Families upon thames issue 108 Mar-Apr 2016 by Families Magazine

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March/April 2016 Issue 108

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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 7,200 followers!

Make sure you pick up our May/June issue and get set for summer! Out on 3 May!

Contents

TO ADVERTISE IN THIS MAGAZINE CONTACT:

Page 4 Page 6 Page 7 Page 8 Page 9 Page 19 Page 25 Page 26 Page 30 Page 37 Page 38

Family Health and Wellbeing Pregnancy, Birth and Beyond Early Years Care and Education Parenting Education Focus Easter Days Out Parties Easter Workshops Classes, Clubs and Activities Local Theatre What’s On

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FAMILY HEALTH AND WELLBEING IDENTIFYING MENTAL HEALTH DISORDERS IN CHILDREN By Dr Sumi Soori Mental health disorders are more common in children than you might think. In fact, the national data currently available reveals that one in ten children between ages 5 and 16 suffer from a diagnosable mental health condition. Studies have shown that children with a psychiatric disorder are three times as likely to experience a mental health disorder in adulthood. When mental illness persists into adulthood, it is also associated with poorer academic/career performance and social functioning, greater involvement in crime, and a risk of recurrent depression and suicide. Clearly, early treatment for childhood mental health conditions is therefore essential. Children in the following situations are at higher risk of experiencing a mental health condition: ✱ Being bullied ✱ Experiencing loss eg bereavement ✱ Having a long term physical illness ✱ Having a parent with mental illness ✱ Being a “looked after”child ✱ Having drug or alcohol use within family ✱ Being abused or suffering family discord Knowing the Signs The signs of mental illness in children can include: Mood changes: persistent sadness/ withdrawal or mood swings Intense worry: overwhelming fear which is

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intense enough to interfere with daily activities Difficulty concentrating: poor school performance Persistent boredom Unexplained weight loss Frequent complaints of physical symptoms, such as headaches and stomach aches Sleep and/or appetite problems, nightmares, sleepwalking Regressive behaviour patterns e.g. bedwetting, tantrums, becoming clingy Risk-taking behaviour and/ or showing less concern for their own safety Self-harm Substance abuse: some children resort to drugs or alcohol to try to cope with their feelings What to Do If you’re concerned, take your child to a GP. Before you go, speak to your child’s teacher, friends and other family members to see if they’ve noticed any changes in their behaviour, which will be helpful information for the doctor. The doctor will establish the history of the problem, examine your child and work with you to determine the diagnosis, based on criteria in The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental disorders (DSM). It’s important to seek advice as early as possible because early support and treatment produces better results for children, and more positive, long-term benefits. Common Childhood Mental Health Disorders Anxiety Disorders These include obsessive-compulsive disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder, social phobia and generalised anxiety disorder. Children can also suffer from separation anxiety, which is common in children starting school or whose parents have separated. Depression Depression occurs at a rate of about 1% during childhood and around 5% during adolescence, affecting up to about 20% of adolescents by the time they reach adulthood.

Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) This affects 8-10% of school age children, and is more common in boys than girls. About half of children who are diagnosed as having ADHD are thought to continue to have significant symptoms of the disorder into adulthood. People with this disorder are at higher risk of lower educational achievement and of job and relationship loss in adult life. Eating Disorders These usually start in the teenage years and are more common in girls than boys.The number of young people who develop an eating disorder is small, but eating disorders such as anorexia nervosa and bulimia nervosa can have serious consequence for their physical health and development.

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Dr Sumi Soori (MBBS, MRCGP, DRCOG) is a Private General Practitioner at Roseneath Medical Practice in Richmond. She has a strong interest in paediatrics and women’s health. The Practice’s list is open to new patients and it now offers extended opening hours, including some Sundays. For further information, visit www.roseneath.co.uk

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FAMILY HEALTH AND WELLBEING

THE BENEFITS OF DENTAL ORTHOPAEDIC CARE FOR CHILDREN By Dr Michael Nigro BDS (Rand) Monitoring the growth and development of a child is essential and should include the development of the jaw. This usually forms part of a child’s routine dental check up and should be done as early as possible, as the majority of children have jaws that are not developing correctly! Some parents may remember having teeth removed as youngsters in order to make space in their mouths for their other teeth. What some may not know, is that this could have been avoided had the correct treatment been carried out earlier on. Children with jaw development problems often have breathing issues, amongst others. If not corrected, these problems are compounded in adulthood. Temporomandibular (jaw) joint problems, bite problems,

clenching and teeth grinding at night, and an unattractive facial profile are all the result of incorrect jaw development not being corrected in a timely way. The two main problems encountered in children are jaws that are not the correct size and jaws that are not in the correct position. Both situations are treatable with Orthopaedics. Functional Jaw Orthopaedics simply means changing the size, shape and relationship of the jaws in order to create symmetry. Dental Orthopaedics works to increase tongue, airway space and space for teeth in a small mouth, and this is best tackled during the jaw growth phase. This means that those with available growth (children at age 6 or 7) have the best chance of an ideal result. Early intervention with Orthopaedics is therefore essential. The treatment involves the child wearing a simple brace (often

FREE CONSULTATION FOR ALL NEW DENTAL PATIENTS

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removable and colourful) and is painless. The brace assists the jaws to grow to the correct size and helps to position them correctly. Orthopaedics will help permanent teeth grow into the right places, reducing and in most cases, eliminating altogether the need for extractions. The end result is a child that has unobstructed breathing, the correct bite, a happy TM joint, a normal face profile - and, of course, doesn’t lose any healthy teeth! Why Choose Orthopaedics? ✱ Reduce or eliminate the need for extractions ✱ Improve your child’s smile –

people with nice, broad smiles tend to smile more often! ✱ Give a more balanced bite and jaws ✱ Correct small problems before they get any bigger – prevention is better than cure! ✱ Preserve or gain space for erupting permanent teeth ✱ Simplify and shorten treatment with orthodontic braces

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Dr Michael Nigro (BDS) (Rand) is a Senior Partner at Roseneath Dental Practice in Richmond and has provided high quality dentistry to the local community for over 20 years. Roseneath Dental Practice offers a FREE consultation for all new patients. For more information, visit www.roseneath.co.uk

Wellbeing groups forinformation, pregnant For further visit www.nhs.uk FREE women and new mums • Improve your confidence • Meet other mums • Overcome stress, low mood and anxiety

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. Pregnancy, Birth and Beyond .

HOW TALKING CAN SUPPORT WOMEN THROUGH PREGNANCY AND THE POST NATAL PERIOD By Dr Annabelle Norman When you’re expecting or have recently had a baby, there can be an expectation that you should be happy and excited, but it’s also very common to feel scared, worried, low and upset. These feelings can be slight or, at times, overwhelming, and it can be difficult to share your concerns with those closest to you. And it’s not only women who can experience this - fathers can be greatly affected too.

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Sara’s son, Sammy, was 3 months old. It was difficult for him to breastfeed and he had colic so cried frequently. Sara felt sad, upset and anxious, telling herself “I’m a bad mother,” “I can’t cope” and “he doesn’t love me.” Sara had struggled to conceive Sammy so she felt guilty that she was not enjoying motherhood. She would not pick Sammy up when he cried and would only interact with him if her partner was around. Eventually, Sara’s partner encouraged her to seek help, which she found at Hounslow IAPT (Improving Access to Psychological Therapies). Hounslow IAPT offers FREE talking therapy and groups for people with emotional difficulties who want to overcome their problems.

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Dr Annabelle Norman is Deputy Clinical Lead, Senior Counselling Psychologist, Hounslow IAPT. For more information, visit www.hounslowiapt.nhs.uk

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Sara started attending the Wellbeing for Mums group at which she realised that it’s normal to struggle with a new baby. She noticed the impact of her thoughts and behaviours and learnt to adjust her high expectations of herself and to be happy being a “good enough parent.” Through therapy, she started to face her fears and spend more time with her son. She began to feel more confident taking care of him and joined baby classes at her local children’s centre, which gave her the opportunity to meet other mothers. She also found ways to schedule time for herself even if it was just going for walks or meeting up with friends. Sara realised that, over time, small changes can have a big effect. Hounslow IAPT often sees women who are feeling stressed, low or anxious about pregnancy or motherhood and it encourages people to visit as soon as they are struggling, rather than waiting for the problems to get worse. The team is experienced in dealing with a range of problems such as low self-esteem, trauma, depression, anxiety and relationship problems. Treatment focusses on cognitivebehavioural therapy (CBT) which offers practical ways to change unhelpful thoughts and behaviours. Wellbeing for Mums is a CBT-based group for mothers, at which they can learn techniques to manage negative thoughts, improve self-confidence and develop relaxation skills, as well as meet women in similar situations. CBT aims to help people become their own therapist. If CBT is not for you, Hounslow IAPT also offers a choice of other talking therapies including Interpersonal Psychotherapy, Counselling, Couples Therapy and Mindfulness. New and expectant mothers are prioritised for assessment and therapy and you can self-refer through the Hounslow IAPT website. Assessments are also offered at West Middlesex Hospital, so you can easily be referred by your midwife.

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. Early Years Care and Education .

PREPARING FOR PRESCHOOL By Linda Stone, Editor

Pre-school, whether at a nursery or within a daycare setting, offers kids experiences they may not get at home. It teaches them how to get along with others and prepares them for starting school. Importantly, pre-school teaches kids to take turns, follow directions, tidy up, stand in line, sit in a circle, raise their hands, and use words to express themselves. If they master these social skills early, they will be well-prepared for Reception. Here are some tips to help you prepare your child for pre-school. Teach your Child to Follow Directions. Practice at home by giving simple instructions such as “Please help me pick up your toys and put them away.” Encourage your child to co-operate by offering an incentive, like a sticker or a visit to the playground. An incentive

helps your child understand that following directions makes other fun activities possible. If he doesn’t follow your directions, calmly explain that he won’t be able to have a sticker or go to the playground. Praise your child

when he is successful. Help your Child Master Sharing and Turn Taking. From ages 3 to 5, children tend to hoard coveted toys and objects. They are not really ready to grasp the concept of sharing yet. You

can help by encouraging your little one to “take turns” with toys and praising him when he shares on his own. To help him develop the empathy that true sharing requires, state what he did and how it makes others feel, such as “Thank you for sharing. It makes your sister feel good when you share the ball.” Your child should be able to “own” special or new toys though, so keep them out of sight on play dates or in his room away from siblings. Hone your Child’s Listening Skills. Help your preschooler hone her listening skills by asking her to wait to speak until whoever is speaking has finished. When it’s her turn to speak, thank her for being patient and a good listener. Explain that being a good listener shows respect for the speaker, whether it’s you, her sibling or her friends. If she continues to interrupt, keep reminding her that she’ll get the chance to talk. Becoming a good listener can take lots of practice!

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By Liat Hughes-Joshi

Confidence is just as important in life – if not more so – than a brace of A grades or endless extra-curricular skills. It’s vital to emotional wellbeing and something most of us hope our children will develop. Confidence is about being comfortable with who you are, willing to give things a go - even if you’re not sure you’ll succeed and trusting your own abilities and judgement. But how can we instil this feeling in our children, particularly if it doesn’t come naturally to them? Accept your Child’s Starting Point Not all children – or adults – are confident by nature and whilst we can encourage self-belief, transforming a shy or anxious child into the life and soul of the party, is probably an unrealistic aim. Try to avoid telling your child that you wish they were more confident or less shy. In effect, you’re saying you don’t value them as they are – a real confidence crusher. Accept your child’s personality and ‘starting point.’ It’s fine if this is difference to yours, or that of their siblings or friends. Don’t Force Your Child In most scenarios, one of the worst things you can do for a young child who’s unsure is to push them in at the deep end with something when they aren’t ready. They need to trust you when taking on new experiences. Pushing them damages that trust. Take Small Steps to Encourage Confidence Find opportunities to stretch your child just a bit beyond

their comfort zone. That could be taking them to a friend’s house and leaving once they are comfortable, rather than insisting they stay alone from the start. Next time, they might be happy to do the whole thing alone. Work out their Fears Often a child will have niggling worries holding them back in a specific situation. Try to pin down their exact concerns. Address these concerns, provide plenty of reassurance that they will be okay, that what others think doesn’t matter and that you are there for them. Talk about similar situations when you have been afraid of something, especially as a child, and how it worked out for you.

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Keep Praise Special These days, there’s a tendency to be super-positive and heap on the ‘fabulous, you’re the best child ever’ comments every other second – sometimes it feels like we should be praising our kids simply for breathing. But if you tell them everything they do is wonderful all the time, positivity loses power. Keep praise for when it’s truly warranted and focus on effort rather than just results. This way, when they do something really amazing, your comments will have more impact. Find their Forte and Allow it to Flourish If your child doesn’t do so well academically or at the usual extra-curricular activities at school, this can undermine their self-esteem. Seek opportunities for them to try other, more unusual activities out of school and highlight their positive personality traits such as being especially kind or a good organiser.

Let them ‘Have a Go’– Land that Helicopter! Helicopter parenting – hovering over your child, stepping in to resolve the slightest issue or prevent them from failing – is a barrier to building confidence. Children need to find their own solutions, attempt things their way sometimes and take sensible risks. Sure, you can guide and advise but try not to jump in and take over too quickly. Whether it’s allowing your three-year-old to choose her own outfit or your ten-year-old to walk to the post box alone, letting go is a crucial confidence builder.

extra

Liat Hughes Joshi is a Parenting Journalist and author of books including New Old-Fashioned Parenting and How to Unplug Your Child (Summersdale) and Raising Children: The Primary Years (Pearson).

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EDUCATION FOCUS SPRING 2016 Encouraging Attainment

SCHOOLS NEWS

EDUCATION FOCUS SPRING 2016 Encouraging Attainment

OUTSTANDING 7+ SUCCESS FOR ATHELSTAN HOUSE!

Year 2 children at Athelstan House School in Hampton have again made parents and teachers proud after their amazing performance at the recent 7+ assessments. Children received offers from multiple independent schools including Lady Eleanor Holles, Newland House, Twickenham Prep and St Catherine’s, giving their parents the pick of the bunch. One

pupil received four offers, beating stiff competition to come in the top three highest achieving candidates at two of the schools she was put forward for. None of the children required any independent coaching in order to achieve these results. The small class sizes at Athelstan House mean that teachers understand each child’s needs and learning style so well, that they can ensure each maximises his or her potential, without additional tuition. One parent commented “what is so special about Athelstan is that teachers have the time to really give each child exactly what they need to do the very best they can.”

Pupils at Staines Preparatory School have been embracing cross-cultural learning with a new international link with Springwood School in Neemuch, Maydhya Pradesh, India. Pupils have spent many months forging friendships with children from Springwood School, corresponding during PSHE lessons to share experiences about their life in and out of school. In December, the school welcomed teaching staff from Springwood, who observed school life and teaching methods and talked to the children about life in India. In January, two Staines Prep teachers travelled

to India to enjoy the same experience. The International School Link programme, run by the British Council, is designed to promote an appreciation and understanding of other cultures, encouraging young people to play a positive role in today’s society. Learning first-hand about the culture and values of others, supports the School’s vision of encouraging children to be responsible, young global citizens.

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

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

HAMPTON PREP SCHOOL OPENS ITS DOORS!

CHARITY IS CLOSE TO THE HEART AT TWICKENHAM PREP!

It’s been an exciting start to the second half of term for Hampton Pre-Prep & Prep School (formerly Denmead School). Pupils and staff were delighted to move into their brand new prep school building which offers a wonderful purpose-built learning environment with fantastic facilities. The state-of-the-art building

has a ‘living roof’ covered in alpine plants and ground source heat pumps which help keep the building warm in the winter and cool during the summer. Sport and outdoor play are both integral to the School’s curriculum, and as well as newly-laid grass playing fields, pupils will enjoy an all-weather games area. Inside, the building is light and spacious. Alongside eight classrooms, there are two IT suites, a purpose-built art room, welcoming library, two music rooms, and an attractive hall. (Denmead School has been part of the Hampton Trust since 1999. It was renamed Hampton Pre-Prep & Prep School in February 2016)

For further information, visit www.hamptonprep.org.uk 10

STAINES PREP EMBRACES NEW INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL LINK!

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Twickenham Prep School in Hampton is delighted to continue its support of disadvantaged children in Africa through one of its chosen charities Street Child Africa. Following its most recent charity day last term, the children presented Street Child Africa with a cheque for £975. Over the years, the School has raised a grand total of £17,700 for this very worthwhile charity through charity days organised by the children during which they sell cakes and run games and stalls. The School’s Parent’s Committee also made donations to Solving Kid’s Cancer and Shooting Star

Chase last term, with funds raised through community events, such as quiz nights, a summer fair and fireworks. The total amount donated by the School over the last 10 years is an impressive £50,000. Twickenham Prep is proud to support these local charities which are close to the heart of the School community.

For further information, visit www.twickenhamprep.co.uk March-April 2016

ATHELSTAN HOUSE SCHOOL 020 8979 1045 admin@athelstanhouseschool.co.uk 36 Percy Road Hampton Middlesex TW12 2LA

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11 11

TESTING TIMES PREPARING YOUR CHILD FOR SATS EDUCATION FOCUS SPRING 2016 Encouraging Attainment

By Robina Cowen

high expectations for all pupils, Love them or loathe them, SATs the unintended outcome is that tests have been controversial As recommended by many schools have felt under since they were first introduced pressure to ‘teach to the test’ for 7 year oldsastray? in 1991. Added Kids’ uniform going BUY OF THE DAYand are drilling pupils to do well. to GCSEs, AS and A Levels, That pressure in turn filters down children in the UK are now to the pupils. among the most tested pupils need Parents can do a lot to help in the world. children take tests in their stride The rationale behind the tests is and deal with the pressure they hold one-snap schools accountable, and Thetoeasy feel. to drive up standards by giving way parents to labelthe clothing! Here are some Dos and Don’ts: power to choose ✘ Don’t let your child pick up schools based on performance on any anxieties you might have PUSH—CLICK— SNAPPED ON! league tables. This puts pressure Brought by Say It Personally about Ltd the tests. Your child will on schools to make sure allto you pupils perform better if relaxed and reach, or indeed exceed, Call: the (0844) 5611994 they will only be relaxed if you Level 2 at age 7, and bs on theirexpected clothes... www.snappytags.co.uk are! Level 4 at age 11, so the school ✘ Don’t abandon all their usual can secure a good place in the after school activities in test week league table. ✘ Don’t try last minute cramming While no one would argue or overdo the practice papers at about the need for schools to be home. accountable or the need to have As recommended by

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On the other hand: ✔ Do make sure they get to bed on time and are fully rested (not always easy when lighter evenings kick in) ✔ Do send them off to school with a decent breakfast inside them ✔ Do reassure them that you will be happy as long as they have tried their best ✔ Do remember that secondary schools nearly always re-test children in September and often again at the end of year 7, so SATS are not the be-all-and-end-all of their education

What else can you do to help in the run up to SATs? Remind your child to read all of the question. Many pupils get caught out by not reading a question in full. A good way of making sure they’ve really understood what is being asked of them is to underline the key words Advise your child to skip difficult questions and go back later if they have time. Even a confident child can get thrown if they get stuck on an unfamiliar problem. Moving on to questions they can do will stop the panic setting in, and they won’t waste time and forfeit easy marks elsewhere Reinforce with your child that they should show all workings out in maths. They can pick up marks for method even if a calculation error means they get the wrong answer When reading comprehension, remind your child that three mark questions will mean they should give fuller answers than one mark questions. This seems obvious to an adult used to sitting exams but is not always obvious to a child If they finish before time’s up, tell your child to use the extra minutes to check their work. It gives them a chance to correct any silly mistakes and can mean additional marks. It’s really beneficial if you can help your child cope well with SATs. This will mean they will find it easier to stay calm as they get older and the pressure ratchets up for GCSEs and A-levels.

Claremont Fan Court School An independent co-educational school for pupils aged 2½ to 18 years

Open Morning Whole School - 10.00am - 12.30pm Introductory talk at 10.00am Saturday 12 March

For further information, tel 01372 473624 or email info@claremont.surrey.sch.uk Prospective families are very welcome to attend. For further information please telephone 01372 473624 or email info@claremont.surrey.sch.uk

Brought to you by Say It Personally Ltd

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March-April 2016

14/07/2015 20:50

SCHOOLS NEWS ONCE UPON A TIME AT CLAREMONT FAN COURT PRE-PREP AND NURSERY!

Learning through fairy tales is a creative way to provide the children in the early years with an enchanting platform from which to learn and develop basic skills in literacy and numeracy. When the Three Bears visited the Nursery at Claremont Fan Court School in Esher, the children

made porridge, sorted objects according to size and made bear puppets to act out the story. The Reception classes were so upset on behalf of the three little pigs that they wrote to the wolf to request he didn’t blow any more houses down! To their delight he replied explaining that he had a bad cold that day and it was his sneezing that had caused the damage. So all a big misunderstanding! The children decided to forgive the wolf and sent him a big box of tissues, just in case.

☛

For further information, visit www.claremont-school.co.uk

NOTRE DAME HEAD PUBLISHES HEAD TEACHER IN YOUR POCKET: THE ESSENTIAL GUIDE TO YOUR PREP SCHOOL! Choosing a school and navigating your way through the prep school years can be challenging and confusing. Society and the media often place much emphasis on academic and instant results and pay less attention to the pastoral development of the whole child. Merinda D’Aprano, Head of Prep at Notre Dame School, has over 25 years’ experience teaching in the independent sector. Ms D’Aprano began writing an educational blog a couple of years ago in response to questions parents asked throughout their child’s prep school journey. The blog became a book, and together with Elizabeth O’Shea, a leading parenting expert, she has written a comprehensive guide to navigating the prep school years both

educationally and pastorally. Head Teacher in your Pocket: The Essential Guide to your Prep School by Merinda D’Aprano is priced at £9.99 and available from Amazon bookstore.

For further information, visit www.notredame.co.uk March-April 2016

www.familiesuponthames.co.uk

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SCHOOLS NEWS

EDUCATION FOCUS SPRING 2016 Encouraging Attainment

ECO-INITIATIVE AT NEWLAND HOUSE SCHOOL! Four boys from Newland House School have started an unusual and exciting eco-initiative to find an alternative cleaning product to White Spirit, which is harmful to the environment. Conor, Joe, Charlie and Elliot, approached B&Q, which sells millions of litres of White Spirit annually, with ideas on reducing White Spirit usage and encouraging consumers to switch to other safer brush cleaners. At a meeting with B&Q’s Director of Sustainability, the boys were advised that thorough testing of an alternative product was required. The team has now secured the support of the Hampton-based Paint Research

Association to help with the project. Last month, the team presented their findings at the B&Q Head Office and are now in the process of designing and making test equipment. The boys have now been selected as finalists in the National Scientists and Engineers Competition to be held at the NEC in Birmingham this month.

For further information, visit www.newlandhouse.net

SENIOR SCHOOL FAIR AT THE MALL SCHOOL! giving them two more years at prep school, before moving to senior school. It firmly believes this is The Mall School in Twickenham will be holding a Senior School Fair on Saturday, 19 March from 9am to 12pm. The fair will be open to all and will offer an opportunity for parents of boys to meet representatives from a range of 13+ day and boarding schools. The Mall prepares boys to move to their next school at the end of Year 8 when they are 13,

advantageous to boys, who, maturing later than girls, are often not ready to move to senior school at age 11. An additional two years at The Mall School means boys have the opportunity to acquire the knowledge, skills and confidence which will stand them in good stead for their next school, including embarking on a comprehensive leadership programme.

For further information, visit www.themallschool.org.uk 14

www.familiesuponthames.co.uk

THAMES CHRISTIAN COLLEGE HELPS STUDENTS USE SOCIAL MEDIA BENEFICIALLY! Thames Christian College prioritises the need to help pupils develop good social skills and navigate friendships. In a world where teenagers’ use of social media has increased vastly, this includes teaching pupils to use social media to their advantage in a safe, beneficial way. Thames has recently introduced Thinking Breakfasts, at which pupils gather over hot chocolate and croissants to discuss a modern day moral or value-based dilemma. A recent topic on social media, song lyrics and music videos provided a

forum for pupils to explore how online culture can affect them. They discussed ways in which they can be more self-aware and assertive about what they choose to look at online. Year 11s at Thames Christian College are also learning how to build a strong, positive online presence, using CV+ to help them present themselves in a fun and mature way to future employers.

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

HALLIFORD VICTORIOUS IN RUGBY! The U12 Rugby team of Halliford School in Shepperton has won the Middlesex Schools 2015 Rugby Cup, defeating Greycourt, Vyners and St Benedicts schools along the way. In the final, Halliford played Hampton School and despite a great defensive effort from its local rival, the Halliford boys posted an impressive 22-0 victory. The Director of Sport, Mr Ian Bardgett said “This is the second time in four seasons that our U12 Rugby side have won the County Cup. This achievement is even more remarkable given that we

only pick from 66 boys.” The victory was a fitting end to the career of Deputy Head, Richard Talbot, the coach of the U12 side, who retires at the end of this academic year. “In 26 seasons at the school I have not seen a better side and the strength of the school’s rugby is as high as it has ever been” he comments.

For further information, visit www.hallifordschool.co.uk March-April 2016

Newland House School Independent Preparatory Day School for Girls and Boys from 4 to 13 years

Welcome Events 18 March 29 April 10 June Call now to conﬁrm your place or to arrange an individual tour of the Pre-Prep or Prep School

New Pre-Prep Opens September 2016 Providing an inspirational, sustainable and innovative learning environment Additional places available in Reception from 2016 onwards Register now for entry up to 2020

t: 020 8865 1305 e: admissions@newlandhouse.net www.newlandhouse.net Newland House School, Waldegrave Park, Twickenham TW1 4TQ

INDEPENDENT DAY SCHOOL FOR BOYS AGED 4 -13 YEARS

☛ Halliford School - Shepperton

Independent School for boys 11 - 18 and girls 16 - 18 Set in six acres close to the River Thames

OPEN EVENTS Come and see The Mall School, meet the team and tour our state of the art facilities. Let our boys welcome you and show you the school through their eyes.

TUESDAY 23 FEBRUARY 2016 9.00am – 11.30am THURSDAY 17 MARCH 2016 9.00am – 11.30am Please email: admissions@themallschool.org.uk to book your place Or call: 020 8614 1082

www.themallschool.org.uk

OPEN DAYS 2016

Thursday 3rd and Tuesday 8th March Tours at 9.30am and 11.30am (by appointment)

Thursday 5th May Tours at 9.30am and 11.30am (by appointment) We are delighted to announce that Halliford School has been awarded Gold for Best Performance by Boys taking Art & Design (Fine Art) and Drama & Theatre Studies at an English Independent School Good Schools Guide Awards 2015 Small school where pupils are known as individuals Excellent A Level and GCSE results Scholarships and Bursaries available

185 Hampton Road, Twickenham, Middlesex TW2 5NQ

Bringing out the best in every boy March-April 2016

School buses serve a wide area Please contact the Registrar registrar@halliford.net

Telephone 01932 223593 www.hallifordschool.co.uk

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EDUCATION FOCUS SPRING 2016 Encouraging Attainment

HOW DO I PREPARE MY CHILD FOR THE 11+? By Nicola Wheeler

The 11+ is an assessment taken by pupils in Year 6 of primary school as an entrance examination into both non-fee paying state grammar schools and independent fee-paying schools. The assessment can cover four key areas: English, maths, non-verbal reasoning and verbal reasoning. However, not all assessments are the same. Some schools expect pupils to sit an examination in all four of the above areas, whilst others, for example, assess only non-verbal and verbal reasoning. Similarly, different

schools have different pass mark requirements; for example, some schools set the pass mark at 50% and rely heavily on a follow up interview to evaluate the suitability of the student for the school. Others will have a particular cut-off pass mark and a standardised system of marking.

www.familiesuponthames.co.uk

How Do I Know What the Pass Mark Is? Parents are strongly advised to contact their target schools for specific admissions information. Forums can also provide further insight into expected pass marks and the other requirements of specific schools, but be aware that these may change annually. Some schools now offer a 10+ examination. Whilst there are fewer places available at this stage, students are often able to apply for the 11+ in the following year, if they do not pass Should I Engage a Tutor? To be frank, not all children need a tutor; some are very capable of working independently at home and there are a lot of good books and internet resources available. Your child’s teacher should be able to give you an unbiased opinion of different schools, their suitability for your child, your child’s potential and whether he/ she needs help preparing for the 11+. Many children do need some type of guidance, whether with a one-to-one tutor or within a group setting. However, it’s important to understand that tutoring is an emotional, financial and physical commitment with best results achieved when you commit to it for at least a year. What Sort of Tuition Does My Child Need? Group tuition is very popular as children find the format similar to a school setting and share similar goals with their peers. They enjoy the interaction with others and the structure and pace of the lessons, and tuition forms an important part of their journey towards working independently. A good individual tutor will tailor work to your child’s individual needs and allow them

the scope to explore and make mistakes. It’s essential to remember that tuition is counter-productive when it is just about repetition. Effective tuition should be engaging, confidence-building, structured, and, crucially, supported by parents. A child should enjoy their tutoring sessions and learn to retain information and replicate processes confidently and easily. Ineffective tutoring or over-tutoring can lead to burn out and disengagement, and is detrimental to a child. Similarly, homework should be progressive and not excessive. Between 30 and 50 minutes once per week will suffice. Equally, whilst children have an innate capacity for learning, downtime, play and fun are essential to create the necessary balance in their lives. Finally, from one parent to another, be realistic about your child’s strengths and weaknesses, and understand that, even with tutoring, nothing is 100% guaranteed. There will always be questions with which your child is unfamiliar, and vocabulary they do not know. All you can do is help them prepare effectively and give them the best tools available to succeed.

extra

Nicola Wheeler is the Proprietor of Bright Start Plus, based in Sunbury, which specialises in 11+ tuition. It offers comprehensive and consistently successful tuition for small classes of Year 3 to Year 6 students, in addition to bespoke packages. For further information, visit www.brightstartplus.co.uk March-April 2016

Award-winning tuition Maths & English ages 5 -14

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Free trial session - book today! Hampton

020 8979 7117

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020 3535 8039

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Have you considered which senior school your child will go to? The Mall School is hosting a Senior School Fair to give parents the opportunity to meet admissions teams from the following schools: • Brighton College • City of London Freemen’s • Claremont Fan Court • Cranleigh • Eton College • Halliford • Hampton School • Harrow School • King’s College School

• Lord Wandsworth • Reed’s • St George’s (Weybridge) • St James’ Boys • St Paul’s • Westminster School • Whitgift • Winchester College

Senior School Fair

at The Mall School, Twickenham

Saturday 19 March – 9.00 a.m. to 12.00 noon 185 Hampton Road, Twickenham TW2 5NQ 0208 614 1082 • www.themallschool.org.uk NO NEED TO BOOK – SIMPLY TURN UP ON THE DAY March-April 2016

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EDUCATION FOCUS SPRING 2016 Encouraging Attainment

TWENTY THINGS YOU NEED TO KNOW WHEN CHOOSING A SECONDARY SCHOOL By Joanna Moorhead

Make your own mind up. It’s amazing how many parents never even look round a school because of what they’ve heard. A school that doesn’t suit another family could be just right for your child. Listen to your child’s feelings as well as your own. Choosing his or her primary was down to just you and your partner but your 10 or 11 year old deserves a say. Use Open Days wisely. If you can, visit during the day (especially to a school that seems a strong contender) because you’ll see it in working mode. Nothing advertises a school like its pupils. Do they seem happy? Are they polite? If you have time, hang around in the area at home time. Are they well-behaved? Do the staff seem happy and fulfilled? Chat to them if you can. Go to the Head Teacher’s talk. This is an important part of any Open Day event: not only do you need to pick up on the Head’s attitude and values and what matters most to him or her, but

you also need to pay special attention to the entrance criteria. Understanding these is the crucial next stage. Listen to your instincts. If a school doesn’t feel right, move on. You don’t have to explain yourself or your reasons for doing so to anyone else (although you do, of course, need to discuss them with your child if their instincts are different). Think about your child’s talents and interests and ponder carefully whether they’ll be catered for. Think too about what the school offers that might be harder for your child to pick up at home. We’re a family of journalists, where literacy comes easily, so I’m glad my girls went to a school that specialised in maths and science, even though these weren’t their strongest subjects. Pay attention to what’s on the walls – and not just the artwork. What are children being warned about, or encouraged to do? Are there any school visits being advertised? What clubs seem to be thriving?

www.thameschristiancollege.org.uk

Smaller school. Bigger opportunities. Personal attention. Great results. Affordable. Scholarships available

OPEN MORNING TUESDAY 8th MARCH 11.00-13.00 For full list of open mornings, enrolment and fee details contact 020 7228 3933 Thames Christian College, London SW11 2HB. Five minutes’ walk from Clapham Junction.

www.familiesuponthames.co.uk

Look at the school’s league tables, but don’t pin everything on them. Read the Ofsted report too and pay particular attention to how the school has done over time. If it’s had a dip, are there signs of improvement or suggestions that it could turn round? Where do pupils go on to from this school? You want to see at least some youngsters doing well academically and aiming for good courses at top universities. If you like a school, check whether your child meets its entrance requirements. You’ll only get a place if you fulfil the criteria, regardless of how much you think your child would thrive there. Read the school’s entrance policy carefully. If you don’t fulfil the requirements, could you change something so that you do? If not, move on: there’s no point in wasting a choice or railing against something you can’t change. You’re bound to talk to other parents, but don’t get pulled along by their tide. Do your own research and develop your own views. Remember: there is no perfect school. Every school has strengths and weaknesses and there’s more than one school that can be right for your child. Allow yourself lots of time to fill in the forms and do it

extremely carefully. There may be supplementary forms, and there may be complicated arrangements for submitting them (especially if you’re applying to faith schools). If you need help, talk to your child’s primary teacher or primary head, or call the Education Department at your Local Authority. Have a plan of action for what you’ll do if you don’t get the school choice you were hoping for. Remember there’s a lot of movement in the first few weeks after places are allocated, and many children will get offered a place from a waiting list. Don’t underestimate how much hard work an appeal can be or how emotionally draining. That’s not to say don’t do it: just be prepared. Remember that, at the end of the day, parents make more difference to a child’s future than their school. Even if your child doesn’t get into your first choice (and one in seven didn’t last year), your attitude to that could be a much bigger factor in what happens next for your child than the school he or she goes to. Have confidence, first and foremost, in your child. And believe that, together, you will work things out if and when you encounter problems. March-April 2016

Easter Days Out

LOOK OUT FOR EASTER EGG HUNTS!

Easter Eggstravaganza with the National Trust!

Spring is the perfect time of year to let the kids run, climb and roll outdoors, and National Trust properties provide an idyllic setting for all these things and more! Each has its own personality; Claremont Landscape Garden offers first class hill-rolling opportunities, whilst Osterley Park and House has an enviable natural playground in the woods where children can squeal with joy as they swing through the air! From bees and butterflies to kestrels and woodpeckers, there’s always wildlife to spot during your visit, whilst the 50 Things to Do Before You’re 11¾ activity programme really does help kids get closer to nature! Teaming up with Cadburys, you will find EASTER EGG HUNTS everywhere at National Trust properties this year. Claremont Landscape Gardens Fri 25 and Sat 26 Mar (10.30 am to 5pm) with an Easter Bonnet competition and parade on Sat 26 Mar and prizes for the best bonnets at 3pm Hatchlands Park Fri 25 to Mon 28 Mar (11am to 4pm) Polesden Lacey Fri 25 Mar to Sun 10 Apr (11am to 3pm) Osterley Park and House Fri 25 Mar to Mon 28 Mar Osterley’s jam-packed Easter programme of events includes Easter holiday activities from Wed 30 Mar to Fri 1 Apr and Wed 6 Apr to Fri 8 Apr (11am to 3pm) including Little Seedling Gardening Club, and Sticky

By Olivia Malaure

Fingers Craft Cart on Thursdays where children can create springtime crafts. Meanwhile, at Polesden Lacey near Dorking kids can hire binoculars, geocache units and interactive audio guides and go searching for treasures, rambling through the rockery garden and learning about some of the interesting characters that have lived in

the house. There are adventure play areas at Morden Hall Park, Claremont Landscape Gardens, Hatchlands Park, Osterley Park and House and Polesden Lacey. With so much to do the kids are bound to be hungry so bring a blanket, pack a picnic, and relax while the kids go wild!

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

Eggstra Fun at Bocketts Farm! By Olivia Malaure

Beep! Beep! Thomas Steams Back Down the Watercress Line!

By Olivia Malaure

There’s Eggstra fun at Bocketts Farm from 25 March to 10 April, with plenty to see and do, as well as an Easter trail, with a yummy chocolate treat for each child! The lambing season will be in full swing, with over 300 lambs due to be born in the Big Animal Barn and lambing marquee. There will also be plenty of other animals to meet including llamas, goats, cows and a litter of piglets. Families can find out more about all the animals at daily Meet the Shepherd sessions, and children can cuddle rabbits and chicks in the animal handling sessions. Take your camera because you

may even get to see a lamb being born! It’s warm inside the huge indoor play barn – and your kids will KEEP warm on the giant astroslide, trampolines, and young driver’s tractor area. If it’s fine, children can enjoy the NEW Treehouse Towers outdoor adventure play area, as well as sandpits, slides, pedal go-karts, play trails and two jumping pillows. With a full programme of farm events including pony rides, tractor rides, goat milking, pig racing, gold panning and more, you can be sure of a great day out for the whole family!

For more information, visit www.bockettsfarm.co.uk March-April 2016

All aboard! It’s full steam ahead at the Watercress Line this Easter as Thomas the Tank Engine chugs along the line for A Day Out With Thomas between 25 March and 3 April. The event offers steam train aficionados of all ages the opportunity to ride on Thomas or Diesel, shake hands with the Fat Controller and enjoy themed Thomas activities. The travel ticket includes a day’s travel on the ‘big’ steam trains that run up and down the picturesque 10 miles of track from Ropley to Alresford. Meanwhile, Thomas and Diesel replicas (E2 and O2 tanks) give families short trips from Ropley and Alresford stations respectively. There’s a free Thomas sticker and Day Out With Thomas Certificate for all children!

Other activities based at the picnic site at Ropley include a bouncy slide, teacup rides, and daily story time. Kids receive a free Thomas play set and colouring sheets and there are Thomas & Friends DVD shows at the Imagination Station. A Day Out with Thomas is a great sensory experience for family members of all ages with lots of grandparents accompanying boys and girls, as well as parents bringing babies.

For more information, visit www.watercressline.co.uk

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Easter Days Out

LOOK OUT FOR EASTER EGG HUNTS!

Zoom into Transport Heaven at Brooklands Museum this Easter!

By Olivia Malaure

Why do kids love transport? Because big things that move are exciting! And my daughters and I certainly enjoyed an exciting day at Brooklands Museum in Weybridge. Transport lovers big and small can zoom over to Brooklands Museum on weekdays during the Easter school holidays (excluding Bank Holidays) for a wealth of thrilling experiences. Brooklands’ popular car rides (11am to 1pm and 2pm to 4pm, weather permitting) will delight speed demons of all ages. Families can take a trip in a vintage-style car up Test Hill or along the Members’ Banking of the old Race Track, courtesy of the Brooklands Volunteer Car Rides Team. Don’t be fooled though, these old cars are surprisingly whizzy, so hold on to your hats! A new addition to Brooklands is the brand new, state-of-the-art 4D theatre where three fantastic ride experiences are on offer. Get your 3D goggles on and “drive” round either the concrete-banked circuit at Brooklands in a pre-war racing car or around Le Mans in a jaguar D-type. Not only will you see, hear, and feel what such a race would be like, but you’ll also be able to smell it!

experience. Doing a loop the loop with The Red Arrows in one of their sensational aerobatic displays was a real stand-out adventure for them. With stunning high definition 3D vision and flight simulator motion technology, you can see and feel for yourself what it is like in the cockpit as the Reds fly in amazing close formation and carry out solo manoeuvres. Each ride costs £4 adults, £2 children. For something more sedate but equally enjoyable, The London Bus Museum will also be running their nostalgic double decker bus rides at Brooklands throughout the Easter holidays. Make an appointment at the Museum on Sunday, 3 April, when Brooklands celebrates Mini Day! All types of Mini (including the modern BMW) are invited to this annual event, so expect displays in all areas of the Museum site. Nestling among hundreds of Minis and their variations, including vans and pickups, this year’s event will feature some of the earliest examples, as well as some of the newest. Other activities at the Museum over Easter include family workshops. In Brooklands Recycling Challenge (29 Mar to 1 Apr, 11am to 12.30pm and 1pm to 3pm), young

I took my two daughters, ages 8 and 4 to Brooklands earlier this year and they particularly loved the 4D simulated flying

time together Osterley Park & House Bunny has hidden his precious eggs somewhere in Osterley's Georgian gardens! Can you follow the clues to find them all and your chocolate prize at the end? £3 per hunt. Normal admission applies, members and under 5s go free.

020 8232 5050 nationaltrust.org.uk/osterley

www.familiesuponthames.co.uk

Cadbury Easter Egg Hunt Fri 25 - Mon 28 March

engineers can help create a new invention from recycled car parts. For messy fun, kids can try out Pattern Printing (4 Apr to 8 Apr, 11am to 12.30pm and 1pm to 3pm) and experiment with making their own patterns by printing with paints. Families can also pick up a trail map (suitable for children up to age 12) or, for younger children, look out for Bertie the Brooklands Bear, who will be making guest appearances. Brooklands Museum is a family favourite, with plenty to do to occupy an entire day out. The café sells kids’ lunches and plenty of treats for grown-ups and there is a small soft play area for busy toddlers. Whatever the weather, it’s a great place to visit and my daughters both named Brooklands “a brilliant day out!” For more information, visit www.brooklandsmuseum.com March-April 2016

Weekdays from 29 March – 8 April

Car Rides Workshops for Kids Meet Bertie Bear

Running every day 4D Theatre Concorde Experience Trails for kids London Bus Museum Soft Play Area Café

Brooklands Museum, Brooklands Road, Weybridge, Surrey KT13 0QN

01932 857381 www.brooklandsmuseum.com

Easter Days Out

LOOK OUT FOR EASTER EGG HUNTS!

Spring into Action at Hobbledown! By Olivia Malaure With its fifty acres of grounds, Hobbledown in Epsom is home to award-winning play equipment, animals, and entertainers, offering a full day of excitement for families of all ages. There are so many opportunities for kids to challenge their bodies and imaginations at Hobbledown, including the Tree Top Climbing Towers, a daring High Ropes Course, underground tunnels, mazes and role-play areas. Kids of all ages can tire themselves out in the indoor soft play barn, dig deep in the giant sandpit and climb, crawl, hide and imagine to their hearts content. In addition to the unique play equipment, Hobbledown will offer Easter-themed games, art and craft and daily puppet shows featuring the whimsical characters from the Hobbledown book, a classic tale of adventure, magic and mayhem written by A J Kecojevic. Over the Easter weekend, Hobbledown’s very

own dragon, Rumpletump, provides inspiration for the Easter Egg Hunt, as children get the chance to hunt for dragons eggs. Animal lovers of all ages can meet otters, meerkats, wallabies, peacocks, coati, llamas, alpacas and

traditional farm animals and ask questions about the animals during animal handling and feeding sessions. Dress for mess, arrive early and spring into all the action that

Hobbledown has to offer! Don’t forget to stop for coffee while the kids explore the indoor play area… You can save up to 15% by booking day tickets online in advance.

For more information, visit www.hobbledown.com

Easter Egg Detectives Wanted at RHS Garden Wisley! By Andrew Campbell This Easter, RHS Garden Wisley near Woking, will offer an array of gardeninginspired activities for all ages and stages every day of the school holidays. From 19 March to 10 April, children can don their detective caps and hop through the garden in pursuit of the

delicious Lindt Gold Bunny, following the clues that will lead them to the yummy Lindt chocolate treat. From 25 March to 10 April, they can also get crafty with FREE art and craft sessions. Not to be missed are the magnificent birds of prey which will soar above the garden on

the weekend of 9 and 10 April. Learn all about these magnificent birds up close, with agility displays daily at 11am and 2pm. Make sure you hold on to those eggs! Wisley is the perfect place to experience the very best of spring and on 15 April you can do this for FREE on National Open Garden Day. Bring the whole family and enjoy a vibrant

day out exploring the ponds, the Wild Garden, the North American Prairie, flora of all kinds, trees galore and tempting cafes in which to enjoy foody treats. And a visit to Wisley wouldn’t be complete without an exploration of the floral paradise of the Glasshouse, a jungle retreat in which you can experience new and exciting plants.

For more information, visit www.rhs.org.uk/gardens/wisley 22

www.familiesuponthames.co.uk

March-April 2016

Easter Days Out

LOOK OUT FOR EASTER EGG HUNTS!

GI ANT

Join our easter duck hunt Friday 25 March to Sunday 10 April

s Find wuin d an ize! a pr

And buy your own LEGO® brick duckling to build

oNe GrEaT BiG aDVeNTuRe

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

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 Follow us on facebook; hobbledownuk and twitter; @Hobbledown

Find us at:

For full details see wwt.org.uk/london Queen Elizabeth’s Walk, Barnes, SW13 9WT info.london@wwt.org.uk 0208 409 4400

Giant Duck Hunt 2016 130x85 AW.indd 1

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

www.hobbledown.com

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06/02/2015 14:44

Bugs World Workshops

Thursday 31st March & Thursday 7th April 12 noon – 4pm

FREE Easter Fun at Eden Walk

Make Bug Crowns, Ladybirds, Dragonflies and Caterpillars Decorate Butterfly Masks Bug Face Painting FREE MINI EGG GIVEAWAY

/edenwalkshopping @edenwalkshops

www.edenwalkshopping.co.uk

What’s not to like !

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March-April 2016 Families upon Thames.indd 1

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Easter Days Out

LOOK OUT FOR EASTER EGG HUNTS!

Mini Beast Invasion at Eden Walk Shopping Centre!

Spring Gets Steamy at the London Museum of Water and Steam! By Andrew Campbell

For an Easter outing with a difference, why not visit the recently revamped London Museum of Water and Steam in Kew? With plenty of interactivity to captivate the imaginations of kids of all ages, this remarkable museum combines the working remains of our Victorian industrial heyday with the story of how London’s water has been cleaned up since the 17th century. During Spring Steam Up (25 to 28 March), the Museum offers added Easter attractions. Children can witness live chicks hatching and make their own Easter bonnet before heading off on the Great Easter Egg Hunt around the historical site. The museum will also be firing up its historic Lancashire Boiler to steam the mighty Cornish and Rotative engines and families can

By Olivia Malaure

have fun riding behind Thomas Wicksteed, the narrow gauge steam locomotive. Let’s hope for fine weather so that children can enjoy watery fun in the Splash Zone, the Museum’s outdoor water play feature where children can experiment with unexpected ways of moving water using gears, wheels, buckets, levers, pumps, pipes and more! The Museum’s café will be serving special Easter treats and look no further than the shop for eggstra spring souvenirs to take home. For kids that love to build, the Museum’s Magic of Meccano weekend (23 and 24 April) offers the chance to see the best of UK Meccano modelling in action. Meet the model makers themselves and have fun building Meccano creations!

Mini Beasts are taking over at Eden Walk Shopping Centre in Kingston Upon Thames this Easter with FREE Thumbs Up It’s Thursday craft activities for kids during the holidays. Visit on Thursday 31st March or Thursday 7th April (12pm to 4pm) and your little bugs can get busy enjoying a bug-themed event. At the FREE Bugs World Workshop for creative critters, kids can make their very own butterfly mask, ladybird, caterpillar, dragonfly, bee, or even make a bug crown! They can also be transformed into their favourite mini beasts with FREE Bug Face Painting and keep their feelers out for a FREE

For more information, visit www.edenwalkshopping.co.uk

Go on an Easter GIANT Duck Hunt at London Wetland Centre! By Andrew Campbell

For more information, visit www.waterandsteam.org.uk

Bocketts Farm Park 25th Mar - 10th Apr 2016

EASTER EGGSTRAVAGANZA FANTASTIC FAMILY FUN THIS SPRING!

OVER

300 B

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Hundreds of baby lambs due

AB LAMBYS DU

Meet the Shepherd

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mini chocolate Easter Egg Giveaway! There are plenty of great kid-friendly restaurant options and meal deals at Eden Walk, as well as shopping offers and competitions which you can access via the Eden Walk website. There are also baby changing facilities and a room for baby feeding in the shopping centre so you can ‘shop ‘til you drop’ with happy kids and happy babies beside you!

The London Wetland Centre needs your help to find some missing ducklings. So grab your parent/carer and follow the Easter GIANT Duck Hunt around the beautiful nature reserve to find where eight BIG yellow ducklings are hiding. Find them all and you will win a prize! Families can treat their kids to their own LEGO brick duckling to build and take home as an Easter souvenir

or help them with Easter art and craft, including egg-painting. LEGO brick ducklings are £5 each. The WWT London Wetland Centre is the perfect place to put some spring in your step and go on an Easter adventure. Marvel at the new life bursting forth at every turn, with babies, bugs, bird song and buds in abundance and enjoy a sport of FREE pond dipping. With a fun range of Easter egg-tivities, it’s definitely the place to be during the Easter holidays. Easter activities run from Friday 25 March to Sunday 10 April and you can also enjoy spotting a wide range of wildlife, including birds, water voles, bats and amphibians at this award-winning 105 acre wetland centre. There is a also café for re-fuelling and indoor and outdoor play areas for letting off steam!

For more information, visit www.wwt.org.uk/london March-April 2016

it’s

party time

Ten of The Best Party Bag Fillers

Julia Donaldson Picture Book Collection, £11.99 The Book People This line-up features 10 books including The Gruffalo, A Squash and a Squeeze and The Snail and the Whale – and all for under £1.20 a book!

By Claire Muffett-Reece

Because we all know mums throw away all that plastic rubbish when their little one’s not looking…

In The Night Garden Water Squirters Bath Toys, £10.19 Argos As a set of three this is a tad pricey for a party bag filler – so why not split them up and add a mini bubble bath for kids to enjoy as well? Disney Frozen Cupcake Kit, £1 Morrisons Give each guest their own cupcake making kit to take home rather than splashing out hundreds (!) of pounds on an Elsa impersonator.

Catch A Bubble, £3.95 Prezzybox After blowing, simply wait a few seconds for these clever bubbles to set, before party guests can catch and stack them as high as they like!

Peppa Pig The Balloon Ride DVD, £3 The Works Part of a ‘four for £10’ deal. This DVD is the perfect party bag present – plus the parents will be delighted at a little peace and quiet!

Super Hatching Dinosaur Egg, £3.95 Dotcom Gift Shop Now party guests can pretend to be paleontologists with this neat idea, which sees a dinosaur egg ‘hatch’ after 72 hours in water. Make Your Own Superhero Mask Kit, £2.45 Not On The High Street This crafty role play creation features cut outs, jewel embellishments, glue dots and elastic to design a super-hero mask.

extra

Vegetable Seed Sticks, £1.05 Part Ark These pocket-sized treats contain vegetable seed-loaded card sticks your little one’s guests can tear off and pop into compost to germinate.

Animal Hand Temporary Tattoos, £3.95 Prezzybox Sold as a box of eight these ‘simple to apply’ creations include instructions for making a number of animal characters.

Claire Muffett-Reece is a freelance journalist who writes on parenting, lifestyle, health and general interest. Mum to Jack, five, and Max, three, her work has been published in The Evening Standard, The Metro and Cosmopolitan.

Backyard Science Ant Hill Making Kit, £4.79 insectlore.com Not too many kids to buy for? This mould-your-own plaster creation is designed to house real ants so kids can observe their daily activities.

Beauty Parties For Girls Hair Makeup Facials Call Jane 0787 373 4009 Janed2013@hotmail.co.uk

A Driving Experience An IDEAL idealBIRTHDAY birthday treat AN TREAT

that’s bothBOTH funFUN & safe THAT’S & SAFE Age

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Tel: 01932 770770

Maisy’s Children’s Parties www.kiddikarts.co.uk building confidence through play

Tiny Tots, Classic, Adventure or Arty Crafts we have a variety of parties to suit all ages and interests from 1-12 years! Interactive magic Face Painting Themed Parties Balloon Modelling Lots of fun & giggles

Quote FUT for 10% discount in March and April 16

We love to talk parties so give us a call or pop us an email

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

March-April 2016

www.familiesuponthames.co.uk

EASTER CAMPS, WORKSHOPS AND COURSES DRAMA AND CRAFT

DANCE Just Imagine Ballet

Mary Poppins Easter Workshop

Storytelling Adventures Aladdin Easter Workshop

For Ages: 2-6 years 7 April (9.30am to 12pm) in Twickenham A fun, one-day Easter course full of adventure, fun and eastern promise! Your child will craft, sing, dance and act their way through this family favourite. Making their own magic lamps, using their imaginations

to bring to life the bustling market place of Agrabah, flying through the town on their magic carpets, learning songs and dances inspired by the Disney film and many more fun activities! Contact: Amanda Wright 020 3222 3085 amanda@storytelling-adventures.com www.storytelling-adventures.com

For Ages: 3-10 years (in age appropriate groups) 4-8 April (10.00am to 1pm) in Richmond Enjoy a supercalifragilisticexpialidocious week of ballet and dance with beautiful costumes, inspiring music, art, drama and a spoonful of sugar! Every child will appear in a magical performance for all the family to watch on the final day. You don’t have to be a current Just Imagine pupil to join in – this workshop is open to everyone and no ballet experience is necessary. Contact: The Fairy Godmother or Miss Jessica, Principal of Just Imagine info@twinkletoesballet.com www.facebook.com/Just-Imagine-Ballet

COOKING Sassy Stirrers

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

0208 941 0766

NEW NEW NEW Size D - Spring Workshop-2

www.mumsplayshop.co.uk Fee: £84

15% early bug discount* 10% sibling discount*

Easter Cooking Workshop

For Ages: 5-12 years 29 March Junior Dinner Party 30 March Bake Off! 31 March Snack Attack! All workshops (10.30am to 3pm) in Thames Ditton/Surbiton Cook dinner-party dishes for Sassy Stirrers very own dinner party, enjoy bake-off cooking fun with a prize for everyone and bake cookies, cakes and health snacks to savour! Contact: Susan 07789 792676 info@sassystirrers.com B.pdf 1 09/02/2016 12:56 www.sassystirrers.com

Suitable for boys & girls from 3.5 - 7yrs

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venue details

Weybridge 4th April - 6th April, 1.30pm - 4.30pm Oatlands Village Hall, St Mary's Road, KT13 9PT

Find the bravery stone and help Bella the Butterfly, Rippit the Frog and Splash the Fish stand up to Squelch the Caterpillar!

2016

Claygate 5th April - 7th April, 9am - 12pm Holy Trinity Church, Church Road, KT10 0JP

3 fun filled days of acting, singing, dancing, dressing up and arts & crafts. On day 3 we hit the stage!

CMY

C O O K I N G PA R T I E S & WORKSHOPS

Children love our fun cooking parties learning new tips with little stress for you! Cooking, food & fun

Saturday Cooking Club

23 April, 21 May 2016 2.30 -4.30pm

Easter holiday workshops

March 30 & 31, April 1 10.30 -3pm Book online at

www.sassystirrers.com P h:07789 792676 e; info@sassystirrers.com

Contact details: 01483 882244 / 07971 004134 hannahmason@theatrebugs.co.uk or book online: www.theatrebugs.co.uk/surrey *TsCs apply - see website for promotional offers, codes and further venue information

Find magical themed parties in your area! www.theatrebugs.co.uk/parties

www.familiesuponthames.co.uk

March-April 2016

EASTER CAMPS, WORKSHOPS AND COURSES DRAMA Theatrebugs

Perform

For Ages: 3.5-7 years Rippit the Frog and Squeaker the Mouse have heard about the big, huge, enormous flowers that are growing at the other side of the pond and they can’t wait to sniff them! They set out to try and find them but Squelch the Caterpillar has other ideas - he doesn’t want anyone else smelling these flowers; only him! Can the friends overcome the grumpy caterpillar and find these flowers? Maybe Bella the Butterfly and her magical bravery stone can help them? 3 fun filled days of acting, dancing, singing, arts and crafts and dressing up. On day 3, your kids hit the stage! Limited places! Early booking recommended. 15% Early Bug discount – see website for T&Cs. 4 to 6 Apr (1.30pm to 4.30pm) in Weybridge 5 to 7 April (9am to 12pm) in Claygate Contact: Hannah hannahmason@theatrebugs.co.uk 01483 882244/07971 004134 www.theatrebugs.co.uk/surrey. html

30 March to 1 April (10am to 3pm) in Richmond 4 April to 6 April (10am to 3pm) in Kew For Ages: 4-7 Fun-packed drama, dance and singing in the company of Dorothy, the Scarecrow and the Tin Man. The course ends with a colourful performance on the last day. Contact: Lucy Quick 020 7255 9120 www.perform.org.uk

The Bravery Stone Easter Workshop

Wizard of Oz Easter Workshops

Step on Stage

The Water Babies Under the Sea Easter Workshop

For Ages: 4-10 6 to 8 April (12.30pm to 3.30pm) in Hampton Hill Acclaimed musical theatre school, Step On Stage is offering children a whole world of adventures and fun at this captivating workshop. The Water Babies Under the Sea is a brand new script written especially for Step On Stage with original music that will see your child meeting sea creatures, escaping from the evil gangster shark and his sidekick the eel, exploring The Waterbabies Castle and capturing the shark and his evil friends. Singing, dancing and acting are at the heart of every workshop and children will work towards a short production on the last day. Contact: Emma 07973 900196 info@steponstageacademy.co.uk www.steponstageacademy.co.uk

PRE-SCHOOL Gymboree St Margarets Easter-Themed Ceramics Fun at The Pottery Place

Join the new Pottery Place at Gymboree St Margarets where your kids can hand paint or print egg cups, Easter bunnies and ceramic eggs. Enter a competition for the chance to win a Playmobil egg! You can also capture your

child’s hand or footprint on a ceramic of your choice. The ideal Easter gift for new parents and grandparents! Alternatively, Pottery Place gift vouchers are available. Booking required. Call for dates, times and age ranges! 020 8607 9995 stmargarets@gymboree-uk.com

Gymboree Play and Just Imagine Ballet Music

For Ages: 0-5 years For dates please contact Gymboree Surbiton Easter Eggstravaganza parties and - an Easter themed Theatre

Twinkle Ballet 15 months 5 years old Sparkle Ballet 6 - 11 years old

Dazzle Ballet 11 - 18 years old

Our pupils perform at The Royal Ballet School

07879 521 456 info@twinkletoesballet.com RICHMOND - ST MARGARETS - TWICKENHAM KEW - EAST SHEEN - TEDDINGTON

NEW - RAD Classical Program - optional exams March-April 2016

www.familiesuponthames.co.uk

EASTER CAMPS, WORKSHOPS AND COURSES SPORT Teddy Tennis

Canbury Gardens Easter Camps

Playball

Easter Holiday Camps

For Ages: 3-8 10am to 1pm on selected dates/times in Kingston, Teddington, Richmond and Hampton. Please contact Playball at email addresses below for details. Playball Sports Camps are great fun. They include a full programme of action including skills, games and activities for all ball sports, parachute and team building games and lots

For Ages: 2-5 years 29 March to 8 April (9am to 9.45am: ages 2-3 years; 10am to 12pm: ages 3-5 years) in Kingston Teddy Tennis is a new FUN way to encourage young children to get active and learn to play tennis. It works by combining music, pictures and teddy tear stories into a totally interactive learning adventure that children love. Teddy Tennis is featured in over 60 local schools and nurseries throughout South West London and is one of the UK’s leading tennis organisations. The camps will feature new, fun, enjoyable games that will enable your children to learn tennis in the best way possible. Contact: Jo and Steve 08456 431173 www.teddytennis.com

more! Age-appropriate groups with small coach to pupil ratio. This is a “drop and go” service and children are left at the camp for the morning. Book via website! Contacts: Richmond: Bonny at Richmond.playball@gmail.com Kingston: Bonny at Kingston.playball@gmail.com Hampton/Teddington: Kay at playball.kay@gmail.com www.playballkids.com

Coerver Coaching

Easter Holiday Course

Call Emma 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

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

For Ages: 2.5 to adult 28 March to 1 April (10am to 1pm) in Cobham DO NOT MISS OUT on Team Swim’s fantastic Easter crash course. All strokes including diving are covered. Your child will boost their skill set and confidence. Classes take place in superb pool and facilities. Contact: Paul 07915 510720 info@teamswimschool.com www.teamswimschool.com

Award winning classes from newborn to 5 years

Book a FREE trial class today! Gymboree Walton on Thames 01932 221 371

waltononthames@gymboree-uk.com

Gymboree Surbiton

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

www.familiesuponthames.co.uk

www.ceramica-claygate.co.uk

Easter Intensive Crash Course

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ion iat

with K on fd

2013 winner!

‘Best national pre-schooler development activity’

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7 The Parade, Claygate, Esher, KT10 0PD Phone: 01372 462447 Making ceramic painting easy and fun in a creative, enjoyable environment!

Team Swim (was PK Swim)

020 3609 8007

surbiton@gymboree-uk.com

Gymboree St Margarets 020 8607 9995

stmargarets@gymboree-uk.com .u k

SUMMER SCHOOLS

Matilda and Grease – Musical Theatre Dance and Acting Hampton Hill Theatre – July & August

Under The Sea for 4-10 year olds Hampton Hill Playhouse April 6th – 8th

SING – DANCE – ACT – MUSICAL EASTER WORKSHOPS

For Ages: 7-15 (Kingston) and 7-16 (Osterley) 8 April (9am-3pm) in Kingston 5 April (9am to 3.30pm) in Osterley Coerver® Coaching offers The World’s Number 1 Soccer Skills Teaching Method and is endorsed by some of the game’s leading clubs, coaches and players. This is a 1 day holiday clinic for U7-U16 players. Each session will be based on the individual 1v1 skills of players such as Lionel Messi, Gareth Bale and Mesut Ozil. Participants will also have the opportunity to use the latest football equipment and win adidas® prizes in Coerver® skill competitions. Contact: Amit Sohal 020 3544 2284 westlondon@coerver.co.uk www.coerver.co.uk/westlondon

.co es ats o n 4 li t t l e o n

gymboree-uk.com

March-April 2016

EASTER CAMPS, WORKSHOPS AND COURSES ART & CRAFT

MULTI ACTIVITY Shout! Holiday Programme

Children in the borough of Elmbridge can enjoy a variety of fun, low-cost activities

Supercamps

Multi-Activity Easter Camps

For Ages: 4-14 30 Mar to 2 April & 7 Apr to 10 Apr (9am to 5pm) in Kingston and Thames Ditton Fun multi-activity camps from

during the Easter school break with the Shout! Holiday Programme. The week-long, popular Activity Schemes (29 March to 8 April 8.30am to 5.30pm for ages 6 to 13 years) in West Molesey provide children with high quality play opportunities and a choice of at least two exciting activities at any time, including art and craft, games, sport and board games for quieter interludes. For a week of sport, games and challenges, the Sports Courses (29 March to 8 April 8.30am to 5.30pm for ages 5 to 13 years) in Walton include many coach-led sessions such as golf, rugby, karate, tennis and swimming as well as football, badminton and basketball tournaments. Meanwhile, also in Walton, Sports and Arts Camps (29 March to 1 April 8.30am to

this established holiday camp provider. Long 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

5.00pm for ages 5 to 13 years) offer children the chance to try new activities daily and take part in coached sessions, including multi-sports, street dance and a fun, historical activity with Elmbridge Museum. There is also a wide range of Day-Long Workshops on offer across the borough, including art and craft, dance, circus skills and a brand new CSI detective day for young detectives in the making! This Easter, the Shout! programme also includes many FREE outdoor events for children of all ages with a Towpath Toddle for toddlers and older siblings, a den building fun afternoon, pond dipping and Family Xplorer Sessions during which families can test their orienteering skills to find secret animals and nature facts in a local park. The Shout! Holiday Activities brochure is available online at www.elmbridge.gov.uk/shout. There are limited places so booking is essential. Contact: 01372 474634 shout@elmbridge.gov.uk

Ceramica

Easter Art and Craft Activities

For Ages: All Monday to Saturday (10am to 6pm) in Claygate Come along to the warm, inviting atmosphere of this friendly ceramics café, where, you and your kids can be creative and paint fun Easter-themed projects. Learn the tricks of the trade in this creative, delightful space, with something to appeal to all tastes and ages. Contact: Hannah young 01372 462447 hanna@ceramica-claygate.co.uk www.ceramica-claygate.co.uk

Teddy Tennis Easter Camp Fun and exciting tennis classes for children

Kingston & Wimbledon 29 March-8 April 9am-9:45am (2-3 years) 10am-12pm (3-5 years)

Call 0845 643 1173 or email booking@teddytennis.com Don’t forget to say where you saw the ad!

THE UK’S NO.1

FROM

£30 PER DAY

HOLIDAY FUN! MONDAY - FRIDAY 8AM TO 6PM

WITH ACTIVITIES FOR AGES 4 - 14

01235 467300 • WWW.SUPERCAMPS.CO.UK March-April 2016

www.familiesuponthames.co.uk

classes, clubs activities dance

A Spoonful of Sugar with Just Imagine Ballet! Classes in Richmond, St Margaret’s, Kew, East Sheen, Twickenham, Teddington and COMING SOON to Putney Dance school Just Imagine Ballet twirls its way around nine different locations in the Richmond borough, bringing a weekly dose of happiness and sparkle to the 400 pupils enrolled in its weekly classes. Just Imagine Ballet is an inclusive company providing weekly ballet and dance classes for children and adults of all ages and abilities. As they develop physically, emotionally and socially, children can progress through Twinkle (for ages 0 to 5), Sparkle (for ages 6 to 10) and Dazzle (for ages 11+), each programme aligned with the National Curriculum key stages and the UK dance

governing bodies. The importance of imagination is a focus at every level.“We value feeling before form” comments Principal, Miss Jessica. It’s difficult to imagine that the dedicated Miss Jessica ever sleeps, as she continuously strives to make dance more accessible to everyone. Just Imagine offers boys only classes, family classes, RAD ballet exam classes, private coaching, holiday camps, parties, events and performances.

New additions to the programme include tap dancing classes for all ages, Silver Swans (60+), Koala Ballet, a mother and baby dance class and a range of classes for adults. The next Just Imagine Ballet show is The Four Seasons at Richmond Theatre on 10 July. “Our shows offer a great opportunity for children to perform in a real theatre to a real audience” says Miss Jessica, “and everyone who wants to participate can!”

Just Imagine Ballet truly does offer a spoonful of sugar, so it’s apt that its Easter Camp this year is Mary Poppins, (4 to 8 April for children ages 3 to 10), a fun week of ballet and dance with costumes, music, art, drama – and, of course, sweetness! For further information, see pages 26 and 34 and visit Just Imagine Ballet on Facebook at Twinkle-Toes-Ballet or email info@twinkletoesballet.com

NEW! Hit the Court with Baseline Tennis! NEW! Baseline Tennis offers fun, tennis skills and tennis coaches and fitness professionals. fitness classes for children in Richmond, Children benefit greatly from the introduction Kingston and Teddington. to sport and physical activity at a young age. This Run by LTA licensed coaches and fitness develops their co-ordination skills and agility, as professionals, sessions are for beginners and well as increasing and maintaining their general players new to tennis. Running 90 minutes levels of fitness. Baseline Tennis encourages long and covering a carefully designed mix of children to be happy whilst active and to tennis, fitness and group activities, sessions are develop the confidence to participate in sport run by qualified, dedicated and enthusiastic and make it an integral part of their lives. For further information, see page 36 and visit www.baselinetennis.org

‘Peterson’s Fund for Children’ Charity Costume Shop

A r n g s a e r i KINGSTON, SURBITON AND THAMES DITTON E: kingston.surbiton@monkeymusic.co.uk T: 0208 224 3971 RICHMOND, TWICKENHAM AND TEDDINGTON E: kew.teddington@monkeymusic.co.uk T: 0208 847 4031 WEYBRIDGE, MOLESEY AND COBHAM E: weybridge.cobham@monkeymusic.co.uk T: 0208 224 0096 BANSTEAD, ESHER AND CLAYGATE E: banstead.claygate@monkeymusic.co.uk T: 01932 223 309

www.familiesuponthames.co.uk

Your first port of call for all of your costume/fancy dress needs

Suite 109 is a charity-supported costume shop filled with over 1000 items including dance costumes, hats, shoes, gloves, scarves, drama/theatre wear, jewellery, & fancy dress for adults and children, all at amazing prices!

For more information about us visit www.costumesatsuite109.wordpress.com www.petersonsfundforchildren.org

Open Sundays 11am-4pm 120 Bridge Road, Chertsey KT16 8LA Reg# 1141737 March-April 2016

It’s Showtime!

Quality Teaching with Danceforce School of Dancing

classes, clubs activities dance

Classes in Kingston and Twickenham Danceforce School of Dancing in Kingston is a thriving and successful dance school with over 300 pupils from age 18 months to adult. With Danceforce, children and adults can enjoy classes in a diverse range of styles including ballet, modern, tap, jazz, street dance, limbering and drama. There is also the chance for students to enhance their performance skills by taking part in dance festival competitions. Danceforce is dedicated to providing an exceptional quality of dance instruction and specialist training, which may explain why it is now the longest running dance school in the Kingston area. Principal, Carol Winter took over in 1997, and is passionate about working with great teachers and

offering children the best possible experience from the very first stages of learning. “Whilst dance is fun, it is also physically demanding and parents should take great care to send their child to professional, qualified teachers” she comments. Children as young as 18 months can take the popular Tippie Toes class, which is a fun-packed 30 minutes of dance for girls and boys, designed to improve gross motor skills, social skills, co-ordination and rhythm using themes and props. Parents and carers are encouraged to join in and stay whilst their little ones are dancing. The next step is Nursery Ballet for children ages 3 and 4, which offers an imaginative introduction to dance and ballet using props and stories. Classes are designed to further improve co-ordination and balance. Drama classes are also offered for girls

and boys from ages 4. Children can then stay with Danceforce throughout their school life, studying RAD and ISTD syllabuses and taking exams as they progress. And, judging by its

2015 exam results, Danceforce is a certainly a force to be reckoned with! For further information, see page 33 and visit www.danceforcekingston.com

NEW! Mozo Island Music and Art Arrives in Hampton! NEW! Established in Richmond and Teddington, the popular Mozo Island music and art after school classes are now available on Tuesdays during term time in Hampton. Created by professional musician and expert teacher, James Tucker-Salfield, these classes harness children’s natural curiosity

Fun and interactive Yoga classes for families with children between 3 and 9 in New Malden. Contact Christine on 07930557569 or yogaberry.uk@gmail.com www.yogaberry.net

Brooks Dance Academy introducing

A captivating introduction to ballet combined with the Royal Academy of Dance Syllabus for children aged 2.5-7

WHEN? Saturday morning WHERE? The Berrylands, 107 Chiltern Drive, Surbiton, KT5 8LS

FI R CL ST ASS

FRE

Contemporary classes for children coming soon Contact Laura on: 07958 530 962 www.brooksdanceacademy.co.uk

March-April 2016

weekly drama classes for 2.5 to 5yr olds

For classes of pure MADness, join MAD Academy

Classes in Surbiton, Thames Ditton and Long Ditton

Birthday

Classes in Staines, Ashford and parties too! Stanwell Call Rosie on 07746 922 648 or email: rosie.bancil@madacademy.com

contact Emma Rising

info@risingstarsdrama.com 07795 514 163 www.risingstarsdrama.com or find us on Facebook

madacademy.com

Music And Dance and a whole lot of fun!

Signing fun for little ones!

for kids 1.5-4.5yrs

Petites Pointes

music experience can jam in the Beginner’s Guitar Group from by focussing on the learning 4.15pm to 5pm and will be able experience, rather than the results. to play some great songs in just a Music Explorers will offer few sessions. For those with a few children ages 5 to 8 a fun basics (some chords and notes), introduction to guitar, ukulele, the Intermediate Guitar and recorder, keyboard, singing, Ukulele for ages 8 to 11 will drumming, and basic theory, extend the experience. whilst they solve puzzles and For more information, see follow a treasure map. Children pages 34 and 35 and visit15:36 Page 1 55x40_Rosie_Layout 9 06/05/2015 ages 7 to 11 with no previous www.mozoisland.com

˘ Come along and join our multi-sensory sign and sing-a-long

Sunbury, Kingston and Walton Fun and funky pre school dance classes for girls and boys!

sessions featuring nursery rhymes, action songs, games and stories ˘ Fun and friendly classes ˘ Lots of puppets, props and instruments ˘ Suitable for all babies and young children ˘ Singing Hands Songbooks, CDs and DVDs available ˘ For more information about our baby signing classes, toddler sessions or workshops for professionals, please contact us on: 020 8288 1706 www.singinghands.co.uk info@singinghands.co.uk www.facebook.com/SingingHands @singinghands As featured on BBC Cbeebies ‘Something Special’ & ‘Tikkabilla’

16 different dance styles l Develop co-ordination, rhythm, confidence and great moves l

Parties also available New classes coming soon!

07944 506140 angela.jeffery@diddidance.com DiddidanceSunburyKingstonWalton

www.familiesuponthames.co.uk

classes, clubs activities Under 5s

Learn How to Play with Tumble Tots! By Olivia Malaure

Tumble Tots know how to play! With classes in Kew, Teddington and Mortlake, Tumble Tots Richmond is making a big impression on little people. Using play equipment like climbing frames, rollers, slides, balance beams and trampolines, these seriously fun classes teach children key skills and are interwoven with the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) framework.“Tumble Tots classes aren’t just about active play”says proprietor of Richmond Tumble Tots, Charli Gallagher,“they’re designed to complement the various stages of child development.” There are three age groups, Crawling (formerly Gymbabes) for ages 6 months to walking, Walking to 2 Years and a class for ages 2 to 3 years. Tumble Tots Crawling is an award-winning programme for babies. The 40 minute class incorporates baby massage, development exercises, singing and specially designed equipment to help babies to develop the skills needed to sit, crawl, stand and eventually walk with confidence. Brightly coloured apparatus helps babies to explore the concept of steps, slopes and bridges and experience the sensations of rolling and sliding, and the use of sensory equipment encourages self-awareness and social interaction. Tumble Tots Walking to 2 Years and classes for ages 2 to 3 are structured around four activity stations: climbing, balance, agility and co-ordination.The structured format of the classes helps little

Ceramics Café Kew Original Ceramics - Painted By You Studio Hours: Tues-Sat 10am-6pm Sunday 11am-6pm Closed Mon, except Bank Holidays and Half Terms www.ceramicscafe.com Tel: 020 8332 6661

1a Mortlake Terrace, Kew Green Richmond TW9 3DT

Indoor soft play for Under 5’s

Sunshine Play Cafe Open Mon -F 10am-3pm ri Term Tim , e Half Term , and Occ. Holidays Prices U1’s £2 1yr+ £4 Multi Child Discount

Crafts, Toys, Books and Baby Play Area

Offering Kids Party Packages Call Sarah: 07949 135 211 info@sunshineplaycafe.co.uk www.sunshineplaycafe.co.uk 32

of three worked in the corporate world before having children.“My work was very demanding” she says.“Now I love watching the children in my classes progress and seeing how proud their parents feel.” Classes run in the morning on Wednesdays, Thursdays and Fridays. For more information, see listing on page 33 and visit www.tumbletots.com/richmond

Play Café in Hampton Relaunches as Sunshine Play! Sunshine Play Café for under 5s (previously Jumping Jacks) has re-opened in Hampton in February with enthusiastic new owner, Sarah Long at the helm. The play cafe is based at the Twickenham RFC and is open Monday to Friday, 10am to 3pm during term time and half terms, with partial opening during other school holidays. Sunshine Play Café is an indoor children’s play and activity area which offers little ones the opportunity to exercise, explore and imagine! Set in a clean, safe, stimulating environment, there’s a bouncy castle, Little Tikes cars, brio train track, home corner and a lovely area for babies with play mats and soft toys. There is even something for budding artists who can get creative at the craft tables or snuggle up in the cosy book corner.

Warm, fun, safe place to play while you relax!

Hot drinks, homemade cakes, hot and cold food and Twickenham kids lunchboxes

RFC South Road Hampton TW12 3PE Free Parking

ones develop listening and concentration skills and also encourage turn-taking. Language development plays a significant role and children are encouraged to talk in a group at the start of the sessions and participate in action songs. The physical tasks are more demanding than Tumble Tots Crawling and the equipment layout is often higher and more complex. Tumble Tots proprietor, Charli, a mother

Serving hot drinks, homemade cakes, sandwiches, children’s lunch boxes and other snacks, it’s a great space for you to browse the complimentary magazines, while your little ones let lose. You can even get your child’s hair cut by an award-winning hairdresser who visits twice a month on a Thursday morning. Crafty Tales interactive music and story sessions are also held at the café every Tuesday. And, if your child’s birthday is coming up, Sunshine Play Café caters for birthday parties Monday to Friday during term time. The party package includes use of all play equipment, celebration cake, party tea, unlimited drinks, party bags and balloons. For further information, see listing on page 35 and visit www.sunshineplaycafe.co.uk

Teddington

Ritz Music

Inspiring live music sessions with Jim

Richmond

..and now at

Methodist Church

Hampton

Inspiring group classes with Jim

www.familiesuponthames.co.uk

Guitar Ukulele Recorder Sing Keyboard Drum

mozoisland.com mozoisland@gmail.com

Salvation Army, 27 Church Rd TW11 8PF

mozoisland.com mozoisland@gmail.com March-April 2016

ART & CRAFT

CERAMICA Ages: All An ideal place for a get-together, this bright, cosy, unique, ‘paint your own ceramic’ studio brings out the artist in everyone! Services include studio painting sessions, annual membership scheme, gift vouchers, baby hand and foot print sessions, birthday parties, evening painting sessions for adults, off-site functions,‘take home’ packs and commissions. In: Claygate Contact: Hannah Young 01372 462447 www.ceramica-claygate.co.uk CERAMICS CAFÉ KEW Ages: All Children have the opportunity to create something unique. Starting with a plain white bisque shape, they paint on their design using ceramic under-glazes, it is then fired in the kiln, and their piece is ready for collection within 2 to 4 days. Open Tuesday to Sunday, Mondays on Bank Holidays/half terms. In: Kew Contact: Joanna Wronka 020 8332 6661 www.ceramicscafe.com

BABY & CHILD DEVELOPMENT

GYMBOREE Ages: 0-5 Award winning Play and Learn, Art, Music, and Sensory Play for Babies. Classes are designed by experts in early childhood development to help young children learn as they play and teach grown-ups fun and interesting ways to engage with them.FREE TRIAL CLASS! 2016 marks the 40th year of Gymboree with FREE events taking place throughout the year. Check with centres for details. NEW in Surbiton and Walton: FREE Baby Massage classes for newborns to age 1 year with a fully trained IAIM instructor. In: St Margarets, Surbiton, and Walton Contact: St Margarets 020 8607 9995 Miloni Joshi stmargarets@gymboree-uk.com Surbiton 020 3609 8007 surbiton@gymboree-uk.com Walton 01932 221371 walton@gymboree-uk.com www.gymboree-uk.com SINGING HANDS Ages: Babies and Toddlers Introduction to baby signing through songs, rhymes, stories and games. Babies have a natural tendency to use gesture (eg. clapping and waving bye-bye). Baby signing builds on these normal patterns of communication. Toddler Classes available. In: East Twickenham, Twickenham, Teddington Contact: Suzanne or Tracy 020 8288 1706 info@singinghands.co.uk www.singinghands.co.uk TUMBLE TOTS Ages: 6 months-school age Active physical play programme to develop your child’s balance, agility, co-ordination and climbing skills! Music and rhymes also help develop essential language and listening skills. In: Kew, Teddington and Mortlake Contact: Charli Gallagher 020 8948 0307 charli.gallagher@tumbletots.com www.tumbletots.com/richmond

classes, clubs activities

COOKERY

SASSY STIRRERS Ages: 4-12 Saturday Cooking Club is held on the third Saturday of every month and offers fun cooking classes which give children the opportunity to cook and sample new ingredients. Lots of bowl-licking fun with treats and recipes to take home. Send your email address to receive the newsletter and keep up with holiday cooking workshops and cooking birthday party news. In: Kingston, Surbiton, Teddington and Weybridge Contact: Susan Carmichael 07789 792676 info@sassystirrers.com www.sassystirrers.com

DANCE

BROOKS DANCE ACADEMY Introducing Petite Pointes Ballet Ages: 2.5-7 A captivating introduction to classical ballet based on much-loved children’s stories, such as The Three Little Pigs, Goldilocks and Jack and the Beanstalk. Familiar repetitive rhymes and creative imagery make classes easy to follow. Parents and carers are encouraged to join in to help younger children feel comfortable. RAD syllabus work interweaved through the innovative and unique curriculum. Classes on Saturdays from 9.30am-12.30pm for ages 2.5-7yrs, including RAD Pre-Primary (4-5yrs) RAD Primary (5-6yrs) and RAD Grade 1 (6-7yrs) FIRST CLASS FREE! In: Surbiton Contact: Laura Brooks 07958 530962 Laura@brooksdanceacademy.co.uk www.brooksdanceacademy.co.uk DANCEFORCE SCHOOL OF DANCING Ages: 18mths-3yrs and 3-18 Tippie Toes programme for ages 18mths to 3yrs and then RAD Ballet, ISTD Tap, Modern and Jazz. Lamda Drama and holiday workshops. FREE TRIAL CLASS for new children. In: Kingston and Twickenham Contact: Carol Winter 020 8241 8496 enquiries@danceforcekingston.com www.danceforcekingston.com DIDDI DANCE RICHMOND, KINGSTON & NORTH SURREY For Ages: 16mths-4.5yrs As you are very aware, your toddler rarely wants to sit still! At Diddi Dance, this endless enthusiasm and energy is encouraged in funky, fun, 45 minute pre-school dance classes for girls and boys. Using action songs, dancing games, fun exercises, hoops and dance ribbons, little ones improve their rhythm, co-ordination, gross motor and social skills whilst dancing to funky pop songs. NEW classes in Richmond! In: Richmond, Teddington, St Margarets, Twickenham, Isleworth, Hampton and in Sunbury, Kingston and Walton Contact: Mona on 07429 180865 mona.zaharia@diddidance.com for Teddington, St Margarets, Twickenham, Isleworth, Hampton, Richmond; Angela on 07944 506140 angela. jeffery@diddidance.com for Sunbury, Kingston, Walton www.diddidance.com DRAMATIZE STREET DANCE Ages: 6-14 Teaches a variety of techniques along with learning fun and vibrant routines to the latest hits in the music charts. Sessions are a great way to keep physically fit whilst learning some great moves to bust on the dance floor.

directory

In: Ashford Contact: Jo Smith 07912 183085 jo@dramatize.co.uk www.dramatize .co.uk ELIZABETH JAMES DANCE ACADEMY Ages: 18mths-14yrs Fun and vibrant lessons that nurture talent and encourage self-expression along the way. Ballet students follow the RAD syllabus and train to exam standard. Pre-school classes follow imaginative stories and themes. Street Dance classes are bursting with energy and attitude and are loved by boys and girls. All are welcome! FREE TASTER CLASSES available before enrolling. NEW: more ballet and street dance classes at all locations. Term Starts Week Beginning: 11 April In: Richmond Hill, Kew and East Twickenham Contact: Suze Bailey 07815 289306 suze@elizabethjamesdanceacademy.co.uk www.elizabethjamesdanceacademy.co.uk

Musical Theatre Film & TV Live Hit Music Classes

Fridays in Kingston Surbiton Assembly Rooms, KT6 4RT For Ages 7+ To book a FREE 2 WEEK TRIAL call Kane on 0203 397 8899

westenduk.com kingston@westenduk.com Gymbabe&TT A5 ad ads ads A4 aw 1/2/11 10:27 PagePage 1 Gymbabe&TT A5 aw:All ad aw:All A4 aw 1/2/11 10:27 1

and and Giving your child aa head start inin life! Giving your child head start life! Tumble Tots is the UK's Leading Active Physical Tumble Tots is the UK's Leading Active Physical Play Programme forfor children from 6 months Play Programme children from 6 months

•

• Action packed classes to help develop Action packed classes to help develop

•

jumping, singing, rolling, and always •Climbing, Climbing, jumping, singing, rolling, and always

essential physical and communication skills! essential physical and communication skills! smiling! A great way to have funfun while smiling! A great way to have while encouraging an an active, healthy lifestyle! encouraging active, healthy lifestyle!

Kew, Teddington & Mortlake! Book your Kew, Teddington & Mortlake! Book your trialtrial on on 020 8948 0307 or or 020 8948 0307 www.tumbletots.com/richmond www.tumbletots.com/richmond

March-April 2016

Established Established

1979 1979

www.familiesuponthames.co.uk

classes, clubs activities

directory

ENGLISH NATIONAL BALLET ENBS JUNIORS Ages: 3-7 English National Ballet School founded ENBS Juniors to provide high quality weekly ballet classes for children from pre-school age. Open to all without audition, these classes focus on embedding strong ballet technique within a creative and fun atmosphere.

In: Richmond Contact: Lisa Guppy/Rosie Jeffery 020 7376 7076 info@enbschool.org.uk www.enbschool.org.uk JUST IMAGINE BALLET (FORMERLY TWINKLE TOES BALLET) Ages: 15mths-10yrs Just Imagine Ballet offers magical ballet classes for girls and boys. Twinkle Ballet classes (0-5 yrs) are taught affectionately through enchanting stories where children enter a world populated by loveable animals and fairy characters. Sparkle Ballet (5-10yrs) classes develops classical ballet further while embracing individuality, creativity and performance. Also: Adult Ballet, Private coaching,

holiday camps, birthday parties and day time classes for home-schooled and German School, Boys Only Ballet (4-6yrs & 7-10yrs), SEN and Therapeutic dance, Classical Ballet with RAD Ballet Examination classes Saturday classes. NEW: tap dancing for all ages, Silver Swans (60+) and Koala Ballet (mother and baby)! In: Richmond, East Sheen, Kew, Twickenham, St Margarets and Teddington Contact: The Fairy Godmother or Miss Jessica, Principal 07879 521456/07813 741189 info@twinkletoesballet.com www.facebook.com/twinkle-toesballet KEW ACADEMY OF PERFORMING ARTS Ages: 2.5-Adult Classes include RAD Ballet, ISTD Tap and Modern, Contemporary, LAMDA Drama and a bi-annual school performance. FREE TRIAL CLASS available. In: Richmond/Kew Contact: Victoria Maitland 01932 423456 or 07967 341117 kewacademy@hotmail.com www.kewacademydance.co.uk

DRAMA & STORYTELLING

DRAMATIZE SATURDAY THEATRE SCHOOL Ages: 6-14 Sessions explore techniques in drama, dance and singing in a 2 hour session. The course will offer a wide range of exciting activities to further each student’s confidence within the arts. Each session will focus on different themes within the theatre industry, both in the spotlight and behind the scenes. In: Ashford Contact: Jo Smith 07912 183085 jo@dramatize.co.uk www.dramatize .co.uk PERFORM Ages: 4-12 A unique mix of drama, dance and singing specially formulated to bring out every child’s true potential. Small classes and lots of individual attention. During the summer term, children ages 4 to 7 will be setting sail on the good ship Jammy Dodger for a swashbuckling adventure across the high seas in Mermaids and Pirates. Children ages 7 to 12 will take on The Dream joining Oberon, Titania and a host of famous faces as they battle for the media spotlight in a modern adaptation of Shakespeare’s A Midsummer Night’s Dream. FREE TRIAL! Booking now for Wizard of Oz Easter Holiday Workshops for ages 4 to 7 in Kew, Richmond and Putney. Term starts: 9 April In: Isleworth, Kew, Richmond, Twickenham, Hampton, Staines, Sunbury, Teddington, Esher, Kingston, Surbiton, Weybridge, Brentford, East Sheen and Mortlake Contact: Lucy Quick 020 7255 9120 www.perform.org.uk RISING STARS Ages: 2.5-5 Join Stella the Star on an imaginary drama adventure – if you want something different, this is the class for you! One week we might be jetting to the moon in a rocket and collect moon dust, another we could be penguin watching in the South Pole or improving our fitness with Healthy Harry. No week is the same! Songs, movement, storytelling and improvisation. Creative, imaginative and FUN! Term Starts Week Beginning: 11 April In: Surbiton and Long Ditton Contact: Emma Rising 07795 514163 info@risingstarsdrama.com www.risingstarsdrama.com STAGECOACH THEATRE ARTS Ages: 4-18 Fun, educational and confidenceboosting classes in singing, dancing and drama, which cater for the varying needs of young performers, whether

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reserved or budding talents. Classes focus on singing, dancing and drama, rather than rehearsing for an end of term presentation, so that every child has a chance to shine, learn and develop. In: Chertsey 07725 176102, Hinchley Wood 01372 238238, Kew 020 8487 1456, New Malden 020 8540 7791, Richmond 020 8332 6741, Staines 01483 235216, Teddington & Twickenham 020 8977 0843, Weybridge 01932 422664 www.stagecoach.co.uk STEP ON STAGE ACADEMY OF PERFORMING ARTS Ages: 2-21 Encourages young people to reach their maximum potential in a fun and friendly setting, through drama, music, dance and creative movement. Weekly classes and holiday workshops grouped by age with trained teachers, theatre practitioners and education professionals dedicated to making your child’s experience exciting and rewarding. Auditioned youth theatre allows students to perform plays, new writing and musical theatre in local and professional theatres. In: Hampton Hill, Twickenham, St Margarets and Sunbury Contact: Emma-Louise Tinniswood 07973 900196 www.steponstageacademy.co.uk WEST END KINGSTON Ages: 6-21 Musical theatre performing arts school offering a different focus each term. Spring term (beginning January) – Live Music; Summer term (beginning April) – Musical Theatre; Autumn term (beginning September) – Film and Television. Recording and commercial dance classes also offered. In: Surbiton Contact: Kane Andrews 020 3397 8899 www.kingston.westenduk.com

MUSIC

JO JINGLES Ages: 3mths-5yrs Jo Jingles provides fun, 45 minute music, singing and movement classes which teach children to play percussion instruments expressively, sing songs and find rhythm through movement and dance. Age-specific classes are tailor-made to engage even the youngest children. Classes encourage hand-eye co-ordination, and help children learn social skills and make friends, as well as encouraging their physical, mental and emotional development. Children play two age-specific percussion instruments each week. Baby classes include sensory stimulation and classes for ages 3-5 include music theory. No membership fees. FREE TRIAL! FREE CLASSES for babies under 6 months in Surbiton/ Tolworth In: Cobham, Epsom Esher, Fetcham (near Leatherhead), Kingston, Surbiton, Teddington, Thames Ditton, Twickenham Contact: Cobham/Epsom/Fetcham: Viv Hunt 07751 438943 www.epsom2leatherhead.jojingles.com Esher/Surbiton/Thames Ditton: Rebecca English 07545 155758 www.central-surrey.jojingles.com Teddington/Kingston/Twickenham: Christina Golding 020 8241 8139 www.twickenham.jojingles.com KIDS BEGINNER AND INTERMEDIATE GUITAR GROUPS For Ages: 7-10 Easy beginner’s group and separate intermediate group for those who have a few basics (chords and notes). Both groups get kids jamming some great songs in just a few sessions, and performing at the end of term! No previous experience required. In: Richmond (Ritz Music) and NEW in Hampton Contact: James Tucker 07899 811703 mozoisland@gmail.com www.mozoisland.com MAD ACADEMY STAINES Ages: 0-5 High energy, free-spirited and educational music and dance classes for babies and toddlers. Classes are jam-packed with age appropriate props like poms poms, musical instruments and even a parachute! Classes are fun and structured in line

March-April 2016

with early years goals. FIRST CLASS FREE, termly/half termly payments thereafter. Party packages and weekend classes too! In: Wraysbury, Laleham, Ashford, Stanwell Contact: Rosie Bancil 07746 922648 rosie.bancil@ madacademy.com www.madacademy.com/music-andmovement-classes/staines MINI MOZOS MUSIC CLUB Ages: 3mths-3yrs Uplifting and unforgettable drop-in classes. Escape to a tropical island with Jim, and meet the tuneful fruit people. Sing your favourite songs with a calypso or reggae twist, then learn some great new music with actions and instruments. Jam along to the guitar, ukulele, trumpet, recorder, drumming and percussion in a fun, relaxed atmosphere and rattle, shake and bash plenty of instruments. Enjoy (not endure!) a variety of music. Content introduces concepts of pitch, rhythm, dynamics and genre and has been developed with childcare professionals and trialled with the NCT. Term Starts Week Beginning: 11 April In: Teddington Contact: Jim Tucker-Salfield 07899 811703 mozoisland@gmail.com www.mozoisland.com MONKEY MUSIC Ages: 3 mths-4.5yrs Award-winning pre-school music classes for babies and children. Through a four stage curriculum in age appropriate classes, children will develop a lifetime love for music. Book a FREE CLASS to experience all the fun yourselves! In: Kingston and Surbiton 020 8224 3971, Banstead, Claygate and Esher 01932 223309, Weybridge, Cobham, Hersham, Walton and Molesey 020 8224 0096, Kew, Richmond, Twickenham and Teddington 020 8847 4031 www.monkeymusic.co.uk MOZO ISLAND MUSIC EXPLORERS AFTER SCHOOL CLUB For Ages: 5-8 Beginners guitar, ukulele, recorder, keyboard, singing, drumming. Fun music and basic theory sessions accompanied by some arty fun and the chance to solve puzzles and, follow a treasure map! Kids can try out a range of instruments rather than commit to lessons with one. Ideal for kids who are still discovering musical likes and dislikes. Booking NOW for May Half Term Camp! Term Start Week Beginning: 11 April In: Richmond (Ritz Music) and NEW in Hampton! Contact: James Tucker 07899 811703 mozoisland@gmail.com www.mozoisland.com

LITTLE VOICES RICHMOND NEW For Ages: 4-18 Singing and Drama lessons of Distinction. FREE Trial available! Contact: Ashlea (Principal) 0208 088 0117 SWL@littlevoices.org.uk www.littlevoices.org.uk/richmond TINY TUNES MUSIC AND DANCE PAY AS YOU GO CLASSES Ages: 3mths-5yrs Hide under the parachute, wave the pom poms, rattle the shakers, dance with bubbles and sing along! As well as the all-time favourite rhymes and songs, Tiny Tunes gets the little ones dancing to some of the well-known pop classics! Parties available including party games, face painting and balloon modelling. In: Wimbledon, Richmond, Twickenham, St Margarets, Whitton, Teddington, Thames Ditton, Kingston, Surbiton, Epsom, Cobham, Weybridge, Ascot, Bracknell, Guildford, Reigate, Dorking and Windsor Contact: info@tinytuneslive.com 07977 585020 www.tinytuneslive.com

available. Free parking. Open Monday to Friday 10am-3pm term time, half terms and some other school holidays. In: Hampton Contact: Sarah Long 07949 135211 info@sunshineplaycafe.co.uk www.sunshineplaycafe.co.uk

directory

fe! oundation to your child’s sporting li mate f i t l u The

HOL CAM IDAY BIRT PS & H PAR DAY TIES !

● Ball Skills & Movement Classes From 2 to Pre-School ●

Small Class Sizes ● Age Appropriate Skills & Fun Games

● Multi Sports Skills & Mini Games for Reception & Year 1 ●

Maximum Ball Time ● Teamwork Skill Development for all Ball Sports

● Sport

PLAY CAFES AND SOFT PLAY

MUMS PLAY SHOP Ages: 0-6 (siblings up to age 8) Soft play with junior and toddler play frame, ball pool, traditional toys, ride-ons, books and outdoor garden space. Also Art and Craft room and cosy Chill Out Zone ‘The Snug’ with television. Cafe serving hot and cold home-made, healthy food. Crafty Tales with Deva Mon & Wed 9.30am, no extra charge. Caterpillar Music class Thurs £8 pay-as-you-go or £72 for 12 week term with FREE one hour play after each class. School holiday activities including Cooking Club, Gardening Club and football. Open: Term time: Monday to Thursday 9.30am to 3.45pm, Friday 9.30am to 6pm School holidays: Mon to Fri 9.30am to 6pm. In: Hampton Contact: Fiona Williams 020 8941 0766 www.mumsplayshop.co.uk SUNSHINE PLAY CAFÉ For Ages: 0-5 Craft tables, cosy book corner, bouncy castle, train track, ride-on toys, dolls, soft toys, play tents. Baby area with play mats and soft toys. Fresh coffee, hot chocolate, teas, soft drinks, homemade cakes, sandwiches, hot and cold food, children’s lunchboxes and complimentary magazines. Children’s haircuts and Crafty Tales sessions. 1.5 hour party packages

classes, clubs activities

● Sport Academies for Age 6+ Hampton – playball.kay@gmail.com Kingston – kingston.playball@gmail.com Richmond/St Mrgts – richmond.playball@gmail.com Barnes – barnes.playball@gmail.com www.playballkids.com

Classes at all levels RAD Ballet ISTD Modern & Tap, Tots Ballet, Adult classes, Fitsteps ‘Strictly fun’, LAMDA Drama at United Church Hall, Raleigh Rd, Richmond

FOR MORE INFORMATION AND TO BOOK A FREE TRIAL CLASS SEE THE WEBSITE

www.kewacademydance.co.uk or

call 01932 423456 or 07967 341117

WEEKLY

LOCAL

CLASSES

Little Voices boys and girls 7-18, working towards accredited Musical Theatre Examinations Mini Voices boys and girls 4-7, building confidence and self belief in a fun and exciting way .SMALL CLASS SIZES .HIGHLY QUALIFIED TUTORS .100% EXAMINATION PASS RATE

March-April 2016

www.littlevoices.org.uk SWL@littlevoices.org.uk call: 0208 088 0117 Christ’s School, Queens Road, Richmond Upon Thames, TW10 6HW.

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

www.familiesuponthames.co.uk

classes, clubs activities

directory

SPORT

NEW BASELINE TENNIS GROUP TENNIS AND FITNESS SESSIONS Ages: 5-9 Group Tennis and Fitness sessions for boys and girls. Sessions are for children of all levels, in a fun, active environment, run by LTA licensed coaches and fitness professionals. Indoor and outdoor courts at all our venues allowing the children to enjoy our sessions all year round. Term begins: Week beginning 4 April In: Richmond, Teddington & Kingston Contact: Shelley shelley@baselinetennis.org www.baselinetennis.org CATCH-A-BALLS MULTI-SKILLS CLASSES Ages: 18 months-school age Fun ball game-based activities that develop skills such as rolling, throwing, catching and using bats. Indoor venues so kids stay warm and dry and get full enjoyment. New games and props each term to ensure the children are kept interested and experience a wide range of skills, preparing them for a wide range of sports. Club BOING: 18 mths-2yrs; Club BOUNCE: 2.5-3.5yrs; Club CATCH: 3.5 to school age. Parents/carers join the fun in Club BOING and Club BOUNCE. Parents can observe in Club CATCH. FREE TASTER SESSION! In: Claygate, Esher, Hampton, Hersham, Richmond, Surbiton, Teddington, Thames Ditton, Twickenham and Wimbledon. Contact: Heather 020 8398 3034 contact@ catch-a-balls.co.uk for Richmond, Twickenham, Claygate, Hampton and Teddington, Hersham and Wimbledon Roz 07939 527 567 roz@catch-a-balls.co.uk for Thames Ditton and Surbiton www.catch-a-balls.co.uk

£1

SE PE SS R IO N

COERVER FOOTBALL PERFORMANCE ACADEMY AND FIRST SKILLS PROGRAM Ages: 5-7 (First Skills) and 7-15 (Performance Academy) Player development programme for boys & girls, teaching game-effective technical football skills - based on World’s No.1 Soccer Skills Teaching Method. Learn to play like the best players in the world and improve your child’s personal skills, such as confidence, creativity and teamwork. FREE TRIAL SESSION! In: Kingston (First Skills and Performance Academy) and Hounslow (Performance Academy only) Contact: Amit Sohal 020 3544 2284 westlondon@coerver.co.uk www.coerver.co.uk/westlondon FOOTIE TOTS Ages: Footie Tots 2.5-5 Footie Wizards 5-11 An introduction to the world of fitness and football with lots of goal scoring and fun along the way! Classes encourage the children to lead an active and healthy lifestyle from a young age. All classes indoors. In: Hampton, Twickenham, Teddington, Richmond, Feltham, Hounslow, Thames Ditton, Esher, Molesey, Walton, Kingston and Surbiton Contact: Andy Scates 07931 707720 www.footie-tots.co.uk KIDDIKICKS FOOTBALL CLASSES Ages: 18mths-10yrs Kiddikicks coaches real skills in a super-fun environment. Encouraging a healthy lifestyle through participation in sport whilst developing a love for the beautiful game! Parties also offered. Quote FUT for FREE TRIAL available to all new players! In: East Molesey, North Kingston, Byfleet, Pyrford, Weybridge, Twickenham, Whitton, Isleworth, Feltham, Hampton, Richmond, Sheen, Barnes, Brentford Contact: Jen 020 3560 9256 jen@kiddikicks.co.uk for East Molesey, Byfleet, Pyrford, Weybridge and Kingston www.nwsurrey.kiddikicks.co.uk; 020 7937 7965 twix@kiddikicks.co.uk for Twickenham, Whitton, Isleworth, Feltham and Hampton www.kiddikicks.co.uk/twickenham; Sarah 020 7937 7965 sarah@kiddikicks.co.uk for Richmond, Sheen, Brentford www.kiddikicks.co.uk

RUGBY PLAY SESSIONS FOR KIDS AGE 2 - 7 YRS OLD IN RICHMOND

DEVELOPING BOOK A FREE TRIAL TODAY!

FREE TASTER SESSION

CALL US: 01252 794150 EMAIL US: sales@trytimekidsrugby.com

www.trytimekidsrugby.com

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!

Get your kids ready for sport! Themed catching and throwing classes for kids from 18 months. Autumn term “Apple picking” and frisbee throwing! Many locations including Kingston & Richmond

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

020 8398 3034 or email heather @catch-a-balls.co.uk

AVAILABLE

Esher, Molesey, Thames Ditton, Walton, Kingston and Surbiton, call 07828 629531 36

www.catch-a-balls.co.uk

www.familiesuponthames.co.uk

LONDON KARATE Ages: 4+ The lessons strongly emphasis the importance of good manners, self discipline and respect for peers, parents/ carers and teachers within the lesson. SPECIAL FAMILIES OFFER: 3 FREE TRIAL CLASSES AVAILABLE WHEN YOU MENTION THIS LISTING! In: Richmond, Putney, Kingston, Weybridge, Brentford, Roehampton Contact: 07538 498898 contact@londonkarate.co.uk www.londonkarate.co.uk PLAYBALL Ages: 2-8 Prepare your child for life, with Playball’s comprehensive sport skills and movement based programme. Action-packed lessons are limited to very small numbers to ensure maximum learning and are delivered by experienced, professional coaches who are well-trained in the programme. In: Hampton, Richmond, St Margarets, Kingston Contact: Kay Gillespie for Hampton: playball. kay@gmail.com; Bonny Santangelli for Richmond/ St Margarets: richmond.playball@gmail.com and Kingston: kingston.playball@gmail.com; www.playballuk.com READY, STEADY, GO KIDS! Ages: 2-7 Multi-sports classes for kids. Enjoy playing and learning 5 sports each term. Ready Steady Go Kids has 10 sports available in its multi-sports, physio-designed programme. Athletics, Football, Basketball, Tennis, Golf, Hockey, Rugby, AFL (Australian Rules), T-Ball and Cricket. Learn a variety of sports and develop fundamental movement and life skills within our structured and active fun classes. No more than 12 kids in a class with a coach to child ratio of 1:6. NEW in Chessington and Leatherhead! In: Kingston, Shepperton, Staines, Ashford, Chessington and Leatherhead Contact: 0800 690 6591 info@rsgk.co.uk www.rsgk.co.uk RUGBYTOTS Age: 2-7 Fun, enthusiastic, weekly play program which uses Rugby specific skills to aid the development of young children. The program develops physical and social attributes and teaches basic rugby skills including running with the ball, kicking, catching and scoring a try. Age-appropriate classes and highly trained coaches who get the best out of the children in a safe, organised, friendly environment. In: Twickenham, Barnes, Putney, Surbiton, Richmond and Hampton Contact: Aimee Hart 0345 313 3242 enq@rugbytots.co.uk www.rugbytots.co.uk TRY TIME KIDS’ RUGBY Age: 2-7 Fun, rugby centred activities that will develop skills and confidence and increase enjoyment of sport. FREE TRIAL! In: Richmond Contact: Danielle Dyer 01252 794150 sales@trytimekidsrugby.com www.trytimekidsrugby.com YOGABERRY FAMILY YOGA NEW For Ages: 3-9 Creative classes incorporating yoga postures, stories and dance. Basic relaxation and breathing exercises delivered in a playful way. Parents and kids get the chance to stretch, laugh and move together In: New Malden Contact: Christine Jaureguiberry 07930 557569 www.yogaberry.net

SWIMMING

TEAM SWIM SCHOOL (WAS PK SWIM) Ages: 2.5-15 Swimming lessons for all abilities/ages. Fun and engaging classes for non-swimmers, as well as taxing for stroke improvers. Children enjoy whole pool, not just sectioned areas. Small groups, great results. Trial sessions welcome. In: Cobham Contact: Paul Furness 07915 510720 info@teamswimschool.co.uk www.teamswimschool.co.uk WATER BABIES Age: 0-4.5 Classes progress seamlessly through the program, with children having great fun whilst building confidence and independence in the water. Most toddlers can swim short distances by around the age of 2, and have mastered vital skills including how to turn around and hold on and, where possible, how to clamber out of the pool. In: Addlestone, Ashford, Shepperton, Kingston, Chessington, Cobham, Richmond and Morden Contact: Melissa Holt 01932 227428 www.waterbabies.co.uk

March-April 2016

COMPETITION! WIN! WIN!

“A real witch could smell you across the street… to a witch, you would smell like fresh dog droppings!” This is a chance to WIN a Family Ticket to see Roald Dahl’s THE WITCHES at The Rose Theatre this Spring! Roald Dahl’s scariest book is brought to life in this tremendously terrifying treat for the whole family, recommended for children ages 5+ - and brave grown ups! Witches absolutely detest children. They find them revolting and are planning to wipe them out like weasels!

They want to squish them and squiggle them and make them disappear. But one brave young boy and his grandmother have a plan to get rid of the witches for good… if only they can avoid being turned into mice. This wonderful production runs from 29 March to 10 April and the Family Ticket will be valid for any performance for which there is availability. For further information, visit www.rosetheatrekingston.org

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:

Name one other book by author Roald Dahl Closing Date: Friday, 18 March Terms and Conditions Apply

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THE HAMMOND THEATRE Hanworth Road, Hampton, TW12 3HD 020 8783 4418 www.thehammondtheatre.co.uk FIRESIDE TALES WITH GRANDAD 5 MAR A family show with exquisite puppets, captivating storytelling and beautiful shadow puppetry. Ages: 3+ POLKA THEATRE 240 The Broadway, Wimbledon SW19 1SB 020 8543 4888 www.polkatheatre.com KITE 10-13 MAR Kite comes alive with original music, dance, puppetry and, of course, kites. Ages: 7+ NIPT 18-20 MAR Exploring the daily routines of two people living in a VERY confined space, Nipt (Narrow) is a funny and insightful play, as much for adults as it is for children. Ages: 6+ HAPPY HARRY’S CAFE 19 MAR-15 APR Weaving together music, words and physical theatre to craft a playful world of singing, dancing and soup. Ages: 3-5 SNOW WHITE 23 MAR-10APR A brand new show for children and their families. Ages: 4-8 THE EMPEROR’S NEW CLOTHES 16-17 APR The well-known story of vanity is recounted with a washing machine, a clothes line, puppets and song. Ages: 3-6 RUMPELSTILTSKIN 22-24 APR A fairytale favourite spun before your eyes in this woolly wonderland of a show with weaving, puppetry and music. Ages: 3-7 BED TIME 27 APR-1 MAY Celebrate this very special time of day with songs, storytelling, silliness and maybe even a pillow fight! Ages: 2-6 THE ROSE THEATRE 24-26 High Street, Kingston KT1 1HL Box Office: 08444 821 556 www.rosetheatrekingston.org LITTLE PIGS 6 MAR Family fun with puppets and music in a retelling of a family favourite THE WITCHES 29 MAR-10 APR Roald Dahl’s scariest book is brought to life in a tremendously terrifying treat for the whole family. Ages: 5+.

LOCAL THEATRE GUIDE RICHMOND THEATRE The Green, Richmond TW9 1QJ 0844 871 7651 www.atgtickets GANGSTA GRANNY 22-26 MAR Wonderful new production based on the amazing book by David Walliams, the UK’s best-selling children’s author. Ages: 5+ GOODNIGHT MISTER TOM 5-9 APR Now a modern classic, Michelle Magorian’s wonderfully uplifting tale is brought gloriously to life in this magical stage adaptation. RIVERHOUSE ARTS CENTRE Manor Rd, Walton KT12 2NZ Box Office: 01932 253354 www.riverhousebarn.co.uk FLAT PACK 26 MAR A fun-filled family show inspired by the legendary Buster Keaton. Heart-warming and charming. Ages: 3+ THE VERA FLETCHER HALL 4 Embercourt Rd, Thames Ditton KT7 0LQ 0845 680 1926 www.verafletcherhall.co.uk THE RAILWAY CHILDREN 19 MAR A wonderful adaptation of E. Nesbit’s classic story. Ages: 5+ WATERMANS 40 High Street, Brentford TW8 0DS 020 8232 1010 www.watermans.org.uk LULLABY LANE 6 MAR A unique theatrical experience, mixing the vibe of a music gig with the intimacy and magic of theatre. Ages: 3-7 HANDA’S HEN 12-13 MAR This beautiful and engaging show features 55 stunning puppets all created by hand for this brand new production. Ages: 2-5 FLYAWAY KATIE 20 MAR An inspiring flight of fancy about the power of imagination based on the popular children’s book by Polly Dunbar with music by Tom Gray of Gomez. Ages: 2-7 INTO THE WEST 31 MAR Internationally-acclaimed story of grit and magic, love and loss, hope and discovery. Ages: 7+

www.familiesuponthames.co.uk

what’s on

Classical concerts for babies/toddlers. SELECTED THURSDAYS AND Learn about the Romans and the art of Follow the Easter duck trail and find www.doremibabies.co.uk SATURDAYS IN MARCH Mosaic. Call to book. eight BIG missing ducklings to win a TINY EXPLORERS AT HAMPTON 020 8547 5006 prize. Join Easter art and craft sessions. SAT 19 MAR TO SUN 10 APR COURT PALACE EASTER GARDEN DETECTIVES AND www.kingston.gov.uk/museum Buy a LEGO brick duckling to build/ East Molesey KT8 9AU 0844 482 7777 LINDT GOLD BUNNY HUNT AT RHS take home. SAT 5 MAR AND 2 APR For Ages: 0-3yrs Time: sessions WISLEY 0208 409 4400 www.wwt.org.uk 15 MINUTES OF FUN AT CHERTSEY 10.30am-3.30pm Cost: £6 per session Woking GU23 6QB MUSEUM THE MAGIC GARDEN AT HAMPTON Transport your little one into a magical Time: 10am-6pm Cost: FREE with 33 Windsor Street, Chertsey KT16 8AT COURT PALACE world of stories through music, Normal Admission Time: 1.30-3.30pm Cost: FREE East Molesey KT8 9AU 0844 482 7777 movement and messy play. Booking Hop through the garden on the Lindt Drop-in family craft session. Cost: Adult £7, Child £2.50 Family £12 required. 01932 565764 www.chertseymuseum.org gold bunny trail. Art and craft and a full New imaginative play garden inspired 0844 482 7799 www.hrp.org.uk day of Easter fun. by the palace’s past. KIDS RUN FREE AT MARBLE HILL 0845 260 9000 www.rhs.org.uk/wisley DAILY UNTIL SUN 6 MAR 0844 482 7799 www.hrp.org.uk PARK BUTTERFLIES IN THE GLASSHOUSE Richmond Road, Twickenham TW1 2NL SUN 20 MAR EASTER EGGSTAVAGANZA AT AT RHS WISLEY STORY CAFE AT RIVERHOUSE BARN For Ages: 0-16 Time: 9am Cost: FREE BOCKETTS FARM Woking GU23 6QB ARTS CENTRE Running events for children. Young St, Leatherhead KT22 9BS Time: 10am-4pm Cost: FREE with Manor Road, Walton KT12 2NZ 08703331181 www.kidsrunfree.co.uk Ages: 0-10 Time: 10am-5.30pm Normal Admission For Ages: 3-6 Time: 3pm Cost: £4 (£2 Cost: FREE with Normal Admission SAT 5 MAR AND 16 APR Experience exotic butterflies among under 2s) Baby lambs, pony rides, tractor rides, FAMILY FUN DAY AT ELMBRIDGE plants from far-off shores in the Creative storytelling, themed activity and animal handling, pig racing. NEW MUSEUM below a proof of your advertisement for the Glasshouse. teatime event. Hersham Village Hall, KT12 5LT Treehouse Towers outdoor adventure 0845 260 9000 www.rhs.org.uk/wisley 01932 253354 www.riverhousebarn.co.uk Time: 2-4.30pm Cost: £1.50 play, giant heated play barn and Easter October 2014 issue (No. 74) of Families TVE. POND DIP AT LITTLEWORTH COMMON SAT 5 MAR Art and craft activities. Egg trails. Portsmouth Rd, Esher KT10 9AD MAKE A FLOWER BOX FOR MUM 01932 843 573 01372 363764 www.bockettsfarm.co.uk Time: 10-11.30am Cost: FREE AT STRAWBERRY HILL HOUSE www.elmbridgemuseum.org.uk SAT 26 MAR CK ALL INFORMATION IS CORRECT 268 Waldegrave Road, Twickenham, Spot creatures that crawl, swim or loop EASTER BONNET PARADE AT TW1 4ST SUN 6 MAR along! Equipment provided. Staff will CLAREMONT LANDSCAPE GARDEN ates, telephone numbers and addresses. For Ages: 5-10 Time:12.30pm help you identify your catch. Portsmouth Road, Esher KT10 9JG MOTHER’S DAY Cost: £9 01372 474634 elmbridge.gov.uk/shout Time: 3pm Cost: FREE with Normal FREE ENTRY FOR MOTHERS AT Plant up a flower box and make a Admission PAINSHILL PARK beautiful gift for Mothering Sunday. EASTER HOLIDAYS Time: 10.30am-6pm. Cost: FREE for Prize for best adult and child’s bonnet. need to be made at this stage. T: 01628 627586 Booking required. mothers accompanied by their children. 01372 467806 www.nationaltrust.org. THU 24 MAR TO SAT 9 APR be1241 charged mendments020will 8744 www. for. EASTER EGGSTRAVAGANZA AT Spend the day with mum in the E: editor@familiestveast.co.uk uk/claremont-landscape-garden strawberryhillhouse.org.uk KINGSTON MUSEUM beautiful landscape garden. SAT 26 TO MON 28 MAR Saints Way, Avenue, Kingston Maidenhead, KT1 2PS t us by return either toMAR amend or approve your SAT 5 AND 12 01932 868113 www.painshill.co.uk50 All Wheatfield EASTER GARDEN TRAIL AT Ages: 5+ Time:1-4pm. Cost: FREE THE ART OF MOSAIC AT KINGSTON MOTHERS’ DAY AT HAM HOUSE STRAWBERRY HILL HOUSE t. Berkshire, SL6 6NA Craft activities and Easter egg hunt. MUSEUM Ham Street, Ham TW10 7RS 268 Waldegrave Road, Twickenham, Wheatfield Way, Kingston KT1 2PS 020 8547 5006 Time: 10am-5pm Cost: Normal TW1 4ST Ages: 6+ Time: 10.30am-12.30pm. www.kingston.gov.uk/museum Admission Ages: All Time: House opening hours Cost: Fee applies Special tea-themed Mother’s Day. Enjoy Cost: £2 FRI 25 TO SAT 26 MAR EASTER EGG HUNT AT CLAREMONT activities, workshops and lunch! Find the clues, answer the riddles and LANDSCAPE GARDEN 020 8940 1950 collect your Easter treat. Heavenly Au Pairs & Nannies Portsmouth Road, Esher KT10 9JG www.nationaltrust.org.uk/ham-house 020 8744 1241 www. Bespoke Agency - Flexible Domestic Help Time: 10.30am-4pm Cost: Normal strawberryhillhouse.org.uk MOTHERING SUNDAY AT Admission plus £3 per trail Childcare: Au Pair, Nanny, Mother’s Help CLAREMONT LANDSCAPE GARDEN SAT 26 MAR TO SUN 10 APR Follow the clues around the garden to House Keeper, Elderly Companion Portsmouth Road, Esher KT10 9JG EASTER HOUSE TRAIL AT claim your chocolate prize. Time:10 am-5pm Cost: FREE for STRAWBERRY HILL HOUSE Call 0333 800 8085 BAPAA 01372 467806 www.nationaltrust.org.uk/ mothers accompanied by their children. 268 Waldegrave Road, Twickenham, www.heavenlyaupairs.com info@heavenlyaupairs.com Treat mum to a day out and a tasty treat claremont-landscape-garden TW1 4ST in the café. Ages: All Time: House opening hours FRI 25 TO MON 28 MAR 01372 467806 www.nationaltrust.org.uk/ EASTER EGG TRAIL AT HAM HOUSE Cost: Children go FREE with paying Ham Street, Ham TW10 7RS claremont-landscape-garden adults Time: 10am-5pm Cost: Normal See what botanical mischief the Easter Admission plus £3 per trail bunnies are up to at Horace’s castle. SUN 6 MAR AND 3 APR Special trail around the gardens. Win 020 8744 1241 www. SUNDAY AFTERNOON ART AT an Easter egg, plus art activities and strawberryhillhouse.org.uk ORLEANS HOUSE GALLERY storytelling. Riverside, Twickenham TW1 3DJ SUN 27 MAR 020 8940 1950 For Ages: 4+ Time: 2-3.30pm EASTER EGG HUNT AT KEMPTON www.nationaltrust.org.uk/ham-house Cost: Child £3, extra child £1.50 STEAM RAILWAY EASTER EGG HUNT AT OSTERLEY PARK Snakey Lane,Feltham TW13 6XH Drop in art activities. No booking Jersey Rd, Isleworth, TW7 4RB Time: 10.30am-4pm Cost: Adult £2, required. Time: 11am-4pm Cost: Normal Child £1, Under 5s FREE 020 8831 6000 Admission plus £3 per trail Take a ride and go on an Easter egg www.richmond.gov.uk/arts Complete the trail and win a Cadbury hunt. MON 7 AND 14 MAR chocolate prize. www.hamptonkemptonrailway.org.uk STAR CLUB AT ORLEANS HOUSE 020 8232 5050 www.nationaltrust.org.uk GALLERY SUN 27 TO MON 28 MAR GRAND EASTER STEAM UP AT LONDON EASTER EGG HUNT AT PAINSHILL Riverside, Twickenham TW1 3DJ MUSEUM OF STEAM AND WATER For Ages: 4-7 Time: 3.45-4.45pm PARK Green Dragon Lane, Brentford, TW8 0EN Time: 10am-4pm. Cost: FREE with Cost: £6 per session Maternity, Baby & Kids 0-6 Time: 11am-4pm Cost: FREE with Normal Admission Workshops exploring play and Normal Admission Adventure round the garden looking story-making. Part of the Music and Surbiton See live chicks hatching, make an Easter for hidden egg-shaped clues leading to Drama Festival. Sat19 Mar mask and hunt for eggs. a chocolate treat. 020 8831 6000 2-4pm 020 8568 4757 www.waterandsteam.org.uk 01932 868113 www.painshill.co.uk www.richmond.gov.uk/arts St Marks EASTER EGG HUNT AT MORDEN HALL SUN 27 TO MON 28 MAR FRI 11 MAR AND 22 APR Church Hall, PARK CLASSICAL BABIES CONCERT IN & SUN 3 APR Morden Hall Road, Morden SM4 5JD Surbiton KT6 4LS OPEN DAY AT THAMES DITTON TEDDINGTON For Ages: 5-11 Time: 10am-5pm Teddington Landmark Arts Centre, Ferry Rd, MINATURE RAILWAY Cost: Normal Admission plus £3.50 per Claygate Lane, KT7 0LE TW11 9NN Sat19 Mar trail Time: 2-5pm Cost: FREE entry + train Time: 11-11.45am Cost: Adults £10, 2-4pm Treasure hunt, activities and family games. rides from £2 babies FREE Teddington Find the clues and claim your chocolate Picnic in large grass field. Ride steam, 45 minutes of classical music by Baptist Church diesel and electric scale trains. professional musicians in a comfortable/ egg. Church Road 020 8545 6850 www.nationaltrust.org.uk/ 0208 398 3985 www.malden-dsme.co.uk friendly environment. TW11 8PF 020 8977 7558 www.classicalbabies.com morden-hall-park MON 28 MAR TO FRI 1 APR Hampton FRI 25 MAR TO SUN 10 APR MAD HATTERS WORKSHOP AT SUN 13 MAR Top Sat 23 Apr EASTER EGG HUNT AT POLESDEN RIVERHOUSE BARN ARTS CENTRE LUCKY DIP DISCO AT RIVERHOUSE sellers 2-4pm LACEY Manor Road, Walton KT12 2NZ BARN ARTS CENTRE make Hampton Great Bookham, near Dorking RH5 6BD Time: 10am (5yrs+), 1pm (8yrs+) Manor Road, Walton KT12 2NZ over £300! Methodist Church, Time: 11am-3pm Cost: Child: Normal Cost: £10/£20 For Ages: Under 7s Time: 3-5pm Percy Road Stalls sell Admission plus £3 per child Make a mad hat to take home. Join the Cost: Child £7, Adult £5 TW12 2JT Someone has been taking bites out of the Mad Hatters Tea Party (2 April). out weeks Retro Disco for families. Booking Easter collection. Can you find the culprit? 01932 253354 required. in advance. Kingston 01483 424 400 Sat 23 Apr www.riverhousebarn.co.uk 01932 253354 Book www.nationaltrust.org.uk/polesden-lacey www.riverhousebarn.co.uk 2-4pm TUE 29, WED 30 MAR, WED 6 APR yours EASTER GIANT DUCK HUNT AT CHOCOLATE WORKSHOPS AT YMCA Hawker WED 16 MAR now! LONDON WETLAND CENTRE STRAWBERRY HILL HOUSE DO-RE-MI BABIES CONCERT Centre Queen Elizabeth’s Walk, Barnes SW13 9WT 268 Waldegrave Road, Twickenham, All Saints Church, Market Pl, KT1 1JP Kingston KT2 5BH Times: 9.30-5pm Cost: Normal Admission TW1 4ST Time: 10am Cost: Adult £10, Child www.mum2mummarket.co.uk plus £1 per trail Time: 11am for Under 5s/2pm for Over FREE

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Buy and Sell

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March-April 2016

what’s on 5s Cost: £7/£9 Make chocolate treats to take home. Booking required. 020 8744 1241 www.strawberryhillhouse.org.uk TUE AND WED 29, 31 MAR AND 5, 7 APR HOLIDAY ACTIVITIES AT CHERTSEY MUSEUM 33 Windsor Street, Chertsey KT16 8AT For Ages: 5-12 Time: 11am or 2pm Cost: £4.50 per child Fun activities. Booking required. 01932 565764 www.chertseymuseum.org TUE 29 MAR TO FRI 1 APR MUSEUM OF RICHMOND FAMILY WORKSHOPS Old Town Hall, Whittaker Ave, Richmond TW9 1TP Ages: 5-11 Time: 10am-12pm Cost: £4 Art and craft inspired by the new exhibition. Booking required. 0208 332 1141 www.museumofrichmond.com TUE 29 MAR TO SUN 10 APR EASTER HOLIDAY FUN AT HAM HOUSE Ham Street, Ham TW10 7RS Time: 10am-5pm Cost: FREE with Normal Admission Art activities, storytelling, spring trail and 50 Things activities. 020 8940 1950 www.nationaltrust.org.uk/ham-house TUE 29 MAR TO FRI 8 APR EASTER SCHOOL HOLIDAY FUN AT BROOKLANDS MUSEUM Brooklands Road, Weybridge KT13 0QN Time: 10am-5pm Cost: FREE with Normal Admission Car rides, Bertie the Brooklands Bear, trails and family workshops. 01932 857381 www.brooklandsmuseum.com WED 30 MAR TO FRI 1 APR SHOUT! FAMILY XPLORER DROP IN SESSIONS IN HERSHAM Coronation Recreation Ground, Molesey Rd, KT12 4QR Time: 10-12pm (Wed) 2.30-4pm (Fri) Cost: FREE Family challenge for all ages. Use a map to discover secret animals and interesting facts on markers hidden around the park. 01372 474634 elmbridge.gov.uk/shout WED 30 MAR TO 6 APR 50 THINGS TO DO BEFORE YOU’RE 11¾ AT OSTERLEY PARK Jersey Road, Isleworth TW7 4RB Time: 11am-3pm Cost: FREE with Normal Admission Collect a scrapbook, join in an adventure, then pick up your sticker. 020 8232 5050 www.nationaltrust.org.uk THU 31 MAR AND 7 APR CRAFT CART AT OSTERLEY PARK Jersey Rd, Isleworth, TW7 4RB Time: 11am-3pm Cost: FREE/donation Drop in and get crafty. 020 8232 5050 www.nationaltrust.org.uk BUGS WORLD WORKSHOP IN KINGSTON Eden Walk Shopping Centre, Kingston KT1 1BL Time: 12-4pm Cost: FREE Make a butterfly mask or bug crown. FREE Bug Face painting and mini chocolate Easter Egg giveaway. 0208 549 9672 www.edenwalkshopping.co.uk FRI 1 APR SHOUT TOWPATH TODDLE IN WALTON Elmbridge Xcel Leisure Complex, KT12 2JG Ages: All ages Time: 10am-12pm Cost: FREE Stroll along the Thames with your little ones. Watch the boats, feed the ducks and enjoy play activities. 01372 474634 elmbridge.gov.uk/shout FRI 1 AND 8 APR LITTLE SEEDLINGS GARDENING CLUB AT OSTERLEY PARK Jersey Road, Isleworth TW7 4RB Time: 11-3pm Cost: FREE with Normal Admission Get hands-on in this edible, drop-in kids gardening session. 020 8232 5050 www.nationaltrust.org.uk

March-April 2016

SAT 2 APR MAD HATTERS TEA PARTY & PARADE AT RIVERHOUSE BARN ARTS CENTRE Manor Road, Walton KT12 2NZ Time: 2.30pm Cost: £7 Performance readings from Alice in Wonderland plus tea and cake. Join the parade wearing mad hats that you have brought with you! 01932 253354 www.riverhousebarn.co.uk SHOUT OUTDOOR PLAY AT BROOKLANDS COMMUNITY PARK Sopwith Drive, Weybridge KT13 0XF Time: Drop in 10am-1pm Cost: FREE Model with junk, make a ball run, hunt for bugs in the woods and try natural crafts. 01372 474634 elmbridge.gov.uk/shout SAT 2 AND SUN 3 APR BELVEDERE TOWER OPEN AT CLAREMONT LANDSCAPE GARDEN Portsmouth Road, Esher KT10 9JG Time: 2-4pm Cost: FREE with Normal Admission Enjoy stunning views from the Belvedere Tower across the Surrey countryside. 01372 467806 www.nationaltrust.org. uk/claremont-landscape-garden SAT 2 AND 9 APR EASTER FAMILY ACTVITIES AT STRAWBERRY HILL HOUSE 268 Waldegrave Road, Twickenham, TW1 4ST Time: 12.30-3pm Cost: £2 Mud pie and fairy door making. 020 8744 1241 www.strawberryhillhouse.org.uk MON 4 TO FRI 8 APR SPRING HOLIDAY CHILDRENS CRAFT ACTIVITIES AT CLAREMONT LANDSCAPE GARDEN Portsmouth Road, Esher KT10 9JG Time: 10.30am-12.30pm Cost: Normal Admission plus £1.50 Spring-themed children’s craft activities. 01372 467806 www.nationaltrust.org. uk/claremont-landscape-garden SAT 9 TO SUN 10 APR BIRDS OF PREY WEEKEND AT RHS WISLEY Woking GU23 6QB Time: 11am and 2pm Cost: FREE with Normal Admission Discover all about birds of prey. 0845 260 9000 www.rhs.org.uk/wisley FAMILIES FIRST WEEKEND AT OSTERLEY PARK Jersey Rd, Isleworth, TW7 4RB Time: 12-4pm Cost: FREE with Normal Admission Georgian history trail for the whole family. 020 8232 5050 www.nationaltrust. org.uk SAT 16 APR FAMILY FARM DAY AT CLAREMONT LANDSCAPE GARDEN Portsmouth Road, Esher KT10 9JG Time: 10.30am-4pm Cost: FREE with Normal Admission Meet and learn about the animals from Mill Cottage Farm Experience. A local spinner will demonstrate turning fleece into yarn. 01372 467806 www.nationaltrust.org. uk/claremont-landscape-garden SUN 17 APR LONDON BUS SPRING GATHERING AT BROOKLANDS MUSEUM Brooklands Road, Weybridge KT13 0QN Time: 10am-5pm Cost: Adult £11, Child £6, Family £30 Fabulous day out for families and transport enthusiasts alike. 01932 857381 www.brooklandsmuseum.com SUN 23 APR WATER POWER CHALLENGE AT MORDEN HALL PARK Morden Hall Road, Morden SM4 5JD Time: 11am-4pm Cost: FREE Learn about the important of role water power in the park and design your own waterwheel. 020 8545 6850 www.nationaltrust.org. uk/morden-hall-park

SAT 23 AND SUN 24 APR MAGIC MECCANO SHOW AT LONDON MUSEUM OF STEAM AND WATER Green Dragon Lane, Brentford, TW8 0EN Time: 11am-4pm Cost: FREE with Normal Admission See the best of UK Meccano modelling in action, meet talented model makers and build your own Meccano creation. 020 8568 4757 www.waterandsteam.org.uk SUN 24 APR BIRDS OF PREY AT PAINSHILL PARK

NEARLY NEW SALES

MUM2MUM www.mum2mummarket.co.uk SURBITON SAT 19 MAR, 2-4pm St Marks Church Hall, Surbiton KT6 4LS TEDDINGTON SAT 19 MAR, 2-4pm Teddington Baptist Church, Church Rd, TW11 8PF HAMPTON SAT 23 APR, 2-4PM Hampton Methodist Church, Percy Rd, TW12 2JT KINGSTON SAT 23 APR, 2-4PM YMCA Hawker Centre, Kingston KT2 5BH

Time: 2-4pm. Cost: FREE with Normal Admission Fantastic flying displays. Discover more about falconry. 01932 868113 www.painshill.co.uk SUN 30 APR TO MON 2 MAY MAY FAYRE AT MORDEN HALL PARK Morden Hall Road, Morden SM4 5JD Time: 10am-5pm Cost: Adult £7.50, Child £3, Family £19 Local food, crafts, exhibitors and entertainment. 020 8545 6850 www.oakleighfairs.co.uk/morden NCT www.nct.org.uk BYFLEET SUN 20 MAR, 2.30-4PM Byfleet Village Hall, 54 High Rd, KT14 7QL EGHAM SAT 16 APR, 10.30AM-12PM Egham Leisure Centre, TW20 8NL CHEEKI MONKEYS TWICKENHAM SAT 26 MAR, 1.30-3.30pm Richmond upon Thames College, Egerton Road, TW2 7SJ CRUK www.crukgoodasnewsale.org.uk ESHER SAT 7 MAY, 1.30-3.30PM Esher College, Thames Ditton, KT7 0JB

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Less laundry hassle, more family time We pick up, wash and deliver within 24 hours

£10 OFF

your first order Code: THAMESFAM

Order now on our website or mobile app www.zipjet.co.uk Families upon Thames is part of Families Magazines Ltd a franchise company. All franchised magazines in the group are independently owned and operated under licence. Families® is a registered trademark of Families Magazines Ltd, Temple House, Regatta Place, Marlow Road, Bourne End, Bucks SL8 5TD. The contents of Families upon Thames are fully protected by copyright and none of the editorial or photographic matter may be reproduced in any form without prior consent of the publisher. We take every care preparing this magazine but the publishers and distributors cannot be held responsible for the claims of advertisers nor for the accuracy of the contents nor for any consequence.