Families West London issue 87 Jul/Aug 2103

ISSUE 87: July/August 2013 www.familieswest.co.uk

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Picture courtesy of www.yourstrulyphotography.co.uk

A slice of summer for families in West London

Families West • PO Box 32231 • London W5 1JR • Tel: 020 8930 4707 • Fax: 0208 930 7704 • E-mail: familieswest@yahoo.co.uk

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Families West PO Box 32231 London W5 1JR

July/August 2013

News & Views

Our cover was taken at The Summer Adventure, Stockeld Park in North Yorkshire.

Thanks to Yours Truly Photography.

To see more of their wonderful work take a look at www.yourstrulyphotography.co.uk

In this issue The best thing about the summer holidays is the freedom from deadlines. In our increasingly time pressured lives, it is just lovely to be able to wake up and have no plans whatsoever. To be able to stay in your pyjamas all day if you want to. Once in a while that's really important. But for all the other days, pick up your copy of Families West to find out the best of activities going on for all the family. All the info and more is also online on www.familieswest.co.uk We have got competitions running for free days out so don't forget to register and enter.

This summer we will also be posting autumn open day dates for West London schools. If you are hoping to look around a range of schools do look on our website where we will have all the information you need for all schools in and around West London along with dates and contact details for booking their open day. Book early as they get full fairly quickly and of course do tell them that you heard about them in Families West.

We will be back in September with our Clubs and Classes feature. If you know of a good children's class running in West London, please do get in touch. Email editor@familieswest.co.uk

Contents News & Views 3-6 Education 8-9 Summer Feature 10-15 Summer Workshops 12-13 What's On in West London 16-22 Classifieds 23

www.FamiliesWest.co.uk

With the help of Joanna Parry

New high school in Ealing Hundreds of parents are backing the opening of a new high school in Ealing amid a 'worrying' shortage of secondary places in the borough. The Ealing Fields Free School is being planned for September 2015 and has already gained overwhelming support from the local community. It comes as booming birth rates create a critical need for more state secondary schools in South Ealing and Northfields. Ealing will be 585 secondary places short by 2016 and 1,142 by 2019. Ealing Fields Free School – aimed at 11 to 18-year-olds – plans to stretch pupils with high academic expectations as well as provide a wide range of enrichment activities. The proposed state school – whose steering group comprises local parents and teachers – will follow the national curriculum, be Ofsted inspected and employ qualified teachers. Hundreds of people have already registered their interest and the group is urging more parents to sign up to help the school's chances of success. It plans to submit its bid to the Department of Education in September. Dr Judith Mortell, an educational psychologist and leader of the steering group, said: 'Parents in South Ealing and Northfields want their children to be educated locally, within the local community, alongside the friends and neighbours that they grew up with. They want their children to attend schools that are ambitious and successful and they want to be able to choose from local school options, not to be allocated a school on the other side of the borough to which they would have to pass other schools to get to.'

A public meeting about the school is planned the Navasartian centre, Northfields Avenue, Ealing, on Tuesday, July 2. Speakers will include Dr Mortell and Professor Guy Claxton who is backing its opening. Sessions start at 7 pm and 8.30pm.

For more information go to www.ealingfields.co.uk

World Breastfeeding Week The 2013 WABA World Breastfeeding Week takes place 1-7 August, with this year’s theme Breastfeeding Support: Close to Mothers. The week concentrates on Breastfeeding Peer Counselling, highlighting the fact that even when mothers are able to get off to a good start, all too often in the weeks or months after delivery there is a sharp decline in breastfeeding rates, particularly in exclusive breastfeeding. Continued support to sustain breastfeeding can be provided in a variety of ways, including Peer Counsellors who are trained to support mothers.

World Breastfeeding Week aims to draw attention to the importance of Peer Support, as well as training breastfeeding supporters, identifying local community support contacts for breastfeeding mothers and calling on governments globally to implement steps to improve the duration and rates of breastfeeding. Submit your pledge for World Breastfeeding Week 2013 at www.worldbreastfeedingweek.org.

Families West is designed by Natalie Schmidt email: natalie@matobodesign.com and printed by Ridgeway Press, 12 Campbell Court, Bramley, Tadley, Hampshire RG26 5EG. Tel: 01252 885837.

Copyright Families West Magazine 2013.

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July/August 2013

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

Families West PO Box 32231 London W5 1JR

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News & Views Name Your Child's 'Stuff'

25% off when you join Explore Learning in July Explore Learning centres provide Maths and English tuition to 5 to 14 year olds of all abilities, and also run special courses in 11+ exam preparation. The centres are open 7 days a week, and are Ofsted registered, meaning that families can use Childcare Vouchers to pay for membership. Children attend up to twice a week on a drop-in basis, so it can fit easily into a busy family schedule.

Children work with tutors who are great educational role models, enthusiastic about learning and fantastic motivators.

Each child has an individualised learning programme tailored to meet their needs, and all Explore courses map to the National Curriculum. This combination of benefits has led to the company being named Supplementary Education Provider of the Year at the prestigious Education Investor Awards for the past 2 years running.

July is the most popular time of the year for families to join Explore Learning, as parents across the country look for a way to keep their children’s brains active over the long summer break. This July, families joining will receive 25% off their first full month of tuition at participating centres – so now is a great time to join if you haven’t already!

Find your nearest centre at www.explorelearning.co.uk

Children & Families Activity Guide Published July 2013: Activities Guide for Children & Familes.

Contains listings of clubs, activities including summer holiday playschemes, parks and playgrounds, leisure centres, children's centres, stay and plays and much more.

Free from the Family Information Service 020 8825 5588 or email children@ealing.gov.uk 4

Families West PO Box 32231 London W5 1JR

The summer holidays offer a wonderful chance for children to kick off their shoes and enjoy carefree days – which is great until they mislay their shoes, outer layers, swimming goggles etc. Ann-Maree, founder of Labels4Kids (pictured), advises parents to label everything – "because kids lose stuff!

Better still, label it twice – once inside a pocket or on the care label, and once on the collar so there is no doubt who things belong to."

Ann-Maree was recently invited to be a member of No10 Downing Street EU E-Commerce task force along with ASOS to give her advice on e-commerce.

Labels4Kids' own relauched website makes it easier for you to find your way to the right products. Choose from brilliant, named stick-on clothing labels, easy iron-on labels and woven iron-on labels, vinyl labels for hard surfaces and selection packs.

READER OFFER: Families readers can save 10% when using the code 'families' at the checkout: www.labels4kids.com/fam.

Isis Education Centre in Hyde Park The Isis Education Centre at The LookOut, Hyde Park is a unique, eco-friendly building, set in an acre of enclosed grounds. Opened in autumn 2011, the Centre’s gardens include a sunshine pond with underwater cameras, a butterfly bank and mini-beast area. With a living brown roof and even spaces for bats to roost in the eaves, it is the perfect base for outdoor learning. The Royal Parks Foundation is running a range of inspiring activity days for children and families at the Centre throughout the summer, offering children the chance to discover nature in the heart of London.

Activity Days will run every Tuesday throughout the school holidays. Book now for children from 7-11 years old to spend a fully supervised day playing games, getting muddy and exploring habitats and mini-beasts. On Thursdays, parents can join the fun and book their place to spend a couple of hours with their children learning about the ecology of the Royal Parks. To get a taster of the range of activities on offer, the Isis Education Centre also runs Discovery Days every Wednesday, where families can drop in without having to book.

This year, teenagers (11-16 years old) have the opportunity to spend a week at the Isis Education Centre in August with Outdoor Escape. Over five days, they will have the chance to learn bush craft and pond dipping, look for bats, go swimming, rowing and horse riding and find out more about the native small mammals and moths in Hyde Park. They even have the chance to stay over on the Friday night! www.supporttheroyalparks.org/shop/experiences e: support@royalparksfoundation.org or call the Royal Parks Foundation on 020 7036 8056.

Families West "sprinkled" with magic Sarah Campus dropped off some of her beautiful cupcakes for us to try. Sarah lives in Chiswick and has turned her passion for baking into her business, Sprinkled. She produces bespoke, handmade cupcakes that taste just as incredible as they look. Our vanilla cupcakes, complete with a handmade rose decoration and a sprinkle of glitter on top were almost too beautiful to eat! All of Sprinkled’s cupcakes are made with top quality ingredients and can be custom made to suit your requirements. Sarah also offers cookies and cakes, and has recently launched a gluten free range including cupcakes, cakes and brownies.

Sprinkled caters for all occasions, such as birthdays, anniversaries, christenings and weddings as well as corporate orders. Cupcakes are priced from £1.70 and cakes start at £15. www.sprinkledwithmagic.co.uk or contact Sarah on 07525708578.

Whether you choose lemon, rose or hot chocolate cupcakes, a sticky ginger or luxury triple chocolate cake or gluten free brownies, Sprinkled will not leave you disappointed.

July/August 2013

July/August 2013

Families West PO Box 32231 London W5 1JR

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News & Views Celebrate London's transport There's fun to be had this summer as London Transport Museum invites families to join in their 150th anniversary celebrations in and around London.

Visitors will have the chance to admire and ride on locomotives dating back to the Victorian times, including the recently restored Metropolitan Locomotive No 1, Jubilee Carriage No 353, and the 1890s Metropolitan Jubilee 353 coach.

Smaller visitors can take part in family fun activities on the day.

The 150th anniversary celebrations are sponsored by Cubic Transport Systems, Siemens and CBS Outdoor, while the Jubilee Carriage No 353 was restored with support from the Heritage Lottery Fund and London Transport Museum Friends.

Heritage vehicle outings will take place on 3, 4 and 7 August at London Transport Museum at Buckinghamshire Railway Centre, and 31 August at London Transport Museum at Neasden Depot.

The anniversary celebrations will continue throughout August at the Covent Garden Museum where accompanied children get in free. There will be steamy science demonstrations, story time sessions, make and takes and sing alongs on how the Underground tunnels were built. See our What's On listings for more information, or for full details, call 020 7565 7298 or go to www.ltmuseum.co.uk.

New pool in central London SwimWay has now added a new pool to its list of places where children can have swimming lessons.

The new facility is located in Central London/ Bloomsbury (WC1E 7HY) at ULC (University of London Union). It is the largest swimming pool in central London, measuring 33.3m x 11.5m and has a maximum depth of 3.40m.

For more information about the pool call the SwimWay office on 0208 871 3972 or e: info@swimway.co.uk www.swimway.co.uk

New agency is turning the nation’s grannies into babysitters RECRUITING NOW for MUMS & Dad’s!

Home based, global opportunity promoting: H Our natural products in the markets of health, beauty, fitness, sport, nutrition.

H A 35 year old Global brand leader.

H Gold Star quality training.

To find out how you can really “be there” for your children at every drop off, pick up, sports day, illness day, holiday – without being accountable to a boss or to book time off or explain your absence ever again, then please leave your contact details in a message on 01252 75 8886.

Be assured, we will return your call.

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Families West PO Box 32231 London W5 1JR

A baby girl who missed her Italian grandmother is the inspiration behind a new Londonbased babysitting service which is turning grannies into Granny babysitters. Mum and Daughter Fran and Grazia decided to set up Granny and I, the first childcare agency in the UK to focus solely on employing grannies, after realising how much easier life with Fran’s baby girl Penny was when granny Grazia was visiting. “Penny loved being looked after by her grandmother and I found being able to rely on my mother’s experience and advice invaluable – so much so that when she returned to Italy, we both felt utterly bereft. I always felt more on the ball when granny was here and I knew other mums felt the same” explains Fran.

Granny and I find families a Granny babysitter for evening, daytime and weekend babysitting; they are the only agency to send a short video of the Granny so the family can ‘meet’ her before the booking. Some Grannies will also do your ironing while the kids sleep which can really take a ‘load’ off busy mums!

All Granny Sitters are CRB and reference checked, and thoroughly interviewed in person. All Grannies have raised children of their own, and most have grandchildren; they are extremely experienced carers who are used to going into homes and caring for children they have never met before. Granny and I are accredited by childcare specialists Best Bear. www.grannyandi.co.uk

July/August 2013

Ealing and Uxbridge 0208 979 8048 or ealing@littlekickers.co.uk Chiswick and Hammersmith 07792 503571 or bbrownlie@littlekickers.co.uk www.littlekickers.co.uk

Where learning’s a ball

July/August 2013

Families West PO Box 32231 London W5 1JR

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Education 10 things your child should be able to do when they begin school As soon as you find out which school your child is going to this September, it’s time to start preparing. 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 faced with thirty children and their coats.

By the time each child is zipped up and wrapped up, playtime is over. If your child is able to go some way to helping, they may get some fresh air.

If you can see buttons on trousers and skirts becoming a problem during the post PE change, invest in elasticated waistbands. These will also help during any ‘last minute’ toilet visits. Avoid tights in the early days – they can also lead to unnecessary bathroom accidents. With shoes, laces and buckles are a no-no.

Stick to Velcro fastenings which your child can do themselves.

2. Are they used to sharing?

Sharing is a difficult lesson for a child to learn, especially if they only start learning it at school. But it’s a vital lesson if you want your child to settle in and make friends easily. No one wants to play with the boy who refuses to take turns and share, and before long that child becomes isolated. Start to make a point of praising your pre-schooler for sharing his bag of figures or his last few sweets.

3. Can they use the toilet on their own?

Reception classrooms usually have a toilet nearby but children are expected to use it on their own. That can mean less confident children avoid a visit until it’s too late. Encourage your child to begin taking toilet trips without you to

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build up their confidence. Remind them that hand washing is part of the ‘visit’.

Beginning school toilet training now will mean less accidents in September.

Are they able to eat independently?

Lunchtimes can be a real flashpoint in the early days of your child’s school life.

Dinner halls are noisy places and can make a child feel overwhelmed. Make sure they arrive at school able to pick up and use a knife and fork. If they’re opting for a packed lunch, make sure they can open a yoghurt, put a straw in a juice box and unpeel a banana. With school a few months off, it may seem like the easier option to feed them, but it won’t help in the long run. Practice, however painful, makes perfect.

Can they recognise their name?

If your child can recognise their name, they’ll be able to find their peg, identify their drawer in the classroom and find their cardigan if it gets misplaced.

Starting school can make even the most confident child feel a little lost. If they can locate important places, it will make them feel more in control.

Can they use scissors?

Teachers look for this in the early stages of Reception to evaluate dexterity. Get crafty over the next few months.

Do they understand discipline?

It’s important your child understands what’s expected of them when they arrive at school. They need to know hitting, kicking, biting and hair pulling will not be tolerated. Not only will it bring your child to the attention of the head teacher for all the wrong reasons, but it will make your child unpopular with their classmates. Reputations earned in the early days of school tend to stick and can be hard to shake off.

8. Can they communicate with an adult?

Giving your child the skills to communicate with their teacher means they will be able to have some control.

How else will they ask to go to the toilet? If they don’t understand how to get the attention of an adult, how will they let their teacher know they don’t understand their work? A child who can communicate will get more out of the school day than a child who is unwilling to speak up. Encourage your child to ask and even practice with a raised hand at home to make sure they understand the most appropriate way of getting a grown ups attention.

9. Are they able to count?

If your child is about to count up to 20, and count back from 10, this will give them a really good head start. Use some of their favourite toys or foods to make counting fun. Lay out 10 grapes and get them to eat them one by one, counting as they go. It will give them confidence and help them see learning as fun. Plus it’s a great way to get one of their 5 a day down them!

10. Can they follow simple instructions?

The school day is full of instructions.

Your child will be asked to put coats on pegs, bring packed lunches into classrooms and sit cross legged on the carpet for circle time. If a child is used to following instructions, they will avoid being reprimanded. The more time a teacher dedicates to repeating instructions and encouraging co-operation, the less time there is for teaching. Start giving your child simple tasks – perhaps helping with the weekly shop or with some straight forward jobs around the house. It will prepare them for school life.

SOME BOOKS YOU MAY FIND USEFUL: • • • • •

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Families West PO Box 32231 London W5 1JR

I am too absolutely small for school (Charlie and Lola) by Lauren Child 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 Allan Ahlberg

July/August 2013

Surviving the Summer Slide

Education Summer holidays bring excitement and adventure. Students look forward to their days off, knowing the long months will offer respite from their school year. What they do not understand is that whilst those days may relax and energise, they can also stress them academically.

Summer learning loss, also known as the summer slide, can occur quickly during the summer.

Recent studies published through a management tracking information system utilized by over 22,000 schools throughout the UK, indicate many students can go an entire summer without even picking up a book. This can be extremely detrimental to a child’s learning progress.

When children mentally go on holiday for the summer, they are often at risk of losing one to three months of education with some dropping behind by as much as two to four national curriculum points. These students enter the classroom in the autumn term significantly behind their classmates. This makes it challenging for educators to meet the needs of their students.

As a parent though, you have the ability to minimise that academic loss.

Support Learning at Home © Yours Truly Photography – www.yourstrulyphotography.co.uk

Learning begins in the home but parents do not have to be educators to support that learning; you can do so by extending your children’s summer activities. Have them find a book about the play they are studying at drama camp. Participation in a summer football or rugby camp can be turned into a journaling activity. Maths can be practised through a trip to the grocery store. Turn any experience into a learning opportunity.

Support Learning Through the Library

Janet Sherlock is head tutor at Leaders are Readers, the award-winning Saturday and Summer Schools.

Reading is arguably one of the most important components of your children’s education. Local libraries present opportunities to participate in reading programmes, group discussions, or other literacy events. Use your local library to find grade level appropriate books and activities.

Support Learning Through Summer Programmes Sometimes though, children need more support than can be received at home.

Between your work hours, a lack of resources or simply not knowing where to focus, you can be overwhelmed. If that occurs, reach out to an established summer school programme. Learning is directed in a setting with real, live teaching, as opposed to in front of computer screens, and in small classes that allow your child to receive individualized instruction. Enrolling your children in a vibrant and authentic programme may be the perfect opportunity to revise learning from the previous school year, extend learning and prepare for future challenges such as entrance exams.

There are lots more things to do in the 'What's On' section of our website.

www.familieswest.co.uk To advertise in Families West please email adverts@familieswest.co.uk or phone 020 8930 4707

July/August 2013

Families West PO Box 32231 London W5 1JR

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Summer starts here…

What I learned on my holidays...

By Joanna Moorhead 1. Sleep outdoors: nothing says ‘summer’ like the chance to kip outside. If you can, find a campsite where you can go for a few days; but if you can’t get away, put up a tent in the garden. No tent? Borrow one. You’ll be amazed at the amount of fun kids can have with a few torches under canvas. Make sure they have lots of snacks – and don’t forget the singsongs!

2. Find a geocache: geocaching is like a treasure hunt where you use a GPS device to find a container which will have some small items (maybe toys) inside. It’s fun, exciting, and there’s lots to learn (about orienteering, geography, exploration, the environment). For more information see www.geocaching.com 3. Go wild swimming: swimming in rivers and lakes may sound an experience not a learning activity – but swimming in a natural environment helps kids learn about nature, and it’s a totally different experience from swimming in a pool, even an outdoor one.

See www.wildswimming.co.uk for ideas of where to try it out.

The long summer break is almost upon us; but whether you’re having a staycation or going away, why not fold some learning into your vacation plans? We’ve got 20 great ideas for skills you and your family can master over the weeks ahead – wherever you are.

4. Climb a tree: there’s so much to learn in tree-climbing: how to deal with the unexpected, how to trust your own judgement, how to take a risk and how to manage failure.

You learn that it’s harder to come down than to go up, and you learn how to look after your friend who falls out of the tree. And they’re all life skills that are useful for ever.

5. Fly a kite: gem up on wind direction, find a suitable open space, and make or invest in a kite. Read up online on how to launch a kite, and go for it! You’ll get a tremendous sense of satisfaction as your kite dances across the sky.

Claire Greenway at www.clairegreenway.co.uk

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Families West PO Box 32231 London W5 1JR

July/August 2013

Summer 6. Have a treasure hunt: there are loads of different ways to run a treasure hunt, so read up on the different methods online. It’s all down to good planning, so don’t stint on that: you’ll spend more time on planning than on the event itself. As a rough rule of thumb, kids can manage twice as many clues as their age.

7. Make a movie: with the arrival of the iPhone and the iPad, it’s never been easier to make a (surprisingly professional) home movie. Choose your location, put together your storyboard and...action! There are various apps that can make filming easier (eg filmic pro, which locks the camera’s settings for the duration of a shot).

8. Build a den: it’s come to symbolise childhood freedom, and there’s little doubt it’s an activity children (and their parents) absolutely love. Dens are best built in woods, but even a small garden or a bedroom will do as a venue. The secret is to allow your child to let his/her imagination run wild (and not worry too much about the tidying up afterwards).

9. Ride a horse: some kids are pony-mad, but even those who don’t do regular lessons usually love at least the occasional chance to ride. Look up a riding school and see what they can offer in terms of a one-off experience; ideally, you’ll want to go too.

10. Find your way using a map and compass: whether you’re in a city or the country, whether it’s somewhere you know or somewhere new to you, there’s loads to learn from this. It’s tricky to work out the compass points, so a good activity to do en famille; also great to acclimatise children with maps and their usefulness.

11. Track wild animals: again this is something that can be done in the outback, the local park, or your back garden. Your children are looking for signs that animals have been here: pawprints, claw marks, scuff marks and – most fascinating of all for most kids – poo.

12. Catch a fish: if you’re new to fishing, use a net. Find water that’s clean and clear, and where you can see there are lots of fish. Then be patient, and ready to pounce.

July/August 2013

13. Identify wild flowers: there are so many beautiful wild flowers, and it feels knowledgeable when you know what’s what. Choose an area rich in wild foliage, and take a book or leaflet with you to help you with identification.

14. Cook on a campfire: sausages and marshmallows are the obvious contenders – but you can be more ambitious than that! You can cook anything on a campfire.

Try frying eggs, grilling fish, warming burritos, making risotto. Kids will eat things they’d never eat at home when they’ve been whizzed up on a campfire.

15. Go bird watching: if you’ve never done it, and know little about birds, the best thing to do is go to an RSPB sanctuary. Take your binoculars, read the guides, and use the hides.

16. Build a raft: there are courses in raft-building; but there are also instructions (on the internet). It takes time, and teamwork, and effort; but there’s nothing like the feeling of finding it floats!

17. Identify at least ten constellations: invest in a good chart, wait for a dark night, keep your eyes peeled. You get a huge sense of satisfaction, and awe, when you manage to do it.

18. Make a family tree: learning about your family history is a fascinating way to put flesh on the bones of history lessons. What’s more, grandparents and great-aunts and uncles won’t always be around to fill you in – so ask the questions now.

19. Start a collection: it can be anything – football cards, postcards, photographs of funfairs you’ve visited, pebbles from beaches you’ve been to. You can collect experiences as well as items: keep a book where you short review of every film you watch, every book you read, or a description of every day out you have. Collections aren’t about WHAT they are, they’re about learning to organise your thoughts in a coherent, logical way.

20. Learn a good card or magic trick: it takes practice, but it’s enormous fun and if you get good at your trick, you really can surprise people (especially visitors).

It’s part-performance, part-agility, part-confidence; all useful skills for every child.

Families West PO Box 32231 London W5 1JR

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s p o h s k r o W r e m m u S SUMMER CAMPS

ART

Base Camps Affordable summer day camps for children aged 6 – 14. Activities and arts and crafts with an emphasis on team building, in a safe, secure environment. 29 July – 30 Aug, Mon – Fri from 8am-6pm. Venue: Paddington Academy, 50 Marylands Road, London, W9 2DR. www.basecamps.org.uk e: info@basecamps.org.uk 01235 833030

Fun with Fimo Clay Creative sessions, supervised and non-messy for ages 6+ Sessions run from 10.15am to 4.15pm. 18 July – The Owl & the Pussy Cat, 26 July – Russian Dolls. 23 Aug – Wind Chimes. 2 Sept – Miniature Tea Party and 3 Sept – Mosaic Frame and Photo Album Call Clare McKnight 020 8992 3767 e:fimofun@tiscali.co.uk www.funwithfimoclay.co.uk

Bright Sparks Holiday Fun Club 15-19 July Messy Fun involving exploring and investigating different textures, sand and water play, painting, baking and local outings. Bring own packed lunch. Snacks, milk and water provided. Bright Sparks Montessori School at 142 Sinclair Road, W14 ONL 020 7371 4697 e: info@brightsparksmontessorischool.co.uk for more information www.brightsparksmontessorischool.co.uk

Kite Studios 15 July-31 Aug ART WORKSHOPS which include painting, printmaking, construction and clay. 10.00-11.30 am for ages 5-8 and 12-4 pm for ages 8yrs + Venue: 2b Bassein Park Rd, W129RY 020 8576 6278 info@kitestudios.org Fulham Palace 30 Jul-28 Aug Arts and crafts, sculpture and drama workshops for children in SW6 www.fulhampalace.org 020 7736 3233

COOKING

DRAMA

Join the fun and take part in our ‘Summer Extravaganza!’

Allsorts Summer drama workshops Ages: 4-6 and 7-12 15th - 19th July, 22nd - 26th July 9.30am-12.30pm at More House School, 22-24 Pont Street, London SW1 0AA Have a wonderful time making new friends and discovering new talents. Come along and be inspired and encouraged by our dynamic and experienced teachers.

Write a script, use music, props, costumes and your imagination to create, entertain and surprise family and friends with a sensational show! No experience necessary – all you need is lots of enthusiasm!

Tel 02089693249 or 02087675298 email info@allsortsdrama.com www.allsortsdrama.com

29th July to 22nd August Inspirational courses to stimulate your child’s creativity.

Creative Writing, Film Making, Robots with Lego, Cool Science, Inventors’ Workshop, Cookery and Craft, Entrepreneur Workshop, Mosaic, Fashion, Pottery, Art, Drama, Street Dance and Gardening are amongst the exciting courses we have on offer this Summer.

Students work on ambitious projects with specialist high quality tutors in a happy and safe environment. Small groups ensure some individual attention.

Ages: 5-16 years.

Venue: The Ellen Wilkinson School, Queens Drive, London W3 OHW. Contact: Annette or Linda on 020 8742 3936 for a brochure. www.chiswickcourses.co.uk

“The kids so look forward to the classes and it has given them a real appreciation and interest in food” Parent of Rani & Neel

Holiday classes and cooking parties and are suitable for children aged 7 and over. Relish also run cooking classes and educational workshops for primary schools.

Contact Sarah on 07947 063 155 sarah@relishkidscookery.co.uk www.relishkidscookery.co.uk

MUSIC

SCIENCE

XBand Studio School of Rock, Pop and More For 8-18 year olds of all levels to learn keyboard, guitar, bass guitar, drums and vocals the fun way... with a band! 10am-12.30pm for ages 8-11, and 1-4pm for ages 12-18. 7 and 8 Aug at St Benedict's School, 54 Eaton Rise, Ealing, London, W5 2ES For bookings e:office@xbandstudio. com or call 07887 508040. Course information: www.xbandstudio.com or call 07773 704233

Mother Nature Science are offering two programmes: Science Explorer and Scientist Factory.

Week long courses start on 22 and 29 Jul, 5, 12 and 19 Aug in North West London (Ealing, Hampstead, Harrow, Herts, Bucks, Barnet, Brent, Hillingdon, Enfield and other areas.) 020 8863 8832 e:info@mnature.co.uk www.mnature.co.uk

Make your listing ‘stand out from the crowd’ with an enhanced listing – approx 100 words boxed or colour-backed, plus a graphic in our feature.

For more information, please contact us adverts@familieswest.co.uk / 020 8930 4707 12

‘All about inspiring young children to cook and enjoy healthy food’ We offer H holiday classes H H kids’ cooking parties H H classes & workshops for primary schools H Have fun and learn essential cookery skills this year at our holiday classes at St Mary’s Church Hall, Hanwell, London W7 3QP Classes are suitable for budding chefs or complete beginners.

Families West PO Box 32231 London W5 1JR

Holland Park Ecology Centre 23 July-30 Aug Environmental themed, outdoor and creative activities for ages 5-12 every weekday, morning and afternoon sessions.

Booking essential on 020 7938 8166 e:ecology.centre@rbkc.gov.uk www.rbkc.gov.uk/ecology

Theatrebugs Five fun filled days of acting, singing, dancing, dressing up and arts and crafts. On day five, the children hit the stage!

Classes take place in Chiswick from 12-16 Aug, 9.30am-12.30pm at St Michael and All Angels Parish Hall, Priory Avenue, London W4.

Suitable for ages 3 and a half to 6.

Call 0800 9755 290 e:enquiries@theatrebugs.co.uk www.theatrebugs.co.uk/ londonandhomecounties.html Perform This summer’s experience for ages 4-8 is based on Aladdin – the five day courses are specially designed to encourage , creativity, confidence and communications skills. Together with a team of experienced theatre professionals, the children will combine live original music, inspirational dance, improvisation and colourful costumes into a mini performance on the final day. 22-26 July and 5-9 Aug in Fulham, 29 July-2 Aug and 19-23 Aug in Ealing, 12-16 Aug in Chiswick, 29 July-2 Aug and 19-23 Aug in Notting Hill, and 5-9 Aug in Kew. 0845 400 1285 e: enquiries@perform.org.uk www.perform.org.uk Stagecoach Kensington, Hammersmith and Chiswick Four Day Summer Workshop packed full of singing, drama and dance for 4 to 18 year olds from 29 July to 1 Aug at Addison Primary School, Addison Gardens, London, W14 0DT. Early Stages (4 to 6 years) – 9.30am to 12.30pm, and Main Stages (6 to 18 years) 10am to 4pm. No previous experience is necessary – just lots of enthusiasm and energy.

Call Sara Catlin Brown on 020 8398 8106, e: Kensington@stagecoach.co.uk, www.stagecoach.co.uk/kensington Richmond Theatre 12-16 Aug – Creative summer school for children ages 8-11 and 12-16, a chance to work with experienced professionals, to develop skills and self-confidence, make new friends, and work on a theatre piece to be performed on the last day of the workshop. 9.30am-4pm every day. For booking e: richmondcl@theambassadors.com or call 020 8332 4524 July/August 2013

Summer SPORTS Little Kickers Football summer course for ages 4-7. 12-16 Aug at Windmill Park Children’s Centre, UB2 4UZ from 9am-noon. Call 020 8979 8048 or e: ealing@littlekickers.co.uk

YOURSPACE DRAMA 12-16 August HOLIDAY DRAMA COURSES, at St Augustine’s Priory, Hillcrest Rd, Ealing W5 2JL For ages 3-5 (half days), 6-11 and 12-18, girls and boys.

See your children have fun expressing themselves through drama this summer, with professional direction.

Our 6-18s get to perform on the Questors stage Go to www.yourspacedrama.com, call 07580 474638 or e:info@yourspacedrama.com

DANCE Angela Grant School of Dance Summer Classes for students ages 4-7 years. Two daily classes in ballet and creative dance to build confidence and develop skills over several days.

The course closes with a showing of work to parents and guardians on the final day, with fun props and make-up. 29 July-2 Aug and 5-9 Aug. Age 4-5 years – 9.30am-11.15am, Age 6-7 years – 11.30am-1.15pm. Friday: All students: 9.15am-1.30pm e: angela@balletclasseslondon.co.uk or call 0781 329 6221 www.balletclasseslondon.co.uk

Chelsea FC Soccer Schools A great introduction to the game for ages 4-13. “CRB checked FA qualified coaches are always on hand to inspire, encourage and share their passion for the beautiful game." Soccer Schools, Goalkeeping Courses and Mini-Kicker Courses taking place throughout the year.

Get 10% off when you book online at chelseafc.com/soccerschools. Quote ‘BROCHURE’ at the time of booking.

Twisters Summer School Gymnastics, Dance Drama, Art, Games and lots of fun for children aged 3-8, at St Johns Church, Mattock Lane, Ealing W13 9LA Snacks provided. 22-26 July, 10.15am-1pm. £20 per day. £90 for the week (sibling discount available) e: twisters@btinternet.com or call Hermione on 020 8933 9777 or Louise on 020 8840 4452 Fit For Sport Activity Camps for children aged 3-12 with standard, extended and half day options offering a wide range of sports and activities from 22 July to 30 Aug. Venues include Southfield Primary School (W4). Belmont Primary School s(W4) and Trailfinders Sports Clubs (W13).

Call 0845 456 3233 www.fitforsport.co.uk The Little Gym Westfield is running a themed summer camp from 22 Jul-1 Sept for ages 3-8. Twohour and three-hour camps are non-competitive and supervised by a high ratio of trained instructors.

020 8735 0817 e:westfield@thelittlegym.co.uk www.thelittlegym.co.uk/westfield The Little Gym Chiswick is running summer camps and classes from 22 Jul-31 Aug for ages 3-12.

From three hours to a full day, these camps and classes are non-competitive and supervised by professionally trained instructors. 020 8994 3729 e:chiswick@thelittlegym.co.uk www.thelittlegym.co.uk/chiswick

Save on summer with childcare voucher More parents now realise their childcare vouchers – which many people used to think were just for nursery fees – are actually a brilliantly flexible money-saving option all year long.

Childcare vouchers are a tax-free salary sacrifice offered by employers to help ease childcare costs for staff who are also parents. And far from being just a bonus for paying nursery fees, they can actually be used for a huge range of childcare options for children all the way up to 15. In these difficult times, it’s a saving which UK mums and dads are grasping gratefully.

Britain’s biggest dedicated childcare voucher provider, Computershare Voucher Services (CVS), say they’ve spotted smarter parents storing up vouchers outside of the school term. Research carried out by CVS of the over 100,000 working parents who use its vouchers shows parents now using them much more in the summer. Only a third of parents did not realise they could use their childcare vouchers for activities outside traditional childcare. These include holiday camps, activity clubs and music lessons. Many popular adventure holidays also accept childcare vouchers including organisations like PGL and Camp Beaumont. It’s always worth asking. “Childcare vouchers are far more versatile than some parents realise,” explains Julian Foster, managing director of CVS. “This means lots of families may be missing out on vital savings by failing to take advantage of their many uses.”

Childcare vouchers are completely free of tax and National Insurance. Depending on individual circumstances, childcare vouchers can bring savings of up to £1,866 per family every year. To use childcare vouchers, a parent must work for an employer who offers a scheme.

CVS is the UK’s largest dedicated childcare voucher provider.

For more information visit www.computersharevoucherservices.com July/August 2013

Twyford Sports Centre Holiday Activities for ages 6-13 weekly from 22 July-16 Aug. Multisports from 9.30am-4.30pm (ages 8-13) where the children will learn new sports, play games and go on day trips.

6- 7 Club from 9.30am-12.30pm every day except Weds for ages 6-7. Children will play games and sports. Book on 020 8993 9095. (discount for booking made before 7 July)

LANGUAGES Club Petit Pierrot Open in the mornings for a wide range of fun activities, all in French, with a team of qualified native teachers in Maida Vale/ St. John’s Wood. Two age groups: L’Été des Petit Parents & Toddlers – for children aged 1-4, with the theme Terre - Eau – Air. Fun French sessions where the children will learn through sensorial activities, arts and crafts, songs, dances and movement, sand and water play. 9.30am - 10.15am on 15, 17 and 19 July. Les Vacances des Grands for ages 3-5 and 6-8, with the theme of Les artistes en herbe. Activities include arts and crafts, salt-dough, cooking, singing, dancing, language games and roleplay. 10.30am - 12.30pm, 15-19 July.

Call 020 7385 5565 e:admincpp@btconnect. com www.clubpetitpierrot.co.uk Royal Parks Lots of nature science workshops going on this summer at Isis Education Centre, Hyde Park, London, W2 2UH 19 July The trees of Kensington Garden 12-1:30pm.

Find out about the varieties of trees and wildlife in the Gardens on a ramble with the Isis Education team. £8 adults, £4 children.

6 Aug Water World 10am-3pm, at Isis Education Centre at The Lookout, Hyde Park. A full day of guided outdoor games and activities for ages 7-11. £30 per child.

Every Weds in Aug Discovery Day Open day, 11am-3pm, free. Nature activities for all ages.

8 Aug and 15 Aug Underwater Explorer 10am-12noon, Pond dipping, newt trail and crafts.

9 and 16 Aug Peter Pan Walk for Families 11am-12:30pm, all ages welcome, £4-£8, pre-booking required 12-16 Aug Summer School for Teens 10am-3pm daily, ages 12-16, £200. Bush craft, horse riding, boating, swimming, environmental studies, photography and horticulture. On the last day there’s the opportunity to stay overnight in the park, with children cooking their own dinner in our outdoor pizza oven.

13 Aug Beetles, Bugs and Bees 10am-3pm, ages 7-11, £30. Bug hunting, beetle tracking and bugbased games.

20 Aug Summer Sense-ation 10am-3pm, ages 7-11, £30. Exploring the park with all of your senses!

22 Aug Beetles, Bugs and Bees 10am-12noon, £6-£10. Family minibeast day.

29 Aug Family Evening – Bats, Moths, Fire and Food 7pm-9:30pm, £10-£15. Use bat detectors to find out what bats are flying above your heads- and have an evening snack around the camp fire.

020 7036 8056 www.supporttheroyalparks.org Thames Explorer Trust Hidden Treasure of the Thames. Hidden on the foreshore of the Thames are many treasures that have been left behind through the ages by the Romans, Victorians and the Tudors.

Artefacts such as pottery, clay pipes, glassware and building material can be found and each artefact tells us a different story of how people once lived and used the river. Discover the Thames with the Thames Explorer Trust at the North end of the Millennium Bridge on 25 Aug from 11.15am-1.15pm. www.thames-explorer.org.uk/adult/ dates-for-foreshore-walks 020 8742 0057 Families West PO Box 32231 London W5 1JR

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From the Californian surf brand OP, exclusively at Sports Direct

Summer The Big Summer Holiday – Tips for Travellers

By Robina Cowan

Yippee! It’s the break we’ve all been dreaming of and looking forward to through the dank winter and spring months – here comes this year’s summer holiday. Hands up who remembers when it was just you and your beloved, grabbing a cheap deal, filling a backpack at the last minute and heading for the sun? Those were the good old days... Now you’re a family, there’s a third ‘p’ to add to ‘passport and packing’ – ‘planning’.

BEFORE YOU GO • Label your child’s clothes, towels and backpacks, especially if you will be using kids’ clubs – they WILL go missing.

Labels 4 Kids (www.labels4kids.com/fam) and Easy 2 Name (www.easy2name.com) both stock packs of instant labels so the job’s a breeze and it’s a much cheaper solution than replacing lost items. They also have ID wristbands so you can label the children with your contact details • Use Google Street View with the children to look round your planned location and help get familiarised with the landscape, ‘foreign’ signs and local attractions. You can also use it to create a list of places to visit • Photocopy everyone's passport and keep the copies in a different place. If the originals go missing, proof that you had passports will make it much easier to tussle with overseas authorities when it's time to come home • Freeze food to await your return – even fresh milk can be frozen – so you don't come home to an empty kitchen.

Some very organised mothers even do an online shop towards the end of their holiday, for delivery on their first day home. Now, that's organisation!

• Lost luggage is a nightmare. Rather than filling one suitcase per person, pack a couple of daytime and evening outfits for everyone in each case so you can all get started while the hotel/ airline tracks down the missing bag 14

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• Involve your children in the packing even if just a small part is their responsibility. It occupies them while you are busy and gets them into the holiday mood. Then check their choices: you may find fancy dress costumes and nothing sensible (OK, I admit this is from experience!)

• Add a small ‘emergency bag’ to your hand luggage, with plasters, tissues, sachets of paracetamol, cotton wool, needle and thread, safety pins, wetwipes and a few sweets (for bribing and wiping away tears).

Oh the satisfying feeling to have what you need just at the right time!

• Pack spare clothes in your hand luggage in case of ‘accidents’ • Leave a spare set of keys with a friendly neighbour in case of home emergencies, losing yours or locking yourself out (I’ve done that just when we were about to leave!)

• Cancel the newspapers and ask your friendly neighbour to return the wheelie bins to your property on collection day, so you’re not advertising an empty home.

ON THE WAY • Long car journeys are not all about being plugged into gadgets. Try story tapes – as a family, we are all totally addicted to the ‘How to Train your Dragon’ series. The ‘Michelin I-Spy’ activity books are great fun, as are the free downloads from www.rac.co.uk/ advice/car-knowledge/top-ten/car-games/.

I made up some sheets myself for a journey through France and they kept my boys amused for hours • For flights, Usborne’s ‘50 Things do on a Plane’ will keep them occupied, rrp £5.99, while the Top Trumps range is great for older children, especially if you're willing to join in • Flying is the one time I am relaxed about screen time – if you have electrical gadgets, use them. Make sure

you have some child friendly headphones to hand so as not to 'share' your child's love of Peppa Pig with the entire plane • Sucky sweets (as they are known in our house) are great for little ones who struggle with their ears on take off. Give babies a bottle (or breastfeed) to stop their ears popping • Pack an extra layer for the flight even if you're flying from a warm UK to a tropical destination. Planes can be chilly and children won't relax if they're not cosy

WHILE YOU'RE THERE • Resist the temptation to Facebook your day's antics – you're advertising that you are away and your home's empty. Not a good idea • When packing to come home, check the back of every drawer, cupboard and even under the beds for favourite toys that might be lurking unseen. Have a quick rifle through the hotel/resort Lost Property box for mislaid hats/t-shirts etc (patting yourself on the back for labelling them beforehand).

WHEN YOU RETURN • Take your holiday laundry for a service wash – it's a small price to pay for not having to sort, wash and dry all those gritty beach towels and sunscreen covered t-shirts.

AND FINALLY Work on a 70:30 ratio. Holidays are not be effortless when you have children, just as life at home is not effortless. If you can enjoy 70% of the time you are away together, that's a result. 30% will be about tantrums, tiredness and bad moods. But if you come home knowing that for most of the time, you relaxed, laughed and enjoyed the time spent together as a family, it's been a success!

July/August 2013

Summer How to spend quality time with your kids this summer Summer is an exciting time – remember those days as a child running, playing on swings, making paper boats to sail on a stream, or playing pooh sticks over a babbling brook. Most parents I know want the best for their children and one of the best things you can give a child is happy memories.

This is much easier than most parents think. We are living in a world of materialism, instant gratification, high pressure selling and “never enough”. This is an adult world created by adults that reflects how we are, our sense of urgency and how we spend time with our children.

Slow down this summer and make the most of your time Claire Greenway at www.clairegreenway.co.uk to re-connect with your not make sure whatever was missed is children. All children want made up for the following day e.g. if you your attention as a matter of priority. It have a day planned spending time with is the type of attention that you give that your children doing activities and will determine how they learn to gain engaging with them yet you have not that attention from you. scheduled in time with your partner, This summer immerse your children in make sure you make up for that the positive attention, leaving you all feeling following day. This could be as simple as rejuvenated and refreshed and back in sitting down acknowledging in a letter love with your whole family. what it is you love and appreciate about Plan ahead and get organised each other. If that sounds daunting do it Planning and organising is an adult activity urgently and go back to a time and write and I promise you the more you plan and about when you did love and appreciate each other. prepare the more fun you will have with your children. Make planning integral to If you are going away – Keep the your day and your week and engage your week before free from distractions, enrol whole family in the task of planning. your children and prepare them for your Of course it is wonderful to do things on adventure. Talk about where you are the spur of the moment – but know your going, what things you could do when you get there and ask them questions child! Most young children don’t like about what you will need to take and sudden change in routine. get them to help you plan activities.

Take each week, look at the week as a Involving children not only gives them a whole: there should be a balance of – sense of belonging, it also builds their time for the children, time for activities, confidence and their subconscious time for being together as a family, time knowledge that you trust their input and for you and your husband / partner. Any / or decisions. Have them help you make time left over can be for friends or other lists of things to pack – what clothes etc. activities. Of course some of these times they will need. Make getting ready to go will overlap, just make sure the time fun and exciting. allocated for each is not combined and Give them a couple of days’ notice before therefore halved. it is time to come home – prepare them Then take each day – and do the same, for “the ending” in a way that is positive. have you got a balance within that day, if July/August 2013

By Anne Denny What have they enjoyed the most, who would be the first person they would like to tell about their holiday when you get home? Make the holiday last by buying post cards or items that can go into a “holiday journal” to make when you are home. What things can you do at home that reflect the activities you did on holiday? Remember to keep the week free when you come back to follow through with these extended holiday activities including scheduling time for your children to “tell” those they want to. Let your creative side run wild.

If you are staying at home – Make a point to have the holiday period stand out as different from the rest of the year. Holidays are a time of fun, sun and excitement as well as rest and relaxation.

Plan in the same way – look through and use the myriad of information available on line to find out what’s going on in your local area, many activities are free or reasonably priced.

Look at your week – are there any days where you can spend the whole day on “an adventure” going to the beach or the new forest? Sell these activities to your children as an adventure, if you are upbeat and excited they will be too.

Enrol their help in preparing – if you’re planning a picnic get them to help write the shopping list, take them to the supermarket and have them find the things on the list. All these things get them working for you as well as building their confidence and trust.

About Anne Denny Anne is a qualified, practicing psychotherapist. Her experience of working with both Positive Parenting Techniques (practical skills that parents can easily integrate into individual parenting styles) and SleepTalk™ (techniques achieving effective results for children presenting emotional stress or who have experienced trauma) has helped resolve parenting challenges for hundreds of families.To contact Anne or for more information please go to www.annedenny.com

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What's On DIARY DATES 6 July NCT Kensington & Chelsea’s next Nearly New Sale Items for sale: All essential nearly new baby and toddler items including buggies, baby bouncers, cots, clothes, baby play gyms, maternity clothes and toys. 10am-12noon at St Peter’s Church, Kensington Park Road, (opposite Stanley Gardens), W11 2PN. www.nct.org.uk/branches/ kensington-chelsea/nearly-new-sales 9-14 July RHS HAMPTON COURT PALACE FLOWER SHOW Plants, show gardens and floral displays galore. www.rhs.org.uk/Shows-Events/ RHS-Hampton-Court-Palace-Flower-Show/2013 6 July ACTON CARNIVAL A unique family event which features music, dance, stage acts, flavours and community stalls. 12-7pm in Acton Park. www.ealingsummerfestivals.com 12 July-7 Sept BBC PROMS The greatest classical music festival on earth returns to the Royal Albert Hall. 92 concerts including a Doctor Who prom and the famous Last Night of the Proms. www.bbc.co.uk/proms 14 and 15 July SUMMER SCREENINGS IN EALING Two days of cinema magic to Walpole Park.

The family-friendly matinée session will feature kids rock musical The School of Rock. www.ealingsummerfestivals.com 22 July SUMMER PARTY AT MUSIC HOUSE FOR CHILDREN 11am -1pm, £5 per child, 0-5yrs.

Includes art & craft, face painting, sing-a-long with instruments, instrumental performances, tea & cake and much more. 306 Uxbridge Rd, W12. www.musichouseforchildren.co.uk 20 July-9 Aug ST BARNABAS CHURCH SUMMER PROM SERIES 12 concerts – 10 evening and 2 lunchtime concerts, ending with a ‘Last Night of the Proms’ Gala Concert. Popular classic concerts are held ‘in the round’, with the piano and musicians in the centre of the nave. Venue: St Barnabas Church, Pitshanger Lane, Ealing, W5 1QG www.barnabites.org/summerproms 24-28 July EALING JAZZ FESTIVAL Big band favourites, funky Latin tunes, jazz and funk fusion, bebop, hard bop, contemporary jazz and more. www.ealingsummerfestivals.com 28 July PARTY ON THE PIER A fun day on and off the river at Chiswick Pier. Free boat trips, fancy dress competition for dogs, BBQ, refreshments and music. Also canoe taster sessions, river dipping, face painting and Amanda’s Action Kids www.chiswickpier.org.uk 3 Aug CHISWICK & HAMMERSMITH NCT'S CHEEKY MONKEYS TEA PARTY 10.30am-1.30pm at the Park Club, East Acton Lane, W3. Entertainment, balloon artistry, face painting, bubbles galore, soft play and lunch bags for every child who is registered for one. Booking essential www.cheekymonkeysteaparty.eventbrite.co.uk 7 and 14 Aug NATIONAL PLAYDAY A day full of fun and activities for children of all ages and their families. Bring your friends and a picnic. Takes place at Rectory Park, Northolt UB5 5NR on 7 Aug and at Southall Park, UB1 3AZ on 14 Aug. 12noon-4pm. e: playday@ealing.gov.uk for more details. www.playday.org.uk 1 Sept LONDON MELA Festival inspired by South Asian culture. Entertainment includes classical and new music, as well as street arts, dance, visual arts, a giant funfair, comedy, and food stalls offering cuisine from around the world. 1-9pm at Gunnersbury Park, W3 www.ealingsummerfestivals.com 16

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DAYS OUT CHELSEA PHYSIC GARDEN SW3 4HS www.chelseaphysicgarden.co.uk FAMILY ACTIVITY DAYS Pre-booking and pre-payment essential. Call 020 7349 6453 or e:education@chelseaphysicgarden.co.uk 31 July PAPER STIXX & WONDERFUL WIRE SCULPTURES Have a go at making wonderful paper, metal and wire sculptures to take home. For age 6+ 10.30am-3pm.

1 Aug FESTIVAL OF ECOLOGY A celebration of all things ecological including newts, earthworm, and pond life- talks, arts and crafts and demonstrations. For age 6+, 10.30am-3pm.

CUTTY SARK SE10 9NF www.rmg.co.uk/cuttysark 6-7 July FAMILY FUN WEEKEND: BENEATH THE WAVES Make a watery seascape underneath Cutty Sark’s beautiful hull.

Drop-in workshop at 11.30am and 2pm.

7, 28 July, 4, 11, 18 and 25 Aug AHOY CAPTAIN! Join Captain Woodget, Cutty Sark’s longest serving master, and hear tales of his voyages across the high seas. 11am, 12noon, 1.30pm and 2.30pm.

3, 4, 27, 28 Aug FAMILY FUN WEEKEND: FLY THE FLAG Write a coded message using signal flags and design your own flag. Drop-in at 11.30am or 2pm.

21 and 22 Aug MY MINI SAILOR Find out about jobs on Cutty Sark and make your own mini sailor. Drop-in at 11.30am and 2pm.

23 and 26 Aug FLYING FISH Discover what sailors on board Cutty Sark ate for dinner and make your own flying fish to take home. Drop-in at 11.30am and 2pm.

Throughout Aug ALL HANDS ON DECK Demonstrations of sailing skills and hands-on activities on the Main Deck of ship.

GOLDEN HINDE SE1 9DG www.goldenhinde.com 6, 27, 30, July and 6, 13, 17, 20 and 27 Aug DRAKE FUN DAYS Find out all about Sir Frances Drake at 11am and 2pm. For age 6+ 13, 31 July 7, 14, 21, 28 Aug PIRATE FUN DAY Join the crew, raise the anchor and fire the cannons before trying to find the hidden treasure. 11am and 2pm. For age 4+ 20, 25 July, 1, 8, 10, 15, 22, 29, 31 Aug TUDOR FUN DAY Step back in time and learn the history of the House of Tudor. 11am and 2pm. For age 6+ 26 July, 2, 9, 16, 23, 30 Aug TUDOR BATTLE WORKSHOP Change into Tudor costume and learn about life on board. Go into battle and bring the spoils back to Britain. For age 6+ 3, 24 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+

HAMPTON COURT PALACE KT8 9AU www.hrp.org.uk Until 3 Nov SECRETS OF THE ROYAL BEDCHAMBER An exhibition exploring the bedchambers of the 17th and 18th Century royal court.

6-7 July, 3-4 Aug TUDOR COOKERY Watch the cooks toiling in the Kitchens of King Henry VIII, preparing the exotic dishes for his majesty.

9-14 July RHS HAMPTON COURT PALACE FLOWER SHOW 2013 The world's largest annual garden show – a 'must-see' for gardeners of all ages.

22, 29 Jul and 5, 12 and 19 Aug FUN MONDAYS Free, drop in family craft sessions.

27-28 July OPEN AIR CINEMA Watch a great film on a big screen under the stars in the East Front Gardens. Pack your rug and picnic hamper.

(27 July Grease, 28 July Some like it hot) www.thelunacinema.com 4 Aug CYCLEMANIA Activities will include stunt cycle teams and family fun. Bring a picnic and watch as 1000s of cyclists pass the palace as part of Ride London.

24-26 Aug TUDOR JOUST Cheer on knights in armour as they thunder across the field on their magnificent chargers. Are there any knights brave enough to take on the mighty Henry VIII?

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.

13-14 July and 10-22 Aug DAZZLE CAMOUFLAGE How do you hide a ship at sea?

Learn how dazzle camouflage was used to keep HMS Belfast from being discovered by other ships and take part in a creative animation workshop to create your very own camouflage.

11am-12.30pm and 2-4pm.

HOLLAND PARK ECOLOGY CENTRE W8 6LU www.rbkc.gov.uk 13 July SUMMER WILDLIFE AREA OPEN DAY IN HOLLAND PARK A great chance to explore a hidden corner of the park, enjoy a woodland walk and identify different native trees.

You could also search for minibeasts in the woods or go pond-dipping. For all ages, 2-6pm, free, drop-in.

July and Aug ECOPLAY Fun and nature exploration in conjunction with the Holland Park Ecology Centre: 29 July and 12 Aug - Little Wormwood Scrubs. 5 Aug - Meanwhile Gardens 16 Aug PLAY DAY AT EMSLIE HORNIMANS PARK Celebrate the wide range of play opportunities in the Royal Borough. Come and enjoy sports, games, face painting, bike riding, the Play Village, a BBQ, funfair rides, arts, rock climbing, spider mountain and pond dipping with the Ecology Service. 12-4.30pm, free, drop-in 020 7938 8044 for more information.

19 August ECOPLAY AT MEANWHILE GARDENS An afternoon of fun and nature exploration. Activities include pond dipping, crafts and games for ages 5-15. 2-4pm at Meanwhile Gardens W10. Free, drop-in.

July/August 2013

July/August 2013

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What's On 30 Aug CHILDREN’S NIGHT SAFARI IN HOLLAND PARK Discover the park after dark, search for the park’s nocturnal inhabitants and explore the woods at night with the Ecology Centre staff. For ages 5-10, 7.30-9pm. Advance booking essential. e: ecology.centre@rbkc.gov.uk

KENSINGTON PALACE W6 4PX www.hrp.org.uk/kensingtonpalace From 4 July NEW EXHIBITION: FASHION RULES Dress from the collections of HM The Queen, Princess Margaret and Diana, Princess of Wales. Elegant dress displays will explore how these royal figures were representative of the spirit of each decade, reflecting and inspiring everyday fashions.

13-14 Jul DANCING THROUGH THE DECADES Storytelling, craft activities and beginners’ dance classes in styles from the ‘50s to the ‘80s, inspired by the Fashion Rules exhibition. Free.

1-3 Aug OPEN AIR CINEMA Bring a picnic and enjoy an evening screening in the Orangery Gardens.

Book on www.thelunacinema.com (1 Aug – Top Gun (PG), 2 Aug – Skyfall (12A) 3 Aug – Casablanca (U) Every Fri in the summer holidays FUN FRIDAYS Fabulous fashion activities for all the family.

KEW GARDENS TW9 3AB www.kew.org 25 May-3 Nov INCREDIBLES: A FESTIVAL TO FEED THE IMAGINATION Experience first-hand a selection of the 30,000 species we can feast on. Be part of a giant fruit salad installation by hiring a fruit-shaped boat (10-5pm), stroll around a floating pineapple on the Palm House pond, travel the globe in the gastronomic garden, join a tea party with a twist, bask in a beer garden, or attend incrEdibly interesting talks and workshops.

ODDS FARM PARK HP10 0LX www.oddsfarm.co.uk July and Aug Board the daily tractor and trailer rides for a fun tour of the farm, race go-karts, and meet furry animals in the large, undercover animal barn. Also, there is a Giant Indoor Playbarn, with a massive adventure play area including a 4 lane Astra Slide, 2 large drop slides, a netted area with zig zag chicanes and tunnels, swinging ropes and a special Toddler and Under 5’s area. Outdoors, there is an Adventure Maze, Go-Karts, Log Play Areas and Crazy Golf.

Daily SHEEP RACING RETURNS TO ODDS FARM PARK It’s back! With a specially built mini race track with jumps and bends, eager sheep with miniature jockeys, Sheep Racing is an event not to miss at Odds Farm Park. Plus, guess the winning sheep and take home a Medal!

Every Weds CHARACTER VISIT AT ODDS FARM PARK Meet Peppa Pig, Mike the Knight, Ben and Holly and more.

OSTERLEY PARK AND HOUSE TW7 4RB www.nationaltrust.org.uk/osterley-park 13-14 July OSTERLEY WEEKEND Free family fete, 12-5pm.

Every Weds from 24 Jul-28 Aug OUTDOOR EXPLORER 12-4pm Outdoor themed activities for families. 27-28 July FALCONRY See birds of prey in action. 4 Aug TEDDY BEAR 18

Families West PO Box 32231 London W5 1JR

PARACHUTE DROP Bring your bear to see it take flight from the roof of the house! 17 and 18 Aug MINI FARM Meet rabbits, lambs, pygmy goats, piglets and chickens. 12-4pm.

SYON HOUSE AND GARDENS TW8 8JG www.syonpark.co.uk 21 Jul-29 Aug CHILDREN GO FREE Children (up to and including 16yrs) have free admission to the gardens or House and gardens. Maximum 2 free child tickets per paying adult. For more information contact The Estate Office on 020 8560 0882 or info@syonpark.co.uk.

TOWER OF LONDON EC3 www.hrp.org.uk Ongoing: COINS AND KINGS: THE ROYAL MINT AT THE TOWER Discover the history of the Mint at the Tower including Isaac Newton’s efforts to rid London of counterfeiters when he was Warden of the Mint.

From 10 July LINE OF KINGS A restoration of an exhibition dating back to the 1680s; it features 17th century hand-carved wooden horses by Grinling Gibbons, a re-presentation of Henry’s VIII magnificent armours and a whimsical scale model of tilting knights.

Until 7 July THE PEOPLE OF THE MINT Found out more about the lives of the men who lived and worked at the Mint. Where did the gold and silver come from and how was it turned into coins? Historical re-enactment.

27-28 July TOWER OF LONDON ARCHAEOLOGY WEEKEND Get ‘hands on’ with the Tower’s free, annual archaeology extravaganza. Go down onto the Tower’s river foreshore and see what you can discover (see timings on the website), speak to experts and enthusiasts, see displays and try fun activities. 11am-4pm.

THE LONDON WETLANDS CENTRE SW13 9WT wwt.org.uk/visit-us/London Until 4 Aug PERFECT POND SEASON Take part in a series of activities including wildlife surveys, experiments and shows as well as recording species across the reserve. There will be pond storytelling and crafts at 11.30am, freshwater surveys at 11.45am and 3.45pm, and pond dipping at 1.30pm.

Thursdays in July and Aug BIG BAT WALK Go along at sunset with a bat expert and bat detectors and identify the species of bat swooping around! For ages 8+ Book in advance on 020 8409 4400.

20 – 21 July TRADITIONAL CRAFTS WEEKEND See how the Wetlands have provided the raw materials to feed, clothe and house people in demonstrations of rural crafts. 11am-4pm 25 July PARENT AND CHILD WILDLIFE PHOTOGRAPHY WORKSHOP A practical and enjoyable day for budding young wildlife photographers (aged 8 or above) and their parents, to learn how to get great shots of wildlife. £50 per adult and child. £20 per extra participant. 10am-3pm 5 Aug-2 Sept BE A WETLAND WARDEN Identify and record species found in the log piles or ponds. There will also be pond dipping sessions, and a fun animal related story and craft slot.

9, 23 and 30 Aug NIGHT SAFARI An exciting evening in the wild exploring the animals and elements for children aged 7+ and their parents.

Learn how to make a fire, tell stories around the

woodburner in the Mongolian yurt, go on a bat walk and visit the pond zone for twilight pond dipping. £20, book in advance.

ZSL LONDON ZOO NW1 4RY www.zsl.org 30 Aug-1 Sept LITTLE CREATURES FAMILY FESTIVAL A weekend of colourful characters, roving entertainers, interactive stage shows, storytelling, shadow puppetry and the magical fairy queen’s rainbow trail through the enchanted woodland walk. Activities include the splash zone, the adventure playground, bouncy castles, giant slides, whacky races and the Animal Adventure children’s zoo. Also live demonstrations, keeper talks and feeds as well as our Animals in Action shows. 10am-6pm.

MUSEUMS & GALLERIES BANK OF ENGLAND MUSEUM EC2R 8AH www.bankofengland.co.uk 6 and 13 July OPEN DOOR 30-minute guided tours of parts of the Bank not generally accessible to the public. No booking required. 9.30am-5pm 22 July-30 Aug WORLD OF TREASURE Discover the Museum's treasures by answering clues and following the trail.. Make a treasure-chestshaped money box to take home.10am-4:30pm

BRITISH MUSEUM WC1B 3DG www.britishmuseum.org To 29 Sept. LIFE AND DEATH IN POMPEII AND HERCULANEUM The life and times of the people of Pompeii and Herculaneum - from the bustling street to the intimate spaces of a Roman home, the exhibition will look at daily life prior to the devastating volcanic eruption of nearly 2000 years ago.

6 July GREEN SCREEN TIME MACHINE Use a green screen and Photoshop to create a picture. 11.30am-3.30pm, free, drop-in.

7 July MUSEUM REPORTER Become a journalist for the day and follow clues around the galleries using mobile phones. 11am and 2pm. Free, booking advised.

13 July PASSPORT TO THE AFTERLIFE Use smartphones to follow an augmented reality trail around the Egyptian galleries.

11.30am-3.30pm, free, drop-in.

14 July RESHUFFLING THE DECK: CARD GAME WORKSHOP Work with a professional games designer to create your own personalised set of cards. 11am and 2pm. Free, booking advised.

20 July CREATE A MAYAN COMIC Transform an exciting story from ancient Mexico into a comic strip. 11.30am-3.30pm,free, drop-in.

21 July CREATE A TRAVEL COMIC Find a special object and invent a character and turn them into a comic story using digital tablets and laptops.11am and 2pm, free, booking advised.

27 July MAGICAL MOSAIC MASKS Use Photoshop to design your own mosaic masks inspired by the fearsome Aztec gods.

11.30am-3.30pm, free, drop-in.

28 July MANGA COMIC WORKSHOP Learn the secrets of manga comic artists, then create your own manga-inspired comic. 11am and 2pm, free, booking advised.

July/August 2013

What's On FOUNDLING MUSEUM

IMPERIAL WAR MUSEUM

WC1N 1AZ www.foundlingmuseum.org.uk

www.iwm.org.uk SE1 6HZ

Until 15 Sept EXCHANGE: 1,000 GOOD DEEDS AT THE FOUNDLING MUSEUM 1000 individual good deeds will be placed between the base of a cup and its saucer, these instructions are revealed only when a cup is selected. In order to keep the cup, one must agree to complete the good deed; otherwise the cup must be replaced. As the exhibition unfurls, the good deeds will be revealed.

Workshops for children: 6 July DICKENS DAY A day of creative workshops, walking tours and readings to mark the launch of Boz & The Boy. 10.30am-4.30pm.

14 July EMERALD STAR DAY A day celebrating the paperback release of Emerald Star, the third installment of the Hetty Feather books by Jacqueline Wilson, with a chance to meet the author. 11am-5pm. Jacqueline Wilson talk and signing – 2pm-3.45pm. Also available, a Hetty Feather Trail – explore the museum through Hetty Feather’s eyes, and two drop-in art workshops.

IWM is re-opening partially on 29 July. The following exhibitions will be open from that date.

HORRIBLE HISTORIES®: SPIES Based on the popular children’s book series written by Terry Deary. Visitors will be immersed into the world of Second World War spy-craft, including codes and cyphers, disguises, camouflage, forgeries and gadgets.

ARCHITECTURE OF WAR Artists’ responses to the impact of warfare on our surrounding landscape and environments.

A FAMILY IN WARTIME Explores the lives of William and Alice Allpress and their ten children and what life in London was like during the war.

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

HOLOCAUST EXHIBITION 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. (IWM London will fully re-open to the public in summer 2014 after a year of continued transformation and development.)

GRANT MUSEUM OF ZOOLOGY WC1E 6DE www.ucl.ac.uk/museums/whats-on/grant_listings 30 July-3 Aug RUMBLE IN THE JUNGLE A trip into the jungle to uncover the animals that make the jungle their home. Free hands-on specimen based activities. Drop in between 1pm and 5pm.

GUNNERSBURY PARK MUSUEM W3 8LQ www.hounslow.info/arts-culture/historichouses-museums/gunnersbury-park-museum 21 July EXPLORE ARCHAEOLOGY Dress as a Roman legionary or Queen Boudicca; handle 2000-year-old artefacts and quiz the visiting archaeologist; see what archaeological finds you can dig up in the sandpits; experience life ‘below stairs’ as a servant in our Victorian kitchens. 11am-5pm.

28 July CREEPY HOUSE AT GUNNERSBURY Creepy Storytelling in the Victorian Kitchens involve storytelling, dressing-up, and lots of scary fun in the Victorian Kitchens at 11.30am and 2pm for age 5+. Followed by Creepy Craft session. Book on 020 8992 2247.

30 and 31 July GEMS AND JEWELS Design and create a jewelled goblet, inspired by Gunnersbury’s architecture and treasures from the collections.

10am-1pm for ages 8-12. Book on 020 8992 2247.

July/August 2013

Family Events: 1 Aug TERRY DREARY Join Horrible Histories® author Terry Deary and delve into the most foul facts, dreadful details and strange stories that make his bestselling books so appealing. 12.30 and 2.30pm. For ages 8+, ticketed event.

10 and 17 Aug FROM PAGE TO STAGE WITH HORRIBLE HISTORIES® SPIES Help create a sneaky spy scene with the theatre company behind the Horrible Histories® live shows. Suitable for the whole family.

2.30pm-3.30pm, ticketed event.

2-8 and 26-30 Aug PAPERS PLEASE! Shhh… don't tell anyone but you are wanted for a secret mission. Create your very own identity papers ready to present should anyone try to discover your true identity as a spy.

11am-12.30pm and 2-4pm.

Please remember to tell advertisers that you saw their advert in Families West magazine

There are lots more things to do in the 'What's On' section of our website. www.familieswest.co.uk To advertise in future issues of Families West magazine please email adverts@familieswest.co.uk or phone 020 8930 4707

Cooking Parties!

• Fun, cooking parties • For boys and girls aged 5-16 years • Cooking classes

Give your child the best party ever! whisking, baking, giggling, rolling, making, laughing, turning, licking, joking

A great way to learn while having fun!

Call for details:

0208 876 9912 email: info@cookiecrumbles.co.uk www.cookiecrumbles.co.uk

Caroline Lester School of Dance offers ballet classes for girls & boys from 3+ following the ISTD syllabus.

We also organise ballerina birthday parties!

Classes take place every Wednesday during term time. Examinations are taken in the ISTD syllabus with a 100% pass rate. We are happy to take on new starters throughout the school year.

For more information please contact Miss Caroline on 0203 673 9421/07961375606 or visit our website at: www.carolinelesterschoolofdance.co.uk

Families West PO Box 32231 London W5 1JR

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What's On LONDON TRANSPORT MUSEUM WC2E 7BB www.ltmuseum.co.uk Until Oct POSTER ART 150 – LONDON UNDERGROUND’S GREATEST DESIGNS Since its first graphic poster commission in 1908, London Underground has developed a reputation for commissioning outstanding poster designs.

Sundays and Mondays in Aug STEAMY SCIENCE Open to all families but most suitable for those with children aged 6-12 years. Discover the challenges of keeping London Moving.

Become a horse and drag a bus over the bumpy cobblestones, see how far the power of steam can fire a doll and discover the joys of electricity.

Takes place at 11.30am, 2pm and 3pm.

30 Jul-3 Aug, 13-17 Aug and 27-31 Aug TACKLING TUNNELS STORYTIME Hear the tales of William as he works on the first ever Underground railway tunnels in the world.

Discover the dangers of digging deep and how the first tunnels were built. 11am & 2pm for ages 3-7.

GET MESSY Take on the tunnel challenge. How big a tunnel can you build? Dig or build into our sandpit, with the help of sticks, picks and spades and see who can build the biggest, strongest tunnel. 11.30am and 2.30pm for ages 4-12.

6-10 and 20-24 Aug DOWN WITH IT MAKE AND TAKE Invent your own character and take it up and down a lift or escalator to underground London using paper mechanics and a bundle of imagination. 11am and 2pm for ages 4-12.

SINGALONG Bring your animated character and join Alfie the Alligator for a singalong through the different ways to get up and down to the underground. 12 and 3pm for ages 3-10.

NATIONAL ARMY MUSEUM SW3 4HT www.nam.ac.uk VICTORIAN SOLDIERS ACTION ZONE Quizzes, games and hands-on activities help you learn about life as a Victorian Soldier and the part they played in the shaping of Britain’s Empire KID’S ZONE A new children’s play area exploring aspects of army life from camping to clothing, with soft play, art and crafts and dressing-up costumes.

27-28 July TOY SOLDIER WEEKEND A chance to see fascinating collections of military models. Enjoy recreations of key events that the British Army has been involved in. For ages 7+

NATIONAL GALLERY WC2N 5DN www.nationalgallery.org.uk Every Sun in Jul and Aug 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.

On 7 Jul and 18 Aug there will be Musical Magic Carpets sessions.

DRAWING SUNDAY Explore gallery paintings as inspiration for your art. For ages 5-11. Sundays 11am and 2pm. Drop-in.

14 Jul Super Signs Lion, lamb, lily or peacock?

Join artist Jo Lewis to explore the superheroes of long ago – then create your own by drawing inspiration from pictures of saints and their symbols.

28 Jul, 25 Aug Real Rooms Make a room of your own. Learn how to create space and make things look far away in this drawing workshop.

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Families West PO Box 32231 London W5 1JR

STUDIO SUNDAYS are hands-on workshops that start in the Gallery, followed by a studio session (2 hours). 7 and 21 Jul Brocade to Broccoli Explore patterns and textures so lifelike you think you could touch them.

WORKSHOPS: 4-6 Aug Gold, Bones and Mementos 11am-1pm and 2-4pm. Create your own memento inspired by your talents, favourite people, places and heroes. For ages 5-11.

11-13 and 18-20 Aug Movers and Shakers Inspired by the kinetic sculptures, create drawings that move. For ages 5-11.

5, 12 and 19 Aug Talk and Play Meet Catherine the Marquise, a costumed character brought to life, for singing, talking and playing inspired by a 1691 painting. For ages 2-5.

5, 12 and 19 Aug Stay and Play Stay and play with your child in this designated space inspired by Pierre Mignard’s painting. Drop-in, for under fives. 11am-3pm.

6, 13 and 20 Aug Drawing Stories Tell a story through art-making and play. 10.3011.30am. For ages 2-5.

7 Jul and 11 Aug WALK AND TALK A themed journey through the collection where gallery staff will walk, talk and bring paintings alive! 12.30-1.30pm. For all ages.

5, 13 and 19 Aug STORYTELLING PROMENADE Harmony and discord are found in music as well as paintings. Discover more with Sally Pomme Clayton from the Crick Crack Club on an all ages storytelling promenade.

NATIONAL PORTRAIT GALLERY WC2H 0HE www.npg.org.uk 20 July and 17 Aug STORYTELLING FOR FAMILIES 10.30am and 1.30pm for ages 3+ Storytelling followed by a fun art activity.

20 July, 7 Aug and 17 Aug FAMILY ART WORKSHOP 11.30am and 2.30pm for ages 5+ Explore portraits in the Collection, followed by an art activity.

5 – 30 Aug FAMILY WORKSHOPS – LOOK AT ME! 11am-4pm, four weeks of activities inspired by the BP Portrait Award 2013. (A mix of ticketed and drop-in events).

NATURAL HISTORY MUSEUM SW7 5BD www.nhm.ac.uk Until 15 Sept SENSATIONAL BUTTERFLIES Dive into the tropical butterfly house to take on butterfly challenges, try out fun games and exciting activities. £4-£16 Until 8 Sept EXTINCTION: NOT THE END OF THE WORLD? Giant deer, bizarre insects and super-sized birds – millions of species that once roamed the planet are no longer around.

Until 31 Oct WILDLIFE GARDEN With habitats including woodland, meadow and pond, the garden is a haven for thousands of British plants and animals, and demonstrates the potential for wildlife conservation in the inner city.

ACTIVITES FOR FAMILIES: 1 July-23 Nov WALLACE100: WALLACE DISCOVERY TRAIL See some of Wallace’s most important specimens and listen to interactive Nature Live talks about him.

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

6 July INSECT DAY Hands-on activities, crafts, Nature Live shows and bug hunts in the Wildlife Garden.12-5pm, free.

13 July CROCODILES ROCK Meet a palaeontologist who can answer all your questions about crocodiles. 12.30pm and 2.30pm.

13 July BIG NATURE DAY A free family day out to encourage people to get involved with nature. Hands-on activities, get advice and information from scientists and take part in demonstrations, games and talks. 11am-5pm.

22 July TERRIFIC PTEROSAURS See the collection of pterosaur fossils including a large North American toothless Pteranodon with a wingspan of eight metres. 12.30 and 2.30pm.

25 July ALL ABUZZ ABOUT WASP NESTS See the collection of wasp nests and meet the curator who looks after them. 12.30 and 2.30pm 27 July EATEN ALIVE Parasitoid wasps lay their eggs inside the body of another living insect.

When the wasp larvae hatch, they feed on the insides of the host insect. Food doesn't get much fresher than that. 12.30 and 2.30pm.

Every Weds in Aug ANIMAL VISION This show, which features live animals, reveals a world only visible to certain reptiles and invertebrates.

See how adaptations in snakes, iguanas and chameleons allow them to escape predators and locate prey and discover how bees detect ultraviolet light to help the process of pollination.

10.30am. 11.30am and 1.30pm.

Sun, Mon and Fri CUTTING EDGE WORKSHOP Investigate teeth and diet using the amazing animal skulls. Handle real specimens, take part in fun group activities and see how Museum palaeontologists use skulls to find out about dinosaur diets. 11.30am, 1.15pm and 3.15pm (Sun only)

PM GALLERY AND HOUSE W5 5EQ www.ealing.gov.uk/pmgalleryandhouse 12-29 Aug SUMMER WORKSHOPS Artist-led workshops in response to the exhibitions at Pitzhanger Manor. Every Tues and Thurs, 10am-12pm (for ages 5-7) and 2-4pm (for ages 7-11). Book on 020 8567 1227

VICTORIA AND ALBERT MUSEUM SW7 2RL www.vam.ac.uk Until 11 Aug DAVID BOWIE IS Handwritten lyrics, original costumes, photography. Set designs, album artwork and rare performance material from the past five decades. Advanced booking advised.

Until 13 Jul TREASURES OF THE ROYAL COURTS The majesty of the courts of Henry VIII and Elizabeth I to Ivan the Terrible and the early Romanovs in a major exhibition celebrating 500 years of exchange between Britain and Russia.

6 July HOW THE MICE GOT RID OF THE CATS An interactive, storytelling performance of a traditional tale from the Middle East about princes, carpet merchants, cats and some very clever mice.

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

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.

July/August 2013

What's On THE WALLACE COLLECTION W1U 3BN www.wallacecollection.org Daily Self-guided Activities – A family multimedia tour, with interactive games, armour handling in the Conservation Gallery and gallery trails.

7 July and 4 Aug THE LITTLE DRAW Meet Little Draw artist Zoe Scammell who creates detailed drawings of grotesque beasts and monsters, and learn her methods. Free, drop-in drawing workshop for all ages. 1.30-4.30pm.

FOUR-DAY JUNIOR SUMMER ART SCHOOL For ages 10 + 10.30am-3.30pm.

Book on 020 7563 9527 or booking@wallacecollection.org 25 and 26 July – Jewels of Summer: Watercolour Workshop.

Learn watercolour painting techniques. Children must attend both days of the workshop.

29 and 30 July – Figures in Action: Sculpture Workshop Create your own sculpture using wire, mod roc and plaster.

Children must attend both days of the workshop.

9 Aug CELEBRATE EID AL-FITR Draw from Arabic script and design and make your own Egyptian lanterns, henna patterns and Eid banners. 10.30am-12.15pm and 2-3.45pm. Free, drop-in, ages 5+ 15-16 Aug DROP-IN SUMMER FUN Follow a trail around the galleries before creating your own artwork based on what you’ve seen.

2-4pm. Free, drop-in, ages 6+

July/August 2013

Theatre and Ballet AMBASSADORS THEATRE WC2H 9ND www.theambassadorstheatre.co.uk

GARRICK THEATRE WC2H 0HH www.nimaxtheatres.com 7 Aug-1 Sept HORRIBLE HISTORIES PART 1 The horrible history of Britain with the nasty bits left in!

GLOBE THEATRE SE1 9DT www.shakespearesglobe.com Until 12 Oct A MIDSUMMER NIGHT’S DREAM Until 13 Oct MACBETH CHILDSPLAY – Multi-media workshops for 8-11 year olds exploring matinee performances through crafts and storytelling and a visit to see some of the live show. Parents and guardians may buy tickets to see the matinee from £5 (www.shakespearesglobe.com) whilst your child attends the workshop.

17 Aug MACBETH 1.45pm July and Aug STOMP Rhythm, theatre, comedy and dance. Eight performers use everything from Zippo lighters, plastic bags, bin lids and even the kitchen sink to hammer out an explosively feel good rhythm. Shows at 3pm and 8pm.

CHISWICK HOUSE AND GARDENS W4 2RP www.chgt.org.uk 19 July GULLIVER’S TRAVELS A children’s open air theatre show set within the beautiful historic gardens of Chiswick House. Bring a picnic and enjoy this popular children’s classic.

6.30-8.30pm (gates open at 6.00pm)

SACKLER STORYDAYS – Join storyteller and education practitioner Debs Newbold for a dramatic re-telling of two of Shakespeare’s darkest tales. For ages 9+ 14 Aug KING LEAR 11am

KENSINGTON ROOF GARDENS www.roofgardens.virgin.com Tickets on www.ticketweb.co.uk/event/59609 Tickets include show in the Tudor Gardens, and dinner (BBQ or hog roast) 5 Aug ALICE IN WONDERLAND 6, 11 and 12 Aug ROMEO AND JULIET

Families West PO Box 32231 London W5 1JR

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What's On THE LILIAN BAYLISS STUDIO EC1R 4TN www.sadlerswells.com 7 Aug-22 Sept WEST SIDE STORY One of the greatest musicals of all time, based on Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet and packed with unforgettable songs and groundbreaking choreography by Jerome Robbins.

LONDON COLISEUM WC2N 4ES www.ballet.org.uk 20 July BALLET BUDDIES OPEN DAY: NUREYEV 11am-2.30pm. ENB welcome their youngest supporters to Markova House to watch the dancers in morning class or rehearsal. Buddies will learn about English National Ballet in a relaxed atmosphere, see the dancers and have the chance to ask lots of questions. The visit includes a look at costumes and pointe shoes, refreshments and souvenirs of the visit to take home.

LONDON PALLADIUM W1F 7TF www.reallyuseful.com Ongoing A CHORUS LINE Captivating song, riveting drama and stunning choreography. For age 10+

LYRIC THEATRE W1D 7ES www.nimaxtheatres.com/lyric-theatre 3 Jul-1 Sept WE’RE GOING ON A BEAR HUNT Adapted from the picture book written by Michael Rosen and illustrated by Helen Oxenbury.

Join the intrepid adventurers on their quest to find a bear; as they wade through the gigantic swishy swashy grass, the splishy splashy river and the thick oozy, squelchy mud! Expect catchy songs, interactive scenes and plenty of hands-on adventure – plus a few special surprises!

PALACE THEATRE W1D 5AY www.nimaxtheatres.com 18 Jul-17 Aug BRANIAC LIVE! Based on the Sky TV show, watch as the presenters delve fearlessly into the mysteries of science and do all of those things on stage that you're too scared to do at home.

PUPPET THEATRE BARGE W9 2PF www.puppetbarge.com 6, 7 and 13, 14 June FOWL PLAY In this farmyard adventure the arrival of a foal causes excitement among the animals. 11am and 3pm.

(The Puppet Theatre Barge moves to 87 Petersham Rd, TW10 6UT for the rest of the summer) 27 July-11 Aug THE THREE LITTLE PIGS AND THE WOLF PLUS CAPTAIN GRIMEY A lively show that breathes new life into these well-known characters – each of the pigs has an air of mischief and naivety, while the wicked wolf has just a hint of a wry smile, and Captain Grimey is the dirtiest, most miserable, one-legged sea captain in the world. For ages 3-8.

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Families West PO Box 32231 London W5 1JR

14 Aug-1 Sept THE HARE AND THE TORTOisE AND OTHER TALES FROM AESOP These well-known fables from Aesop’s famous collection are brought to life with drama and humour. Staged with beautiful lighting and carved marionettes. For ages 3+

REGENTS PARK OPEN AIR THEATRE NW1 4NU www.openairtheatre.com Until 20 Jul PRIDE AND PREJUDICE As the Bennet sisters haplessly search for love in Jane Austen’s ultimate romantic comedy, it is Mr Darcy who unwittingly finds his match.

Until 20 July THE WINTER’S TALE tells the story of a lost princess raised by a shepherd and of her secret romance with a prince. As we follow Perdita's adventure, we encounter wild beasts, a magic statue, a sheep shearing party and an unexpected family reunion. For ages 6+ 25 July-7 Sept THE SOUND OF MUSIC The classic musical in the open air theatre.

9 Aug-8 Sept DINOSAUR ZOO Discover all about dinosaurs in this imaginative live show – plus get up close and personal with them on the picnic lawn before you go. For ages 3+

RICHMOND THEATRE TW9 1QJ www.atgtickets.com/Richmond 3-7 July THE GRUFFALO’S CHILD The Gruffalo said that no Gruffalo should ever set foot in the deep dark wood. One wild and windy night the Gruffalo’s child ignores her father’s warning and tiptoes out into the snow. An award-winning musical adaptation of the sequel to The Gruffalo for ages 3+ 6 July Gruffalo Adventure Workshop from 12 – 1pm for ages 3 – 5.

An adventure to find the Big Bad Mouse.

SOUTHBANK CENTRE SE1 8PX www.southbankcentre.co.uk 6 and 7 July ROBIN HOOD AND HIS VERY MERRY MEN Features live music, and puppetry.

With Little John, Friar Tuck and buckets of mud.

For ages 4+ Until 15 Sept MONSKI MOUSE'S BABY DISCO DANCE HALL A high-energy smash-hit parents' and children's dance event for underfives. Monski and her team will have heads and shoulders, knees and toes bopping along to retro dance tracks, pop favourites and funky nursery rhymes.

10-31 July TIMBER Blending circus with the traditional music and folklore of their native Quebec, Cirque Alfonse take the audience on a wild ride of gravity-defying stunts and lumberjack tricks with metal saws, axes and logs from their family farm and epic feats of agility and strength.

1-31 Aug KIDS WEEK The annual London theatre initiative Kids Week returns for a full month. During Kids Week one child aged 16 or under can go free to participating shows when accompanied by an adult paying full price, and up to two extra children can go for half price.

Children can also take part in a fantastic range of free activities and events on stage and backstage at many of the West End’s iconic venues, often with the cast and crew of the resident shows.

Book tickets on www.kidsweek.co.uk or 0844 248 5151 13-14 July THE MAGICAL PLAYROOM Stars the popular CBeebies presenter Cerrie Burnell, in an original story inspired by her own childhood. Libby wants nothing more than to be a famous ballerina. But when she's told to wear a false arm for dancing lessons, she escapes to the magical playroom in search of her dream.

For ages 3-6.

6-20 Aug THE QUEEN’S KNICKERS Dilys, the Queen's maid, is the royal custodian of her Majesty's 'intimate apparel', otherwise known as the Queen's knickers. But one day the knickers go missing, causing a national state of emergency and a diplomatic incident of catastrophic proportions.

22 Aug-1 Sept THE MAN WHO PLANTED TREES A blend of comedy, puppetry and storytelling, this is an imaginative family show about a shepherd who sets out to plant a forest and transform a barren landscape. Multisensory elements allow the audience to hear the wind, feel the rain and smell the lavender. For ages 7+ 28 Aug-8 Sept CAPTAIN FLINN AND THE PIRATE DINOSAURS Join Flinn as he discovers a pirate hiding in a cupboard, hold on tight as the cupboard falls away and tumbles into a real life adventure. For ages 2+

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.

UNICORN THEATRE SE1 2HZ www.unicorntheatre.com 9-21 July MAGICAL MECHANICALS An interactive exhibition of automata. The aim of this witty combination of art and science is to inspire and build understanding of how machines work... the drives, pulleys, ratchets and levers in these machines underpin our lives in so many ways. Open everyday from 10.30am - 5.30pm.

9-21 July LIONBOY From the novels by Zizou Corder.

Charlie Ashanti is eleven years old. He's a perfectly normal boy, except for one thing: he can speak to cats. When Charlie's parents are kidnapped, he sets off on a rescue mission – with a little help from a floating circus and its pride of performing lions. For ages 8+ 30 July-11 Aug WE DANCE, WEE GROOVE A journey around the world in a highly interactive dance experience for children and their adults. Featuring professional performers, music, lighting and projected images, each session invites participation between audience and performers. For children up to 7 years old.

July/August 2013

Classifieds Parties

Tuition

Employment After school club play worker needed – Southall area. NVQ level 2 or above.

Contact: Beverley Matthews 078 6887 5395

Blueberry Playsongs Parties!

Wonderful musical parties for 1-6 year olds.

Contact us on

020 8677 6871

Malcolm the Magician H Children’s Magic H Games H Disco H Competitions H Juggling H Balloon Modelling H Live Rabbit T. 01243 868084 M. 07734 925330 E. malcolmboxall@aol.com www.malcolmthemagician.co.uk

www.familieswest.co.uk

Online Competitions The annual London theatre initiative Kids Week has announced the exciting line-up of 34 London shows offering free tickets and activities for children and families from 1 until 31 August 2013. www.kidsweek.co.uk Win a Family Ticket to Dinosaur Zoo at Regent’s Park Open Air Theatre, which consists of 4 tickets (at least one adult) and excludes the Danger Zone.

Closing date 30th July

Great News! From Peppa Pig to Mike the Knight, Ben & Holly and more, every Wednesday during the Summer Holidays you can meet a different Character at Odds Farm Park+ www.oddsfarm.co.uk Win a Family Ticket for 2 adults and 2 Children.

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Closing date 28th July July/August 2013

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Families West PO Box 32231 London W5 1JR

July/August 2013