Families London West Issue 101 Jul/Aug 20155

ISSUE 101 July/August 2015 www.familieswest.co.uk

Families West 路 PO Box 32231 路 London W5 1JR 路 Tel: 020 8930 4707 路 Email: familieswest@yahoo.co.uk

Book NOW for the September 2015 ‘Clubs and Classes & Back to School’ issue.

Please contact us at: familieswest@yahoo.co.uk

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Families West PO Box 32231 London W5 1JR

July/August 2015

news & views Bigger, Bolder, Hattier!

Wear A Hat Day 2015 was the biggest and

In this issue: Now is the time to get on the phone and start booking!

West London is buzzing with activities that are perfect for children over the summer - exciting, creative, fun... and they might even learn a thing or two. Grab a coffee and a highlighter and pick put the things you want to try out. Our website is even more jam-packed with ideas. Have you tried out our What’s On widget yet? It’s fab - a huge list of all the things going on for families within your local area plus all the info you need on contact details and how to get there.

www.familiesonline.co.uk/LOCATIONS/London-West/whats-on is the most useful website for you in the holidays! See you again in September with lots of information on those term-time clubs and classes for children in West London.

In this issue News & Views

Page 3

Here Comes Summer!

Page 6

What’s On in West London

Page 11

Summer Clubs & Classes

Page 22

Feeding your fussy eater

Page 23

Choose your battles!

Page 23

Classifieds/Competitions

Page 24

Like us on Facebook Families West Magazine

July/August 2015

hattiest yet! The charity are greatly indebted to the hundreds of schools and families from all over the country who have taken part in their flagship fundraising campaign.

For those who are touched by the devastating disease, the commitment to help was much appreciated. So many young people, staff members and parents helped pupils to bake cakes, make and find hats and in so doing discover they can have fun whilst supporting an important cause. They would love to have your company again next year, so please don’t forget to register at:

www.wearahatday.org

Perform classes come to Maida Vale Owing to popular demand, Perform are delighted to announce the recent launch of new drama, singing and dance classes in Maida Vale. The new classes are on Tuesdays at The Truscott Arms, Shirland Road, W9 2JD, 4-5pm (4-7 year olds) and 5.156.15pm (7-12 year olds). Perform focuses on child development; they use a unique mix of drama, dance and singing specially formulated to bring out every child's full potential. Focusing on the 4 C's... Confidence, Communication, Co-ordination and Concentration, they help children develop their social skills whilst having the best fun of the week. To book a free trial session email: enquiries@perform.org.uk or call 020 7255 9120. Perform are also offering Families readers a £40 discount off their first 10 sessions, quote FAMI311015 when booking. For more info please visit: www.perform.org.uk

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news & views Exciting times ahead for Dance Gallery Dance Gallery teaches students from 4 to 18 years and is based at St Stephen's Church, St Stephens Road, Ealing W13 8HB. It is renowned for its fabulous bi-annual musical theatre shows that are performed at Questors Theatre in Ealing and with the preparations for a fantastic new show starting in September, there is no better time to sign up for one of the dance classes.

Principal Jill Wellman says “Our main aim is to teach children that dancing is one of the finest and most fun ways of keeping fit and through performance they will gain great confidence. Our new show entitled “Dance Gallery Rocks!” will be performed in March 2016 at Questors Theatre Ealing. It will feature many different styles of dancing including modern jazz, tap, street dance, hip hop and contemporary. Each age group will learn several different dances and the juniors will also be performing a musical theatre sequence from “Charlie and the Chocolate Factory” and the seniors a sequence from “Grease”. All previous shows have performed to “sell out” audiences and it really is a magical week for everyone involved!” A parent from the last show commented “I was absolutely blown away by the performance last night. I have been teaching 25 years, but I have never witnessed anything like Dance Gallery's show. Thank you for giving my daughter such a memorable experience.” See: www.dancegallery.co.uk where you will find an enrolment form and view some snippets from past shows.

Jill can be contacted on: 020 8566 9672

Jigsaw Performing Arts celebrates its 20th birthday 2015 is a very exciting year in the Jigsaw calendar as they look back over the past 20 years that they have been offering Performing Arts classes to 3-16 year olds across London. They have come up with 20 reasons why your child should attend a Performing Arts school and here are their top 5: Creativity: Being able to think on your feet and think ‘outside the box’ is a useful skill for children to have whilst growing up.

Confidence: Performing Arts encourages children to step out of their comfort zone and challenges them to open up in front of others and believe in themselves.

Perseverance: Teaching children that by learning new skills, practicing and not giving up you will achieve success in all that you put your mind to.

Problem Solving: Helping to develop children’s skills in reasoning and understanding by working as a team.

Fitness: A fun source of exercise for children - it never feels like 'hard work' Find out more at: www.jigsaw-arts.co.uk

Cleverpop Lollipops In an age when we are bombarded by strong messages about cutting down on sugar, it’s good to know that there are some good options for kids. Clever Sweets Ltd have made a sweet which is a healthy alternative to sugary lollipops. Its short ingredients list is something we all want to see, making it a ‘clean label’ product. There is no compromise on flavour - they have the very best, natural, allergen free flavours - and colours. Cleverpop is tooth friendly and sweetener free and you even get some of your daily Vitamin C. Selling on line across the country for two years, word is spreading and they’re now excited about going international, taking this British innovation to new markets. Choose between three flavours or buy a mixed box for parties, school or the summer holidays at: www.cleversweets.co.uk

Pitshanger Playcentre Summer Activities Pitshanger Playcentre is open Monday to Friday from 10-11.45am and 24.45pm during the summer holidays as normal, running play sessions for little ones. Costs for a normal session is £3 a child. (siblings pay £1) They will be running a whole host of special events over the summer too. Every Thursday morning they will have a storytime, and singing with puppets and musical instruments will take place every Monday and Friday (£4 per session, £1 siblings). Every Wednesday from 29 July-19 Aug, there will be a series of art workshops (29 Jul and 5 Aug), yoga for toddlers (12 Aug) and a photography session where photographer Martin Stewart will allow the kids to have the camera! (19 Aug). Also scheduled is a screening of the movie ‘Frozen’ on 14 Aug. Find out more about these events and others on our Whats On widget online, on their facebook page (Pitshanger Playcentre) or call: 07951 535779. The playcentre is in Pitshanger Park, (entrance on Meadvale Road, W5 1QY).

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Kids Week 2015 - 40 top London shows offering FREE tickets and activities for families The annual London theatre initiative Kids Week returns this summer from 1- 31 August with an exciting line-up of more than 40 top London shows offering free tickets for children. It is all about encouraging young people and their families to experience the magic of live theatre.

During Kids Week a child aged 16 or under can go free to participating shows when accompanied by an adult paying full price. Up to two extra children’s tickets can also be purchased at half price, per transaction. There are also a fantastic range of free activities and events Children can take a Billy Elliot The Musical ballet class, or take part in a storytelling workshop for I Believe In Unicorns. Under 5s are invited to meet The Gruffalo or enjoy fun activities with Aliens Love Underpants and, for older children, there’s the chance to perform the choreographic moves from the hit musical Jersey Boys, go backstage with The Mousetrap to meet the current cast of the longest-running play in the world, learn some of Wicked’s secrets or discover the art of improvisation from The Play That Goes Wrong. www.kidsweek.co.uk

Families West PO Box 32231 London W5 1JR

July/August 2015

news & views Vitality WestRun London is the freshest new 10k run to hit the capital’s streets, taking place on Sunday 4th October at 9am Designed as a community festival for runners of all ages and abilities, the 10k offers the perfect opportunity to get the girls together, challenge the boys or run the streets of SW6 with your family. Celebrate your community and run this one together! The event will also play host to a one mile Family Fun Run, so Mums and Dads, Aunts, Uncles, Grandma and Grandpa, you can all run with your little superstars! The Fun Run kicks off as soon as the 10k runners have run through the start line. You’ll be rewarded with an amazing, high quality WestRun Family Fun Run Medal, a souvenir T-shirt andof course treasured memories of running to the loud cheers of the adoring West London crowds.The Family Fun Run is open to anyone over the age of four, and is simply the best way to celebrate some family time by running one mile on the closed road streets of beautiful West London! With plenty to keep everyone occupied throughout the morning - runners, spectators, family members, everyone’s invited, so get involved now and sign up to join us on race day! www.westrunlondon.com

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Sunny Chiswick Studio · Home Visits Reformer Pilates · Barre · Mat Pilates Natal · Sculpting · Weight Loss Body Plans · Nutrition Let Body By Lizzie Davis take control and guide you to change your life!

Feel energised, confident and fabulous! www.bodybylizziedavis.co.uk 07990 824 862

Maria Montessori School-Holland Park to open in September 2015 The Maria Montessori Institute is delighted to announce the September opening of its newest school: Maria Montessori School - Holland Park. Montessori is an educational approach with a long and established history.

But more than that, Montessori is a living idea whose relevance is being borne out by cutting edge research.Children generally start at around 2½ to 3 years old and continue until they are six. In authentic Montessori schools children become selfreliant, intellectually curious and fully equipped for the adventure of life. They grow into adults who are lifelong learners and have the inner resources to pursue their goals. To discover how this happens and to find out more about the school and about authentic Montessori, come to their Open Day on Tuesday 7 July between 2 - 4 pm. Contact the Head Office on: 020 7435 3646, email: schools@mariamontessori.org or visit the website: www.mariamontessori.org Maria Montessori Holland Park is located at Kenley Walk Hall,10 Nottingdale Square, London W11 4BA

To promote YOUR school or business news & views please contact us at: familieswest @yahoo.co.uk

July/August 2015

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Ready or not... here comes

Does the thought of at least SIX WEEKS of completely unstructured time with the kids fill you with sheer delight or absolute horror? Like most parents, it’s probably a mixture of the two. Some good planning is the key for surviving the summer holidays. I like the idea of a big calendar or diary to write things in so that children that are old enough can also see what’s planned and suggest their own ideas for activities. When my children were little, they were fascinated by the number 100 - so we made lots of 100 lists. Here are more than a hundred ways to keep the family happy this summer (including some to keep parents happy too!). Put them into your calendar to take away the “What are we doing today?” slump.

Some outline planning tips...

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Look carefully through our What’s on pages. There are more than 100 ideas just there! The London museums, galleries, days out , theatres are all catering to young children this summer with a whole host of activities for all ages. Some of these need to be booked in advance and others can be a more last minute decision.

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Pull together a ‘Day out in London bag’ with supplies you will need including a couple of tantrum distractions for little ones and waiting in a long queue distractions for the over 5’s.

Log onto www.familieswest.co.uk and look through our What’s on widget. Here is a comprehensive list of all the stuff going on in London that can be filtered so the activity meets your needs in terms of location, ages of children, and type of activity.

It is available nationwide so bear it in mind if you are holidaying in the UK this summer.

Start gathering a collection of scrap material... boxes, plastic bottles, card, paper, fabric into a big recycling box.

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Staying in days

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Look around at your home space and divide up into areas of interest!

Any room: An art area stocked with pencils, pens, brushes, all kinds of paper, glue, scissors and scrap material means that you are not scrabbling around when you want to have a creative day.

Don’t forget to put in an old plastic sheet so that cleaning up is a little easier.

Any room: A games cupboard.

Whether you’re a Jedi at Jenga or a master Monopoly player, there’s nothing like a giant board games tournament in the summer. This is a chance to encourage your family to forget the iPads and X Boxes of today and

Elves & Ovens is a children’s party catering company providing delicious, home-made food and treats for unforgettable parties to children and adults of all ages.

Food Boxes | Proper Tea Party Food Grown Up Food Balloons | Little Furniture Entertainers | Staff Party Bags And More

Call: +44 2089617477 www.elvesandovens.com

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Families West PO Box 32231 London W5 1JR

July/August 2015

Summer!

The Families West summer survival guide from the hustle and bustle of everyday life where they can switch off and daydream. (ask permission if you want/need to use it!)

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remember the fun you can have with three dimensional people. Don’t forget about card games - teach a new one this summer. For a group of older ones (age 6+) our family love “The Great Dalmuti” card game. Wearing of hats greatly enhances the game. (The loser has to wear a pair of underpants on their head.)

Your outside space: Replenish the garden toys. You don’t need a whole swing set but a few new balls and bats, hoops and skipping ropes will entice them outside.

Bathroom: How about some new bath toys? Save the old colander and plastic measuring jug that you were going to chuck out and give it to the kids to play with (their teacher will thank you too if they come away with some knowledge about volume and capacity!) Make a big bottle of bubble mixture handy. (Mix half a cup of washing up liquid, 5 cups of bottled water, 2 tablespoons of glycerine- mix carefully and leave overnight)

And we can’t forget about books… have them in every room in the house.

Variety is the key- think outside the box.

Newspaper articles, comics, recipes, picture books, posters, a quote for the day... books in different shapes, sizes, languages.

Download audiobooks onto an ipod and set up a cosy listening corner. And let the kids catch you reading. Let them see it as a valuable and enjoyable activity. (Don’t forget to sign up for the summer reading challenge at your local library. The kids read six library books of their choice, collecting stickers and other rewards along the way. Log onto: http://summerreadingchallenge.org.uk to keep track of your reading, find new books to read, take part in competitions and play games.)

4. Put a couple of spoonfuls of baking powder into the centre of a piece of tissue and fold it up into a packet to make a slow release fuse.

5. Pour vinegar into the bottle until it is a third full.

6. Put the baking powder parcel into the bottle.

7. Add the cork.

8. Shake 9. Stand the rocket up on the pencils.

10. Run away!

For other science experiments and fab ideas for activities, you could invest this rather marvellous book by Catherine Cox. “Go-carts, Catapults &Midnight Feasts: 101 Vintage Pastimes for Modern Kids” and is available at: www.amazon.co.uk/Go-Carts-CatapultsMidnight-Feasts-Pastimes/dp/0750964294

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And then throw in some crazy science experiments. Children will need you to supervise them making a vinegar and baking soda rocket but they will love you for it. You will have most of the ingredients you need already. (safety goggles, baking soda, vinegar, plastic bottle, paper nose cone, cork, three pencils, sticky tape, tissue paper and a large open space.

Here’s how to do it!

1. Check the cork fits the mouth of the bottle quite tightly.

2. Tape the pencils around the bottle neck so that you can stand it upside down.

3. Make a nose cone and stick it to the bottom of the bottle.

Summer ideas and workshop listings continue on page 8

Kitchen: Gather together some easy peasy recipes that the kids can either help you with or do by themselves. Write out instructions in a little family recipe book and take pictures when you’re done. Sort them in order of length of prep and vary the ingredients. It may even make your fussy eater try a new food.

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Create a small, cosy, being alone space. You need blankets and cushions and a teddy or two. Sometimes that’s what a child needs. Somewhere away

July/August 2015

Families West PO Box 32231 London W5 1JR

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Ready or not...

here comes Summer

Going out days

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Summer and swimming go together. Many leisure centres put on sessions when they chuck big floats and toys into the water for added fun. Why not try some outdoor swimming? In West London you have two options. Hillingdon Outdoor Pool is an open-air swimming pool with fountains at either end and a heated shallow splash pool for little ones. There’s plenty of space to sunbathe and outside catering. www.fusion-lifestyle.com/centres/Hillingdon_ Sport_and_Leisure_Complex%20/facility/Outdoor_pool and Oasis Leisure Centre in Covent Garden which has a 27.5m outdoor heated pool (as well as an indoor one). www.better.org.uk/leisure/oasis-sports-centre

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Or just a splash? The Edmond J. Safra Fountain Court at Somerset House - “A dignified courtyard with a mischievous streak” has an array of jets with added coloured lighting at night for a cool down on a warm summer day or evening. Bring swimsuits and towels. Others in West London include the little trickle at the Diana, Princess of Wales Memorial Fountain and the Russell Square Gardens fountain near the British Museum.

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Get all the sports gear that you own out of the cupboard and dust them down. Then head over to the local leisure centre and give all these amazing sports on offer a try. It’s easy to find places in London to sail, climb, play all kinds of ball games, skate, kick and scream. OK- maybe not the last one. But if you need a hand here’s a list of them. http://www.familiesonline.co.uk/LOCATIONS/London-West/WestLondon-Directory/Childrens-Activities-Clubs-and-Classes

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Take the kids on a nature walk. Our city kids are in danger of being terribly ignorant of the wonderful variety of flora and fauna in Britain. Gem up yourself on the names of different trees and flowers and point them out to your kids. Talk to them about the cycle of life and the importance of looking after our planet.

Download printable spotter sheets and guides to help you identify wildlife in the woods, your garden or local park from the Woodland Trust. http://www.naturedetectives.org.uk/summer/spot.htm

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Extend this by taking a trip to the local garden centre and planting something in a pot or in the garden. I know nothing about gardening but managed a decent (small) crop of courgettes last summer.

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Continue the nature studies. Visit a pick your own and they can experience their own farm to table meal. We like Home Cottage Farm which opens in July and August for plums, raspberries and apples. www.homecottagefarm.co.uk

Grab some time to yourself

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Enrol the kids on a course. (This is one for you and your child).

So many cool offerings in London this summer that they are bound to love. It means you can do something new too.

Here are some good ones on offer locally:

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Families West PO Box 32231 London W5 1JR

July/August 2015

Summer workshops Stagecoach Kensington and Chiswick Summer Holiday Workshops (W14) 27-31 Jul For ages 7-16:Travel back to 1962 and learn all the right moves to perform 'Hairspray'. Join Tracy on her mission to follow her dreams and dance her way onto National TV. A big girl, with big hair and an even bigger heart, the perfect ingredients for a fun-filled show.

10am-4pm each day with classes in singing, acting and dancing, led by professional, DBS checked Stagecoach teachers, with a full, costumed performance at the end of the week.

For ages 4-6: Children will use the Disney characters as inspirationfor dancing, singing and acting pieces.

9.30am-12.30pm daily with a performance on the last day.

Venue: Addison Primary School, Addison Gardens, Brook Green, London W14 0DT Call Sara Catlin Brown: 020 8398 8106 e: kensington@stagecoach.co.uk

Exploring, investigating and fun in the natural world this summer!

Activities include boat trips, berry picking, farm visit, cookery and crafts, football skills and fun fitness all from our award winning, OFSTED registered, forest school home in Hayes!

Ages 3-11 years Full day and half day sessions available www.teaselnurseryschool.com · 0208 845 7362 Arts Place Summer drama camp (W13) 10-14 AND 17-21 Aug Acting, singing, prop making and craft activities-a chance for children to fully immerse themselves in the world of theatre! Led by professional actors from the Royal Shakespeare Company, Shakespeare’s Globe and the National Theatre. Children will develop theatre skills rehearsing and working towards a performance of The Wizard of Oz. 10am-4pm, for ages 5-7 and 8-11 at St Stephen’s Church & Centre, St Stephen’s Road, Ealing, London W13 8HB. Call: 07890 493 920 e: info@theartsplace.co.uk www.theartsplace.co.uk Perform drama, dance and singing workshop (W4, W5) The theme this summer is the Ice Queen story.

Children aged 4-7, will put on a show for family and friends with colourful costumes, original songs and live music while having fun and developing confidence skills.

25% discount for siblings, reductions for groups and an early bird discount if you book by 1st June.

Chiswick workshops:10-14 Aug, 10am-12noon.

Ealing (W5) workshops: 27-31 Jul, 10am-12noon Ealing (W13) workshops: 3-7 Aug, 2.30-4.30pm.

Call 0845 400 1285 www.perform.org.uk

Summer Special Needs Holiday Camps

Designed for children with mild - moderate special needs including autism, dyspraxia and down’s syndrome.

Our Ofsted registered camps involve a variety of calming and dynamic activities such as balloon tennis, cupcake decorating, sensory play and papier mache.

All staff have considerable SEN experience.

Wandsworth, SW18 4DN: July 27-31 Ravenscourt Park, W12 9JA: Aug 3-7 Both camps are 9.30am – 3.30pm daily.

Ages: 6-12 years Cost: £60/day or £50/day if 5 days are booked.

Childcare vouchers accepted at Wandsworth.

Contact details: Hugo 07825 598344 Hugo@rolemodels.me · www.rolemodels.me http://www.rolemodels.me/sen-summer-camp-2015/

Allsorts drama for children will be running their popular holiday courses for the weeks of 20th & 27th July from 9.30am-3.30pm at Notting Hill Prep School, 95 Lancaster Road W11 Open to ages 4 - 6 & 7 -12 The children will have lots of fun working towards a spectacular performance on the last day.

Tel: 0208 767 5298 or 0208 969 3249 www.allsortsdrama.com Allsorts also run term time drama classes,holiday workshops and private tuition including LAMDA. Yourspace Drama Workshops (W5) Book now for Yourspace drama course and see your child perform on Questors Theatre's famous stage! From August 10-14, 6-10 and 11-16 year olds will create a fabulous show based on ‘Myths and Legends’ which they will perform on the Friday evening. No experience is needed for this sell-out week. Also booking now for Yourspace tots: five half days for ages 3-5 with a performance at St Augustine's Priory.

Call 07580 474638 or email info@yourspacedrama.com www.yourspacedrama.com Will to Win Football Camp (W13) 29 Jun-28 Aug For girls and boys ages 5-14, from 10am3pm at Lammas Park. Free early drop off and late pick up.

Each day has a dedicated topic- dribbling, turning and skills, passing and receiving, shooting and finishing plus a competitions and tournaments fun day. Discount available if payment made 2 weeks in advance. www.willtowin.co.uk Will to Win Tennis and Multisports camp (W13) 29 Jun-28 Aug A week of intensive tennis and fun in Pitshanger Park and Lammas Park. Drills, games and match play- learning and fun. Junior camp for ages 7-16, Mini/tots-camp for ages 3-7. Also Multi-sport camps in Pitshanger Park from 20-31 Jul and 24-28 Aug includes netball or football as well as tennis. www.willtowin.co.uk

From Baby to Ballerina

Classes for Boys and Girls aged 21/2 to 16 years old Ballet, Pointe Work, Jazz, Tap, Annual Performances

Classes held in: Bayswater, Notting Hill Gate, Oxford Street, Shepherds Bush and South Kensington

July/August 2015

Families West PO Box 32231 London W5 1JR

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Summer workshops Fit for Sport Activity Camp (W5, W13, W4, SW7) 6 Jul- 1 Sep For ages 3-12, 9.30am-4.30pm with extended day and half day options available, (8.30am-5.30pm) Fun activities will include volleyball, basketball, quizzes and games along with special Looney Tunes themed fun. All full of energy and full of creativity. Early bird discounts available - book on: 0845 456 3233 www.fitforsport.co.uk/holiday-camps Ravenscourt Park Tennis Camp (W6) 29 June-4 Sept For ages 4-16 with fully structured coaching by qualified coaches and specific teaching points for each day. Players are taught in age and ability groups and include drills, games and match play.

Discount available for booking ahead for full and half day camps.

E: julie@ravenscourtparktennis.com or ring 07824 163326 www.ravenscourtparktennis.co.uk Fit for Sport Activity Camp (W5, W13, W4, SW7) 6 Jul - 1 Sep For ages 3-12, 9.30am-4.30pm with extended day and half day options available, (8.30am5.30pm) Fun activities will include volleyball, basketball, quizzes and games along with special Looney Tunes themed fun. All full of energy and full of creativity. Early bird discounts available - book on: 0845 456 3233 www.fitforsport.co.uk/holiday-camps Club Petit Pierrot's Fun French Summer Holiday Club (NW8) 16, 23 Jul at St John’s Wood/Maida Vale at St Mark’s Church Hall, Abercorn Place, NW8. “Les artistes en herbe” for ages 1-3 (Parent & toddler group): 9.15am - 10am.

Fun French sessions where children flourish through sensorial activities, arts and crafts, dance, movement and water play…

16, 17, 20-24 Jul “L’été des grands” for ages 3 to 5, and ages 6-8 (drop-off class): 10.15am - 1.15pm.

Fun creative activities and projects such as arts & crafts, singing, dancing, theatre, language games and outdoor activities.

020 7385 5565 e: admincpp@btconnect.com www.clubpetitpierrot.co.uk

Fimo craft activity workshops (W3) Fun and creative sessions, fully supervised and non messy for age 6+ at teacher’s home. 10.15am-4.15pm.

10 Jul: Fast Food & Chocolate Heaven, 16 Jul: Rainbow Dragons, 24 Jul: Rose Cottage, 31 Jul: The Knitting Circle (make miniature creatures and learn how to knit), 1 Sept: Mini, Mickey & Pluto, 2 Sept: Patchwork Teddybear, 8 Sept: Make your own jigsaw puzzle. Call Clare McKnight: 020 8992 3767 e: fimofun@tiscali.co.uk www.funwithfimoclay.co.uk Royal Academy of Art art workshops (W1) 12 Jul NATURE INTO ART Bring the outdoors into your art with this horticultural watercolour workshop. Free drop-in workshop, no booking required 11am - 3pm.

16 Aug SPELLBINDING TREASURE Embark on an imaginary voyage into the magical world of Joseph Cornell and create your own marvellous ‘shadow box’, using strange and ancient objects. Free drop-in workshop, no booking required 11am - 3pm. www.royalacademy.org.uk/events/category/familyevent Corner Nine Arts Project Art and Circus Workshops (W10) 20-24 Jul 10am-12noon. Summer art camp for age 6+ www.corner9.com Music house for Children musical theatre workshop (W12) 22 Jul Mary Poppins will be recreated with singing, moving, dancing, instruments, composition, art and design. For ages 5-11, 10am-3pm. www.musichouseforchildren.co.uk Summer Resilience Course (SW10) 27-31 Jul The course combines core competencies looked for by the top selective schools with a more general focus on growth mindset; encouraging children to embrace challenges and learn from feedback. Venue: The Chelsea Academy School, SW10 0AB. 10am - 3pm daily for children in years 5 and 6. Call Phoebe on: 07984 738283 e: Phoebe@rolemodels.me www.rolemodels.me

C O N T I N U E D

Chiswick c o u r s e s

Summer Courses 20th July to 13th August 2015 Ages: 6 -16 years Inspirational courses to stimulate creativity.

Animation · Creative Writing · Programming Film · Fashion · Robots with Lego · Science Photography · Cookery and Pottery are amongst the exciting courses we have on offer.

Venue: Ellen Wilkinson School Queens Road W3 0HW

Contact details: Annette or Linda 020 8742 3936 or: www.chiswickcourses.co.uk Kids Cookery School cooking workshops (W3) 20 Jul-28 Aug Cookery sessions for ages 3-16 www.thekidscookeryschool.co.uk Thames Explorer Trust Summer Playscheme (W4) 4-21 Aug A project for disadvantaged children with activities including a boat trip and nature safari, as well as river dipping and river exploration with a trained guide. For ages 5-11 (exploring the river for ages 2-5).

Children and young people with special needs very welcome. www.thames-explorer.org.uk/ families/summer-playscheme

Isis education Centre environmental and art workshops (W2) 7,14 Aug WALK IN THE PARK - PETER PAN An interactive walk to discover how Peter made the perilous journey from Bird Island in the Serpentine to the magical shores of the Long Water in Kensington Gardens.

Surprising and magical activities await! For all ages.

11am-12.30pm.

7 Aug WALK IN THE PARK - BAT WALK A wonderful chance to walk in Kensington Gardens and Hyde Park at night and see several different bat species. Learn how they hunt and separate bat facts from bat fiction. For age 8+ 8.30-10pm. www.supporttheroyalparks.org

PUT ON A SHOW! Yourspace summer performing arts courses August 10-14. Ages 3-5, 6-10, 11-16 Myths and Legends St Augustine’s Priory W5 2JL and Questors Theatre www.yourspacedrama.com

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Families West PO Box 32231 London W5 1JR

Please check before you head out to make sure that the workshop or course event has not changed after publication of Families West magazine.

July/August 2015

DIARY DATES Until 5 Jul RHS HAMPTON COURT PALACE FLOWER SHOW Plants, show gardens and floral displays galore. www.rhs.org.uk/shows-events/rhs-hampton-court-palaceflower-show 4 Jul GREENFORD CARNIVAL Plenty of activities including a mini zoo, tug-of-war, Zumba classes, circus skills and food stalls, singing and dancing. www.ealingsummerfestivals.com/events/greenfordcarnival 11 Jul ACTON CARNIVAL A unique event which features a carnival procession, funfair rides, global food, music and lots of activities for the whole family. 12-7pm in Acton Park. £2 per person. £5 family ticket. www.ealingsummerfestivals.com 12 Jul SUNWALK FESTIVAL A family day out in Battersea Park with walking challenges, live music, great food, fair rides, stalls, animals and a day of fun to raise money for breast cancer. www.walkthewalk.org/Challenges/TheSunWalkLondon 17 Jul-12 Sept BBC PROMS The greatest classical music festival on earth returns to the Royal Albert Hall.

Look out for The Proms Extra: Family series of workshopsa perfect introduction to the classical Proms. Also regular Sunday matinees - concerts for all the family to enjoy.

Tickets are half-price for all under-18s. www.bbc.co.uk/proms 17 Jul-2 Aug SHEPHERDS BUSH SUMMER FAIR www.irvinleisure.co.uk/funfairs/shepherds-bush-winterholiday-fair 19 Jul RACE FOR LIFE Taking place in Hyde Park.

Mums can run with their children up to age 13. 11am. www.raceforlife.cancerresearchuk.org/choose-your-event/ events/london-hyde-park-5k-2015-07-19-1100.html 19 Jul PARTY ON THE PIER A fun day on and off the river at Chiswick Pier. Free boat trips, BBQ, refreshments

July/August 2015

what’s on and music. Also canoe taster sessions, river dipping, face painting and Amanda’s Action Kids www.chiswickpier.org.uk 25, 26 Jul EALING JAZZ FESTIVAL Big band favourites, funky Latin tunes, jazz and funk fusion, bebop, hard bop, contemporary jazz and more in a big-top tent in Walpole Park, Ealing. Children under 12 go free. www.ealingsummerfestivals.com 25, 26 Jul ARCHIKIDS is a weekend long festival with workshops, classes, and drop in activities across the square mile. Try your hand at building a gigantic cardboard city, customise giant city-dwelling creatures or ride a scooter around some of London’s most interesting buildings. Take a trip up to roof terraces not usually accessible to sketch buildings. www.archikids.org.uk/festival/programme15/index.html 5 Aug NATIONAL PLAYDAY Check out what is going on locally at: www.playday.org.uk 29-31 Aug BBC GOOD FOOD FESTIVAL Enjoy first class food and entertainment in the palace gardens with the whole family with live demonstrations from top TV chefs. Discover delicacies from hundreds of the UK’s finest producers plus Hampton Court Palace experts will be joining in to explore Georgian cookery. In the palace kitchens they be cooking up food fit for a king. www.bbcgoodfoodfestival.com 29-31 Aug NOTTING HILL CARNIVAL Europe's biggest street festival. West London will be partying to the sound of steel bands, Calypso music and yummy food stalls. Watch the floats and beautifully costumed performers. Children’s Day on Sunday has a shorter parade along with prizes given out for the best costumes. www.thelondonnottinghillcarnival.com

THE NOTTING HILL CARNIVAL

6 Sept LONDON MELA Europe’s largest outdoor south Asian festival. Entertainment includes classical and new music, as well as street arts, dance, visual arts, a giant funfair, a family zone and food stalls offering cuisine from around the world. 1-9pm at Gunnersbury Park, W3. www.ealingsummerfestivals.com

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what’s on MUSEUMS & GALLERIES BANK OF ENGLAND MUSEUM EC2R 8AH www.bankofengland.co.uk The Museum tells the story of the Bank of England from its foundation in 1694 to its role today as the UK's central bank. Examine intricately-designed banknotes, feel the weight of a genuine gold bar and see the pikes and muskets that were once used to defend the Bank.

4, 11 Jul OPEN DOOR Enjoy 30-minute guided tours of parts of the Bank not generally accessible to the public.

No booking required, but early arrival is advised.

23 Jul-28 Aug MASKerade Explore the Bank’s Flora and Fauna by following the trail, and then become the animal of your choice by colouring a mask to take home.

Take your pick from a variety of creatures including mighty lions, wise owls, and the popular characters from ‘The Wind in the Willows’, whose author Kenneth Grahame worked at the Bank for 30 years.

BRITISH MUSEUM WC1B 3DG www.britishmuseum.org DIGITAL WORKSHOPS Takes place at weekends and school holidays on a variety of themes. Free, for ages 7+ (unless stated). Most workshops take place at 11am and sometimes again at 2pm. Check the Whats On widget on www.familieswest.co.uk for details.

Until 2 Aug INDIGENOUS AUSTRALIAN ADVENTURES Discover the history of Australia with a whole week of activities for all the family inspired by the BP exhibition Indigenous Australia: enduring civilisation.

Make something to take home, help create a giant collaborative art work in the Great Court and listen to stories around Indigenous Australia with a storyteller. Activities run all week and each day has a different programme.

11am-4pm. Free, drop-in.

FOUNDLING MUSEUM WC1N 1AZ www.foundlingmuseum.org.uk 16 Jul BACH TO BABY An innovative classical concert for babies created by mum and pianist, Miaomiao Yu. Inspired by Handel, it brings classical music to babies and parents. Tickets include free entry to the Museum.

10.30-11.30am.

28 Jul ROCOCO MIRRORS Design and make a handheld mirror inspired by the exhibition Lines of Beauty and the Rococo plasterwork in the Museum’s Court Room.

10.30am, 1 and 2.30pm.

1 Aug MAKE A TOKEN Create your own clay token using traditional sculptural techniques, inspired by the elaborate artistry of the Court Room ceiling and the tokens left by mothers with their children at the Foundling Hospital. 10.30am, 1 and 2.30pm.

4 Aug ROCOCO PLASTER CASTS Make and take home your own ceiling tile, inspired by the famous Rococo ceiling in the Museum’s Court Room. 10.30am, 1 and 2.30pm.

IMPERIAL WAR MUSEUM SE1 6HZ www.iwm.org.uk EXHIBITIONS: HOLOCAUST Film, photographs and a large number of rare artefacts document the history of the Nazi persecution of the Jews and other groups before and during the Second World War. For ages 14+ A FAMILY IN WARTIME Explores the lives of William

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and Alice Allpress and their ten children and what life in London was like during the war.

HORRIBLE HISTORIES®: SPIES Uncover the deadly world of spies at this interactive exhibition.

SECRET WAR The clandestine world of espionage, covert operations and the work of Britain’s Special Forces.

FIRST WORLD WAR Discover the story of the war Over 1,300 objects including weapons, uniforms, diaries, letters and souvenirs, will be on display as well as a recreated trench with periscopes and a dug-out, along with a soundscape and projection will evoke what daily life was like for the troops.

Until 31 Aug NEW EXHIBITION-FASHION ON THE RATION: 1940S STREET STYLE Explore how fashion survived and even flourished under the strict rules of rationing during the Second World War in new and unexpected ways.

Every Sun in Jul and Aug OBJECT CONVERSATIONS New immersive object handling sessions where families can explore objects from the collections- feel the weight of a shrapnel piece from the First World War and come to grips with real objects. Dropin, free, for all ages. 11am - 12.30pm and 2 - 4pm.

Every Sun in Jul and Aug CREATIVE RESPONSE Art activities based on themes featured in atrium and galleries. Drop-in, free, for all ages. 11am - 12.30pm and 2 - 4pm.

18,19 Jul INTRODUCTION TO THE HOLOCAUST Discussion and replica object handling session is a useful starting point for families who wish to learn about the Holocaust. For ages 11+, 11.30am and 2.30pm.

1-14 Aug ART WORKSHOP: DESIGN A 1940s SCARF Find out about fashion of the 1940s and get inspired to design your own bold and colourful scarf to take home. This activity is inspired by items in the Fashion on the Ration exhibition. Free, 11.30am and 2pm, for ages 11+ LONDON TRANSPORT MUSEUM WC2E 7BB www.ltmuseum.co.uk Let your children's imaginations run wild as they are transported back in time at the historical and interactive London Transport Museum. Filled with buses, trains, and taxis they can take the wheel, try their hand as a tube conductor or bump around with the other passengers in the back, as they explore the vehicles of London's past and present.

THE FAMILY STATION Visit the Family Station, pick up a coin bag and choose some activities to do as you explore the museum. Whether you fold your own bus and drive it between the vehicles, design your own posterpostcards or take photos through flickr frames, there is something here for families with children of all ages.

Open weekends and school holidays, suitable for families with 3-12 year-olds.

LONDON TRANSPORT MUSEUM ACTON DEPOT W3 9BQ www.ltmuseum.co.uk 29-31 Jul, 12-15 Aug DEPOT EXPLORERS: FAMILY TOURS Go behind the scenes on a special family tour of the depot in Acton. Hear about the Victorian train carriage that used to be someone’s home, see a special Underground train driven by the Queen and board a 75-year-old tube train.

11.30am-12noon and 1.30-2.30pm, for ages 5-15.

NATIONAL GALLERY WC2N 5DN www.nationalgallery.org.uk

Families West PO Box 32231 London W5 1JR

THE IMPERIAL WAR MUSEUM

Every Sun FAMILY SUNDAYS Activities designed for families to enjoy and learn together, 11am and 3pm MAGIC CARPET STORYTELLING For children aged 2-5. Sundays 10.30-11am and 11.30am - 12pm.

Fly away on the magic carpet, coming to land in front of a different painting each day. Musical Magic Carpets on 12 Jul and 29 Aug. DRAWING SUNDAY Explore gallery paintings as inspiration for your art. For ages 5-11. Sundays 11am and 2pm. Drop-in.

12 Jul, 16 Aug FANCIFUL FRAMES Explore one of the most remarkable frames in the collection and create your own magnetic fanciful frame to display at home.

2 Aug SKETCHING THE STUARTS A stage by stage workshop focused on how to draw the male figure reaslisticaly. 11am and 2pm.

STUDIO SUNDAYS are hands-on workshops that start in the Gallery, followed by a studio session (11am and 2pm).

5 Jul FAMILY WALK AND TALK: TAKE ONE PICTURE A themed journey through the collection where gallery staff will walk, talk and bring paintings alive. 12.30–1.30pm. For all ages.

5 Jul, 9 Aug THE HORSE’S TALE Discover a famous race-horse in the National gallery, a very modern horse in Trafalgar Square and a mystery third horse. Enjoy investigating what lies beneath the surface and create your own horse. 11am-1pm and 2-4pm, ages 5-11.

NATIONAL PORTRAIT GALLERY WC2H 0HE www.npg.org.uk 19 Jul DROP-IN FAMILY SESSION: CREATIVE CONNECTIONS Inspired by the Creative Connections display, turn yourself into a life-size sculpture and work with project artist Kate Peters on a photographic portrait of your sculpture. 1and 3pm, for ages 3+ 3 Aug FAMILY ART WORKSHOP: CHARACTERS Join Yasmeen Ismail, illustrator of this year’s BP Portrait Award Family Trail for a workshop exploring how to create characters for your stories. 11.30am and 2.30pm.

(The 2.30pm session will be BSL interpreted.)

27 Jul-7 Aug SUMMER HOLIDAY ACTIVITIES: IN THE FRAME Two weeks of ticketed and drop-in sessions inspired by the BP Portrait Award 2015.

For ages 5+. 11am-4pm.

16 Aug DROP-IN FAMILY SESSION: PORTRAIT PAINTING Inspired by the BP Portrait Award, try out new paint techniques and processes to create a giant mural in the studio. 1 and 3pm for ages 3+ NATURAL HISTORY MUSEUM SW7 5BD www.nhm.ac.uk Until 13 Sept EXHIBITION: SENSATIONAL BUTTERFLIES Step through the humid greenery of the

July/August 2015

tropical butterfly house, and find chomping caterpillars, jewel-like chrysalises and beautiful butterflies. Follow the trail and interactive displays, while hundreds of striking butterflies and moths flutter above your head. Now in its seventh year, the exhibition is a firm favourite for families, as well as adults escaping the bustle of the city.

Until 13 Sept EXHIBITION: CORAL REEFS SECRET CITIES OF THE SEA Meet the inhabitants of these richly diverse habitats, and find out why reefs are so important, as well as how their future is being secured.

Until 30 Aug WILDLIFE PHOTOGRAPHER OF THE YEAR Showcasing the beauty, magnificence and diversity of life on our planet, while also highlighting its fragility and the role photography can play in preserving it.

4, 28 Jul, 1 Aug DINO SCENE INVESTIGATION Uncover a replica dinosaur skull.

5 Jul, 2, 11, 25 Aug HANDS ON NATURE DINOSAURS Handle real fossil specimens and larn how to identify them. For ages 7+ 11 Jul, every Weds from 22 Jul-26 Aug ANIMAL VISION A show which features live animals, reveals a world only visible to certain reptiles and invertebrates.

See how adaptations allow them to escape predators and locate prey. 10.30am for age 7+ 12 Jul, 9 Aug CHARLES DARWIN Meet Charles Darwin, he will share his collection of beetles and tell you his famous theory of evolution.

12, 22 Jul POND LIFE Drop-in session exploring the pond life in the Museum's Wildlife Garden using scientific tools to observe and record your discoveries. 11am-5pm.

Ages 7-12.

18 Jul DINO SNORES Ever wondered what goes on at the Natural History Museum at night? 7pm till morning, torchlit trails through the museum, live animal shows and more. For ages 7-11.

23, 25, 26, 30 Jul, 6, 13, 20, 22, 23, 27 Aug CLOSE UP ON CORALS Handle real specimens, create your own coral artwork and piece together what adaptations make animals such as fish suited to their environment.

25 Jul, 29 Aug MARY ANNING Meet Mary Anning, a pioneering fossil hunter from 19th century. 11.30am and 2pm.

26, 28 Jul, 17, 18, 24, 25, 30 Aug PUPPETS: TALES FROM THE DEEP Join the world of the deep blue sea with these two delightful stories set beneath the waves for under 7s.

27 Jul MARVELLOUS MOTHS What's the difference between a moth and a butterfly? Can moths be colourful

NATURAL HISTORY MUSEUM

too? And how big can they get? Meet our moth curator and join us as we reveal some of the most impressive and beautiful moths in our collections.

3 Aug A HOUSE FULL OF BUTTERFLIES Find out how caterpillars turn into butterflies, discover what they like to eat for dinner and be amazed by the variety of species to be found in the Sensational Butterflies exhibition. Age 7+ 5 Aug BEAUTIFUL BUTTERFLIES Discover some incredible specimens from the behind-the-scenes collections before getting creative with a hands-on art activity. Age 7-11.

6, 27 Aug HANDS ON NATURE- OCEAN LIFE Handle real marine specimens and observe their special features. Make a 3D starfish and take part in challenges.

All ages.

SCIENCE MUSEUM SW7 2DD www.sciencemuseum.org.uk 10 Jul, 1 Aug SCIENCE NIGHT A special overnight event for 7-13 year olds featuring exciting hands-on workshops, science shows, a sleepover at the Science Museum among the amazing exhibits, followed by a tasty breakfast and a film in the IMAX Cinema.

VICTORIA AND ALBERT MUSEUM SW7 2RL www.vam.ac.uk Every Sun DROP-IN DESIGN Pick up a design challenge, hunt for ideas in the galleries, then create your own. 10.30am-5pm, for age 5+

5 Jul LIVELY LETTERS Search the Museum for unusual letters, then create your own marvellous monogram masterpiece 12 Jul OUTRAGEOUS OUTFITS Look for interesting shapes, lines, colours and design an accessory to make your outrageous outfit.

19 Jul DRAWING WITH WIRE Draw an object form in wire to create a 3D sculpture.

26 Jul CABINETS OF CURIOSITIES Consider colour, materials, function and shape. Select and collect objects and artworks to create your own Cabinet of Curiosity.

30 Aug SUMMER IMAGINATION STATION Be inspired by the new summer garden installation by Mexican architect Frida Escobedo and use it to draw unusual views of the museum and its surroundings.

Every Sat POP UP PERFORMANCES 11am, 1 and 3pm. Interactive performance each with a different theme.

Free, drop in, for all ages.

4 Jul, 1 Aug ROAR! Help bring one of the favourite lions to life in this new piece, brought to you by No Nonsense Theatre.

11 Jul THE TALE OF LITTLE RED RIDING HOOD Interactive performance for age 3+ Do you dare enter the wild forest in this fairy tale with a twist? Can you help Grandma and Little Red Riding Hood escape the wicked wolf? The wolf may have big eyes and ears but you have even bigger ideas.

18, 25 Jul INDIAN STORYTELLING Follow classical Indian dancers as they tell the story of Rama, Sita and the origins of the festival of Diwali in the Ramayana. Become different characters and join in with a celebratory dance.

8, 29 Aug THE KING’S DECORATOR Meet William Kent - a famous 18th century designer of houses and gardens and lover of good food. Note-performance moves around the museum.

15, 22 Aug AFRICAN STORYTELLING (The performance on the 22 August is BSL interpreted) 22 Aug BSL INTERPRETED POP-UP PERFORMANCE Meet fantastical characters and hear strange and wonderful tales. An interpreter from Deaf Umbrella will join the team of performers to enhance the experience for everyone. 11am, 1, 3pm, free, drop-in.

FREE ART FUN-BACK-PACKS, ACTIVITY CART AND ANIMAL BAGS Families can pick up an activity Back-Pack, get creative at Drop-in-Design or go on a gallery adventure trail. Free, drop-in. Suitable for children aged 4 to 11

Museums and Galleries listings continue on page 14

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what’s on continued ACTIVITY CART: Fantastic hands-on art fun for children to create collages and pictures to take home.

AGENT ANIMAL BAG: A sensory activity bag that has been developed especially for under 5s.

Each bag contains an audio map and fabric cubes.

V&A MUSEUM OF CHILDHOOD E2 9PA www.museumofchildhood.org.uk 26 Jul SUMMER FESTIVAL An action packed afternoon of live music, dance, walkabout acts, delicious food, designer stalls, henna, face-painting, games and lots of crafty make and do. 11.30am-4.30pm. Free.

27-30 Jul, 3-6 Aug ARTBASH CAMP - WONDERLAND A programme of imaginative workshops experimenting with materials and developing ideas in sketchbooks, as well as taking part in messy, outdoor, giant-sized activities. 9am-3.30pm.

31 Jul-28 Aug SUMMER HOLIDAYS FUN FRIDAYS Family fun every Friday from 11am-4pm. Activities include storytelling workshops, dance, drama, games installations, making toys, and art activities. Free, drop-in, for all ages.

11, 18, 25-27 Aug SUMMER GAMES Great outdoor fun for active families. Join the race, get to the top of the leader board or simply let off steam in the Museum grounds. 11am-4pm, free, all ages, drop-in.

12 Aug DOLLS' HOUSE COLOURING WORKSHOPS A creative colouring workshop inspired by the author’s delightful Dolls' House colouring book. 11am-4pm, free, ages 4-12.

23 Aug MONTESSORI FOR FAMILIES Montessori educators will lead a practical workshop teaching fun, creative and useful techniques you can use at home to help your child's learning. 11am-4pm, free, all ages.

WALLACE COLLECTION W1U 3BN www.wallacecollection.org 4 Jul FAMILY PUBLIC TOUR Young curators from a local school will take families on tour. Free, drop-in, recommended for children aged 5+ at 2.30pm.

5 Jul THE LITTLE DRAW Free, drop in workshop for all ages and abilities with artist Hattie Moore using drawing as a tool to learn more about the objects and paintings in the Wallace Collection.10.30am-4.30pm.

25 Jul A SOLDIER FOR NAPOLEON A ‘hands-on’ look at the weapons, uniforms and accoutrements of a Napoleonic Soldier. Free, drop-in. 1 - 2.30pm 27, 28 Jul CHILDREN’S ART SUMMER SCHOOL: FIGURES IN ACTION Make your own figurative sculpture in this two-day workshop. Learn how to build a wire armature and use plaster to build up the figure before painting and dressing it. 10.30am - 3.30pm, ages 9 - 13 years.

30, 31 Jul CHILDREN’S ART SUMMER SCHOOL: LIFE-SIZE PORTRAITS Learn how to paint a life size portrait using oil paints in this two-day workshop.

10.30am - 3.30pm, ages 9 - 13 years 13, 14 Aug CHILDREN’S ART SUMMER SCHOOL: PRESS IT Experiment with various printmaking techniques using both hand tools and a professional press.

11am - 4pm, for ages 14 - 19 years 20 Aug CHILDREN’S ART SUMMER SCHOOL: SUMMER PASTORAL Using craft pegs, make your very own toy figures inspired by the numerous characters found in the summery paintings of Watteau and Boucher.

11am - 1pm. Free, drop in, ages 5+ 28 Aug CHILDREN’S ART SUMMER SCHOOL: DRESS UP AND DRAW Drawing the clothed human form, explore observational drawing with tips and

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techniques to build confidence and have fun. £3 per child, which includes a drink and healthy snack.

5 Jul THE SORCERER’S APPRENTICE Bored of his chores, the apprentice waves his wand and a broom magically fetches water. But he can’t find a spell to stop it.

In desperation he saws it in half - and everything spirals out of control. Features breathtaking magical illusions For ages 5+ 10.30am-12noon.

12 Jul MUSEUM DROP-IN try on period Viking costume, handle artefacts and learn about the history of Fulham Palace. 2-3.30pm, free.

18 Jul YOUNG ARCHAEOLOGISTS’ CLUB Practical hands on sessions with real archaeologists learning about ancient civilisations. For 8-16 year olds. 10.30am12.15pm.

19 Jul RIVER FORESHORE ARCHAEOLOGY WALK Join the Thames Explorer Trust for this walk along the foreshore to investigate the stories of the river and discover the clues to our history that can be found there.

11am-1pm, for age 5+10.30am - 3.30pm.

For ages 9-13 years

DAYS OUT BUCKINGHAM PALACE SW1A 1AA www.royalcollection.org.uk Weekends 1-30 Aug FAMILY ACTIVITIES: TOUCH AND FEEL OBJECT HANDLING SESSIONS Explore objects from the handling collection. Take inspiration from the garments on view and put together a new livery (a special uniform) for Albert the Coachman. 11am-3pm.

8 Aug FAMILY FESTIVAL Arts and crafts workshops, storytelling sessions, games and interactive talks for all the family in the Royal Mews, The Queen's Gallery and Buckingham Palace. 10:30am - 4pm.

CUTTY SARK SE10 9NF www.rmg.co.uk/cuttysark Every weekend CUTTY SARK CHARACTERS Come aboard to hear Cutty Sark’s incredible stories brought to life by characters from the ship’s past. Meet Captain Woodget, the ship’s most daring master; Jock Willis, the man who built Cutty Sark; Nannie, the ship’s figurehead; or the ship’s cook, James Robson, who all have an extraordinary story to tell. Suitable for ages 3+ Every Mon HAWK TALK Join bird of prey specialist, Gary Railton, and Norman, the hawk, and find out how he helps us look after the ship and her rigging. 10am12noon for all ages.

1, 8, 15 Jul TODDLER TIME Bring your little sailors along for songs, stories and playtime on board. 2-4pm for ages 4 and under.

4, 5 Jul FAMILY FUN WEEKEND: I SPY Create a colourful telescope to take on an adventure. What will you see? All ages, 11.30am and 2pm.

1, 2 Aug FAMILY FUN WEEKEND: PIRATE TAKEOVER Come dressed up as a pirate and takeover the Cutty Sark and at the National Maritime Museum for a fun-filled weekend of performance and storytelling, activities and workshops. 11.30am-4pm.

18, 19 Aug STORY SHIP Help make a spectacular story ship. Add your sea-faring adventures to the rigging and watch the sails grow. 11.30am and 2pm, all ages.

20, 25 Aug SEA CHESTS What would you take on a long sea voyage? Make a mini sea chest and pack your things inside. 11.30am and 2pm, all ages.

26, 27 Aug WHERE IN THE WORLD? Make a

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CUTTY SARK

spinning compass to guide you on a journey across the sea. Where in the world will you go? 11.30am and 2pm, all ages.

ALL HANDS ON DECK Get hands-on and learn essential sailor skills with the Greenwich Sea Cadets.

For age 5+ FULHAM PALACE SW6 6EA www.fulhampalace.org every Mon THE PALACE EXPLORERS A weekly parent/carer and toddler sessions for children aged 2-4.

Every Weds in Aug THE ART MARQUEE A chance to be creative in this drop-in session. Try your hand at creating some Georgian crafts. 1pm-4pm.

9 Aug THE THREE MUSKETEERS Alexandre Dumas' classic, swashbuckling tale, performed in the Walled Garden at 5pm, for age 8+ 31 Aug WILD CAPITAL ROADSHOW A marquee of wildlife discovery on the Main Lawn with activities for all the family. 1 - 4pm, free.

GOLDEN HINDE SE1 9DG www.goldenhinde.com Every Sat PUBLIC GUIDED TOUR Let the costumed educators bring the Golden Hinde and its history to life.

Learn about life at sea and Drakes voyage around the world in this family-friendly tour.

4 Jul DRAKE FUN DAYS Find out all about Sir Frances Drake. For age 6+ 11 Jul TUDOR BATTLE WORKSHOP Children will be transported back to the 16th century to become crew members of the Golden Hinde. As well as experiencing life on board for the sailors, they will learn how they defended the ship and tended to the wounded.

25 Jul, 22 Aug FAMILY OVERNIGHT EXPERIENCE Children will be dressed as Tudor sailors and become members of the crew. After learning the ship’s rules, they will be trained in navigation, barber surgery and gunning, before bedding down to sleep amongst the weapons on the Gun Deck. A Tudor style dinner and continental breakfast is provided. For age 6+

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July/August 2015

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what’s on HAMPTON COURT PALACE

HOLLAND PARK ECOLOGY CENTRE

OSTERLEY PARK AND HOUSE

KT8 9AU www.hrp.org.uk Daily until 31 Aug TIMEPLAYS Meet characters from the palace’s past and witness scenes of five hundred years of life at the Palace, from the Tudors to the present day.

2, 4, 9, 11 Jul TINY EXPLORERS Discover the fascinating stories of Hampton Court Palace in a multisensory workshop which includes music, movement and messy play for 0-4yrs. Booking essential.

4, 5 July, 1, 2, 29, 30, 31 August TUDOR COOKERY Watch the cooks toiling in the Kitchens of King Henry VIII, preparing the exotic dishes for his majesty.

11 Jul THE TURNIP KING Explore the Georgians through the use of clay animation. Bring your nimble fingers ready to mould your own take on this fun period of history. 10.30am - 4.30pm.

11-12 Jul TUDOR SUMMER PALACE A grand weekend of jousting and Tudor entertainment.

12 Jul, 2, 9 and every Tues and Weds in Aug DROP-IN DRAWING STATION: Free children’s drop-in workshops. Bring the palace to life through drawing and create a picture which may be included in the film.

For ages 4 – 11.

1 Aug THAT’S A WRAP! Find out how the Victorians were the inventors of animation and bring typography into the 21st Century by creating digital film credits.

10.30am - 4.30pm.

8, 9 Aug QUEEN ANNE'S SUMMER PALACE Explore the court of Queen Anne with music, dance, ceremony and ritual-lessons in dining and court etiquette and the chance to picnic in the gardens with the court.

15 Aug ANIMATE THE TUDORS A half day workshop to get a taste of the art of animation with expert facilitators. Be inspired by the mighty Tudors who lived at the palace create your very own short film about them.

For ages 7 - 11, 10.30am - 1pm and 2 - 4.30pm.

W8 6LU www.rbkc.gov.uk/ecologyevents 18 Jul BUSY BEES: ECOLOGY CENTRE OPEN DAY Discover the world of bees and their importance as pollinators and take part in bee craft activities for children.

Drop-in, 2-6pm, free, for all ages.

27 Jul -28 Aug SUMMER HOLIDAY CHILDREN’S ACTIVITIES A fun filled environmental themed programme of outdoor and creative activities including sessions on dragonflies, shelter building, spiders, plants, animal homes and trees.10am-12 noon and 2-4pm for ages 5-10 and some sessions from 11am-3pm for ages 8-12.

Booking and pre-payment essential 15 Aug DRAGONFLIES: OPEN DAY IN THE WILDLIFE AREA Identify these insects as they hover above the pond and find their nymphs through pond dipping. Drop-in, 2-6pm, free, for all ages.

TW7 4RB www.nationaltrust.org.uk/osterley-park 18-19 Jul BIG CAMP A night of camping in the Great Meadow with games, sports, activities and a batwalk plus the usual roasted marshmallows, stargazing and songs round the campfire.

Every Tues 21Jul-25 Aug LITTLE SEEDLINGS GARDENING CLUB Drop-in, hands on gardening sessions in the kitchen garden, planting, weeding and watering (or just digging!)

Every Weds 22 Jul-26 Aug 50 THINGS TO DO BEFORE YOU'RE 113/4 Collect a scrapbook, join in the adventure, then pick up your sticker. 12-4pm.

Every Thurs 23 July-27 Aug STICKY FINGERS CRAFT Drop-in creative craft activities for all ages.

12-4pm.

HMS BELFAST SE1 2JH www.iwm.org.uk ONGOING: GUN TURRET EXPERIENCE A chance to see what fighting at sea would have really been like.

Lights, audio, projections and movement will recreate the experience, highlighting the hectic and cramped conditions that would have seen twenty-six men in this confined space at any one time.

INTERACTIVE OPERATIONS ROOM- the nerve centre and brain of the entire ship which now has exciting interactives.

FREE FAMILY DROP-IN ACTIVITIES 11, 12 Jul TATTOO T-SHIRTS: DAVY JONES’S LOCKER Design your own t-shirt, inspired by traditional navy tattoos, learn about their history and why as a sailor you wouldn’t want to be visiting Davy Jones’s Locker in a hurry! Drop-in, all ages, 11am - 12.30pm and 2 - 4pm.

17-31 Aug CROSSING THE LINE ‘Cross the line’ and find out what it was like for sailors crossing the equator for the first time, as they took part in initiation rituals, dressing up, then create your collaged mask disguise.

Drop-in, all ages, 11am - 12.30pm and 2 - 4pm.

TOWER OF LONDON KENSINGTON PALACE W8 4PX www.hrp.org.uk/kensingtonpalace 1, 4, 8 Jul TINY EXPLORERS Discover fascinating stories about Kensington Palace in these multi-sensory workshops. Music, movement, messy play and more for 0-4yrs.

21-23 Aug QUEEN CAROLINE’S SUMMER PARTY You are invited to travel back in time and join the glorious Georgian court at Queen Caroline’s Garden Party!

Experience the latest Georgian fashions, take part in family games and meet characters from the royal court, you might even bump into the Queen herself.

EC3 www.hrp.org.uk 23-26 Jul THE TUDORS AT THE TOWER FAMILY FESTIVAL It’s 1533 and Anne Boleyn and Henry VIII are at the Tower celebrating Anne’s upcoming coronation.

Help prepare for the celebrations and meet the happy royal couple in the moat at the Tower. Immerse yourself in a living Tudor world and take part in the Hands on History Zone with Tudor crafts, cooking, archery and music. Plus, explore an exciting pop-up digital space where you’ll be surrounded by 360 degree projections. A family event suitable for all ages.

THE LONDON WETLANDS CENTRE

KEW GARDENS TW9 3AB www.kew.org until 6 Sept SPICES Explore the botanical origins of spices with interactive installations and exhibitions. Come faceto-face with nutmeg, turmeric and tamarind in the steamy Palm House, or chillies, ginger and vanilla orchids in the Princess of Wales Conservatory, take part in Rangoli workshops and play your part in contributing to large-scale folk art every weekend (in the Teepees by Climbers and Creepers). Look out for the giant nutmeg, garlic, chilli and ginger Inflatables dotted throughout the Gardens: Have a peep inside them and enjoy an unexpected view of their inner workings.

ODDS FARM PARK HP10 0LX www.oddsfarm.co.uk A fabulous day out at the farm. Meet the farmers and get close to the animals in the hands-on area and in the large undercover animal barns. There is also a huge outdoor play area with an Adventure Maze, Go-Karts, Log Play Areas, Crazy Golf and plenty of farm animals to meet. This summer you can also win a medal at sheep racing, board tractor and trailer rides and play in the sand and water area.

23-31 July, 8-14, 22-28 Aug SUMMER SWASHBUCKLING PIRATE SHOWS Four shows daily with sea faring stories, singing, acrobatics and dancing pirates.

1-7, 15-21, 29 Aug-2 Sept SUMMER SPECTACULAR CIRCUS The Charles Chipperfield Circus returns with spectacular human acts from around the world including a Spanish Clown, Japanese Fast Speed Juggler, Arial Acrobats and more.

Four shows daily, followed by Circus Skills workshops.

SW13 9WT www.wwt.org.uk Until 19 Jul WEEKEND FAMILY ACTIVITIES See the wildlife reserve is at its most colourful at this time of year, with flowers in full bloom and the gardens looking glorious. Pond dipping, outdoor crafts and plenty of naturethemed fun for families.

25 Jul- 30 Aug BE A NATURE EXPLORER Make a bug hotel, track animals and see insects that can fly better than a helicopter? Collect a passport with eight wildlife themed activities on it to complete.

21, 28 Aug NIGHT SAFARI An exciting evening in the wild for ages 7+, exploring the animals and elements, enjoying storytelling around the fire in the cosy yurt, twilight pond dipping, using nets and a microscope and a bat walk. 6.30pm.

6, 13, 20, 27 Aug BAT WALKS Watch the seven species that hunt on site and learn about them from a bat expert before heading out with bat detectors to help you identify the species. For ages 8+ ZSL LONDON ZOO NW1 4RY www.zsl.org until 17 Jul SUNSET SAFARI Always wanted to glimpse a tiger prowling at twilight? Or dreamt of watching graceful giraffes as they settle down at dusk?

Go on a self-guided Safari Trail or book a premium Guided Safari Tour. 6-10pm.

26 Aug SO, YOU DON’T LIKE SNAKES? Children’s writer and zoologist Nicola Davies talks about her new book. Also a chance to see some reptiles up close. Free, book in advance.

HMS BELFAST

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Families West PO Box 32231 London W5 1JR

July/August 2015

FAMILY THEATRE BARBICAN EC2Y 8DS www.barbican.org.uk Until 25 Jul TO KILL A MOCKINGBIRD A stage adaptation of Harper Lee’s novel. Set in the Deep South, it sees racial injustice envelop a small-town community.

Through courage and compassion, lawyer Atticus Finch seeks the truth while his feisty daughter Scout – a girl on the cusp of adulthood – brings new hope to a neighbourhood in turmoil. For age 7+

LYRIC HAMMERSMITH - BUGSY MALONE

LYRIC HAMMERSMITH W6 0QL www.lyric.co.uk Until 1 Aug BUGSY MALONE Fat Sam’s Grand Slam comes to Hammersmith to reopen the Lyric after a multimillion pound redevelopment. Join Bugsy, Blousey and Tallulah for an unforgettable theatrical experience.

Get booking today because, as Fizzy knows... tomorrow never comes! For age 6+

In Jul and Aug the Puppet Theatre Barge travels to Richmond.

25 Jul-9 Aug THE THREE PIGS AND THE WOLF and CAPTAIN GRIMEY An exciting re-telling of this well-known tale, and a humorous cautionary tale about a sea captain who pollute the sea and learns the error of his ways. For ages 3-7.

LYRIC THEATRE W1D 7ES www.nimaxtheatres.com/lyric-theatre 1 Jul-6 Sept THE GRUFFALO A mouse took a stroll through the deep dark wood... Join Mouse on an adventurous journey through the deep, dark wood in Tall Stories' magical, musical adaptation of the award winning picture book by Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler. Songs, laughs and scary fun for children aged 3+

BARBICAN TO KILL A MOCKINGBIRD

BECK THEATRE

MUSIC HOUSE FOR CHILDREN

UB3 2UE www.becktheatre.org.uk 21, 22 Jul THE CAT IN THE HAT From the moment his tall, red and white striped hat appears around the door, Sally and her brother know that The Cat in the Hat is the funniest, most mischievous cat they have ever met.

With the trickiest of tricks and craziest of ideas, he turns a rainy afternoon into an amazing adventure. But what will mum find when she gets home? For age 3+ 1 Aug SINGALONG FROZEN A screening of Disney’s Frozen with lyrics on screen to help you sing along with Elsa and Anna, together with live host and magic moments fun pack so that you can interact with the movie.

CAMBRIDGE THEATRE WC2H 9HU www.matildathemusical.com Booking until Dec 15 MATILDA THE MUSICAL The Royal Shakespeare Company’s production of Roald Dahl’s magical story about a girl with extraordinary powers.

W12 7LJ www.musichouseforchildren.co.uk 21 Jul THE LAMB WHO LOST HER JUMP Whatever has happened to Lamb’s jump? It has completely vanished! Come along to find out why with music, singing, dancing and huge adventures. For ages 1-5.

RICHMOND THEATRE ROOM ON THE BROOM

PALACE THEATRE W1D 5AY www.nimaxtheatres.com/palace-theatre 5 Aug-6 Sept THE THREE LITTLE PIGS A musical twist on the retelling of this classic fairytale. Discover how the three little porkers become world renowned celebrity superstars when forced to leave the warmth of their mother's overcrowded sty.

For age 3+

Theatre listings continue on page 18

PUPPET THEATRE BARGE GARRICK THEATRE WC2H OHH www.nimaxtheatres.com/garrick-theatre 25 Jul-5 Sept HORRIBLE HISTORIES - BARMY BRITAIN - PART 3 A brand new show full of crazy new characters and rude new rulers from Britain's barmy past.

Will King John be a martyr for the Magna Carta? Party with the Puritans and light up your life with the great fire of London. Clap along with crazy King Charles. Will you see eye to eye with Admiral Nelson? Does the Duke of Wellington get the boot? Vomit with the vile Victorians and make a great escape from the First World War! For age 6+

July/August 2015

W9 2PF www.puppetbarge.com Weekends until 12 Jul (and 12-30 Aug in Richmond) FOWL PLAY A farmyard adventure in which a foal is born causing much excitement among the animals. The chickens soon spread the news which leads to an unexpected turn of events. For age 3+

Families West PO Box 32231 London W5 1JR

17

what’s on CONCERTS AND MUSIC WORKSHOPS BARBICAN EC2Y 8DS www.barbican.org.uk Until 25 Jul TO KILL A MOCKINGBIRD A stage adaptation of Harper Lee’s novel. Set in the Deep South, it sees racial injustice envelop a small-town community.

Through courage and compassion, lawyer Atticus Finch seeks the truth while his feisty daughter Scout - a girl on the cusp of adulthood - brings new hope to a neighbourhood in turmoil. For age 7+ CADOGAN HALL

SOUTHBANK CENTRE - PAINE’S PLOUGH

RICHMOND THEATRE TW9 1QJ www.atgtickets.com/Richmond 16-18 Jul ROOM ON THE BROOM A magical musical stage adaptation of the well-known book. For age 3+ THE ROYAL ALBERT HALL SW7 2AP www.royalalberthall.com Every Weds until 18 Jul STORYTELLING FOR 0-4 YEAR OLDS sessions for babies and toddlers, aiming to engage and encourage interaction between parents/carers and their little ones using musical instruments, singing, movement and stories. 10am.

SOUTHBANK CENTRE SE1 8PX www.southbankcentre.co.uk Every Sun MONSKI MOUSE'S BABY DISCO DANCE HALL Monski Mouse, who spins an eclectic selection of retro hits and funky nursery rhymes. Baby Disco Dance Hall is designed as a super-fun session of dancing and play for parents and under fives.

Until 18 Jul PAINES PLOUGH - OUR TEACHER’S A TROLL Two terrible twins with a talent for turmoil rule their school with terror and tyranny, reducing their head teacher to a nervous wreck. For ages 7+ Until 19 Jul BROMANCE A celebration of everything blokey- cutting edge circus prowess and physical theatre for all ages. (PG) 3 Jul RUG RHYMES FOR THE UNDER FIVES A short session of nursery rhymes, poems and rhyming stories, and the opportunity to look at and borrow books.

Free but booking essential.

BORIS AND SERGEY: ORIGINS Hear tales of their adventures and how they became Russia’s favourite puppet-clown duo. For age 4+ Weekends 4-19 Jul COMEDY CLUB 4 KIDS Cracking stand-up comedy for age 6+ 6, 13 Jul DRAGON BABIES Gamelan for ages 3-5.

11-13 Jul THE KING OF TINY THINGS Can two sisters help the king in time? For ages 3+ 11-19 Jul ALI McGREGOR’S JAZZAMATAZZ Jazzy beats to get children singing and dancing.

11, 18, 25 Jul JAMES BUSTAR-HILARIOUS ANTICS AND MAYHEM Juggling, laughs and randomness for all ages.

19 Jul ANNABELLE’S SKIRTING BOARD ADVENTURE Animation, film, comedy and music for ages 3+ 29 Jul-2 Aug BRAT KIDS CARNIVAL Wild circus skills, acts of amazement and eye-popping party tricks for ages 4+ 19 Aug BOWJANGLES-ON THE BOX A day in the life of a TV that’s been left switched on. A string quartet that sing and dance while playing their instruments!

31 Aug SHLOMO’S BEATBOX ADVENTURE FOR KIDS Shlomo is a world record-breaking beatboxer who makes music using just his mouth and a mic. For all ages.

THEATRE ROYAL DRURY LANE WC2B 5JF www.reallyuseful.com/theatres/theatre-royal-drury-lane Ongoing CHARLIE AND THE CHOCOLATE FACTORY Roald Dahl's deliciously dark tale of young Charlie Bucket and the mysterious confectioner Willy Wonka in a brand new musical directed by Sam Mendes.

2.30pm and 7.30pm.

SW1X 9DQ www.cadoganhall.com 26, 27 Aug THOMAS & FRIENDS™ LIVE IN CONCERT Watch the newly-released Thomas & Friends™ film, Sodor’s Legend of the Lost Treasure, with music from the soundtrack performed live by the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra.

MUSIC HOUSE FOR CHILDREN W12 7LJ www.musichouseforchildren.co.uk 7 Jul BUSH BABY ORCHESTRA A classical concert for babies. Outstanding musicians perform a repertoire of traditional and contemporary music. Tickets include 1 adult, 1 baby/2 siblings. Maximum age 30mths. Adults must be accompanied by a baby. 10.30am, £10 per adult, babies free.

THE ROYAL ALBERT HALL SW7 2AP www.royalalberthall.com 17 Jul-12 Sept BBC PROMS On18 and 19 Jul, Ten Pieces Prom. Join CBBC presenters Barney Harwood and Dick and Dom for an introduction to some of the greatest pieces of classical music and a celebration of children's creative responses to them.

BACH TO BABY www.bachtobaby.com/londonnorth All concerts at 10.30am.

8 Jul in Kensington (Christ Church, Victoria Road, Kensington, W8) 14 Jul in Notting Hill (St. John's Church, Lansdowne Crescent, London W11) 17 Jul in Chiswick (St. Michael and All Angels, Bath Road, W4) 20 Jul in Covent Garden (St. Paul's Covent Garden, Bedford St, London WC2)

VAUDEVILLE THEATRE WC2R 0NH www.nimaxtheatres.com/vaudeville-theatre 1-30 Aug I BELIEVE IN UNICORNS Michael Morpurgo's best-selling children's story. Set in a library full of books that hold more than stories within their pages. It is a tale of the power of books, and the bravery of a young boy called Tomas. For age 6+

PUPPET THEATRE - FOWL PLAY

18

To advertise in the What’s On section please contact us at: familieswest@yahoo.co.uk

Families West PO Box 32231 London W5 1JR

SOUTHBANK THEATRE - RUG PLAY

July/August 2015

Feeding your fussy eater means each course is smaller. This means a child is not overwhelmed by being presented something new. The children know a main course will be coming shortly, yet they are hungry, so are likely to eat a little of the salad, even if they are not initially tempted by it”.

After the main course, there is a small piece of the cheese of the day, before having fresh fruit for dessert. The range of flavours allows the child to relax. If you only serve a single course which the child does not like, it creates an enormous amount of stress for both child and the adult. If the child knows there is more food coming, then he or she can relax which in turn makes it easier to taste something new.

From parents struggling with fussy eaters, to a growing childhood obesity crisis throughout the developed world, Philippe Fraser, director of a French Bilingual Nursery in Paddington has some deceptively simply suggestions for parents.

It is well documented that some children will latch on to favourite foods, causing significant problems for their parents as well as themselves. When these foods are not presented to children, they will either refuse to eat or go hungry - and this is of course very distressing for both parent AND child.

Ideally, parents will try to avoid this happening by giving plenty of different foods to children. At Les Trois Oursons nursery, they try to avoid having exactly the same main course served within a 2-month period. In practice this means the nursery has to offer an almost endless variety of dishes. Of course, there are not 60 different foods readily available - so the inhouse cook uses a range of different cooking and serving techniques. Beef could be roasted, shredded, stewed, or diced and served in a mild Thai salad.

Over the course of a week, there is a day with red meat, one with poultry, a vegetarian meal, then one white fish and a day with an oily fish.

Finally, sticking to the French theme, Fraser stresses the importance of simple fruit.

“Children love fruit, and eat it up with great pleasure. Serving foods like ice cream with added sugar on a regular basis gives the impression that eating refined sugar on a daily basis is normal and can be expected”. This can lead to children becoming obese when they are young, but also sets them up for a lifetime of unhealthy eating habits. But the real problem is the amount of calories a child can derive from sugar. If a child obtains enough energy from quick fixes, then the urge to try new food is greatly reduced.”

Finally, Fraser says it is not vital that a young child finishes their plate. “Children

may need to taste something many times before growing used to the flavour. That should be sufficient - the old-school way of making children finish an entire plate of something they dislike is quite likely going to result in the child forming a very fixed opinion. Better to taste a small amount regularly in an open-minded way without creating too much expectation or pressure.”

“One child came to our nursery who we were told did not like cheese. Sure enough, every day when we served a new cheese, he would only taste a tiny corner of the cheese and leave the rest. Then one day we served a blue cheese, which he absolutely loved! His mother literally did not believe us at first, but then when she offered him some the following weekend at home, he ate it all up and asked for more. This transformed his experience of cheese, and slowly he started trying and eating more of them.”

Ultimately a constant variety of fresh, organic home made style cooking is the best way to avoid obesity and to help children enjoy a wide range of foods leading to healthier children AND, happier mealtimes.

Philippe Fraser Director of Les Trois Oursons, Lower Ground Floor, 170 Gloucester Terrace, London W2 6HS www.bilingualnureries.com

Even simple foods like carrots are served in many different ways, from raw sticks, to grated with lemon dressing, steamed, roasted to sautéed in olive oil. At first glance this might seem too simple a ‘solution’ but Philippe explains that children become accustomed to food being varied. This unpredictable nature of food makes it very hard for a child to latch on to a single favourite, which he or she will then only agree to eat.

The other ‘trick’ the nursery uses is to serve 4 course lunches. In the summer there is a salad starter: such as tomato and basil, cucumber in yogurt or Macedoine de legumes. In the winter, it is soups every day.

“Children will eat far more vegetables in a soup than they would chopped up next to fillet of fish. Serving multiple courses

July/August 2015

Families West PO Box 32231 London W5 1JR

19

10 things your child SHOULD be able to do when they begin school...

The summer holidays are a good time to start preparing for the first day of school.

Forget force feeding them phonics, this is about getting your child ready for the social challenges of school. The more prepared they are, the easier they will settle and the more they’ll get out of those early days.

1. Can they dress themselves?

Imagine the scene. One teacher

children avoid a visit until it’s too

faced with thirty children and their

late. Encourage your child to begin

coats. By the time each child is

taking toilet trips without you to

zipped up and wrapped up, play-

build up their confidence. Remind

time is over. If your child is able to

them that hand washing is part of

go some way to helping, they may

the ‘visit’. Beginning school toilet

get some fresh air.

training now will mean less acci-

If you can see buttons on trousers

dents in September.

and skirts becoming a problem

4. Are they able to eat independently?

during the post PE change, invest in

20

That can mean less confident

elasticated waistbands. These will

Lunchtimes can be a real flashpoint

also help during any ‘last minute’

in the early days of your child’s

toilet visits. Avoid tights in the early

school life. Dinner halls are noisy

days - they can also lead to unnec-

places and can make a child feel

essary bathroom accidents. With

overwhelmed. Make sure they

shoes, laces and buckles are a no-

arrive at school able to pick up

no. Stick to Velcro fastenings which

and use a knife and fork. If they’re

your child can do themselves.

opting for a packed lunch, make

2. Are they used to sharing?

sure they can open a yoghurt, put

Sharing is a difficult lesson for a

a straw in a juice box and unpeel a

child to learn, especially if they only

banana. With school a few months

start learning it at school. But it’s a

off, it may seem like the easier

vital lesson if you want your child

option to feed them, but it won’t

to settle in and make friends easily.

help in the long run. Practice, how-

No one wants to play with the boy

ever painful, makes perfect.

who refuses to take turns and share, and before long that child

5. Are they able to recognise their name?

becomes isolated. Start to make a

If your child can recognise their

point of praising your pre-schooler

name, they’ll be able to find their

for sharing his bag of figures or his

peg, identify their drawer in the

last few sweets.

classroom and find their cardigan if

3. Can they use the toilet on their own?

it gets misplaced. Starting school can make even the most confident

Reception classrooms usually have

child feel a little lost. If they can

a toilet nearby but children are

locate important places, it will

expected to use it on their own.

make them feel more in control.

Families West PO Box 32231 London W5 1JR

July/August 2015

education 6. Can they use scissors?

they will be able to have some

Teachers look for this in the early

control. How else will they ask to

see learning as fun. Plus it’s a great

stages of Reception to evaluate

go to the toilet? If they don’t

way to get one of their 5 a day

dexterity. Get crafty over the next

understand how to get the

down them!

few months.

attention of an adult, how will they

7. Do they understand discipline?

let their teacher know they don’t

10. Can they follow simple instructions?

understand their work? A child

The school day is full of instruc-

It’s important your child under-

who can communicate will get

tions. Your child will be asked to

them confidence and help them

stands what’s expected of them

more out of the school day than a

put coats on pegs, bring packed

when they arrive at school.

child who is unwilling to speak up.

lunches into classrooms and sit

They need to know hitting, kicking,

Encourage your child to ask and

cross legged on the carpet for

biting and hair pulling will not be

even practice with a raised hand at

circle time. If a child is used to

tolerated. Not only will it bring

home to make sure they under-

following instructions, they will

your child to the attention of the

stand the most appropriate way of

avoid being reprimanded. The

head teacher for all the wrong

getting a grown ups attention.

more time a teacher dedicates to

school (Charlie and Lola)

reasons, but it will make your child

9. Are they able to count?

repeating instructions and

by Lauren Child

unpopular with their classmates.

If your child is about to count up to

encouraging co-operation, the less

Reputations earned in the early

20, and count back from 10, this

time there is for teaching. Start

· Topsy and Tim Start School

by Jean Adamson · Starting School Sticker Book (Usborne) by Felicity Brooks · Going to School (Usborne First Experiences) by Anna Civardi · Starting School by Janet and

days of school tend to stick and can

will give them a really good head

giving your child simple tasks -

be hard to shake off.

start. Use some of their favourite

perhaps helping with the weekly

8. Can they communicate with an adult?

toys or foods to make counting

shop or with some straight forward

fun. Lay out 10 grapes and get

jobs around the house. It will pre-

Giving your child the skills to com-

them to eat them one by one,

pare them for school life.

municate with their teacher means

counting as they go. It will give

Some books you may find useful:

· I am too absolutely small for

Allan Ahlberg

Durston House 12 Castlebar Road · London W5 2DR

A leading West London Prep School for Boys

A great spirit of community. . . a real pride in achievement Visit our website www.durstonhouse.org Send for an Information Pack Or come to see us contact Mrs Caroline Ferns (Registrar) telephone 020 8991 6532 email info@durstonhouse.org Boys Prep School 4-13 years · Registered Charity No. 294670

July/August 2015

Families West PO Box 32231 London W5 1JR

21

summer clubs & classes DANCE DANCE GALLERY Dance Gallery is Ealing’s leading dance school and specialises in modern, jazz, tap and musical theatre productions for children aged 4-18 years old.

0208 566 9672 jill@dancegallery.co.uk www.dancegallery.co.uk KENSINGTON BALLET 18 months - 2 years Kensington, Chelsea, Knightsbridge, Notting Hill and Fulham.

07957 650 042 www.kensingtonballet.com WEST LONDON DANCE ACADEMY 07771 984590 info@westlondondanceacademy.com www.westlondondanceacademy.com Become a Dance Teacher, a new concept in dance teacher training www.becomeadanceteacher.co.uk WEST LONDON SCHOOL OF DANCE 21/2 – 16 years 020 8743 3856 westlondondance@aol.com www.westlondonschoolofdance.co.uk

DRAMA

Acton: 020 8819 1399 Ealing: 01494 700794 info@stagecoach.co.uk www.stagecoach.co.uk YOURSPACE DRAMA Saturday mornings of drama, song and dance (6-16s) plus creative performing arts holiday courses 3-16s) at Easter and in August. Ealing W5. Find out more at www.yourspacedrama.com 07580 474638 info@yourspacedrama.com

FOOTBALL KIDDIKICKS Football (W2, W4, W8, W10, W11) Available for boys and girls from 18 months to 10 years.

020 7937 7965 info@kiddikicks.co.uk www.kiddikicks.co.uk

GYM & DANCE TWISTERS Gymnastics, Ballet, Dance Drama Toddlers to Teenagers 020 8933 9997 020 8840 4452 twisters@btinternet.com www.twisters.org.uk

LANGUAGES

ALLSORTS DRAMA Drama classes, holiday workshops and parties 020 8767 5298 www.allsortsdrama.com PERFORM Drama, dance and singing sessions held in various venues around London.

To find a free trial class near you call: 0845 400 1285 www.perform.ork.uk STAGECOACH THEATRE ARTS Dance, drama and singing for 4-18 year olds Chiswick: 020 8398 4709 Kensington & Brook Green: 020 8398 8106 Hammersmith: 020 8398 8106

ARABIC FOR WOMEN & CHILDREN Female teacher 07956 845053 CLUB PETIT NAVIRE EALING Learn French, Parent & Toddler group. 22 mths - 4 yrs 020 8997 7116 info@arkofnoah.net LINK CHINESE ACADEMY 0208 3320 942 children@linkchinese.co.uk www.linkchinese.co.uk Culture Curry Introducing the breadth of the Indian culture to our children through interactive and fun classes.

07774 788002 culturecurry@ymail.com www.culturecurry.co.uk

SPORTS RAVENSCOURT PARK TENNIS 4-6, 6-10 and 10-16 years of age. Group or private lessons available.Lessons take place on the tennis courts Ravenscourt Park.

Half term camps and Summer Camps running this year as well as term courses lasting 13 weeks beginning midApril.

Discounts for advance bookings given.

07824 163326 julie@ravenscourtparktennis.com WILL TO WIN Junior Multi-Sports Camps.

Junior Netball, Football and Tennis.

Courses and Drop-in Sessions.

Pitshanger Park 020 8991 9844 Lammas Park, 020 8840 0888 www.willtowin.co.uk

TUTORS AND LEARNING SUPPORT EXPLORE LEARNING Maths & English Tuition Centres. 5-14 yrs.

Free trial session Ealing: 020 8090 8710 Hayes: 020 8561 8530 Westfield, London: 020 809 01216 www.explorelearning.co.uk FLEET TUTORS Private home tutoring.

020 8580 3911 www.fleet-tutors.co.uk MRS JONES 11 PLUS TUITION Mock exam practice.

020 8390 6076 www.11plustuition.co.uk VICTORIA PAGE Private tuition 21/2 - 11years.

07050 246810 VIVIEN BORNEMANN Home tuition. Art, Craft and design. All ages 020 8932 1010

Dance Gallery · Ealing

22

Families West PO Box 32231 London W5 1JR

July/August 2015

parenting As someone who can veer towards the authoritarian style of parenting, one of the most helpful pieces of wisdom I ever received was; “Choose your battles!”

T

here are so many potential battles we could have: ‘Tidy your bedroom,’ ‘Eat your crusts,’ ‘Keep the water in the bath,’

‘Wear your coat to school,’ ‘Put your toys away,’ ‘Come to the table,’ ‘Keep out of the puddles,’ ‘Brush your hair,’ ‘Clean your teeth,’ ‘Learn your spellings,’ ‘Hang up your bag,’ ‘Don’t pinch your sister.’ Because the list is endless, if we make every issue a battle to fight not only will we wear ourselves out, but more importantly, our children will never learn which things are really important.

As a family, we spent a memorable October half-term staying with friends in their beautiful harbour-side cottage in Cornwall. We planned to mark the final evening by going out for a meal. The restaurant we chose was across the

asked myself the question: is this a battle

years to come, by my choosing to have a

I need to fight? And so down we went to

battle that wasn’t really worth fighting.

the jetty and over to the restaurant, Ed in

estuary, and so instead of driving round

a wetsuit and everyone else dressed for

by car we decided to add to the fun of

an evening out.

the evening by piling into their small

Correct clothing for a meal out may be a battle you want to fight. If it is, stay firm and fight it tooth and nail. But be

It was a hilarious evening that we still

careful, because you will almost certainly

remember. Ed did overheat, and getting

have far more important battles to fight

in and out of the wetsuit when he visited

further down the road. Decide what

the loo caused a queue that rivalled

things are important to you, then

Harrods’ sale. But looking back, we nearly

say ‘Yes’ to as many of your children’s

was quite chilly. We had dressed up for

missed out on the fun of the evening,

requests as possible, and ‘No’ to

the occasion and, undeterred, put on an

and the memory we’d carry with us for

the rest.

dingy and sailing across to the other side. We agreed to meet on the jetty at 6.30pm.

The autumn air meant that by 6.30 it

extra layer and went down to the jetty.

Everyone, that is, except our third son, Ed, who was then six. He had a new, fulllength wetsuit, and his six-year-old logic was that, if we were going in a boat, a wetsuit was the correct thing to wear. In contrast, my adult reasoning told me that everyone else had dressed up for dinner and wetsuits were for the beach. Despite my best efforts, Ed refused to be persuaded to change. At 6.45, with the rest of the party getting colder by the minute

“ A little wisdom to help us do the job (of parenting) well.”

Wisdom in stories and bite-sized chapters to help navigate this challenging season of parenting and family life - sayings to read in a few minutes while waiting for the kettle to boil, to commit to memory and draw upon at a second’s notice, and hilarious cartoons to bring a smile. www.careforthefamily.org.uk/shop/parenting-books/ if-you-forget-everything-else-remember-thisTaken from ‘If you forget everything else remember this – Parenting in the primary years’ by Katherine Hill.

waiting for our arrival, I paused and

July/August 2015

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