM RIVERSIDE FESTIVAL The Embankment, Twickenham Time: 10am to 8pm Cost: FREE Dragon Boat Races, live music, children’s fairground and craft, food and sweet stalls. www.twickenhamalive.com

Where theatre begins…

14 JUN TWICKENHAM CARNIVAL Orleans House Gallery, Riverside TW1 3DJ Time: Parade 12.30pm Carnival 1-5pm Cost: FREE A riverside parade leads crowds to the Carnival for an afternoon of live Carnival music and dance, fused with sports games, arts-activities and workshops. www.richmond.gov.uk/twickenham_ carnival 20 JUN WOODLAND ART AT STRAWBERRY HILL HOUSE 268 Waldegrave Road, Twickenham, TW1 4ST Ages: 3+ Time: 12.30-3pm Cost: £2 Create your own nature based artwork. Booking not required.

020 8744 1241 www.strawberryhillhouse.org.uk KEW MIDSUMMER FETE Kew Green TW9 3AP Time: 11am-6pmTraditional village fete in the lovely setting of Kew Green including vintage fairground rides, side show, dog show, tug of war, craft marquee, food and drink and live music. kewfete.org HINCHLEY WOOD SCHOOL SUMMER FAIR Claygate Lane, Esher KT10 0AQ Time: 11.30am-3.30pm Seaside themed fair with helter skelter castle, cream tea and school band/choir. www.hinchley-wood-primary.surrey. sch.uk ROYAL KENT SCHOOL SUMMER FETE Oakshade Road, Oxshott KT22 0LE Time: 12-4pm A fun day out for everyone with Pimms, BBQ, fairground rides, competitions, games and more. www.royal-kent.surrey.sch.uk

17 July – 16 August

Gorilla A magical staging of Anthony Browne’s

Gorilla. Illustration ©Anthony Browne 2015. Adapted and performed by permission of Walker Books Ltd London.

CREATE AND GROW AT SQUIRES GARDEN CENTRES Stoke Rd, Cobham KT11 3PU Burwood Rd, Hersham KT12 4AR Woodstock Lane North, Long Ditton KT 55HN Halliford Rd, Shepperton TW17 8SG Sixth Cross Rd, Twickenham TW2 5PA Time: 9am-12pm Cost: £5 Create your own tasty vegetable box with peppers, lettuce and tomato plants to take home. www.squiresgardencentres.co.uk HALF TERM FAMILY ACTIVITIES AT BROOKLAND’S MUSEUM Brooklands Road, Weybridge KT13 0QN Time: 10.30am-5pm Cost: FREE with Normal Admission Popular car rides, Bertie the Brooklands Bear making guest appearances, trails and family workshops.

01932 857381 www.brooklandsmuseum.com 27 MAY 50 THINGS TO DO BEFORE 11¾ AT OSTERLEY PARK Jersey Road, Isleworth TW7 4RB Time: 12-4pm Cost: FREE with Normal Admission Join in with 50 Things To Do Before You’re 11¾. Collect a scrapbook, join in an adventure, then pick up your sticker.

020 8232 5050 www.nationaltrust.org.uk/ osterley-park SHAUN THE SHEEP AT STRAWBERRY HILL HOUSE 268 Waldegrave Road, Twickenham, TW1 4ST Ages: Under 5s Time: 11am Cost: £7 Come and listen to the adventures of Shaun the Sheep and make your own Shaun to take home. Booking required.

020 8744 1241 www.strawberryhillhouse.org.uk SUPERHEROES AT STRAWBERRY HILL HOUSE 268 Waldegrave Road, Twickenham, TW1 4ST Ages: 5+ Time: 2pm Cost: £9 Turn yourself into a superhero and test your powers. Booking required.

020 8744 1241 www.strawberryhillhouse.org.uk WILD WEDNESDAY AT MORDEN HALL PARK Morden Hall Road, Morden SM4 5JD Time: 10am-1pm Cost: FREE entry to park.

Child £2 Get hands on and help dig for earthworms!

020 8545 6850 www.nationaltrust.org.uk/ morden-hall-park 27 TO 29 MAY WILD LEARNING CLUB AT POLESDEN LACEY Great Bookham, near Dorking RH5 6BD Time: 10.15am-4pm Cost: Child £38 The chance to play, learn and explore all day in safe supervised wood.

01483 424 400 www.nationaltrust.org.uk/ polesden-lacey 28 MAY STICKY FINGER CRAFTS AT OSTERLEY PARK Jersey Road, Isleworth TW7 4RB Time: 12-4pm Cost: FREE with Normal Admission Drop in and let the little ones get creative and crafty.

020 8232 5050 www.nationaltrust.org.uk/ osterley-park THE GEORGIAN SILHOUETTE AT KEW PALACE Royal Botanic Gardens Kew, TW9 3AB Ages: 4-11 Time: 10am-5.30pm Cost: FREE with admission to Kew Gardens Join a specialist artist who will demonstrate how to create beautiful Georgian silhouette drawings and create decorations fit to grace the walls of the palace.

084 4482 7777 www.hrp.org.uk/KewPalace THUMBS UP IT’S THURSDAY IN KINGSTON FREE activities for children aged 2-11 throughout the Town Centre. Storytelling, face painting, craft activities and entertainers. www.kingstonfirst.co.uk

Ages

4 -7

020 8543 4888 www.polkatheatre.com

Polka Theatre, Wimbledon, London SW19 1SB

www.familiesuponthames.co.uk

29

what’s on 20 AND 21 JUN CHALLENGE DAD AT RHS WISLEY Woking GU23 6QB Time: 10am-6pm Cost: FREE with admission Celebrate Father’s weekend in the garden by getting messy and making seeded paper in different shapes to grow in the garden.

0845 260 9000 www.rhs.org.uk/wisley 20 JUN TO 4 JUL IN THE NIGHT GARDEN LIVE Old Deer Park, Richmond TW9 1PQ An amazing musical theatre experience for all the family.

Igglepiggle, Upsy Daisy, Makka Pakka and friends are all brought beautifully

Buy and Sell Maternity, Baby & Kids 0-6

Surbiton Saturday

16 May 20 June 2-4pm St Mark’s Church Hall St Mark’s Hill KT6 4LS

Teddington Saturday

RTISEMENT PROOF 13 June

to life on stage. www.nightgardenlive.com 21 JUN FATHER’S DAY AT CLAREMONT LANDSCAPE GARDEN Portsmouth Rd, Esher KT10 9JG Time: 10am-6pm Cost: FREE for dads with children Includes the Surrey Classic Vehicle Club display.

01372 467806 www.nationaltrust.org.uk FATHER’S DAY AT HAM HOUSE Ham St, Ham TW10 7RS Time: 10am-5pm Cost: FREE for dads with children 020 8940 1950 www.nationaltrust.org.uk FATHER’S DAY AT RHS WISLEY Woking GU23 6QB Treat Dad to a two course “Dad’s favourite” lunch or enjoy a sweet and savoury high tea for all the family with Dad in the Restaurant. Each Dad will receive a gift to take home.

Lunch or High Tea £25 per person.

Booking required.

LOCAL THEATRE

0845 260 9000 www.rhs.org.uk/ wisley FATHER’S DAY PAINSHILL PARK Portsmouth Rd, Cobham KT11 1JE Time: 10am-6pm Cost: FREE for fathers Spend the day with your dad in the beautiful landscape 01932 868 113 www.painshill.co.uk FATHER’S DAY AT KEMPTON STEAM RAILWAY Snakey Lane,Feltham TW13 6XH Time: 10.30am-4pm Cost: Adult £2, Child £1, Under 5s free Dads go FREE. www.hamptonkemptonrailway.org.uk 27 JUN TEDDY BEARS PICNIC AT STRAWBERRY HILL HOUSE 268 Waldegrave Road, Twickenham, TW1 4ST Ages: 3+ Time: 12.30-3pm Cost: £2 Bring your favourite teddy and a picnic and join the storyteller in the grounds of Strawberry Hill. Booking not required.

020 8744 1241 www.strawberryhillhouse.org.uk

27 TO 28 JUN SUMMER GARDEN PARTY AT MORDEN HALL PARK Morden Hall Road, Morden SM4 5JD Time: 11am-5pm Cost: Adult £4, Under 16 FREE Summer garden party amongst the roses with food stalls, cookery demonstrations and vintage rides.

020 8545 6850 www.nationaltrust. org.uk/morden-hall-park 28 JUN NATURAL ART DAY PAINSHILL PARK Portsmouth Rd, Cobham KT11 1JE Time: 10am-6pm Cost: FREE with admission The talented chainsaw carver Rob Beckinsale will create amazing pieces of art from tree stumps and fallen trees.

Also natural art workshops, exhibitions and demonstration by other local artists.

01932 868 113 www.painshill.co.uk TEDDINGTON VILLAGE FAIR Langham Road, TW11 9HQ Time: 12-4pm Cost: FREE Watch the Pram Race finish at the gardens. Live entertainment, music, stalls and much more. www.teddingtonsociety.org.uk

Meet the moggy who transforms his master from a pauper to a prince!

Ages: 4-8 DOT, SQUIGGLE AND REST 26 JUN-16 AUG Sounds, shapes and surprises in a secret musical garden. Ages: 2-4

THE ORANGE TREE THEATRE 1 Clarence Street, Richmond TW9 2SA 020 8940 0141 www.orangetreetheatre.co.uk

THE WINTER’S TALE 6 JUNE 11 July RIVERHOUSE ARTS CENTRE With a drop of Shakespeare’s magic below a proof of your advertisement for the 2-4pm Manor Rd, Walton KT12 2NZ - a statue that springs to life – and a 01932 254 198 family reunited in joy, this is a wintry Teddington October 2014 issue (No. 74) of Families TVE. www.riverhousebarn.co.uk tale that blossoms into a sunshineBaptist Church filled happy ending. Ages: 7+ ARABIAN NIGHTS Church Road 13 JUN CK ALL INFORMATION CORRECTPOLKA THEATRE TW1IS 1 8PF Be transported to a wonderful world RICHMOND THEATRE 240 The Broadway, Wimbledon www.mum2mummarket.co.uk of mysterious marvels and tales The Green, Richmond TW9 1QJ ates, telephone numbers and addresses.SW19 1SB retold, with music, puppetry and 0844 871 7651 020 8543 4888 theatrical magic. Ages: 5+ www.atgtickets www.polkatheatre.com BEN AND HOLLY’S LITTLE KINGDOM SHOE KANGAROO need to be made at this stage.

T: 01628 627586 WATERMANS 23-24 MAY 8-10 MAY 40 High Street, Brentford TW8 0DS Join Ben and Holly, and their friends mendments will be charged for.

Come on a fantastical journey E: editor@familiestveast.co.uk 020 8232 1010 on this exciting, enchanting and to the island of lost shoes with www.watermans.org.uk magical musical adventure packed 50 All Saints Avenue, Maidenhead, clowning, mime and beautifully t us by return Action either packed to amend approve your Ltd. sportor and full of games, songs and laughter.

THE DRAGON’S TALE crafted puppets. Ages: 4-7 Bespoke Agency Agency- Flexible Live-In Domestic Help 3 MAY t.

Berkshire, SL6 6NA activity parties for kids 3+ ELVES & THE SHOEMAKER BALLET MRS MCMOON’S TEA PARTY - Childcare: Au Pair, Mother’s Help, House-keeper an original and whimsical reinterpre9-10 MAY 16-17 MAY Call Matt: 07729 : Companion, Carer 421949 - Elderly tation of George and the Dragon, A 40 min ballet created especially Explore a world of daring Call 0333 800 8085 told in a series of flashbacks by the www.sportpartieslondon.com for children which will delight and adventures, mischief, surprise and www.heavenlyaupairs.com info@heavenlyaupairs.com ageing Dragon himself, and his entertain audiences of all ages. laughter with Mrs McMoon. troupe of glove puppets. Ages: All Ages: 3-6 PLUS Art ‘n’ Craft Family Workshop THE ROSE THEATRE Ltd. UP IN THE ATTIC at 2pm and 4pm (booking required).

24-26 High Street, Kingston 23 MAY Bespoke Agency Agency- Flexible Live-In Domestic Help KT1 1HL ME AND MY CAT Join three children on a bedtime - Childcare: Au Pair, Mother’s Help, House-keeper 10 MAY 08444 821 556 adventure in this story about - Elderly: Companion, Carer This fast paced action packed story www.rosetheatrekingston.org friendship and overcoming your Call 0333 800 8085 is based on the book by award THE TIGER WHO CAME TO TEA fears.

Ages: 3-6 www.heavenlyaupairs.com info@heavenlyaupairs.com winning Japanese children’s author 26-31 MAY CASA…HOME and illustrator, Satoshi Kitamura.

A delightful family show packed with 27-31 MAY Ages: 6+ oodles of magic, sing-a-long songs A warm and tender play about and clumsy chaos! Ages: 3+ ONE LITTLE WORD building relationships, dependency 17 MAY STICK MAN and growing up. Ages: 2-4 Will captivate children’s imaginations 24-25 MAY THE COSMIC DANCER with a moving gentle story of Touching, funny and utterly original, 27-31 MAY friendship told with original music this delightful adaptation of Julia Exquisite balletic charm is and just ONE spoken word.

Ages: 3-6 Donaldson and Axel Scheffler’s combined with swirling digital hugely popular children’s book RED RIDING HOOD projections, set to Debussy’s rich 24 MAY features a trio of top actors and is and evocative music. Ages: 4-8 A rich mix of puppetry, music, song, packed full of puppetry, songs, live BIG RED BATH inventive staging and witty dialogue. music and funky moves. Ages: 3+ 3-7 JUN Ages: 4+ ALIENS LOVE UNDERPANTS A barmy, bubbly bath time PLUS Art ‘n’ Craft Family Workshop at 26-28 JUN adventure based on the book by 2pm and 4pm (booking required).

With stunning effects, madcap Julia Jarman. Ages: 3-5 action, original music (and lots of MY FRIEND MOLE A FISHY TALE 26 & 27 MAY aliens of course!) this fantastically 5-7 JUN A tender story exploring the fresh and funny production will Follow the tale of the poignancy and humour of the delight the whole family.

Litterbug who uses the relationship between a boy and his Ages: All Original Ceramics - Painted By You sea as a dustbin. imaginary friends. Containing live Ages: 4-7 Studio Hours: music and original songs. Ages: 3+ LANDMARK ARTS CENTRE THE BOCKETY WORLD OF Tues-Sat 10am-6pm Ferry Rd, Teddington TW11 9NN SIGNOR BAFFO’S RESTAURANT HENRY AND BUCKET 31 MAY 020 8977 7558 Sunday 11am-6pm 1-3 MAY What’s the best way to mix meatballs www.landmarkartscentre.org Closed Mon, except Bank A day in the life of with spaghetti?

How do you make THE ARABIAN NIGHTS two friends who live Holidays and Half Terms a chicken lay an egg, and how does 27 MAY in a bockety world of www.ceramicscafe.com a sausage roll?

All is revealed in the Be transported to a wonderful world discarded objects.

Tel: 020 8332 6661 charming culinary chaos of Signor of mysterious marvels and tales Ages: 4+ Baffo’s kitchen. Ages: 5+ retold with music, puppetry and PUSS IN BOOTS 1a Mortlake Terrace, Kew Green theatrical magic.

17-28 JUN Richmond TW9 3DT Top sellers make over £300! Stalls sell out weeks in advance.

Book yours now!

Thames Valley East

Heavenly Au Pairs

Heavenly Au Pairs

Ceramics Café Kew

30

www.familiesuponthames.co.uk

May/June 2015

what’s on HAVE A GO AT ARCHERY DAY CLAREMONT LANDSCAPE GARDEN Portsmouth Rd, Esher KT10 9JG Time: 10.30am-4.30pm Cost: £2 plus admission One to one tuition in the ancient and noble art of archery.

01372 467806 www.nationaltrust.org. uk/claremont-landscape-garden NEARLY NEW SALES MUM2MUM www.mum2mummarket.co.uk TEDDINGTON SAT 9 MAY AND SAT 13 JUN, 2-4PM Teddington Baptist Church, Church Rd, TW11 8PF CLAYGATE SUN 10 MAY, 2-4PM Claygate Village Hall, Church Rd KT10 0JP SURBITON SAT 16 MAY AND SAT 20 JUN, 2-4PM St Marks Church Hall, Surbiton KT6 4LS ISLEWORTH SAT 30 MAY AND SAT 27 JUN, 3-5PM The Blue School, North Road, Isleworth, TW7 6RQ NCT www.nct.org.uk

5 JUL BURHILL SCHOOL SUMMER FAIR New Berry Lane, Walton KT12 4HR Time: 11am-3pm Bouncy castles, sumo suits, line dancing, slides, singing, face painting, fun and food and drink stalls with barbeque, cake,coffee and tea, and ice cream. www.burhill.surrey.sch.uk HERSHAM SAT 16 MAY, 10am Bell Farm School, Hersham Rd KT12 5NB TWICKENHAM 6 JUN, 10-11.30am All Hallows Church, Erncroft Way, TW1 1EN BYFLEET SAT 13 JUN, 2.30-4PM Byfleet Village Hall, 54 High Rd, KT14 7QL CLAYGATE SUN 14 JUN, 12-2PM Claygate Day Centre, Elm Rd KT10 0JP OTHER EAST MOLESEY SUN 10 MAY, 1.30-3.30PM Imber Court, East Molesey KT8 0BT www.nearlynewforsurreysands. weebly.com

SUMMER FUN

ON THE FARM

WWW.HOUNDSLOWURBANFARM.CO.UK

© National Trust Images. Registered charity number 205846.

Richmond Old Deer Park 20 Jun - 4 Jul

Me

Upsy Det a after th isy show! * e Book now and save £5 with this coupon!*

NightGardenLive.com No booking fee online or call 0333 300 0016 (bkg fee)

SAVE UP TO

USE CODE

HURRY85B VALID UNTIL 30-Jun-2015

off orders over £60 or 5% off orders under £60 NightGardenLive.com • call 0333 300 0016 (bkg fee) *Coupon worth £5 off orders over £60, or 5% off orders under £60 and expires 30 Jun 2015. Subject to availability, Meeting a Character requires an additional ticket which can only be bought with tickets to the main performance. Ts & Cs apply, see www.NightGardenLive.com. © 2015 DHX Worldwide Limited.

In the Night Garden and all related characters, titles and logos are trademarks of DHX Worldwide Limited. All rights reserved.

www.familiesuponthames.co.uk

May-June 2015 FamAd_UponThames_87x175_052015.indd 1

02/04/2015 19:48

31

Maths & English tuition centre For 5 to 14 year olds of all abilities • • • •

Courses mapped to the National Curriculum.

Adapts to the individual needs of your child.

Convenient for families - Open 7 days a week.

Ofsted registered - we accept Childcare Vouchers.

Free trial session - book today!

Hampton 0208 9797117 Hounslow 0203 5358039 Walton on Thames 01932 252033 www.explorelearning.co.uk

“Explore Learning members’ improvement in maths was 30% higher than that of the comparison group after controlling for gender, age, year group and special educational needs.”

Independent Efficacy Study by the Institute of Education at Reading University (2013). See www.explorelearning.co.uk/efficacy.

are s c ild her ! h C uc pted Vo acce

Families upon Thames is designed by Sarah Harmer and printed by Warners, in Lincolnshire. Copyright, Families upon Thames magazine 2015. Colour transparencies and any other original materials submitted for publication are sent at owner’s risk and, while every care is taken, neither Families nor its agents accept liabilty for loss or damage. Families upon Thames is part of the Families Group, established in 1990 and headed by Families South West. All franchised magazines in the group are independently owned and operated under liscense. We take every care preparing this magazine but the publishers and distributors cannot be held responsible for the claims of the advertisers nor for the accuracy of the contents nor for any consequence.