Families Upon Thames May-June 2012

Free ®

upon Thames www.familiesuponthames.co.uk

May/June 2012 Issue 82

Parties Special Two incredible opportunities to win a birthday party for your child!

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

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

Clothes from Bow & Tie London

please call Diana Page 01235 533 362

Covering the boroughswww.familiesglasgow.co.uk of Richmond, Kingston, Elmbridge, Hounslow and Spelthorne

Approved football training for kids aged 18 months to 7 years

Kingston 020 8286 6038 Richmond 020 3092 1313 Weybridge 01932 847439 www.littlekickers.co.uk

Where learning’s a ball

340 Little Kickers May11.indd LK Kingston Families Ad.indd 1

23/04/2011 09:40 4/12/09 14:47:05

Music classes for babies and young children! ®

Action songs and rhymes Music and movement Fun with percussion Musical games

Since 1993 thousands of children across the UK have grown up with Monkey Music. Our unique teaching curriculum was written by classically trained musicians, To book your complimentary class, call and introduces music to very young children in a way they Kingston and Surbiton: 0208 224 3971. can easily understand and enjoy.

Banstead and Claygate: 01932 223309.

Rock ‘n’ roll - from 3 months Weybridge, Cobham and Molesey: 0208 Heigh ho – from 12 months 224 0096. Richmond, Twickenham and Jiggety jig – 2 & 3 year olds Teddington: 0208 847 4031 Ding dong – 3 & 4 year olds

time of music Nur turing a life

monkeymusic.com

SPRING SPECTACULAR FANTASTIC FAMILY FUN THIS SPRING! › Meet the Tractor › Pony Parlour › Gold Panning › Birds of Prey

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CELEB RATE

YEARS

BOCKE OF T FARM TS

Join our Birthday weekend 19th & 20th May. Receive a free party bag and balloon for each child!

See website for details

www.bockettsfarm.co.uk

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SPECIAL

OFFER

£1 off full price farm entry per person

(max 5 people) valid any day in May 2012 excluding May 7th. Only with this voucher.

The Tiger Who Came to Tea a musical play by DAVID WOOD based on the book by JUDITH KERR

LYRIC

THEATRE SHAFTESBURY AVENUE PICCADILLY CIRCUS

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www.familiesuponthames.co.uk

!

VE GE LISTA ON

Bocketts Farm Park 2nd -10th June

Winner of the Best National Pre School Activity Award.

WED 4 JULY - SUN 2 SEPT

Box Office: 0844 412 4661 www.thetigerwhocametotealive.com

May-June 2012

A big hello....

ABOUT OUR FRONT COVER We decided to feature our daughter, Rosie, in Jubilee colours on our first front cover.

...from the new Editor of Families Upon Thames!

My name is Linda Stone and before I became the Editor, I was a Families reader too. It’s great to now be in a position to offer readers the things I most value about the magazine, as well as incorporate others that I think will make it even better. My husband, Andrew, and I have a 3 year old daughter, Rosie, who is featured on the front cover. Our hope is that Families Upon Thames will grow alongside us and us alongside it. This should put us in the perfect position to develop and adapt with our readers, to empathise with their struggles and joys, and to enjoy the fun of being a parent, as we also strive to live, love and be the best parents we possibly can.

In this issue, you’ll find information on the newest, most exciting kids party ideas, a party directory full of details about local party providers and handy party tips from our mum blogger Laura Welsh. Read on for details of a fabulous competition and some great special offers exclusively for Families Upon Thames readers! Turn to page 9 to book a Mother Nature Science Summer Camp and WIN a science-themed birthday party and flip to page 17 to enter our Cat’s Grin Theatre Competition and WIN a home theatre birthday party for your child!.

Details of all our other special offers are listed at the bottom of this page.

We’re also featuring a comprehensive guide to What’s On over the May Day Long Weekend, Diamond Jubilee Long Weekend, and the Spring Half Term school holidays. New to this issue, The Drop In Zone provides a guide to soft play facilities in the area. We also have ideas for Father’s Day, and features that offer useful tips on how to better organise your home space, work space and your finances.

It’s a busy couple of months, so enjoy May/June along with Families Upon Thames!

Linda Stone Editor

Jess was very playful with Rosie and this truly helped our daughter to relax, so that her personality could really shine forth! Jess specialises in contemporary and natural photography of babies, young children or the whole family. For more information visit: www.jessmorganphotography.co.uk

News and Views

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News and Views: Diamond Jubilee, Diary Dates

6

Father’s Day: Ideas

7

The Drawer of Shame: declutter your life!

8

Swimming: why should you book your child lessons?

16 Party Directory: find contact

9

Swimming: how Karen Duane learned to swim

19 The Drop In Zone –

establishing & maintaining your milk supply

12 Parties: All Shapes and Sizes!

13 Parties: Extraordinary Ideas 14 Parties: The A-Z details of local party providers here!

Soft Play

10 Setting Up and Managing a

★ SPECIAL OFFERS AND DISCOUNTS ★ ★ BPA-FREE stainless steel drink bottles

20 What’s On

Family Budget

by A Fine Choice 10% off! Page 3

22 Classifieds

Tuition & Summer Holiday Schools

★ Qualifed Homeopath – £10 discount!

Page 3

★ Summer Camps with Mother Nature Science Early Bird Booking Price until 31st May! Page 9

★ Summer Film Making Courses for Kids by Young Film Academy 5% off! Page 3

★ Vista Study Centre Free Trial Class!

11 Breastfeeding:

Page 3

LINDA STONE, editor t: 07530 283330 020 8241 0423 e: editor@familiesuponthames.co.uk www.familiesuponthames.co.uk Follow us on Twitter now

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Family Photo: “Jess Morgan Photography”

I’d like to thank Jess Morgan (pictured above with her daughter, Molly), local mum and photographer for the wonderful shots she took.

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news&views Ant & Dec support Colts & Fillies Club

Ant and Dec, presenters of the hit television shows “I’m a Celebrity...

Get Me Out of Here!” and “Britain’s Got Talent”, have become the first patrons of the Colts & Fillies Club at Ascot Racecourse.

The Colts & Fillies Club, for children under 16, aims to make the sport more accessible, educational and fun. Celebrating its 10th anniversary this year, the club has over 14,000 members and is free for all under 16’s to join. There are activities for Colts and Fillies Club members at each of the five annual family days, including organised stable trips, competitions and race day initiatives.

Scrapstores –support creative re-use

Do you know there is a place just down the road where your family, playgroup, community group or school can find suitable materials for children to use in art and craft activities? It’s called Scrapstore.

Scrapstore offers a range of materials which changes from day to day and can include card, paper, textiles, paint, corks, wool, cardboard tubes, netting, gauze and numerous other things. Materials are donated and strict guidelines ensure that only safe and suitable materials are made available.

Scrapstore, Richmond operates at Central Depot, Langhorn Drive, Twickenham TW2 7SG. It can be used by anybody living or working in the borough of Richmond at the cost of only £10 per year for individuals, £15 per year for playgroups and £5 per year for students. To confirm opening times or to make a donation, call 08456 122 660 or email scrapstore@ richmond.gov.uk. Similarly, the Spelthorne Resource Centre is located at Staines Park, Commercial Road, Staines TW18 2QJ and is available to everyone, regardless of where they live. Annual membership fees are £10 for individuals and £21 for unfunded or charitable groups. To confirm opening times or to make a donation, call 01784 461769 or email resource.centre@spelthorne.gov.uk.

Teeney Weenies arrives in Teddington!

Teddington now has a play cafe! Teeney Weenies opened on 23 January 2012 and is now “the place” for parents to meet up for coffee or lunch, whilst the kids play in the fun environment of the café.

Teeney Weenies is open Monday and Wednesday mornings from 9.30am to 12.30pm all year round (except Summer and Winter holidays and Public Holidays). Located at the Teddington Baptist Church, Church Road, Teddington, admission is £3.50 for the 1st child and £2.00 for all siblings. The cafe is suitable for under 5’s only.

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For more information, visit the Colts and Fillies section at www.ascot.co.uk, call: 0870 727 1234 or email coltsandfillies@ascot.co.uk.

Tropical Zoo moving

After 21 years at Syon Park, the Tropical Zoo has relocated to a new home at the Hounslow Urban Farm in Feltham. The zoo will be housed in a new £2.5m building in Faggs Road, Feltham, opposite the Urban Farm, and is expected to commence construction soon. Meanwhile, the zoo has taken over management of the farm and is making improvements to this popular attraction, including the introduction of animal handling for visitors.

The Hounslow Urban Farm is one of London’s largest community farms and is currently home to a wide selection of domestic (and some exotic), animals.

Once re-opened, the Tropical Zoo will offer an interactive indoor exhibition of animals from every tropical region on earth, as well as providing a safe haven for animals rescued from the illegal pet trade, private collectors and zoos.

The relocation of the Zoo was required to comply with the development of the 5 star Waldorf Astoria Hotel at Syon Park. In October 2007 another family attraction, the London Butterfly House was demolished to make way for the hotel and relocated to Lincolnshire, ending a 26 year association with Syon Park.

For more information visit www.tropicalzoo.org and www.hounslow.info/parks.

Become a Peer Supporter for Breastfeeding Six Hounslow mothers recently celebrated completing the Breastfeeding Peer Support Training Course, a course commissioned

by Hounslow PCT in conjunction with the NCT. All of the women had breastfed their own babies and will now work alongside Breastfeeding Counsellors to deliver much needed support and information to other breastfeeding mums. NCT offers Breastfeeding Peer Support training and career pathways.

For more information, contact peersupport@nct.org.uk or call Ruth Harrison 0784 636 2129.

Ship Ahoy! Set Sail with Perform

Discover faraway lands, a world of swashbuckling sea adventures, tropical delights and buried treasure in Perform’s exciting new theme, Mermaids and Pirates.

Perform’s teachers bring this story to life with a fun-packed mix of games, exercises, raps and tongue-twisters. Any interested 4-8 year old can attend a Free Trial Session. Classes Mondays in Chiswick, Tuesdays in Esher, Wednesdays in Richmond and Cobham, Thursdays in Kew, Friday in Barnes, Saturdays in Esher and Mortlake and Sundays in Richmond.

For more information or to book your Free Trial Session, please contact Perform on 0845 400 1284 or view videos of the new songs and dances at www.perform.org.uk.

Air and noise pollution increase around Heathrow

The area surrounding Heathrow Airport is the second worst in the capital for poor air quality, according to “Plane Speaking”, a report recently released by the London Assembly’s Environment Committee. Even without a third runway, the number of passengers using Heathrow is predicted to rise by a third to 95 million in the next few years, and people living in these areas, which are heavily affected by emissions from aircraft and road traffic, face increased health risks unless urgent steps are taken. Noise pollution around Heathrow also now affects people living up to 20 miles away.

The report sets out actions the government could take to improve air and noise pollution, such as removing the most polluting aircraft from fleets,

and improving public transport to the airport.

You can read a copy of the report at www.london.gov.uk.

For information about air quality around Heathrow, visit www.heathrowairwatch.org.uk or to check air quality near you, go to www.londonair.org.uk.

www.familiesuponthames.co.uk

May-June 2012

Heathrow Airplane Photo: “Photograph by Derek Freeman”

Richmond Scrapstore

news&views Diamond Jubilee Weekend 2nd to 5th June 2012

Epsom Derby The Queen visits Surrey and the Epsom Derby.

More details www.epsomdowns.co.uk

Monday 4th June Diamond Jubilee Beacons Over 3000 beacons will be lit by communities and individuals throughout the United Kingdom, as well as the Channel Islands, the Isle of Man and the Commonwealth. As at her Golden Jubilee, The Queen will light the National Beacon. Beacon lighting times will be between 10:00pm and 10.30pm. Check to see where your local beacon will be.

More details: 077 3726 2913 www.diamondjubileebeacons.co.uk BBC Concert at Buckingham Palace Join the fun at the Diamond Jubilee Concert with artists including Elton John, Paul McCartney, Cliff Richard, Tom Jones, Shirley Bassey and Annie Lennox. If you didn’t get a ticket, don’t worry, 500,000 people can watch the giant screens in the Mall and in St James’s and Green Parks.

More details: www.bbc.co.uk/diamondjubilee May-June 2012

★ Big Jubilee Lunch Have a Big Lunch with with neighbours and friends, organise your own street party or share a picnic. It’s all about the community coming together for food, music and good old-fashioned fun. Local councils are encouraging residents to hold street parties or picnics in local parks to mark the Diamond Jubilee. Request your free pack to get you started.

More details: 084 5850 8181 www.thebiglunch.com or www.streetparty.org.uk or contact your local council. ★ Thames River Pageant

The Queen leads a flotilla of 1000 boats from the UK, Commonwealth and the rest of the world. Steam boats, tall ships, cruisers, kayaks, Dunkirk little ships and Dragon boats, the flotilla will be the largest fleet of ships to assemble on the Thames in 350 years. You’ll be able to see the Pageant on the riverside from Putney to Tower Bridge, and there will be up to fifty big screens distributed along the route. Nearer to home, you will also be able to see the flotilla mustering at Hammersmith.

More details: 020 7592 0894 www.thamesdiamondjubileepageant.org

The Diamond Jubilee marks 60 years of the Queen’s reign. The Queen is the only British Monarch to celebrate a Diamond Jubilee, other than Queen Victoria in 1897. Don’t miss out on the once in a lifetime opportunity for your family to join in these historic celebrations.

Saturday 2nd June

Sunday 3rd June

Diamond Jubilee Street Party at Cambridge Gardens, East Twickenham TW1 2TA. 12.00 to 3.00pm Get together for an old-fashioned party at this riverside park. Bring your own food and drink, a picnic blanket or some folding chairs. The cafe will also be open for drinks, ices and snacks.

More details: 020 8892 5077 www.easttwickenham.org

Tuesday 5th June Diamond Jubilee Celebrations at Kingston Town Centre Kingston will be awash with activities and entertainment to celebrate the diamond jubilee.

More details: www.kingstonfirst.co.uk Service of Thanksgiving and Carriage Procession at St Paul’s Cathedral The final day of official celebrations includes a Service of Thanksgiving at St Paul’s Cathedral, before the Queen travels in a procession through the streets of London. Watch live on BBC Television or join your local church for community celebrations to coincide with the service.

★ Jubilee Tea Party at Boston Manor House Boston Manor Road, Brentford TW8 9JX. Join the Madhatter for tea at this fantastic Alice in Wonderland theme party. There will be a small charge for the tea and cakes. The tea will be followed by a screening of Alice in Wonderland at 9.00pm.

1.00 to 4.00pm.

More details: 084 5456 2800 www.hounslow.info ★ St Margaret’s Jubilee Fair Crown Road, St Margarets TW1 3EE. The family fun and games at St Margaret’s Annual Summer Fair will this year include a traditional street party to celebrate the Jubilee.

There will be a Jubilee Tea Party for children with entertainment including a magician, Punch and Judy and some surprise guests.

Children will also receive a special Jubilee gift. 11.00am to 4.00pm.

More details: 020 8891 3944 www.mystmargarets.com

www.familiesuponthames.co.uk

5

Just for you Dad!

Hand made, laid back or supercharged...

HAND MADE…

Father’s Day offerings to suit every taste.

Make a CaKE: There’s nothing like a

home baked cake or cupcakes to tantalise dad’s taste buds! Kids will love creating something, especially if they can play about with icing, and lick out the bowl too! If you can’t face the mess, then you can buy cakes instead. Try delicious hand made cupcakes from For Goodness Cake (www.forgoodnesscake.co.uk) which come presented in boxes with assorted flavoured icing and can even be personalised with a special message for dad!

Decorate some Pottery: Kids who like crafts can have fun making a gift for dad at a ceramics cafe. At most cafes, children paint and glaze their gifts, leave

LAID BACK…

Give dad the day off: What chores

does dad do on a Sunday? Whatever they are, he will appreciate a day off. So walk the dog, do the dishes, clean the car, mow the lawn and take out the rubbish on Father’s Day….and offer to do anything else he really doesn’t like doing.

Plan a Dad’s Night Out: Dads

can get slack when it comes to organizing time out with their male friends. Take the initiative and set something up for Father’s Day. Make the venue low key and casual.

He may not want to have to get dressed up.

SUPERCHARGED…

Book a speed boat ride: Arrange dad the sightseeing tour of his life on the fastest and newest speed boat on the Thames! The tour offers close ups of Parliament, Docklands and the O2. Then it’s

HAM

YOUTH CENT

RE

Ham Youth Centre, Ham Close, TW10 7PL Free activities for 11 to 19 year olds Including tuition in rock instruments, dee jaying, parkour, skate boarding and loads more.

Contact Ben Skelton on 020 8288 0916 ben.skelton@richmond.gov.uk for more info.

Schedule a session of watersports: Would dad like to

water ski? Nowadays, you can waterski on a cable, as well as behind a boat. A cable is similar to a horizontal ski lift and runs around the perimeter of a waterway with carriers and hooks to attach to when someone hits the circuit. Alternatively, dad could try wakeboarding, the fastest growing watersport in the world, and not dissimilar to snowboarding on water! All these sports are available to non-members at Europe’s largest water sports facility, The Princes Club in Hounslow (www.princesclub.com)

For For more information, more information call: call:

For more information, call:

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impression of your baby or toddler’s hands or feet, and create a beautiful keepsake.

Imprints of your child’s hands and feet on a plate or wall plaque are priceless, and a wonderful way for dad to cherish his memories of your child at this young age.

You can make prints at many craft cafes including Ceramics Café in Kew (www.ceramicscafe.com)

Organise a Guided Fishing Trip: Fishing is reported to be an ideal

form of relaxation. If you think dad would enjoy a day’s fishing, but would benefit from the knowledge of an experienced fisherman, why not hire him a guide? Guides such as experienced Thames fisherman and River Warden, Roger Wyndham Barnes will help him to fish waters not available to bank fisherman, as well as providing tackle, bait, tuition – and lunch, if required! For more details, visit www.thethamesexperience.co.uk

Virtual Aviation Charter a flight in a helicopter: A ride in a helicopter rates pretty high on most people’s list of unforgettable experiences. Flying from an operating base at Red Hill, Surrey, helicopters fly along the Thames at a height of 1500m offering a unique aerial perspective of London. For further details, contact Atlas Helicopters (www.helicopterdays.co.uk)

Give Dad the chance to land a jumbo jet: Inside the Airline Training

Centre at Heathrow, £10 million Boeing or Airbus flight simulators are used to train commercial airline pilots from all over the world. The simulators provide “full motion” and are as close to the experience of flying a real plane as you can possibly get. With a “Be an Airline Pilot for the Day” package, dad will be granted privileged access to the exhilarating world of commercial flight.

Visit www.virtualaviation.co.uk for more information.

In Central CentralRichmond Richmond In Music Classes for for Music Classes Music Classes for 1-5 Year Olds 1-5 Year Year Olds 1-5 Olds

020-8332-2275 www.christinasfunwithmusic.co.uk

Give Dad some Prints: Make an

on to Greenwich, and through the Thames Barrier to the Olympic Games site, and beyond. Prepare dad to be stunned by some high speed manoeuvres in this adrenalinfilled ride! To find out more, visit (www. thamesribexperience.com).

Fun WithMusic!

Music!

Fun With

020-8332-2275 020-8332-2275

them to be fired, and pick them up a few days later. The Happy Potter in Teddington (www.happypotterceramics.co.uk) also sells Pottery-to-Go Kits for those that want to be creative in their own homes and bring their creations back to the shop for firing.

Princes Club

................................................................For other Father’s Day Ideas see What’s On pages 20-23

www.familiesuponthames.co.uk

May-June 2012

The drawer of

shame

Has your space been taken over by clutter?

If so, HELEN WATSON offers practical advice on how to reclaim it.

“It’s the drawer that’s so full, you can’t open it. The cupboard into which you shove anything and everything.

The desk you never tidy.” Helen Watson, professional declutterer, refers to it as The Drawer of Shame. “One or two of these (drawers) per household or office is fine” says Helen “But when they start to multiple and migrate to other places, there is definitely a clutter problem.”

At home, clutter makes life stressful and uncomfortable. At work, clutter results in loss of productivity. A recent survey of office workers found that people spend between 15–45 minutes a day looking for lost documents.

If this applies to you and you can’t see your desk for paper, you are costing your business money.

✿ Helen identifies a number of common “clutter” problems and practical solutions.

Problem: You have stuff everywhere and can never find what you need.

Helen’s Solution: Set aside small amounts of time and empty messy drawers, cupboards, shelves, one by one. Don’t attempt to tackle everything in one go. Go through the items you have taken out. Find a more appropriate home for those items for which there is a clear use and throw away everything else. Remember to store things closer to where you use them.

Problem: You don’t have enough storage.

Helen’s Solution: Are you storing things

you don’t need? Clear out your existing storage systems, one by one. If you still don’t have enough storage, invest in more, but not before you know exactly what you need.

Problem: You have “action piles” all over the house or office. The piles build and build until you start a further pile and so on.

Helen’s Solution: Label three files as follows: Immediate Action, To File, To Read. Most things can go into one of those files in the short term. Set up a home/business organisation file. ✿ Helen has also identified some psychological factors that contribute to disorganisation. If you answer “yes” to any of the following questions, then you may require further assistance to help you “declutter.”

Does having lots of stuff around make you feel safe?

Helen’s Explanation: You may associate

clutter with comfort and security. This may May-June 2012

be due to lack of food, clothing, toys, or even love, as a child. Don’t put pressure on yourself to throw things away. Organise things slowly.

Once you see how much you have, it becomes easier to let things go.

Do you worry that if you are organised, you will be less creative?

Helen’s Explanation: Creative people

sometimes feel restrained by structure.

Remember you can set up an organisation system that reflects and encourages creativity.

Whether this is a colour-coded filing system or open baskets full of inspirational beads, you can be organised in a way that suits you.

Do you have trouble throwing things away because they remind you of special events/people?

Helen’s Explanation: Sentimental

attachment is a common psychological cause of clutter. We fear that by getting rid of something, we will lose the memory it triggers.

It’s important to remember that you can retain special memories without physical reminders.

Compromise can be useful here. Keep a cutting from your daughter’s special dress or put together a clip frame with mementos of your child’s life.

If you feel you need support to declutter, then consider hiring a professional declutterer. A declutterer can: ✿ help you sort through baby and children’s clothing and toys; ✿ organise a house or office move; ✿ organise you for the arrival of your baby; ✿ advise on storage options; ✿ set up a comprehensive home/business filing system; ✿ organise or deal with your home/business administration or ✿ simply help you declutter your Drawers of Shame!

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Helen is a professional declutterer and director of Teddington based company, Space 2Think Solutions. For more information, contact Helen on 07967 830608 or visit her website at www.space2thinksolutions.co.uk

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7

spectacular summer swimming

Why should your child Karen Duane tells us.

Swimming is the only sport that could save your child’s life. According to the Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents more than 400 children in the UK died as a result of drowning in 2009.

The bottom line is: it makes sense to seriously consider how and when your child is going to learn to swim.

Ask to observe some lessons: if you aren’t permitted to observe lessons, proceed with caution!

At a lesson, watch out for: ✿ interaction between the instructors and the children – are the instructors teaching the children or just watching them swim up and down? The instructors will probably have to raise their voices to be heard, but are they giving the children lots of praise and encouragement along with corrections? Do they treat the children like individuals, giving pointers to each child, or as one large group? ✿ the children – are they enjoying themselves? Is there good discipline in the groups?

This is essential when you are leaving your child in a dangerous environment. Watch the children in the higher ability groups – are they swimming well and with seemingly effortless grace? If you are paying good money for lessons, you need to be sure that the end product is good! ✿ The instructors – are they fully engaged with the children? Do they include all the children in the group? Would you like to be taught by them? If not, don’t inflict them upon your children!

Consider group size: the smaller the group, the more individual attention your child will get. Of course, the smaller the group, the more expensive the lessons as well, so consider your budget. There are advantages and disadvantages with every group size: ✿ One to One lessons with a good instructor can be great, but your child will miss out on the fun of learning with other children; ✿ If you’d like your child to have lots of individual attention, but also want them to have fun with other children, small groups of

Baby under water www.londonbabyswim.co.uk Image: Phil Shaw

One option is teaching your child yourself. Most children love going to the pool and with your persistence and their willingness to practice, should learn to float and swim doggy paddle well enough to get out of trouble if they fall into the water. However, if you don’t have the time or confidence to do this, or if you would like your child to be able to dive and swim with an ease that enables them to keep swimming length after length, you will need to consider booking some lessons.

What is available?

We are very fortunate to have plenty of choice in this area from: ✿ Local Authority Swimming Pools ✿ Private Health Clubs ✿ Private Swim Schools ✿ One to One tuition How to Choose?

How do you know which approach is best for your child?

Ask around: get recommendations from friends and family and ask about their experiences. If possible, ask the children for their feedback too.

Talk to the swimming provider you are considering: tell them about your child, what you are looking for and ask what suitable lessons they have. Pose as many questions as you want and don’t be hurried into accepting unsatisfactory answers. Ask them to send all the information they have for you to consider. If they don’t take an interest in you, cross them off your list!

learn to swim?

three are ideal; ✿ Larger groups of four or more are handy if you are on a budget and your child is confident, but not so good if your child is shy or nervous and needing a bit more support.

Remember that if your child

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does not seem happy attending the lessons or does not seem to be progressing, it’s time to consider another option.

However, don’t give up on the idea of your child learning to swim. Learning to swim is like riding a bike. It’s a skill that, fortunately, once learned, will never be forgotten.

Karen Duane and her husband Brian, manage Springboard Swimmers swimming school in Twickenham as a not-for-profit organisation.

For more information visit www.springboardswimmers.com 020 8255 7455

Swim, baby, swim!

In the first few years of a baby’s life, they experience a huge development as their brain grows much faster than in later years.

Introducing babies to swimming isn’t just to teach them how to swim, it aids their development physically and emotionally.

Swimming builds babies muscle development which can aid early walking. It also improves the cardio-vascular system, and improves

8

www.familiesuponthames.co.uk

co-ordination and motor skills.

Water is a natural environment for a baby and so they feel safe and secure within this environment.

Starting to swim early can avoid traumatic experiences that some children go through when learning to swim, and also familiarises children with deep water, giving them the confidence to swim below the water level.

May-June 2012

How Karen Springboard Swimmers Duane learned Lessons for babies, children, teens & adults in Twickenham, Teddington to swim…

and Hampton.

Karen Duane used to Summer holiday courses be a non-swimmer who was terrified of water.

No more than 3 Naturally, she wanted her daughters to learn children per group to swim for their own 020 8255 7455 safety. Unhappy with the instruction her girls www.springboardswimmers.com were receiving, Karen questioned what the instructors were trying to achieve and, a teacher herself, concluded they didn’t understand the scheme they were attempting to teach. She felt there had to be a different way to learn.

So in 2003, she and her husband bought a very small swimming school! They researched programmes from around the world and worked with an international swim coach to find a new way of teaching children to swim.

They located swimming instructors that loved swimming and enjoyed teaching children. They taught the instructors how to teach, whilst the instructors taught them about swimming! They experimented with combinations of group size, teaching methods, lesson plans and objectives for each ability group.

Karen’s company now teaches over 1,000 children each week, 99% from personal recommendations. Karen’s proudest achievement is the number of pupils who have overcome phobias of the water to become good swimmers. This includes her eldest daughter, who became a swimming instructor herself, and latterly, Karen herself, who started adult lessons three terms ago and is now swimming lengths of the pool!

Kumon’s maths and English study programmes work to build your child’s confidence and inspire a passion for learning.

MOTHER NATURE SCIENCE

To unlock your child’s potential, contact your local Instructor for a Free Assessment: Cobham & Esher Hufrez Bharucha 01737 359812

Twickenham Tulika Jhingran 0560 330 9814

St Margarets Manjusha Malhotra 020 8737 3527

Weybridge Karen Asamoah 01932 423 144

Boost your child’s confidence

kumon.co.uk

Look out for our July/August Summer Activities issue, due out 1st July!

Call Linda on 07530 283330 about advertising and listings!

May- June 2012

SUMMER CAMPS 2012!

SCIENCE OLYMPICS and SCIENCE EXPLORER Camp weeks

Chiswick, Epsom, begin: Esher, Kingston, New w/c 23/7/12, Malden, Richmond, w/c 30/7/12, Teddington, Wandsworth, w/c 6/8/12 w/c 13/8/12, Weybridge,Wimbledon w/c 20/8/12 Ages 5-12

BOOK A SUMMER CAMP BEFORE 6TH JULY 2012 FOR A CHANCE TO WIN A FREE MOTHER NATURE SCIENCE BIRTHDAY PARTY WORTH £300!

(Party can be booked any time in the next EARLY 12 months)

An action packed week of science.

Science experiments to perform and take home every day!

BIRD DISCOUNTS - UNTIL 31st May 2012!

MULTI-BOOKING DISCOUNT -BOOK WITH FRIENDS AND SAVE £££!

HURRY, PLACES ARE LIMITED!

For further information and bookings, visit www.mnature.co.uk, call 0845 834 0986 or email richmond@mnature.co.uk.

Quote code FUT12 for your chance to win a Mother Nature Science Birthday Party worth £300!

www.familiesuponthames.co.uk

9

spectacular summer FIRST CLASS

FREE

PETITES POINTES

A captivating introduction to ballet through storytelling for children aged 2.5 - 4 years when: Saturday am, Innerspace studio, Kingston www.brooksdanceacademy.co.uk

810 Brooks Dance A Jan12.indd 1

Tel: 07958 530962

05/12/2011

Are you a Journalism Graduate or similar professional?

Do you have an eye for detail and an interest in research?

Do you know your way around a website?

If so, contact us about work experience with Families Upon Thames Email: editor@familiesuponthames.co.uk or phone 07530 283330/020 8241 0423

How to Set Up and Manage a Family Budget Thinking of planning an expensive family holiday or a home renovation?

Concerned about whether you can afford it? CLAIRE GEORGHIADES suggests it may be time to create a family budget.”

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f, to you, the word “budgeting” simply means giving things up, then you may need to change your thinking. Setting 20:17 up a budget can be about creating savings, changing spending habits or making what you earn go further. By simply tracking your income and expenses, you gain a greater insight into, and control over, your finances, which allows you to make better decisions about spending in the future.

So why don’t more of us budget? Perhaps we believe we don’t have the skills. If you are a mum and you pay for unplanned things like plumbers and lost sports kits, then you may believe you couldn’t stick to a budget. Think again. According to a Halifax Savings Report in December 2011, women are actually better at saving than men, despite earning less. Perhaps the problem is lack of time. By following the steps below, you will be surprised at how little time budgeting takes. In fact, you will spend less time dealing with your finances once you have a budget, and you will enjoy greater peace of mind.

And if you’re not sure how to set up and manage a budget?

Just follow these steps:

1. Find a budget template that suits you.

01932 565623

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TOP TIP: The Money Advice Service www.moneyadviceservice.co.uk is a free service provided by the Government, and it has a tool which allows you to quickly create a budget template. Alternatively, for a 30 day free trial of budgeting software, try https://www. xero.com/personal xero is an easy way to track your spending and savings goals, and at £24 per year is very reasonably priced.

2. Find bank statements for the last three months, and calculate your average monthly income.

3. Do the same for expenses. Gather three months of bills, add them up, and divide by three to calculate your monthly fixed expenses, such as rent/ mortgage, utilities and phone, car, and insurance. Add together three months of other monthly expenses, including groceries, clothing, credit card expenses and cash outlays.

Divide by three and add the result to your monthly expense total.

TOP TIP: Don’t exclude expenses you consider were “one offs.” Even if they were, others will definitely arise and if you haven’t planned for them, they will blow out your budget!

4. Work out the difference between your income and your spending. If they are email info@nutkinnannies.co.uk the same, congratulations! Now you can use your budget for saving money. Examine each

www.familiesuponthames.co.uk

individual spending line and work out where you are happy to cut back and by how much. For instance, can you find a cheaper mobile phone plan? Eat out less? Keep that holiday or home renovation in mind!

TOP TIP: If you want to save money, set a savings target. It should be specific and have a timescale. How much do you need to put aside each month to achieve your target? If your spending exceeds your budget, then how much do you need to economise? Again, set a target.

Then actively research cheaper options for your purchases and activities, and look out for sales, special offers and secondhand goods.

TOP TIP: Planning is key. If you always buy a coffee on the way to work, buy a coffee flask mug and make coffee at home. If there is a novel that you want to read, reserve it online at your library. Make a shopping list for groceries, and stick to it!

5. Track your income and expenses monthly to evaluate how your plan is working, then fine-tune to produce the desired results. This involves keeping a record of what you spend, so log cash expenditure in a notebook and hang on to your credit card receipts. Then enter the details into your budget. This should take you no more than 30 minute, and might even give you a pleasant sense of satisfaction when completed!

TOP TIP: Set a time aside for entering information into your budget. For budgeting to work, it needs to become part of your routine. If you find yourself filing your receipts and writing down your expenditure immediately you get home, even before taking off your coat, then go with it. This obviously feels comfortable for you.

For more advice, tips and tools try www.savvywoman.co.uk

Remember the key to successful budgeting is simply implementation!

Use your plan and stick to it.

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Claire Georghiades is the director of Teddington based company Accounts Resource. For more information on budgeting and other accounting issues, visit www.accountsresource.co.uk May-June 2012

Focus on

breastfeeding HAZEL MEYER offers advice on establishing and maintaining your milk supply Last year the NHS revealed that, although 80% of newborns in the UK are breastfed at least once after birth, about half of new mums have stopped breastfeeding by the time their babies are six to eight weeks old.

Many factors can undermine a mother’s resolve to continue breastfeeding. One of the major culprits is anxiety about producing enough milk. This anxiety may be prevalent because many of us do not have the support of other experienced breastfeeding mums around us, or because we expect breastfeeding to be measurable and controllable like many other things in our lives today. Perhaps if new mothers understood the process of breastfeeding better, and received the right advice and support, more would discover its beauty and breastfeed for longer.

After all, breastfeeding is about a relationship, not just a fluid; a way of building trust, understanding and closeness with your baby.

How does it all work?

During pregnancy and the first few days after baby is born, milk production is hormonally driven and, as long as the right hormones are in place, mum will start to make colostrum regardless of whether or not the baby is breastfed.

After this there is a switch to the autocrine (or local) control system,

where milk production is controlled by the amount of milk that the baby removes from the breast.

When the breast is full, a small whey protein in the milk slows down milk production, and there are fewer receptor sites for the hormone prolactin that is needed for milk synthesis.

A FULL breast = SLOWER milk production.

Once the baby has fed and the breast is emptier, milk production speeds up again in preparation for the next feed.

An EMPTY breast = FASTER milk production How can this information help you?

In the early days of your baby’s life, it is important to feed frequently.

It may feel like that is all you are doing, but remember you can’t feed too often, but you can feed too little. Research has shown that frequent feeding during the first 3 months enables the breasts to produce adequate milk until weaning. The other bonus is that the more frequently and effectively your breasts are drained, the higher the fat content of your milk and the better for the baby.

TOP TIP: ignore the clock and learn to respond to your baby’s feeding cues to ensure you establish your milk supply from the beginning.

If your baby struggles to latch on and is not feeding effectively, you can express your milk in order to establish and maintain your supply, whilst you address the problem.

Don’t give up and do get help, because babies have been known to take the breast after a break of many weeks.

More confidence builders Even with scientific facts at your fingertips, you may still be worried that your baby is not getting enough milk. Make sure that you understand what constitutes normal behaviour for a baby. Young babies do feed frequently, are fussy at times, and occasionally cluster feed (spending hours at a time mainly on the breast). None of these behaviours indicates that they are not receiving enough milk. If your baby is producing enough wet nappies and appropriate bowel movements for her age, and is gaining weight, she is getting enough.

Behaviours that can Decrease milk supply: 3 Supplementing with formula 3 Offering a bottle 3 Using a dummy 3 Using nipple shields 3 Sticking to a strict schedule 3 Not waking up a sleepy baby to feed in the first few weeks 3 Cutting short the length of feed 3 Offering only one breast per feed 3 Poor latching techniques Some ways to Increase milk supply 3 Eliminate any feeding problems (eg latching on) to make sure baby is feeding efficiently 3 Feed frequently 3 Enjoy a feeding vacation – go to bed with your baby, rest and feed!

3 Enjoy lots of skin to skin contact 3 Offer both sides at each feed 3 Avoid dummies and bottles 3 Take care of yourself – eat and

rest well and avoid stress

3 Express milk on top of feeds

The most important thing is not to worry! Breastfeeding is largely a confidence game and the majority of women produce enough milk to sustain their babies. Make sure that you have a good support network around you that will give you positive and accurate advice, and enjoy this precious time with your baby, knowing that you are giving them the best possible start to life!

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Hazel Meyer is a certified breastfeeding counsellor, based in Twickenham, who offers support and evidence based advice for breastfeeding mothers in the comfort of their own home. She offers antenatal breastfeeding classes and support for new parents. For more information visit Chubby Babies www.chubbybabies.co.uk OTHER RESOURCES National Childbirth Trust www.nct.org.uk National Childbirth Trust Breastfeeding Helpline 0300 330 0771 Let’s Breastfeed www.letsbreastfeed.com

Working together to make the best choice for you and your family.

Parental Choice is the essential “one-stop shop” for your childcare needs and advice on your legal rights before, during and after pregnancy.

4 Childcare options and the costs clearly presented 4 Advice on maternity and paternity employment rights 4 Advice on employing nannies

4 Bespoke nanny employment contracts and payroll services 4 Drafting flexible working proposals and guidance on flexible working

Take a look at our Nursery Search on our website to find the best nursery closest to you.

www.parentalchoice.co.uk TeddingtonMidwives like our page & get 25% off

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May-June 2012 812 Teddington Midwives B Jan11.indd 1

Parental Choice: dedicated to helping you make the right choices for you and your family.

08/12/2011 07:25

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P A R T

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All shapes and sizes Laura Welsh shares her experiences and tips.

A children’s birthday party is one of the inevitable things about a parent’s life.

It comes to us all eventually and it can bring out the very best or worst in us.

The first thing to realise about parties is that there is no right or wrong. Whilst some parents excel at the ‘traditional’ party with musical chairs and pass the parcel, others are happier with an entertainer, whilst some prefer an ‘outing’ with a few select friends.

A very clever mother I know recently took 15 children to the Saturday morning kids session at the local cinema for £1 each, and then for a pizza afterwards. This was a huge success and very cost effective.

As a mother of 3 children under 7, I have experienced almost all combinations of party possible; from church halls full of rampaging boys playing football, to clowns tipping glitter all over the kitchen floor, to sedate tea parties. Some of my family’s most memorable parties have included a slightly chubby, very camp, Spiderman entertainer who was simply amazing, a party at the riding stables for a group of girls, and a karate party for a 7 year old boy held at the local school.

When planning a party, it is important to think about what your child would like to do, what you think they (and you) can cope with in terms of size and scope, and most importantly, what your budget is.

Over the years I have learned a lot about parties and here are my top tips:

★ Hosting a party away from home means you

can go home to a clean and tidy house when the fun is over. ★ Other than for very young children, the optimum time for a party is late afternoon, incorporating tea, and ideally not more than 90 minutes long. ★ Sticky name labels are invaluable for identifying guests, especially if you have an entertainer or any adult helpers. ★ Children rarely eat anything except cake and ice cream at parties. ★ If you don’t have a table for presents and sticky tape to stick the cards on to the presents they came with, then you will never work out who gave you what afterwards. ★ The best parties are often the cheapest. ★ Say “no” to groups of more than 25 children. ★ Politely suggest that parents ‘drop and go’, so that you can concentrate on the small guests. ★ Enlist the help of older siblings in organising things and handing out prizes. ★ If you can’t bake, buy cake – it’s not worth the stress!

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Laura Welsh lives in Hampton Hill. Read her blog about family life at: http://whattillysaid.wordpress.com

CHARLIE STAR PARTIES CHILDREN’S ENTERTAINER

Ali’s Time 2 Party Children’s Entertainer CRB Checked and Childcare Qualified Contact Alison on 07859 906622 Email: time2party-@hotmail.co.uk

Discounts for groups of fewer than 8

Fun parties & wedding entertainment for under 7’s

Fun-filled parties for 3-8 years.

Music, dance, magic, games and activities tailored to your chosen theme!

Give your child a party they will treasure forever! Facepainting, games, karaoke

Themed Drama Adventures for 3-7 yr info@octopusparties.com / 07807 055858 www.octopusparties.com

07967 685347 charlieingham20@hotmail.com www.charliestarparties.co.uk

You choose the theme, we’ll organise games, parachute, puppets, face painting, karaoke & more!

all musicians and singers are CRB checked.

Contact 0203 002 0254 or 07917 640 827 enquiries@jumpingbeansmusic.com www.jumpingbeansmusic.com

FOOTIE TOTS



    

  Little Rugby 2yrs-5th 87x60

13/10/09

17:55

An introduction to the world of fitness and football for children ages 2 1/2 to 5 years

FOOTIE WIZARDS

For children ages 5 to 8 years ALL CLASSES HELD INDOORS - FOOTBALL PARTIES AVAILABLE Call Andy for info and bookings on

07931 707720

Page 1

andy@footie-tots.co.uk

Following the huge success of the Little Kickers football training programme for kids, here is another great idea we decided to run with. Little Rugby is a fun introduction to the sport and is non-contact, so it’s safe and friendly.

APPROVED RUGBY TRAINING FOR KIDS FROM 2 TO 5TH BIRTHDAY

Call 01932 429602

Dance Parties Zumbatomic and Street Dance ®

Ou r pa rti e s a re run b y q ual i f i e d dan c e te ac h ers w h o c ome to you r ven ue an d p rov i de th e en ter tai n men t f o r yo u r p art y!

ZU MBA TO MI C i s d an c e f i tn ess! Th e c h i l dren roc k o ut w h i l e th ey w or k o ut!

www.littlerugby.co.uk

cchalmers@littlekickers.co.uk

STR EET D A N CE p ar ty can f ol l ow a th em e , cr eati n g ro uti n es t o l ates t m usi c.

To boo k yo ur par ty or for more infor mation , p le ase con ta ct Kate Broug hto n R AD RTS o n 079 576 3946 0 or info@k ate sschoolof da nce. co. uk

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A word on party bags. Do not underestimate their importance. Having said that, they don’t need to be expensive, or full of rubbish.

I’ve seen really great party bags with Barbies wrapped in ribbon (bought in a “buy one get one free” deal from the supermarket), home made biscuits, and magic tricks. It’s not necessary to spend a lot of money on the actual bag either; brown paper bags covered with stickers can be gorgeous, as can clear cellophane bags tied with ribbons.

With regard to the guest list, this can be a bit of a minefield – do you invite the whole school or nursery class, just your child’s special friends or anybody that has invited your child to their party in the past? Set a limit on numbers and choose a mix of special friends along with those you and your child feel ought to be invited.

Remember it’s not about you – the party my children loved the most was with a clown who the parents all thought was hopeless, but the kids were still talking about him a year later.

And lastly, but by no means least, remember your camera and don’t forget to use it!

www.familiesuponthames.co.uk

Sima’s parties are structured energetic fun action-packed & set to music Sima’s Action Kids parties for under 6’s Sima’s Dance parties for under 11’s Sima’s Disco-bop & karaoke parties for under 11’s contact Sima on 07956993439 or visit

www.simasactionkids.com

May-June 2012

P A R T Cat’s Grin Theatre Company

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Linda Stone

of the day” trophy! Parties generally last 60 to 90 minutes and some are suitable for children as young as 3. Check out Footie Tots/Footie Wizards, (www.footie-tots.co.uk) and Little Kickers (www.littlekickers.co.uk) for more information.

GO WILD IN THE GREAT OUTDOORS!

If your child loves drama, but you don’t want to take a group of children to the theatre, why not invite the theatre to come to you?

With an average size garden, a small marquee, a church hall or even your own living room, you can book an experienced theatre troupe to perform an intimate performance especially for your party goers.

Alternatively, if your child is a keen performer, then he and his friends can put on a show for you, with the help of the professionals.

The Cat’s Grin Theatre Company (www. catsgrin.co.uk) performs its own original adaptations of classic stories such as Alice in Wonderland, and The Wind in the Willows, with audience participation and lots of laughter.

Alternatively, Cat’s Grin will work with the party goers to prepare and put on their own show.

Pre-show party games or a post-show workshop are included with each performance, and highlight the themes explored in the performance. Suitable for children age 4 to 11, performances last 60 to 70 minutes.

Does your child go nuts for a ball?

Do you have an active child who likes nothing better than catching, kicking and throwing a ball?

Some kids are keen to do this almost as soon as they walk and if your toddler or pre-schooler is one of them, there is nothing more perfect than a birthday party themed around this kind of activity.

Catch-a Balls (www.catch-a-balls.co.uk) provides 60 minutes of running, jumping, catching and throwing games, as well as providing all the equipment and a coach, and making sure that everyone is included in the fun.

For those kids who are more specifically interested in football, a football-themed birthday party works well for energetic kids who love kicking a ball about. A football party can be held in a reasonably large garden, local hall, leisure centre, or even, during Summer, at a local park. Footballs and goals are provided and some parties include a special tournament as part of the entertainment. Generally, all participants receive a medal, and may even receive a “player

S

Extraordinary ideas Compiled by Editor,

HOME THEATRE...You’re own show!

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Why not give your child and her friends the opportunity to safely explore the great outdoors?

Painshill Park in Cobham (www.painshill. co.uk) offers stimulating and imaginative 3 hour adventure packages for children from 4 to 12, which include treasure hunts, building dens and camps, and exploring imaginary worlds like Peter Pan’s Neverland. Kids can thoroughly exhaust themselves in the fresh air and make as much noise as they want. Alternatively, let them run around at Bocketts Farm in Leatherhead (www. bockettsfarm.co.uk) and enjoy a party package, inclusive of a day on the farm, a private animal handling session and a catered, self-catered or picnic birthday tea.

WHAT A PERFORMANCE!

(www.theatrebugs.co.uk/parties) and also offers parties for 2 to 3 year olds, whilst Perform Parties (www.perform.org.uk/ parties) offers lively, colourful and high energy drama parties, structured for different age groups, for children between 1 and 12.

STORYTELLING and DRAMA PARTIES

Does your child love books? If so, he will love a storytelling party. Suitable for children age 2 upwards, a storytelling party may be an interactive experience in which a storyteller takes on the roles of the characters in your child’s favourite book, and the children act out scenes. At Bridge Arts and Culture Storytelling parties (www.bridgeac.com/ bridge-parties), children create the atmosphere and locations and sing and dance their way through the story. The birthday child may pretend to be the witch in Room on the Broom, act out the story of the Gruffalo or play the beauty (or the beast) in Beauty and the Beast. Very young children can enjoy such titles as The Wheels on the Bus and The Very Hungry Caterpillar.

So your child is a budding performer? Children are naturals in this area and encouraging their skills helps them become more confident and comfortable in their own skin, as well as ensuring they will have lots of fun. A performance party is definitely the right choice for a child that wants to dance, sing, or act. For an “all-rounder,” opt for a mixture of dance, drama and song at a Stagecoach Themed party for children 4 to 10 years (www.stagecoach.co.uk/parties).

For those that want to get “into character,” Theatrebugs offers 4-8 year olds a party with lots of dressing up and improvisation

Stagecoach Parties

LOLLIPOP CLUB PLAY CENTRE

187 Kew Road, Richmond

Hire the club exclusively or book a table for your party!

All food, drinks, birthday cake and party bags included!

Play equipment suitable for kids age 6 months to 6 years

BOOK YOUR BIRTHDAY PARTY NOW!

Call 020 8332 7436 or email marisouter@hotmail.co.uk www.lollipopclub.co.uk

Little Kickers May-June 2012

www.familiesuponthames.co.uk

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P A R T

The A to Z Compiled by Editor,

Linda Stone

A is for Animals. Most children are intrigued by them and enjoy opportunities to get close. Recommendations: Consider Jungle Fortress, a working animal sanctuary in Hersham Village and a great place for parties. (www.junglefortress.co.uk) B is for Baking. Parties are available for children from age 4 and kids of all ages will enjoy licking out the bowls! Most parties take place in your own home or anywhere with a kitchen, but you don’t have to do the clearing up! Recommendations: For Goodness Cake Cupcake Parties (enquiries@forgoodnesscake. co.uk) C is for Ceramics. An ideal choice for arty children, who can decorate pottery animals, mugs, egg cups and more, and have them fired and glazed on-site. Recommendations: Happy Potter Ceramics, Teddington (www.happypotterceramics.co.uk ), Ceramics Café, Kew (www.ceramicscafe.com) Just provide a hall and hire DJ! Recommendations: Dancemasters UK (www.dancemasters.co.uk). Your kids will dance and...

D…….Dance. Book a dance party!

Choose between ballet, street dance, latin and more, depending on your child’s taste.

Alternatively, opt for a dance-themed party which might include dancing games, action songs, and dance ribbons. Recommendations: Ballet - Twinkle Toes Ballet (info@ twinkletoesballet.com), Dance-Themed -Diddi Dance (www.diddidance.com), Street Dance – Kate’s School of Dance (www.katesschoolofdance.co.uk)

E

I Diddi Dance

E is for Entertainer. Some specialise in magic or dance, others provide all round entertainment tailored to a particular theme, some provide a “special appearance” by a television character and others still focus on party games. Recommendations: Charlie Star Parties (www.charliestarparties.co.uk), Imaginations (www.leavetoyourimagination.co.uk) Tim Barnes Magic Parties (www.timbarnes.biz)

Leave to your imagination

S

F is for Face Painting. A great choice for the younger age group, with truly talented painters and good value for money!

Recommendations: DC Face Painting, Twickenham (contact info@dcfacepainting. co.uk) and Butterflycats (www.butterflycats. com) G is for Golf. Enjoyable and exciting indoor golfing parties include stimulating games that use a range of large, colourful targets, child-friendly equipment and safe foam balls.

Recommendations: Kids Golf Parties (www. kidsgolfparties.co.uk) H is for HAPPY BIRTHDAY! I is for Inflatables. There is nothing that is more guaranteed to get a young child smiling than the sight of a bouncy slide and castle at a birthday party! Find a suitable venue to house these inflatables and hire them in! Recommendations: Party Bounce (www. party-bounce.co.uk) J is for Jeeps. Jeep driving parties are still fairly unique, considering that you can hold them indoors or outdoors, on a tennis court or in a church hall. An inflatable track and jeeps are provided and jeep parties are fantastic entertainment for children aged 4 to 8.

Recommendations: Wacky Wheelers (www.wackywheelers.com) K is for Karts. Go Kart Parties are a whole lot of fun and suit kids from age 4 to 14. They can be held on almost any surface so leisure centres, local halls, sports fields or playgrounds are all feasible. Parties generally build to a big, final race at end the day.

Recommendations: Go Kart Parties (vango@go-kartparty.co.uk) L is for Leisure Centres. Many leisure centres provide great sport, soft play, trampoline or gymnastics parties. Recommendations: Big Day Parties are held in Leisure

Leave to your imagination CLASSES WHY NOT COME FOR PARTIES WE SPECIALISE IN PARTIES FROM 1 TO 5 YRS.

PARTY INVITATIONS & BIRTH ANNOUNCEMENTS e: bridget@bezigncreative.co.uk m: 07758 815 063

A FREE TRIAL TO ONE OF OUR MUSIC CLASSES.

CALL: 0208 979 9139 EMAIL: kingstonandrichmond@caterpillarmusic.com VISIT: WWW.CATERPILLARMUSIC.COM

Horse Riding Parties!

Looking for a party with a difference?

Then look no further.

We will organise the perfect tailor-made party.

Hold the party at the stables or, we can even come to your home!

Prices from just £25 per person Send an enquiry to parklanestables@gmail.com or call 07796 842 328 www.parklanestables.co.uk 14

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May-June 2012

P A R T Centres throughout the borough of Hounslow.

Leisure Centres in the boroughs of Richmond, Elmbridge and Spelthorne also provide parties.

There is also a varied line up of party themes available at Thamesmead Sports Centre Parties in Shepperton www.blueleisure.com M is for Music. Often with similar features to the classes they derive from, music parties are generally suitable for the 0-5 age group who love the mix of music, dance and musical instruments. Recommendations: Monkey Music (www.monkeymusic. co.uk/parties), Caterpillar Music Kingston and Richmond (www.caterpillarmusic.com/ childrens-parties), Hartbeeps Parties London SW & W (www.showreelevents.com) N is for NATURE. For kids who like the great outdoors, head to an outdoor venue.

Many provide engaging games and activities as well as a venue for birthday tea.

Recommendations: London Wetland Centre (www.wwt.org.uk) O is for One Stop Shop. Reduce party stress with a party provider that offers a venue, entertainment and food. Remember to check this out when you are doing your research.

Recommendations: Wonderland Parties (www.wonderland-parties.co.uk), Happy Potter Ceramics (www.happypotterceramics. co.uk)

Park Lane stables

I

2 upwards. Recommendations: Little Rugby (contact: www.littlerugby.co.uk) S is for Soft Play. These venues can be hired inclusive of toys, inflatables and ball pits and are a very popular choice for kids of all ages, as most either cater for under 5’s or have a separate area for young children. Recommendations: The Lollipop Club (www.lollipopclub.co.uk), Teeney Weenies Play Café (www.teeneyweenies. co.uk) T is for Traditional. Remember you can keep it simple. Young children are more than happy with party games, a birthday tea and cake.

If you want, you can hire someone experienced to plan and execute the games!

Recommendations: Parties to Remember (www.partiestoremember.co.uk) T is also for Themed. Many party providers these days will plan your child’s party around a particular theme, either one from a selection they offer, or one chosen by you.

Popular themes include princesses, super heroes, pirates and mermaids, dinosaurs and jungles!

Recommendations: Party Hands and Peppermint Feet (www.partyhands.vpweb.co.uk) offer a great fairy party with a play castle and secret garden where little fairies can practice their flying!

The Little Gym (www.thelittlegym.com) are well-known providers of fun, multi-activity parties kids from 0 to 12, including games and music, whilst, with Gymboree (www.gymboree-uk. com/children-baby-kids-parties), your baby or pre-schooler party might include musical games, art and craft and imaginary stories based around a theme such as Farmyard Fun, Ocean Adventure and Trains and Planes.

U is for Umbrella.

Essential for outdoor parties, even in Summer!

AND

W

P is for Ponies. Many children, girls in particular, love ponies, so imagine how special a party at a riding stables would be! Children can learn to groom the horses, go on a ride in a nearby park and learn some riding techniques.

Recommendations: Park Lane Stables (www. parklanestables.co.uk) Q is for Quality. Remember that the most expensive parties are not necessarily the best quality!

R is for Rugby. These parties often follow a similar format to football parties and include lots of running around, rugby-related activities, and fun for girls and boys from age

is for Weather: Remember not to rely on it!

X is for eXtraordinary!

See more on page 13.

Y is for Yoga. Want your kids to have a zen experience? Yoga parties often provide a combination of yoga and other forms of party entertainment. Recommendations: Try Yoganory for a combination of yoga, storytelling and drama! (www.yoganory.co.uk/parties) Z is for Zumba. You don’t have to be a teenager or an adult to enjoy this latin-influenced dance/exercise sensation.

Try a Zumba children’s party!

Recommendations: Kate’s School of Dance (www.katesschoolofdance.co.uk)

E

S

FREE TASTER SESSION

Ball skill classes for 18 months to 5 years Fun and interactive games 30 and 45 minute classes Balls, scarves, bean bags and balloons All instructors are CRB checked

To book your FREE class call

020 8398 3034 or

www.catch-a-balls.co.uk Classes in: Kingston, Twickenham, Thames Ditton, Teddington, Molesey and Richmond

69 Basingfield Road, Thames Ditton, Surrey, KT7 0PB

Unique home baked cupcake gift boxes, personalised on request. Next day delivery to your door anywhere in the UK! New Babies, Birthdays, Father’s Day.

Bake and decorate cupcakes at our Cupcake parties!

For kids age 7 upwards.

2.5 hour party in your home and tailored to your requirements! £15.00 per child (minimum 6 children) All materials and sugar craft tuition provided! www.forgoodnesscake.co.uk 0845 838 0576 danielle@forgoodnesscake.co.uk

Louise

May-June 2012

www.familiesuponthames.co.uk

15

PARTY DIRECTORY . PARTY DIRECTORY Arts Craft & Cookery

Face Painting & Glamour

Pottery Parties, Ceramics Café Kew call Joanna on 020 8332 6661 www.ceramicscafe.com

Angel Faces call Denise on 01483 851155 www.angelfaces.net

For Goodness Cake Cupcake Parties call Danielle on 084 5838 0576 enquiries@forgoodnesscake.co.uk Arty Parties, Happy Potter Ceramics call Una on 020 8973 1468 www.happypotterceramics.co.uk

Dance & Discos Disco Parties, Dancemasters UK call Mark on 07966 625263 www.dancemasters.co.uk Diddi Dance Parties call Janine or Karl on 07971 278765 www.diddidance.com Kate’s School of Dance PARTIES call Kate on 07957 639460 www.katesschoolofdance.co.uk Twinkle Toes Ballet Parties call Fiona on 07813 741189 info@twinkletoesballet.com

Entertainers Ali’s Time 2 Party call Alison on 07859 906622 time2party-@hotmail.co.uk Charlie Star Parties call Charlie on 07967 685347 www.charliestarparties.co.uk Froggle Parties call Michael on 084 5050 4509 www.froggleparties.com

Butterflycats call David on 07402 263436 www.butterflycats.com DC Face Painting call Dawny on 07957 395251 info@dcfacepainting.co.uk Face Painting by Make Up Art call Debra on 07796 892576 www.make-up-art.co.uk

Music Caterpillar Music PARTIES call Tim on 020 8979 9139 www.caterpillarmusic.com Jumping Beans Music Parties call Stephanie on 020 8287 3402 www.jumpingbeansmusic.com Hartbeeps Parties Surrey call Emma on 07970 898436 www.hartbeeps.com Hartbeeps Parties London SW & W call Tara on 07816 859203 www.showreelevents.com

Kids Party Faces call Sarah on 07849 856634 www.kidspartyfaces.co.uk

Monkey Music Parties Banstead, Claygate and Esher call Dinah on 01932 223309 www.monkeymusic.co.uk

Limelight Facepainting call Michelle on 07716 434170 limelightfacepainting@hotmail.co.uk

Monkey Music Parties Kingston, Surbiton & Thames Ditton call Ursula on 020 8224 3971 www.monkeymusic.co.uk

Mobile Beauty Parties by Sharon call Sharon on 07905 985989 www.mobilebeautybysharon.com

Monkey Music Parties Twickenham, Chiswick, Kew and Richmond call Claire on 020 8847 4031 www.monkeymusic.co.uk

Sarah Sunshine Parties call Sarah on 07812 099085 sarahapplewood@hotmail.com

Monkey Music Parties Weybridge, Cobham and Molesey call Tracey on 020 8224 0096 www.monkeymusic.co.uk

Outdoor Bocketts Farm Park call the Manager on 01372 363764 www.bockettsfarm.co.uk Painshill Park Adventure Parties call Beth on 01932 584284 www.painshill.co.uk Park Lane Stables Pony Parties call Natalie on 07796 842328 www.parklanestables.co.uk

Imaginations call Tara on 07746 293542 www.leavetoyourimagination.co.uk

Shetland Pony Club Parties call Rosemary on 01372 844077 www.shetlandponyclub.co.uk

Jolly Dolly call Alexandra on 07855 768986 www.jolly-dolly.co.uk

Photographers

Parties to Remember call Rowena on 020 7249 3242 www.partiestoremember.co.uk

Carolina Middleton Photography call Carolina on 07799 740919 www.carolinamiddleton.com

Tim Barnes call Tim on 020 8568 5706 www. timbarnes.biz

Jess Morgan Photography call Jess on 07941 967764 www.jessmorganphotography.co.uk

Make your own teddy fun at a teddy party!

For no sew teddy kits, teddy clothes and party ideas visit www.teddystuff.co.uk or call us on 01932 269038.

Tempo Tots Parties call Charlotte on 07956 447118 www.tempo-tots.com

Soft Play & Play Centres Little Fishes SoftPlay PARTIES call Tamara on 07734 462942 tamarajparker@googlemail.com

Lollipop Club PARTIES call Mari on 020 8332 7436 www.lollipopclub.co.uk Piglets Play Centre PARTIES call Tamsin on 01932 241323 www.pigletsplaycentre.co.uk Ragamuffins Play Café PARTIES call Nicola on 01372 469260 www.ragamuffinsplay.co.uk Teeney Weenies PARTIES call Maha on 07940 348726 www.teeneyweenies.co.uk

“The Best Party Magic” Over 25 years of top entertainment

Baby, Toddler & Pre-School Party Play Equipment Hire www.oscarsparty.co.uk

BOUNCY CASTLES & SLIDES, BOUNCY ANIMALS, BALL POOLS – AND MORE!

The most amazing magic, plus balloon models, games, party bags… and Harry the white rabbit!

Tim Barnes (020) 8568 5706

Member of The Magic Circle

454 Tim Barnes H3 Mar11.indd 1

19/02/2011 09:15

for Children’s Parties, Fairs, Corporate Events CE 21ST BLEBRATE OU US ANIRTHDAY W R D RECE IT 10% D IVE A H IS (20% fo COUNT r existin custom

ers)*

g

FREE: Local delivery, collection, small gift for the birthday child!

OPEN: 7 days a week BOOK EARLY!

Contact Bouncing Betty 020 8399 5679 or 0798 596 0420 Party.bounce@btinternet.com www.party-bounce.co.uk *discounts n/a June/July

16

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May-June 2012

PARTY DIRECTORY . PARTY DIRECTORY Sport

Suppliers

Catch-a-Balls Parties call Heather on 020 8398 3034 www.catch-a-balls.co.uk

Bespoke Party Invitations by Bezign Creative call Bridget on 07758 815063 www.bezigncreative.com

Football Parties with First Class call Andy on 07929 861394 www.firstclassfootball.com Footie Tots/Footie Wizards Parties call Andy on 07931 707720 www.footie-tots.co.uk Go Kart Parties call Barry on 07886 026689 vango@gokartparty.co.uk Little Kickers Parties - Kingston call Helen on 020 8286 6038 www.littlekickers.co.uk

For Goodness Cake Cupcakes call Danielle on 084 5838 0576 www.forgoodnesscake.co.uk

Oscar’s Party call Jess on 07887 492451 www.oscarsparty.co.uk

Little Kickers Parties - Weybridge call Claire on 01932 847439 www.littlekickers.co.uk

Themed

Little Rugby Parties - Richmond call Graham on 020 3092 1313 www.littlerugby.co.uk

Storytelling, Drama & Performance Bridge Arts and Culture Storytelling Adventures call Amanda on 020 3222 3085 www.bridgeac.com Cat’s Grin Home Theatre Parties call Jade on 020 8394 2944 www.catsgrin.co.uk Perform Parties call Lucy on 0845 400 1284 www.perform.org.uk

Waka Waka Parties call Tara on 07816 859203 www.showreelevents.com

Yoganory call Hayley on 07725 402650 www.yoganory.co.uk

Venues for Hire

Dreamcatcher Parties call Maddie on 07896 040145 www.dreamcatcherparties.co.uk

Greenwood Centre call Paul on 020 8979 9662 www.greenwoodcentre.co.uk

Einstein’s Entertainers Science Parties call Emma on 020 8123 8697 www.e-entertainers.co.uk

St Philip and St James Church Hall call Anna on 07763 251803 www.whitton-church.org.uk

Funky Monkey Parties call Tara on 07816 859203 www.showreelevents.com Gymboree Parties - Kingston & Surbiton call Emma on 020 8398 9360 www.gymboree-uk.com

* DC FACE PAINTING *

Gymboree Parties - St. Margarets call Elizabeth on 020 8607 9995 www.gymboree-uk.com

of Twickenham

Fun, creative, professional entertainment.

Gymboree Parties - West Byfleet call Shantel on 01932 353313 www.gymboree-uk.com

Stagecoach PARTIES www.stagecoach.co.uk Chertsey call Caroline on 0845 265 7081 Hounslow call Richard on 020 8812 5177 New Malden call Virginie 01252 338203 Richmond call Jo on 020 8948 9288 Staines call Natasha on 0845 055 6356 Twickenham call Judi on 020 8224 6905 Walton call Matt on 01932 254333 Weybridge call Matt on 01932 254333

Mother Nature Science Parties call Varun on 0845 834 0986 www.mnature.co.uk

* parties * corporate * * sports events * proms * * hen paties * venues * * promos * weddings *

07957 395 251 info@dcfacepainting.co.uk

WIN! COMPETITION! COMPETITION! WIN!

BRING LIVE THEATRE TO YOUR HOME…

WIN A FABULOUS CAT’S GRIN BIRTHDAY PARTY WORTH £350!

Theatrebugs Parties Epsom & Surrounds call Hannah on 01482 882244 www.theatrebugs.co.uk Theatrebugs Parties Kingston & Greater London call Paula or Kristyanne on 080 0975 5290 www.theatrebugs.co.uk

Show Reel Events presents Children’s Parties WAKA

WAKA

PARTIES

0-4 years 5-9 years 10-18 years “You’re our party entertainers for life!”

Ayush’s Mummy

www.showreelevents.com Tara@showreelevents.com 07816 859 203

May-June 2012

The Little Gym Parties call Alastair on 020 8977 0099 www.thelittlegym.com

Wonderland Children’s Parties call David on 01932 561779 www.wonderlandkidsparties.co.uk

Party Bounce call Betty on 020 8399 5679 www.party-bounce.co.uk Teddy Stuff call Sallie on 01932 269038 www.teddystuff.co.uk

Sima’s Action Kids call Sima on 07956 993439 www.simasactionkids.com Thamesmead Sports Parties call Lynne on 01932 260050 www.blueleisure.com

Friendly Party Bag Company call Joanna on 07807 007172 www.thefriendlypartybagco.co.uk

Little Kickers Parties - Richmond call Graham on 020 3092 1313 www.littlekickers.co.uk

Octopus Parties call Johanna on 07807 055858 www.octopusparties.com

Answer the question below, and you could be embarking on a party experience your child will remember forever!

Cat’s Grin Theatre Company offers unique birthday party packages for children age 4 to 11. Cat’s Grin will come to a venue of your choice and stage a live theatre performance just for your party goers, with lots of fun and plenty of audience participation. Choose one of their four fabulous party productions, Alice in Wonderland, The Wind in the Willows, Once Upon a Time or Four Fairy Tales, each lasting 60-70 minutes.

As well as the chosen production, party games or a 1 hour drama workshop are included, and there will, of course, be time for birthday refreshments! The total party length is 2 hours and 45 minutes and is a truly spectacular experience.

QUESTION: WHAT ARE THE NAMES OF THE FOUR CAT’S GRIN PARTY PRODUCTIONS? To answer and for your chance to win, go to www.catsgrin.co.uk or call 0208 394 2944 NOW! Competition Closing Date: Friday, 20th July 2012

www.familiesuponthames.co.uk

17 17

Party Directory continued

Arts Craft & Cookery

Be My Bear 01492 544666 Build a Bear Workshop 01753 847295 Ceramica 01372 462447 Chocadoodle 07826 926783 Cookie Crumbles 020 8876 9912 Cookies Kitchen 07749 927783 CraftyTales 020 8977 9675 Get Animated 07816 272744 Groovy Art Workshops 020 8673 5376 Kitchen Queen 07967 620317 Krafty Kidz 020 8892 5577 Little Cooks Cooking Parties 07817 400198 Miss Stitch 07866 249717 Pottery & Craft Studio 020 8398 6681 Sassy Stirrers 07789 792676 Sticky Fingers 079 7666 7556 Suzbags of Fun Crafts 01276 453925 The Pottery Café 020 8744 3000 Tiny Treasures 07868 137402

Dance & Discos

Baby Ballet 01737 227039 Children and Teen Mobile Discos 084 5458 8373 Dance Move Shake Latino Bambino Parties 07961 838349 DJ Surrey Mobile Disco 07545 061687 Kidsdance/Totsdance 07966 502557 Maiden Heaven 07702 019889 Razzledazzledisco 07795 264837 Tiny Twisters Entertainment 07932 720771

Entertainers

All Sorts of Fun 07845 320001 Boo 020 8542 1480 Crazy Chris 01784 453192 Crazy Hazy 01932 788801 Disco Divas 07778 122277 Fabulous Hat Children’s Parties 07968 151016 Fez the Jezter 080 0612 0089 Fizztastic Entertainment 020 8397 5674 Flossie 020 8647 9967 Freckles and Friends 016 2177 3966 Jilly Jamjar 07958 615441 Mad Science 0845 051 4385 Magic Marty 07803 293885 Mr Trickey Party Entertainer 020 8337 7746 Theo the Magician 07711 724129 Tinkerbella Parties 07732 875244 Tooty Frooty 07956 444049 Utopia Children’s Parties 07710 841507 Zeberdee 07782 388495

Face Painting & Glamour

About Faces 07771 540240 Facebusters Facepainting 01784 244827 First Class Faces 01372 378637 Magic Faces 020 8398 4138 Ta Dah Faces 07968 312011 18

Music

Blueberry Playsongs 020 8677 6871 Jo Jingles Central Surrey 01372 800420 Jo Jingles Twickenham 020 8241 8139 Mad Academy 01372 210378 Music Bugs Parties 0845 578 1013 Tiny Tunes 07977 585020 Tuneful Toddlers 020 8892 1355

Outdoor

Campaign Paintball 01932 865999 Jungle Fortress Animal Parties 01932 226609 Pony Parties 07843 141129

Soft Play & Play Centres

Cheeky Monkeys 07749 506669 Dizzy Daisies 01932 701208 Eddie Catz 0845 201 1268 Greenacres Kids Café & The Den 020 8977 8335 Heathrow Gym 020 8569 5069 Jellybugs Play Café 07917 117165 Jumping Jacks Soft Play Centre 01932 222812 Kidszone 07857 897535 Little Hamsters Play Café 07432 354274 Marble Hill Playcentres – One O’clock Club 020 8891 6806 Snakes and Ladders 020 8847 0946 Wizz Kidz 01932 225313

Events 01372 819159 07889 909699 Debbie’s Sweet Art 07940 053137 Jump A Lot Bouncy Castles 07900 580039 Mad About Parties 07585 776484 Miss Olivia Bakery 07709 028495 Party Play Time 01372 454291 Party Train & Soft Play Hire 01932 854690 Rosie & Belle Cupcakes 01737 350067 The Fun Factory 020 8977 1006

Themed

Act One Parties 07956 182488 Baby Sensory RICHMOND AND KINGSTON 07966 080805 Birthday Dream Events 020 7700 2525 Children’s Themed Parties 080 0234 3460 DNA Kids 01621 853000 Make a Wish Parties 07702 213135 Notorious Kids 020 8682 2799 Party Hands and Peppermint Feet 01372 210062 Party Plan 07850 273440 Science Boffins 080 0019 2636 Science Wizards 0845 652 1215 Showreel Events 07816 859203 Starlights Childrens

Venues for Hire

Avondale Gym Club 020 8399 3386 Bullen Hall, Hampton Wick 020 8831 6108 Claygate Community Centre 01372 463476 Cobham Village Hall 01932 867870 Lower Green Community Centre Esher 01372 815628 Murray Park Hall Whitton 020 8831 6108 St James Parish Hall Weybridge 01932 856399 Surbiton Library Hall 020 8547 6418 Tiffin Sports Centre 020 8541 3972 Tudor Drive Library Hall 020 8547 6418 Vera Fletcher Hall Thames Ditton 0845 652 8529 Whitehouse Hampton 020 8979 1884 Whiteley Village Hall Walton upon Thames 01932 842360 WWT London Wetlands Centre 020 8409 4400 YMCA Hawker Centre Kingston 020 8296 9747 YMCA Surbiton 020 8390 0148

\

Sport

Activ Kids Parties 01483 769699 Big Day Parties, Fusion Lifestyle Brentford, Isleworth, Lampton, New Chiswick, heston & hanworth 0845 456 6675 Elmbridge Xcel Leisure Complex 01932 260300 Hampton Pool Parties 020 8255 1116 Karate Party 07803 341740 Kiddi Karts 01932 770770 Kids Golf Parties 07815 003549 Mini Musketeers Parties 07950 011581 Rugby Tots 0845 481 6444 The London Karting Company 020 8677 8677 Wacky Wheelers Jeep Parties 01491 818609 Yogacubs 07807 055858

Suppliers

Anytainment 01372 467676 bestkidsparty.co.uk (supplies) 0845 519 6615 Bohanna’s Bouncys 080 8108 4950 Cake, Bake, Create 07920 068277 ChocImpress 020 8898 9383 Cupcake Party 07801 501832 Cupcake Princess

www.familiesuponthames.co.uk

May-June 2012

s o f t play The Drop-in Zone You don’t have to book or join to attend the activities listed in our new drop-in zone directories, though we do advise you call first to confirm details.

ELMBRIDGE BOROUGH Adventure Zone for 2-10s, Mon to Fri 9.00-7.00pm, Sat 9.00am-12.00pm, Sun 9.00am-6.00pm, (all year) Xcel Leisure Centre, Waterside Drive, Walton-on-Thames, KT12 2JG 01932 260300 www.elmbridge.gov.uk/leisure Cheeky Monkeys for 0-5s, Mon to Fri 9.45am-4.30pm, (all year) Surbiton Hockey Club, Sugden Road, Long Ditton, KT7 OAE 07749 506669 www.cheekymonkeys-softplay.com Creepy Crawlies for under 5s, Tue 9.30-11.45am, Fri 9.30am-12.30pm, Sun 9.30-11.00am (45 min sessions), (all year) Xcel Leisure Centre, Waterside Drive, Walton-on-Thames, KT12 2JG 01932 260300 www.elmbridge.gov.uk/leisure Dizzy Daisies Wed to Fri 10.00-3.00pm, Scout Hall, 64 Waverley Road, Oxshott, KT22 OSH 01932 701208 Jumping Jacks Soft Play for under 5s, Mon to Fri 10.00am-4.30pm, Esher Rugby Club, Molsey Rd, Walton-on-Thames, KT12 3PF 01932 222812 www.jumpingjackssoftplay.co.uk

Pebbles for 0-5s, Mon to Thu 9.30am to 4.00pm, Fri 9.30am to 3.30pm, (terms only) Long Ditton Cricket Club, Betts Way, Long Ditton, KT6 5HT 020 8398 1955 Piglets Play Centre for 0-5s, Mon-Thu 9.30am-5.00pm, Fri 9.30am-4.00pm, Sat to Sun 9.30-12pm, (all year) Burhill Road, Hersham, KT12 4BJ 01932 241323 www.pigletsplaycentre.co.uk Ragamuffins Play Café for under 4s, Mon to Fri 10.00am to 4.30pm, Sat 10.00am to 1.00pm, (all year) Sandown Park Golf Centre, More Lane, Esher, KT10 8AN 01372 469260 www.ragamuffinsplay.co.uk Rugrats for 0-5s, Mon,Tue,Fri 10.00am-2.00pm, (all year) Byfleet Methodist Church, Rectory Lane, Byfleet, KT14 7LL 07766 650777 www.rugratsbyfleet.co.uk Wizz Kidz for under 5s, Mon to Fri 9.30am-2.30pm, Weybridge Vandals RFC, Desborough Island, Walton Lane, Walton-on-Thames, KT12 1QP 01932 225313 www.wizzkidz-playcentre.co.uk

RICHMOND BOROUGH Jolly Tots for 2-4s, Sun 10.00am-12pm, (all year) Teddington Sports Centre, Broom Road, Teddington, TW11 9PJ 020 8977 0598 www.richmond.gov.uk/TSC Judo Tots for 3-5s, Sun 10.00-11.00am, (all year) Teddington Sports Centre, Broom Road, Teddington, TW11 9PJ 020 8977 0598 www.richmond.gov.uk/TSC Little Fishes SoftPlay for 0-5s, Tue,Wed,Thu 10.00am-12.15pm, (terms only) St. Francis de Sales (Church Hall), 16 Wellington Road, Hampton Hill, TW12 1JR 07734 462942 Little Hamsters Play Café for 0-5s, Mon,Wed,Fri 10.00am-2.00pm, (terms only) Kew & Ham Sports Association, Ham Fields, Riverside Drive, Ham, TW10 7RU 07432 354274 www.littlehamsters.co.uk Lollipop Club for 6mths-5s, Mon to Fri 10.00am-5.00pm, (all year) London Welsh RFC, Kew Road, Richmond, TW9 2AZ 020 8332 7436 www.olddeerpark.co.uk Spin-n-play for pre-school, Thu 10.00-10.45am, (terms only) Shene Sports Centre, Park Avenue, East Sheen, SW14 8AT 020 8090 9630 www.richmond.gov.uk/SSFC

Teeney Weenies Play Café for 0-5s, Mon & Wed 9.30am-12.30pm, (all year except summer & winter hols and public hols) Teddington Baptish Church, Church Road, Teddington, TW11 9PF 07940 348726 www.teeneyweenies.co.uk Toddler Club for pre-school, Tue & Thu 10.00-11.30am, (terms only) Shene Sports Centre, Park Avenue, East Sheen, SW14 8AT 020 8090 9630 www.richmond.gov.uk/SSFC Toddler Fun Time for under 5s, Sat & Sun 9.00-10.55am (call for times during school hols), (all year) Orleans Park Sports Centre, Richmond Road, Twickenham, TW1 3BB 020 8090 9695 www.richmond.gov.uk/OPSC Toddler Fun Time for under 5s, Sat 8.45–10.55am, Sun 8.45–11.25am (all year) Mon to Fri 9.00am – 5.00pm (during school hols only), (all year) Whitton Sports Centre, Percy Road, Whitton, TW2 6JW 020 8898 7795 www.richmond.gov.uk/WSFC Zumba-n-play for pre-school, Tue 9.30-10.30am, (terms only) Shene Sports Centre, Park Avenue, East Sheen, SW14 8AT 020 8090 9630 www.richmond.gov.uk/SSFC

HOUNSLOW BOROUGH

Jumbo Gym & AlaDdin’s Cave for 0-8s, Mon to Fri 10.00am-4.00pm, Sat 9.00-11.00am (1 hr sessions), Heathrow Gymnastics Club, Green Lane, Hounslow, TW4 6DH 020 8569 5069 www.heathrowgymnastics.org.uk Kidszone for 0-5s, Mon to Fri 9.30am-3.00pm, (all year) 22a Woodlane, Isleworth, TW7 5ED 07857 897535 www.kidzoneuk.net

BRENTFORD FOUNTAIN LEISURE CENTRE For 0-11s, Mon to Fri 10.00am-6.00pm, Sat to Sun 9.00am-11.15am, (all year) 658 Chiswick Road, Brentford TW8 0HJ 0845 456 6675 www.hounslow-leisure.com

May-June 2012

KINGSTON BOROUGH Jellybugs Play Café for 0-5s, Mon to Sat 10.00am-5.30pm, (all year) The Rotunda, Clarence Street, Kingston, KT1 1QJ 020 8546 1600 www.littlejellybugs.com Kings Meadow Soft Play for 0-5s, Mon to Fri 9am-12pm & 2.00-5.00pm, (all year) 75 Hampden Road, Kingston, KT1 3H 020 8547 0272 www.kmpreschool.co.uk Rascals Softplay for 0-5s, Mon to Fri 9.30am-4.30pm, (all year) St Joseph Hood Pavillion, Marina Avenue, Motspur Park, KT3 6NE 07721 021290 www.rascalssoftplay.co.uk Tumble Gym for pre-school, Mon,Wed,Thu 10.00am-12.00pm, (terms only) Avondale Gymnastics Club, Hollyfield Road, Surbiton, KT5 9AL 020 8399 3386 www.avondalegymnastics.co.uk

SPELTHORNE BOROUGH Bear Cubs for 0-4s, Mon to Fri 10.00am-4.30pm, (all year) Shepperton Cricket Club, Manor Park, Russell Road, Shepperton, TW179HQ 07561 529952 Playtime for up to 5s, Mon,Wed,Thu 9.30am-2.15pm, (all year) Spelthorne Gymnastics Club, College Way, Ashford, TW15 2XG 01784 880474 www.spelthornegymnastics.com Playzone for under 8s or up to 160cm, Mon to Fri 3.00-5.00pm (call for times on weekends), (all year) Spelthorne Leisure Centre, Knowle Greeen, Staines, TW18 1AJ 01784 493493 www.everyoneactive.com The Secret Playhouse for 0-5s, Mon & Wed 9.30am-3.00pm, Fri 9.30am-4.00pm, (terms only & some school hols) Ashford Community Association, Woodthorpe Rd, Ashford, TW15 3NJ 07503 041229 www.thesecretplayhouse.co.uk

NEARBY FunTots Soft Play for 0-5s, Mon to Fri 9.30am-12.30pm, (all year) Chertsey Hub, Chertsey Road, Chertsey, KT15 2EP 07902 506304 www.chertseyhub.com Eddie Catz for 0-10s, Mon to Sat 9.30am-6.00pm, Sun 10.00am-6.00pm, (all year) 68-70 Putney High Street, Putney, SW15 1SF 0845 201 1268 www.eddiecatz.com Wendyhouse Soft Play Den for 0-5s, Mon to Sat 9.00-5.00pm, Sun 10.00am-4.00pm, (all year) 44 Station Approach, West Byfleet, KT14 6NE 01932 344105 www.wendyhouseparty.co.uk Lil’ Pins Playhouse for up to 4’6”, Mon to Fri 12.00pm-6.00pm, Sat to Sun 10.00am-7.00pm, (all year) Browells Lane, Feltham, TW13 7EQ 08718 732450 Snakes and Ladders for up to 4’6”, 7 days 10.00am-6.00pm, (all year) Syon Park, Brentford, TW8 8JF 020 8847 0946 www.snakes-and-ladders.co.uk

www.familiesuponthames.co.uk

19

what’s on FUN INDOORS

Arrive early to avoid disappointment. Children must be accompanied by an adult. 2.00 to 4.30pm £1.50 per child.

019 3284 3573 www.elmbridge.gov.uk

Sat 5th May Blooming Nature - Museum Family Fun Event at Elmbridge Museum Church Street, Weybridge, KT13 8DP Explore the structure of plants and construct your own botanical specimens. Arrive early to avoid disappointment! Children must be accompanied by an adult. 2.00 to 4.30pm £1.50 per child.

01932 843573 www.elmbridge.gov.uk Fri 18th May When the Shutters Shut at Ham House Ham Street, Ham, TW10 7RS As part of ‘Museums at Night,’ Ham House offers a special after-hours tour behind closed shutters...

7.30pm to 9.30pm All Tickets £15.

020 8940 1950 www.nationaltrust.org.uk/hamhouse Sat 19th May In a New Light at Kew Bridge Steam Museum Green Dragon Lane, Brentford, TW8 0EN As part of ‘Museums at Night’, experience the majesty of Kew Bridge Steam Museum’s giant steam engines pumping, lit only by the power of candles.

8:30 to 9:30pm Adult £10, Children (5-15yrs) £4.

Under 5’s free.

020 8568 4757 www.kbsm.org/ The 1940s Relived: From the Home Front to the Front Line at Brooklands Museum Brooklands Road, Weybridge, Surrey, KT13 0QN Revisit the 1940’s in style! Landmarks of the period, including gun tower, pill box, air raid shelter and aircraft hangar, will be brought to life through re-enactments. Military vehicles and classic cars from the period will be on display, as well as the first post war British airliner! Watch jive and lindy hop demonstrations, visit the beauty parlour for 1940’s hair and make up or buy black market chocolate and nylons! Period music and food. 10am Adult £10, Seniors £9, Children 5-16 years £5.50 Family ticket (2 adults and up to 3 children) £27. Under 5’s free. £2 discount for any period dress!

01932 857381 www.brooklandsmuseum.com Sun 20th May Historic Fire Engine Rally at Kew Bridge Steam Museum Green Dragon Lane, Brentford, TW8 0EN A Must-See For children, hands-on activities using items from the museum’s collection, including a competition to see how quickly they can empty a tank of water using a traditional pump! 11.00am to 4.00pm Adult £10, Children (5-15yrs) £4. Under 5’s free. 020 8568 4757 www.kbsm.org/

Sun 10th June Sword in the Stone Drama Workshop at Ham House Ham Street, Ham, TW10 7RS A fun interactive workshop with actors from Cambridge Touring Theatre. Children 5 -10 will enjoy activities and learn some of the songs from the show. 4.00 to 4.45pm £3.00.

0844 249 1895 www.nationaltrust.org.uk/ham-house

May Time Merriness Fri 15th June Bookstart Party and Celebration at Heston Library New Heston Road, Heston, TW5 0LW Celebrate the 20th birthday of Bookstart. Come in your favourite party clothes. Make a party hat and other craft. Get your face painted. Listen to special stories. Join in with songs and rhymes.1.00 - 3.00 pm Free.

020 8570 1028 www.hounslow.info Fri 22nd June Fun for Under 5s at Kingston Museum Wheatfield Way, Kingston, KT1 2PS Family fun for under-5s on the fourth Friday of the month. Including crafts, singing and stories. 2.00 to 3.30pm Free.

020 8547 5006 www.kingston.gov.uk/museum

HALF TERM INDOOR FUN Sat 2nd & Tue 5th June Diamond Jubilee Fun at Kingston Museum Wheatfield Way, Kingston, KT1 2PS Discover the kingly origins of this Royal Borough and take a journey through time on the Royal Kingston Trail. Try on a historic crown and make your own to wear.

020 8547 5006 www.kingston.gov.uk/museum Mon 4th to Fri 8th June Half Term Workshops at Happy Potter Ceramics, 14 Broad Street, Teddington, TW11 8RF T-Shirt, Pottery painting, or Decopatch workshops.

Kids choose on the day. 1.00 - 2.30pm £20 per child.

020 8973 1468 www.happypotterceramics.co.uk Wed 6th to Fri 8th June Half Term Workshops at Story Explorers 18 St Mary’s Grove, Richmond, TW9 1UY Ages 2-4 yrs: Favourite Characters Workshop Ages 4-8 yrs: Charlie and Lola Workshop 020 8948 4288 www.storyexplorers.co.uk

Fri 25th May Fun for Under 5s at Kingston Museum Wheatfield Way, Kingston, KT1 2PS Family fun for under-5s on the fourth Friday of the month. Including crafts, singing and stories. 2.00 to 3.30pm Free.

020 8547 5006 www.kingston.gov.uk/museum Sun 27th May Children’s Lives at Osterley at Osterley Park and House, Jersey Road, Isleworth, TW7 4RB Family fun exploring the history of Osterley and the lives of children on the estate. Craft, games and more.1.00pm – 4.30pm Adult £9.65, child £4.85.

020 8232 5050 www.nationaltrust.org.uk/osterley-park

20

Wed 6th June Shields & Coronets at Gunnersbury Museum Popes Lane, Hounslow, W3 8LQ Celebrate the Jubilee by designing your own royal shield or coronet, using embroidery, sequins and jewels. 11.00am to 12.30pm & 1.30 to 3.00pm £2.50 per child (includes materials).Booking essential.

020 8992 2247 www.hounslow.info Thu 7th June Crafty Kids Workshop at Kingston Museum Wheatfield Way, Kingston, KT1 2PS Drop-in workshops for children age 5 and above.

Younger children welcome but may need more help. 2.00 to 3.30pm Free.

020 8547 5006 www.kingston.gov.uk/museum Sat 9th June Playtime - Museum Family Fun Event at Elmbridge Museum Church Street, Weybridge, KT13 8DP Come and enjoy the toys and games of yesteryear.

Then make your own Victorian toys to take home.

www.familiesuponthames.co.uk

FUN OUTDOORS Sun 6th May & Sun 3rd June Open Day at Thames Ditton Miniature Railway Claygate Lane, Thames Ditton, KT7 0LE A wonderful day out for children. Ride the model railway and picnic. Café on site also. Steam locomotive, scale diesel and freelance electric locomotives operating. 1.00pm with trains running from 2.00pm to 5.30pm. Free entry. Single ride tickets £2.50, unlimited ride ticket £6.50, family ticket £23.020 8398 3985 www.malden-dsme. co.uk Mon 7th May May Merrie at Kingston Town Centre Aerial gymnastics display, Punch & Judy, birds of prey, circus skills workshop, mosaic craft workshop and Kid’s Corner, with free face painting, glittery henna tattoos and live farm animals. 12.00pm to 5.00pm Free. 020 8547 1221 www.kingstonfirst. co.uk SAT 12th May Spring Art Class at Bedfont Lakes Clockhouse Lane, Bedfont, TW14 8QA Using nature’s materials make rock bugs, kites and book marks, decorate flower pots and much more.

11.00am Adult £4.00, child £2.00.

084 5456 2796 www.bedfontlakes.co.uk Sun 13th May The Wild Flower Walk at Syon Park at Syon Park, Brentford, TW8 8JF Sponsored walk in the grounds of Syon Park to raise money for Cancer Research UK. Enjoy the House, the beautiful gardens and the picturesque Thames riverside, or do some ‘power walking’ - the choice is yours. Buggies and pushchairs are welcome.

10.30am to 3pm Adult £10.50, child ( 5-16) £4.00, family (2 adults, 2 children) £22.00 includes entry to Syon Park.

0870 160 2040 www.supportus.cancerresearchuk.org Chestnut Sunday at Bushy Park See the parade as it leaves Teddington Gate and travels down Chestnut Ave to Diana Fountain.

The parade features marching bands, vintage motorcycles and military vehicles, with a fairground and stalls all day. 11.00am. www.fbhp.org.uk Sat 19th May A Tour of the Heaths’ Trees at Hounslow Heath 450 Staines Road, Hounslow, TW4 5RB Join John Wells a nature enthusiast and the rangers to learn about the trees that grow on the Heath, how to identify them and what the different woods are used for. 0845 456 2796 www.hounslow.info Sat 19th & Sun 20th May Bocketts Birthday Weekend at Bocketts Farm Young Street, Leatherhead, Surrey, KT22 9BS Join in the celebrations as Bocketts turns 20 years old. With Panning for Gold, Birds of Prey plus all of the usual fun farm activities as well as a free party bag and balloon for each child. £9.20 adults and children aged 3 – 17.

01372 363764 www.bockettsfarm.co.uk Sun 20th May 20th Towpath Trundle at Sadlers Ride Off Hurst Road, Moseley, KT8 1SU Raise money for Princess Alice Hospice on the 20th

May-June 2012

what’s on Royal Jubilee Children’s Trail at Claremont Landscape Garden Portsmouth Road, Esher, KT10 9JG A themed trail to celebrate the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee. Free entry for children dressed as king or queen. 10.00am to 4.00pm Adult: £7.00, Child: £3.50, Family: £17.50.

01372 467806 www.nationaltrust.org.uk/claremont-landscapegarden

Towpath Trundle. This hugely popular sponsored 4 or 8 mile pushchair- friendly walk is a great event for the whole family. Dogs on leads are welcome. £5, free for under 5s. 01372 461869 www.pah.org.uk Fri 25th May Night Walk at Bedfont Lakes Clockhouse Lane, Bedfont, TW14 8QA A chance to come to Bedfont Lakes and learn about the creatures that come out in the dark. 9.30pm Adult £5.00, child £3.00.

0845 456 2796 www.bedfontlakes.co.uk Sat 26th May Teddy Bears’ Picnic and Family Fun Day at Hythe Park Rowan Avenue, Egham, TW20 8AT Bring a picnic, your family and your teddy bears.

Come in fancy dress if you feel creative, teddies invited to dress up too – prizes to be awarded!

Activities include mini beast hunts, pond dipping, face painting, teddy bear rides and games.

12.00pm to 4.00 pm Free.

07891 514574 www.surreywildlifetrust.org Discover Bees at Painshill Park Portsmouth Road, Cobham, KT11 1JE Learn about beekeeping with Geoff the Beekeeper.

Find out about these fascinating insects, see what they produce, why they are important and how you can help them. Great fun for all ages. No advance booking required. 12.00pm to 4.00 pm. Adult £6.60, child (5-16) £3.85, under 5s free, family (2 adults + 4 children) £22.00.

Wed 6th June Survival Skills at Bedfont Lakes Clockhouse Lane, Bedfont, TW14 8QA A chance for children to discover how to survive out in thewild. They will learn how to make shelters, what’s safe to eat out in the wild and how to keep yourself warm. 9.00 to 11.30am & 12.30 to 3.00pm Child £8.00.

084 5456 2796 www.bedfontlakes.co.uk Father’s Day at Ham House Ham Street, Ham, TW10 7RS Free entry for dads with children.

020 8940 1950 www.nationaltrust.org.uk/ hamhouse

01932 868113 www.painshill.co.uk

Sat 23rd June Wildlife Photography for Beginners at Bedfont Lakes Clockhouse Lane, Bedfont, TW14 8QA Learn how to make the most of your digital camera and improve your wildlife photography skills.

Suitable for all ages and digital cameras. 10.00am 310.00 per person.

0845 456 2796 www.bedfontlakes.co.uk

Sun 27th May Family Discovery Day at Osterley Park Jersey Road, Isleworth, TW7 4RB A programe of activities on the last Sunday of the month which may include art, craft, storytelling or hands-on activities in the House and Garden 1.00pm - 4:30 pm Adult £8.70, child £4.35, family £21.75.

020 8232 5050 www.nationaltrust.org.uk/osterley-park

Sun 24th June Osterley Day at Osterley Park and House Jersey Road, Isleworth, TW7 4RB Osterley’s community fun day returns, with free activities and entertainment. Music, dance, stalls, face painting, craft activities and more. 1.00pm – 4.30pm Adult £9.65, child £4.85.

020 8232 5050 www.nationaltrust.org.uk/osterley-park

Thu 14th, 21st & 28th June Teddy Bears’ Picnic and Storytelling at Claremont Landscape Garden Portsmouth Road, Esher, KT10 9JG Bring your favourite teddy, a picnic and join the storytelling in the Thatched Cottage. 1.00pm for picnics, 1.30pm for storytelling. Adult £7.00, child £3.50, family £17.50 + £1.50 storytelling.

01372 467806 www.nationaltrust.org.uk/ claremont-landscape-garden Sat 16th June Pink Ribbonwalk at Marble Hill Park Richmond Road, Twickenham, TW1 2NL Walk, get fit and explore some of the UK’s most scenic spots. The money you raise will help people living with breast cancer every step of the way.

9.15am for 20 mile, 11.45am for 10 mile Registration fee £30.

080 8800 6000 ww.breastcancercare.org.uk Butterfly Walk at Bedfont Lakes Clockhouse Lane, Bedfont, TW14 8QA Learn about the butterflies that are at Bedfont Lakes and what their life cycles are. 10.00am Adult £4.00 child £2.00.

0845 456 2796 www.bedfontlakes.co.uk Sun 17th June Father’s Day Chainsaw Carving at Claremont Landscape Garden Portsmouth Road, Esher, KT10 9JG Free entry for dads accompanied by their children.

Chainsaw carving demonstrations throughout the day until 4.30pm. 10.00 am–6.00pm Adult £7.00, child £3.50, family £17.50.

01372 467806 www.nationaltrust.org.uk/ claremont-landscape-garden Make Dad’s Day at Osterley Park and House Jersey Road, Isleworth, TW7 4RB Bring Dad for free cake and a grand day out at Osterley. 12.00pm to 4.00pm Adult £9.65, child £4.85.

020 8232 5050 www.nationaltrust.org.uk/ osterley-park

May-June 2012

Sat 30th June Teddy Bears’ Picnic at Chatley Heath Semaphore Tower, Pointers Road, Cobham, KT11 1PQ Fantastic theatre production of Four Fairy Tales by the Cat’s Grin Theatre Company, bouncy castle, nature trail quiz, face painting, best dressed teddy competition with prizes (fancy dress theme this year is Fairy Tales), wildlife activities, badge making, games and tours of the tower. Suitable for 4 – 9 year olds. BOOKING IS ESSENTIAL. Call Katy Gower 01483 795471 to book. 12.00pm to 4.00pm Children £10, adults free.

01483 795471 www.surreywildlifetrust.org Sat 30th June to 15th JULY Malden Fortnight at New Malden Activities for all ages including a day of dancing and a grand parade throughout New Malden.

020 8942 9686 www.maldenfortnight.com

HALF TERM OUTDOOR FUN Sat 2nd June Open Day at Jungle Fortress Animal Sanctuary Burhill Road, Hersham, KT12 4BG Jungle Fortress Animal Sanctuary is a sanctuary for unwanted, sick or lost animals. Exotic endangered and unusual species are housed and re-homed, in addition to more traditional pets. 11.00am 3.00pm £10 Entry (per car) 07912 389312 www.junglefortress.co.uk Sat 2nd to Sun 10TH June Spring Spectacular at Bocketts Farm Young Street, Leatherhead, Surrey, KT22 9BS Come along to ‘Meet the Tractor’ (and sit inside the cab), visit the ‘Pony Parlour’ to meet and groom ponies, Birds of Prey displays (Tuesday to Friday only), animal handling, goat milking, pony rides, tractor rides, pig racing and gold panning! £9.20 adults and children aged 3 – 17.

01372 363764 www.bockettsfarm.co.uk

Wed 6th, Thu 7th & Fri 8th June Children’s Craft Workshop at Claremont Landscape Garden Portsmouth Road, Esher, KT10 9JG Craft activities with royal theme in the Thatched Cottage. 11.00am to 1.00pm Adult £7.00, child £3.50, family £17.50 + £1.50 per craft.

01372 467806 www.nationaltrust.org.uk/claremont-landscapegarden Thu 7th June Craft Cart at Osterley Park and House Jersey Road, Isleworth, TW7 4RB Free family craft with some special jubilee activities. 1.00pm – 4.30pm Free.

020 8232 5050 www.nationaltrust.org.uk/osterley-park Fri 8th June Royal Jubilee Picnic at Claremont Landscape Garden, Portsmouth Road, Esher, KT10 9JG Dress as a royal and bring a picnic fit for a king.

Prize for the best dressed king and queen. 2.00pm Adult £7.00, child £3.50, family £17.50 + £1.50 per craft.

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

FETES, FAIRS & FESTIVALS MAY DAY WEEKEND Sat 5th to Mon 7th May Foodies Festival at Hampton Court Palace East Molesey, KT8 9AU Foodies Festivals offers an exciting mix of food, drink and culinary talent. Cooking demonstrations, cooking-for-kids master classes, on-site cook school, wine village, tasting sessions. Ladies’ Day, Food of Love Cinema and artisan food from over 100 exhibitors. For children, hilarious food fights for the over-7s and a city beach, with beach huts. Sat 10.00am-7.00pm, Sun 11.00am to 7pm, Mon 11.00am to 6.00pm. Three-day ticket £25 (conc £18). One-day ticket £15 (£12).

084 4995 1111 www.foodiesfestival.com/hampton-court Mon 7th May Oxshott Village Day Oxshott Village Sports Club, Oxshott, KT22 0RF Entertainment for all ages including bouncy castles, children’s fairground, Shetland ponies, jazz music, Punch & Judy, martial arts, face painting, climbing wall, circus show, petanque, tennis and boules and a “penalty shoot-out”. 11.00 am to 5.00 pm. £2 per person, children under 12 free.

01372 842128 Bell Farm School Annual May Fair Bell Farm Junior School, Hersham Road, Hersham, KT12 5NB Attractions include bungee trampoline, surf simulator, inflatables, tea cup ride, giant slide, sideshows , tombolas , food & refreshments plus the Radio Jackie Roadshow. 1.00 to 4.00pm. Entry 50p, children under 5 free.

01932 224009

www.familiesuponthames.co.uk

21

what’s on stalls, quality Craft Marquee, vintage carousel & helter-skelter, crowning of Richmond May Queen, maypole dancing and food. From 10.30am. Free.

020 8948 4464 www.richmondmayfair.org Sun 13th May The Dittons Fair Giggs Hill Green, Thames Ditton, A traditional family event. Sideshows including pig racing and arena events including dancing, rugby and music. Enter your dog in the Dotty Dog Show and Dog Gymkhana. 1.00pm to 4.30pm. Free.

07776 225275 www.thedittonsfair.co.uk Local Food Festival at The Medicine Garden Downside Road, Cobham, KT11 3LU Local food stalls selling hot and cold food, ranging from fishfinger sarnies to grow your own shiitake mushroom kits, and outdoor cooking demonstrations featuring local chefs. 10.00am to 5.00pm Free. 01932 589536

Sat 19th May Esher May Fair Esher Green (parking rear of Sandown Park, off More Lane), Esher, KT10 8 Arena events, family funfair, craft stalls, plants & bric-a-brac, tea pavilion, gourmet BBQ, beer tent, ferret racing and more. From 12 noon. www.eshermayfair.org.uk

www.themedicinegarden.com

Sat 2nd June Shepperton Vilage Fair Manor Park, Shepperton Fun for the whole family, including High Street Procession, arena events, Punch & Judy, Raft Race on Thames, stalls, fairground, stilt walker, bar tent, tea tent and food outlets. Procession at 11.00am, fair from 12.00pm to 5.00pm. Free from 12.30pm. www.shepperton-fair.org/

Sat 12th May Richmond May Fair Richmond Green, Richmond, TW9 1LX All day free entertainment plus 100 charity

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Fri 8th to Sun 17th June Twickenham Festival Music, fun and action-packed events, plus a variety of community activities. Last year’s highlights included: Farm Fun Day on The Green, Taste of Twickenham Food Fair, Eco Friendly Car Show, tours of JMW Turner’s house, river cruise with the Orleans Park Jazz Band, tours of Pope’s Grotto, Arts and Crafts and more. Free.

07903 184137 www.twickenhamtown.co.uk

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22

MON 4TH June Surrey County Show Stoke Park, Guildford Surrey County Show features hundreds of top quality animals from giant beef bulls to bantam hens. Fantastic family day out, combining entertainment with the chance to witness the many aspects of country life and farming. Admission: Adults £16, Concession £12, Children 5-16 £6, Family £32.

8.00am to 6.00pm 01483 890810 www.surreycountyshow.co.uk

12

Sat 16th June Marshgate Primary School Summer Fair 157 Queen’s Rd, Richmond, TW10 6HY This year’s fair will have a ‘1950’s Vintage’ theme, with a jam-packed timetable of events and fun activities. 11.30am–3.30pm. Adult £1.00, children free. 07949 587425 Ham Fair Ham Common, Ham Traditional village fair with wide variety of stalls. Fun and entertainment provided by local schools and other groups, including a companion dog show, art display, music and dancing. 11.00am to 4.30pm.

Free.

www.hamamenitiesgroup.org.uk/hamfair

Archdeacon Cambridge Primary School Summer Fete The Green, Twickenham, TW2 5TU Help celebrate the school’s 170 year anniversary, the Diamond Jubilee and the 2012 Olympics. Food, pimms, strawberries, beer tent, fantastic games, fun inflatables and a wildlife trail. 11.30am to 4.00pm.

Adult £2.00, children under 16 years free.

07802 888263 www.archdeaconcambridges. richmond.sch.uk

Lyne Village Fete Village Green, Lyne, KT16 0AN The 104th anniversary of the Lyne Village Fete. Lots of fun for the family including rural craft demonstrations, Punch and Judy, bouncy castle, go-karts for the kids, a petting farm, a roundabout, homemade produce, dog show, maypole dancing, Morris dancers and live music. 1.00pm to 4.30pm. £1 entry.

01932 873472 www.lynevillagehall.com

www.familiesuponthames.co.uk

Kew Midsummer Fete Kew Green, Kew, TW9 3AA Traditional village fete with Victorian family fairground and all-day entertainment. Local bands, dancing troupes and over 100 stalls, including Craft Marquee. Beer tent, wine stall, Pimms bar and food from the best local restaurants. 11.00am to 6.00pm. Free.

020 8123 7921 www.kewfete.org Fri 29th June to Sun 22nd July Kingston International Youth Arts Festival The streets of Kingston come alive as young people, from the ages of 5 to 26, showcase the very best in British and international youth arts.

For the first time, the festival will open with a week of participatory projects, workshops and schools engagement work (29th June – 5th July), followed by 18 days of performances, exhibitions and showcases of incredible youth work, in addition to special eventsculminating the projects delivered in the first week.

07900 520781 www.iyafestival.org.uk Sat 30th June Mortlake Summer Fair Watney’s Playing Fields, Stag Brewery, Lower Richmond Road, Richmond, SW14 7TH Mix of musical entertainment, displays, children’s entertainment and fun rides, food, drink, craft stalls, stands, selling games and clothes.

Unmissable raffle! 12pm to 4.00pm Adult £2.00, children under 16 years free.

07768 880478 Sat 7th July Petersham Horticultural Summer Show Village Hall, Bute Ave, Petersham, Petersham In addition to side shows and attractions, there will be a Fancy Dress Parade for children, Punch & Judy, and Maypole Country Dancing. www.petershamvillage.org Sat 14th July St Margarets Fair Moormead Recreation Ground, Twickenham, TW1 1JS Special Olympic themed races for all ages. Tennis taster sessions for children. 5-a-side football for children (send a team!) Fabulous Dog Show at 2 pm. Fairground slide and rides. Food. Over 100 stalls. Live music and entertainment. 12pm to 7.45 pm. Free.

020 8241 1042 www.stmargaretsfair.org

GRAB A BARGAIN Sat 12th May Cherished Nearly New Sale at Addlestone Community Centre Garfield Road, Addlestone, KT15 2NJ Admission: Adult £1, children free.

07931 617339 Sat 19th May NCT Nearly New Sale at Chiswick Town Hall, Heathfield Terrace, Chiswick, W4 4JN Admission: £1.50.

Sun 20th May NCT Nearly New Sale at Claygate Centre Elm Road, Claygate, KT10 0EH Admission: £1.50.

May-June 2012

what’s on Sat 16th June NCT Nearly New Sale at All Hallows Church Hall Erncroft Way, Twickenham, TW1 1EW Admission: £1.50.

08442 436304

SHOWTIME Sat 5th May The Three Billy Pigs at Vera Fletcher Hall 52 Thistledene, Thames Ditton KT7 OYJ This new show from Noisy Oyster blends two classic fairy tales, The Three Little Pigs and The Three Billy Goats Gruff, with beautifully crafted puppets, light hearted story telling, live music and a little bit of eco-awareness in a piggy style!For ages 4 to 8 years. £6.

084 4884 8832 www.verafletcherhall.co.uk Sat 19th May & Sat 23rd June A Midsummer’s Night Dream Family Shakespeare at Orange Tree Theatre 1 Clarence Street, Richmond TW9 2SA The Orange Tree Theatrewelcome families and Shakespeare lovers of all ages to an athletic imagining of Shakespeare’s most popular comedy, that will serve as ideal preparation for the sporting events of the summer. £5.

020 8940 3633 www.orangetreetheatre.co.uk Tue 22nd to Fri 25th May The Snail and the Whale at Rose Theatre 24-26 High Street, Kingston KT1 1HL A tiny snail longs to see the world, so she

hitches a lift on the tail of a huge humpback whale. Together they go on an amazing journey, experiencing sharks and penguins, icebergs and volcanoes. Created in Tall Stories’ unique style, The Snail and the Whale combines physical storytelling, live music and lots of laughs. For ages 4+. £12 (£9 conc).

084 4482 1556 www.rosetheatrekingston.org Sun 10th June Sword in the Stone at Ham House Ham Street, Ham TW10 7RS Cambridge Touring Theatre take a merry romp through the world of magic and mystery with their robust and comical musical performance.

For all ages. 084 4249 1895 www.nationaltrust.org.uk/ham-house Tue 12th to Thu 21st June Ring Round the World at Rose Theatre 24-26 High Street, Kingston KT1 1HL English Pocket Opera Company (EPOC) has been creating opera for, by, and with children for over ten years.They are celebrating the London 2012 Olympics by creating, performing and recording the biggest children’s opera ever known. At the Rose Theatre, EPOC will present performances of a spectacular new jazz opera representing six new countries at each performance, celebrated on stage with EPOC’s lively band of professional singers and musicians. Ring Round the World is part of the official London 2012 Festival. £10.

084 4482 1556 www.rosetheatrekingston.org Sat 16th to Sun 17th June Tiddler and Other Terrific Tales at Rose Theatre

24-26 High Street, Kingston KT1 1HL This is a magical collection of Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler’s most popular titles including Tiddler, The Smartest Giant in Town, A Squash and a Squeeze and Monkey Puzzle, brought to the stage spectacularly by the team that brought you Aesop’s Fables, Stick Man and Private Peaceful. Under sea, over land, on the farm and in the jungle, these tales are woven together with live music, songs, puppets and a host of colourful characters who will delight. For ages 3+. £12 (£8).

084 4482 1556 www.rosetheatrekingston.org Sat 16th to Sat 30th June In the Night Garden Live at Richmond Old Deer Park Come and join in the fun of the world’s only In the Night Garden live show – an amazing musical theatre experience for all the family.

Igglepiggle, Upsy Daisy and Makka Pakka are all beautifully brought to life before your eyes, using full size costumes, magical puppets, enchanting music and breathtaking projections. From £10

Please double check details of all events before leaving home as we compile these listings in early APRIL.

CHILDREN’S PARTIES WITH A DIFFERENCE!

Staines Preparatory School IAPS | Founded 1935 | Co-educational since 1941

Places available for September 2012

‘Have you ever considered an

CHOICE OF FOUR SHOWS, PERFORMED IN YOUR LIVING ROOM, SCHOOL OR LOCAL HALL

Independent education for your child?’

Early registration advisable as we are operating a waiting list for some of our current year groups.

For assistance with fee planning and other fee information please contact the Bursar.

tel 020 8394 2944 www.catsgrin.co.uk Give us a call to find out more!

May-June 2012

Staines Preparatory School, 3 Gresham Road Staines, Middlesex. TW18 2BT

01784 450909 | www.stainesprep.co.uk www.familiesuponthames.co.uk

23

SUMMER

FAMILY FUN RACEDAY

SUNDAY 22ND JULY

FREE FAMILY DAY

WITH RACING THROUGHOUT THE DAY

SEE PEPPA PIG

PLUS A HOST OF OTHER CHILDREN’S TV CHARACTERS, AT INTERVALS THROUGHOUT THE DAY

KIDS GO FREE

FOUR ARMS AND HUMUNGOUSAUR

TM & © 2012 Cartoon Network.

www.peppapig.com © ABD/Ent. One UK Ltd 2003.

© 2012 Gullane (Thomas) Limited. A HIT Entertainment Company.

Admission tickets from £18 per person Fine dining available 0844 346 3000 ascot.co.uk Families upon Thames is designed by Sarah Harmer and printed by Warners, 1 in Lincolnshire. Copyright, Families upon Thames magazine 2012. Colour transparencies and any other original 03800294_Betfair_Family_Day_Family_Magazine_Ad_130x180mm_L.indd 10/04/2012 17:22 materials submitted for publication are sent at owner’s risk and, while every care is taken, neither Families nor its agents accept liabilty for loss or damage. Families upon Thames is part of the Families Group, established in 1990 and headed by Families South West. All franchised magazines in the group are independently owned and operated under liscense. We take every care preparing this magazine but the publishers and distributors cannot be held responsible for the claims of the advertisers nor for the accuracy of the contents nor for any consequence.