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IN THIS ISSUE Education Focus Feature: The Early Years Winter Party Ideas Whats On at your local library 2018 Calendar
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Issue 78 January/February 2018 familiesonline.co.uk
Creative Courage For Life
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Banstead, Ewell, Claygate and Esher E: banstead.claygate@monkeymusic.co.uk T: 01932 223309 Dorking, Fetcham, Walton on the Hill, Ashtead and South Epsom E: leatherhead.dorking@monkeymusic.co.uk T: 020 8432 0811
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With a huge range of courses and programmes mapped to the school curriculum, our centres are an environment where children of all abilities thrive. Of course we believe that maths and English are extremely important, but in addition to that we are truly passionate about inspiring a generation of ‘fearless learners’; children who can excel in the classroom, be confident in exams and are ready to tackle anything their future may hold. For more information visit
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London Surrey Borders Tel: 01923 239 664 Editor Tamar Pearson editor@families-LSB.co.uk Design Rebecca Carr Printer Print Mates 21,000 copies printed 42,000 readers per issue Next issue March/April 2018 Booking deadline 9 February 2018 Families London Surrey Borders is part of Families Print Ltd, a franchise company. All franchised magazines in the group are independently owned and operated under licence. Families is a registered trademark of LCMB Ltd, Remenham House, Regatta Place, Marlow Road, Bourne End, Bucks SL8 5TD. The contents of Families London Surrey Borders are fully protected by copyright and none of the editorial or photographic matter may be reproduced in any form without prior consent of Families London Surrey Borders. Every care is taken in the preparation of this magazine, but Families London Surrey Borders; our distributors, the franchise company, Families Print Ltd, and Lifecycle Marketing cannot be held responsible for the claims of advertisers nor for the accuracy of the contents, or any consequence thereof.
In this issue...
Editor’s welcome This is a wish for me to you, that 2018 will give you and your families all the happiness and contentment your hearts can hold. Remember to be peaceful and gentle with each other. To look past the bad and only focus on the good. To tackle tasks with love in your hearts, and to be grateful for every moment you have together. May 2018 fill your homes and hearts with happiness, love, kindness and respect.
Tamar xx
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Jan/Feb news Education news & School open days Early years childcare Nursery directory Nursery news board Winter party directory What’s on 2018 Library calendar
AS SEEN ON
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Jan/Feb News
Spin a Tale during National Storytelling Week The first week of February marks National Storytelling Week, a chance to reflect on one of the oldest art forms in the world. We are all immersed in stories — from conversations retelling events in our lives, to watching our favourite television shows.
Mums Want More Flexible Working Opportunities According to a survey by Workingmums. co.uk, almost three quarters of working mums identify flexible work as being crucial to getting more women into senior roles. The survey shows that mums feel flexible working is vital for them to manage work and family life and that 60% of those who work flexibly would like even more flexibility.
Speech and language therapists believe that storytelling is vital for children’s academic success as it promotes narrative skills and strengthens the ability of children to correctly sequence ideas. To be a good reader and writer a child needs to be a good speaker and listener first. But above all, storytelling is fun. Whether we are listening to someone else’s story or telling our own, inventing and adapting narratives can open doors to exciting new worlds — both real and imaginary. National Storytelling Week takes place in storytelling clubs, theatres, museums, schools, hospitals, spoken word venues, and care homes. The Society for Storytelling has lots of information as “the home of UK oral storytelling” and offers free packs for schools to download. Visit www.sfs.org.uk to find a local event or to look through its extensive archive.
Petite Ecole de Reigate receives its second Quality Framework Award
So what can individuals do to help persuade their employers to agree to them working flexibly? Here are some tips: •
•
•
• •
Think through what the job requires and whether the tasks you have to perform can be done at a different location ie from home, or at times outside of the standard working day. Take account of any additional costs or challenges this might involve and discuss them honestly. Give examples of the ways in which your work can be successfully carried out under any new working pattern you are proposing, and show that it will not harm the business. Point out any business advantages. Research some case studies, ideally in your sector that shows how the work pattern you are suggesting can be mutually beneficial to you and your employer. If managers are dubious, suggest a trial period. Have a compromise solution as a back-up.
For more information and flexible work opportunities, visit www.workingmums. co.uk
‘Bee Boppers’, an original, new music and storytelling group for children and parents, starting January in Sutton Created and run by two professional songwriters and Early Years teachers, ‘Bee Boppers’ sessions aim to improve confidence, co-ordination, memory and language skills. Each class is tailored towards the Early Years curriculum thus providing your child with a pre-school boost. Featuring catchy, unique songs, live accompaniment, magical stories and exciting props, your little ‘Bee Boppers’ will be buzzing with inspiration once they enter this world of music, story and fun.
Petite Ecole de Reigate is proud to obtain its second Quality Framework Award by the National Resource Center for Supplementary School (NRCSE). It was lovely to be presented with this richly deserved award at the end of term Christmas show by Pascale Vassie, the head of NRCSE. Congratulations to all the wonderful teachers and pupils. “Great to see how confident the children have become”, said Pascale Petite Ecole de Reigate offers French classes to beginners and French Speakers from 3 to 14 years old. visit www.petite-ecole-reigate.co.uk for more details. 55x70_alison.qxp_Layout 9 25/08/2016 10:52 Pa
The 40 minute classes run on Fridays between 11:40-12:20 at Trinity Church, Sutton, SM1 1DZ and are for accompanied children from walking age up to 5 years. First session is frre. Limited spaces! Book now. Email Helen: beeboppersmusic@gmail. com. www.beeboppersmusic.co.uk
For classes of pure MADness, join MAD Academy
Birthday Parties Too!
Babies from 3 months action songs and sensory stimulation Walkers to 2 years music, movement and motor development 2 to 4 years dance, musicality and beat competency
Classes in Croydon & surrounding areas Call Alison on 020 8407 1726 or email: alison.storey@madacademy.com
madacademy.com Music And Dance and a whole lot of fun!
4 Families London Surrey Borders
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Preparing Your Child for The 11+, SATS or GCSE’s Leading mock test provider, MockTestMasters, has opened a new tuition centre ‘’Exam Pass Masters” in Wallington, offering expert tuition to help your child better prepare for the 11+ , SATS and GCSE exams. All our tutors have excellent track records and deliver tuition focused on Maths, English and Science, either in 1 to 1 or group courses. Our experienced teachers concentrate on the key areas children find particularly challenging, giving them the knowledge and skills to pass the exams with confidence. For maximum flexibility, we don’t insist on long contracts - book as little as 4 weeks of tuition. Take advantage of our money saving introductory offer - 1 lesson free when you book 4 lessons (11+ and SATS tuition only.) 11+ and SATs tuition starts on Saturday 13th January 2018. GCSE English Masterclasses start on 20th January 2018. Come and find out more at our Open Day on 13th January between 2 – 5pm.
New term now booking
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Call us on 020 8460 5711 now or visit www.spotlightstheatre.co.uk to book spotlightsuk
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SUA3708 Families Magazine New Term Ad Ad 87x85_FINAL.indd 1
To enrol your child, call us on 0208 064 1011 or visit www. exampassmasters.com.
Downsend Launches New Senior School And GCSE Expansion Plans
Reflecting an initial capital investment of £3 million by the school’s owner, Cognita, the development builds on Downsend’s track record as an established preparatory school with strong academics alongside character development and wellbeing, particularly in the areas of sport and the performing arts. The new Senior School will educate girls and boys up to Year 11, seeing them through the completion of a new 3 year GCSE Programme.
Little Stars (4 – 6 years) Stars 1, 2 & 3 (7 – 16 years)
Beckenham | Bromley | Croydon | Orpington Sanderstead | South Croydon | West Wickham
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Surrey pupils now have a greater choice when taking their GCSEs as Downsend School in Leatherhead will expand to include a Senior School from September 2020.
Learn to dance, act & sing
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The Lotus Practice Now offering baby massage and yoga!
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For more information please visit www.downsend.co.uk
Mock Tests 11+11+Mock Tests
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Where: Crofton Halls, Sutton Orpington SM3 or Where: Road, Crofton SM6 Where: Sutton Life Centre, 24 BR6 8PRWallington Alcorn Close, Sutton SM3 9PX See the website for full Time: 9.30am - 1pm address.
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Spring School Open Days Banstead Preparatory School Sutton Lane, Banstead, SM7 3RA 01737 363600 Tues 16 Jan and Fri 9 Mar Nursery Stay and play sessions, Mon 22 Jan and Wed 14 Mar www.bansteadprep.com Collingwood School 3 Springfield Road , SM6 0BD 020 8647 4607 Sat 24 Feb www.collingwoodschool.org.uk
Explore Learning gets behind “more maths for everyone!” In November 2017, the government released their budget which stated they were committed to investing more money for maths teaching in schools. Whatever your political belief and aside from the debate, we can all get behind the chancellor’s sentiment of “more maths for everyone”. Helping the next generation to master maths concepts, be confident mathematicians and proud problem solvers is our responsibility as educators and parents. Charlotte Gater, Head of Education at Explore Learning added “This way we can help children to develop the skills needed, not only in so many jobs, but also to be financially healthy. Whilst listening to the budget speech, and the chancellor’s comments on how much the country spends on debt, it is clear that we need to teach children the importance of good financial management. Charlotte has put together some top tips to help you help your children have a good understanding of budgets: 1.
2.
Get them involved with shopping. Give them a budget to spend for the week and get them to meal plan. Encourage them to shop around different brands or supermarkets to see if they can get more for their money. Teach them about interest rates. Does your child turn to the bank of Mum and
ENROLLING NOW FOR GCSE ENGLISH & SCIENCE MASTERCLASSES 11+ TUITION Starts January in Wallington. Places are limited. For more information Call 0208 064 1011 www.exampassmasters.com 6 Families London Surrey Borders
Dad to borrow money? Give them some options 1) They can either save up their pocket money or do jobs to earn the money. 2) You will give them the money upfront, but they then have to pay you back with interest. So, if they want £50 they have to give you £55 back over a set period of time. This way they will start to understand about the debt they could create by using loans. 3.
Learn about pay. A great activity we do with our older members at Explore Learning is to get them to research how much they would get paid for their ideal job. They then have to see how far their monthly wages would go. Looking at tax, rent, bills etc gets them to see how much disposable income they would have!
Let’s take the fear out of maths, relate it to real life situations and encourage children to get to grips with finances. More maths for everyone…yes please! Explore Learning is award-winning maths and English tuition for children aged four to 14, voted number one private tuition centre in the UK! We’re confident you’ll love it so why not call to book your free trial with your nearest centre today on 033 0124 3802.
Cumnor House Boys & Tree Tops Nursery 168 Pampisford Rd, CR2 6DA 020 8660 3445 20 Feb (Y1-Y8) www.cumnorhouse.com Cumnor House Girls & Tree Tops Nursery 1 Woodcote Ln , CR8 3HB 020 8668 0050 27 Feb (All School) www.cumnorhouse.com Ewell Castle Junior and Senior Church St, KT17 2AW 020 8393 1413 admissions@ewellcastle.co.uk Sat 27 Jan www.ewellcastle.co.uk Homefield Preparatory Western Road, SM1 2TE 020 8642 0965 Wed 24 Jan www.homefield.sutton.sch.uk Kingswood House School, Epsom 56 West Hill, KT19 8LG 01372 723590 Thurs 22 and Sat 24 Feb www.kingswoodhouse.org Manor House School & Nursery Manor House Lane, KT23 4EN 013 7245 7077 Reception Class Taster Morning Wed 7 Feb www.manorhouseschool.org Old Palace School of John Whitgift Preparatory 2, Melville Avenue, CR2 7YN 020 8688 2027 Thurs 25 Jan & Thurs 1 Mar Senior - Old Palace Rd, CR0 1AX Wed 21 Feb & Sat 24 Feb www.oldpalaceofjohnwhitgift.org Reedham Park School 71a Old Lodge Lane, Purley, CR8 4DN 0208 660 6357 Pupils aged 4 – 11 years Parents are always welcome at Reedham Park School. To arrange a personal tour please fill out our online booking form www.reedhamparkschool.org.uk Sutton High, Nursery and Juniors 86 Grove Rd Sutton, SM1 2AL 020 8225 3075 Sutton High Seniors 55 Cheam Rd, SM1 2AX 020 8642 0594 Open Morning Senior School & Sixth Form Wed 14 Mar Open Morning Nursery & Junior School Thurs 18 Jan www.suttonhigh.gdst.net
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60% of all A Level grades at A*/ A in 2017
Early Years Activity Mornings Monday 22nd January, 9.30am - 11.00am Wednesday 14 March 9.30am - 11.00am Come and enjoy a fun session for families. Nursery and Reception places available.
An academically challenging education for girls from Nursery to Sixth Form A new, co-educational independent prep school for girls and boys aged 2 - 11
Open Mornings on 18 January & 14 March
SUTTON LANE, BANSTEAD WWW.BANSTEADPREP.COM 01737 363600
Book now at www.suttonhigh.gdst.net
Inspiring
INSPIRE | NURTURE | ACHIEVE An independent co-educational day school for pupils aged 3-18
young minds
At Downsend, we open young minds to learning through discovery and active play. We would love to invite you to experience our happy school where inspiring your child academically* and nurturing their talents are given equal focus. * 98% of Reception ‘meet or exceed’ Early Learning Goals (vs 69% national average)
Ewell Castle School With an ethos in which each child’s achievements are acknowledged, valued and celebrated, pupils thrive academically as a result of a varied curriculum, an extensive extra-curricular programme and outstanding pastoral care
Open Week
Whole School Open Morning
26 February - 2 March Call to book a visit
Saturday 27th January 2018 10am - 12noon
Personal tours available anytime Enrolling now for Nursery and Reception T: 01372 372311 www.downsend.co.uk
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For further details and to pre-register please visit our website ewellcastle.co.uk 020 8394 3576 admissions@ewellcastle.co.uk
Families London Surrey Borders 7
Education Focus Feature: The Early Years
Can You Really Get 30 Hours of Free Childcare Per Week? By Ben Black The recent increase from 15 to 30 hours of free early education and childcare per week brings with it no shortage of complications for parents looking to take advantage of the scheme – and confusion is rife. In theory, the new 30 hours of free childcare scheme should be hugely helpful for parents of 3 and 4 year olds in England who will be eligible. However, there are sure to be some difficulties in the transition and the reality may be somewhat different from what was envisaged.
To feature your nursery in our next issue call 01923 239 664
Applications must be made by parents through the Government’s childcare service on the gov.uk website the term before they plan to start using free childcare. There are strict termly deadlines for application, so it’s important for parents to keep a close eye on the Government’s cut off dates - or they will miss out on funding for the following term. If parents are eligible, they’ll receive a code that will allow them to arrange their childcare place with any childcare provider on Ofsted’s Early Years Register. This code will allow for childcare with the provider for three months, before the code expires. Parents will be notified before the expiry date, giving them the opportunity to log back in and either confirm or update their circumstances. To be eligible, children must be 3 or 4 years old, each parent (or sole parent) must be working, based in England and earning more than £120 per week (for those aged 25 or over) and no more than £100,000 year. Participating childcare settings include nurseries and nursery classes, playgroups and preschools, childminders and Sure Start Children’s Centres. The key word is ‘participating’ as not all childcare settings will be participating in the scheme. Parents who are not eligible will be able to continue receiving 15 hours of funded childcare. Those who become ineligible after commencing to use 30 hours funded childcare will receive a ‘grace period’ of 30 hours funded care, before returning to the 15 hour entitlement.
Kiwi's Pre-schools
One of the key issues is the negative impact of the 30 hours funded childcare on the business models of childcare providers. This is because the hourly rate received by the provider from the Government may not cover the running costs of setting, leading to a funding shortfall. As a result, some providers have chosen to opt out of the scheme all together, whilst others will be charging parents for additional things such as nappies and food, or charging more for babies and children under 2 years old, meaning that the so-called ‘free’ childcare may not actually be free at all. The consequence of childcare providers opting out of the scheme is that parents need to act as quickly as possible to secure the places that are on offer. Some providers may choose to offer only some of the funded hours, so parents may also need to consider splitting their childcare between more than one setting. Another factor to consider is the time period over which the funded childcare hours are distributed. The existing 15 hours are usually taken weekly over 38 weeks and many participating parents in the new 30 hours scheme will be expecting to use them in the same way. However, childcare providers are perfectly entitled to offer fewer hours over a longer period. Whilst this may be helpful for parents looking to spread the hours out to cover more weeks, it will mean that you actually get fewer than 30 hours of funded childcare each week. It is important that parents are fully aware of all their options. Check eligibility and in particular, discern whether your preferred childcare setting will offer some – or all – of the free hours and how they will implement the scheme. Ben Black is CEO at My Family Care. You can find out more information on the new childcare options on the My Family Care website at www. myfamilycare.co.uk, as well as on the new Childcare Choices website set up by the HRMC at www.childcarechoices.gov.uk. This also gives information about the new Tax Free Childcare Scheme.
Wood Chips Forest School
Learning to play - Playing to learn We care for children from 18months – 5 years Ofsted registered – GOOD Free Funding accepted for 2-5 year olds 30 hours funding available Kiwi’s Woodmansterne Woodmansterne Village Hall, Carshalton Road.
Kiwi’s Nork Nork Community Centre, Nork Way, Banstead
Parent/Carer and Toddler group Kiwi’s Meadvale Copse Road, Meadvale, Redhill
For more information please contact Catherine on 07899654463 or Email kiwis_cac1@sky.com
www.kiwisplaygrouppreschool.co.uk 8 Families London Surrey Borders
Spaces available for January 2018
Come and have fun with your little ones in beautiful Chipstead woodland. Sessions each Weds and Thurs. Run by fully qualified Forest School Leader. For more info email: woodchipsinfo@btinternet.com or contact Susie 07982 1984 51 familiesonline.co.uk
Early Years Directory
is a wonderful team of childcare practitioners who all share Kiwi’s statment of “Learning through play.” They offer the professional care required by Ofsted while ensuring a safe environment looked for by parents. It is this approach towards childcare and the belief in close communication between parents and staff that makes Kiwi’s such a wonderful setting where children thrive.
Play BC PreSchool 020 8088 4808 www.playbc.co.uk Play B C is a teacher led preschool in Wallington. Good preschools and playgroups have a lasting positive impact in all areas, particularly where a trained teacher is present. This means sensitive adult interaction and developmentally appropriate activities. We also have a fantastic learning environment in our new home in Butter Hill. Our well-qualified and experienced staff prioritise developing a relationship with your child and offering fun but challenging learning. OFSTED says our children’s ‘emotional wellbeing is well supported’ and they ‘make good progress right from the start’. At Play B C Preschool we aim to make every day a learning adventure and be the next best thing to families.
Banstead Prep School Sutton Lane, Banstead, SM7 3RA 01737 363600 www.bansteadprep.com Banstead Prep School Nursery offers girls and boys a happy and secure environment in a dedicated building on the main school site with full access to all that Banstead Prep can offer. Children in the nursery enjoy Forest School sessions and specialist teaching for PE, Music and French. The Nursery team, led by a dual qualified Early Years Teacher, ensures our children are completely prepared for a confident transition to Reception and beyond. We are running stay and play sessions, including a visit to the Early Years classrooms, for children who would join Nursery in 2018/2019 to attend with a parent or guardian on Mon 22 Jan and Wed 14 March at 9.30am. For more information and to book a place call 01737 363600 or admissions@ bansteadprep.com.
Kiwis Woodmansterne, Banstead, SM7 2PP, Kiwis Meadvale, RH1 6NW, Kiwis Nork, Banstead, SM7 1JB
Downsend Schools Pre-Prep Leatherhead - 01372 385437 Pre-Prep Epsom- 01372 385438 Pre-Prep Ashtead - 01372 372197 Prep Leatherhead - 01372 372197 www.downsend.co.uk
The team at Kiwi’s believe that with childhoods getting shorter it is important that children enjoy their precious time while being prepared for starting school. At each of their three sites there
As a specialist Pre-Prep and Prep School in Surrey, Downsend understand every single stage of your child’s educational development. They go beyond preparing our children for a
Kiwi’s Nursery 07899654463 kiwisplaygrouppreschool.co.uk
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place at their first choice senior school, with a creative approach to learning that inspires young minds from the time they first step through our doors. From their early years and nursery, through to Year 8 Downsend provide the right platform for academic success. Ewell Castle Junior and Senior Church St, Ewell, KT17 2AW 020 8393 1413 www.ewellcastle.co.uk Ewell Castle Nursery offers a warm, caring and stimulating environment for children at the start of their school life. The children learn and play in the purpose-built Nursery building, and benefit from new facilities and a bright, spacious area. In the Outdoor Area, children can play in a quiet area, on the climbing frame or in their own castle! All children are individuals, and at Ewell Castle Nursery, each child is given the time and space to grow and be themselves; becoming confident, independent learners. Children are supported with focused learning opportunities each day across the Early Years Curriculum and are encourages in every way to reach their potential, whilst making new friends and feeling part of our happy Nursery. Little Learners Day Nurseries 46 Haling Park Road, South Croydon, CR2 6NE, 020 8649 7745 I 156 Whitehorse Road, West Croydon, CR0 2LA 020 8683 2476 I The School House, Beaumont Primary, Old Lodge Lane, Purley, CR8 4DN 020 8406 0080 www.little-learners.net At Little Learners, we operate 3 small and very friendly day nurseries in the Croydon area. Caring for children aged 6 months – 4 years at our South Croydon and West Croydon branches and children aged 2-4 years at our Purley branch. We offer full time, part time and Early Years Funding sessions (including 30 hours) as well as extended opening hours of 7:30am-6:30pm at all 3 branches, subject to availability.
Reedham Park School 71a Old Lodge Lane, Purley, CR8 4DN 0208 660 6357 www.reedhamparkschool.org.uk Reedham Park is a small, successful school that provides a caring and nurturing environment for 4-11year old boys and girls and prove that an excellent independent education need not cost you a fortune. Reedham offers a traditional, no frills, preparatory school experience at a fraction of the fees charged by other independent schools in the area. The curriculum is broad and fulfilling, from introducing the children to times tables in Reception to learning Shakespeare and Latin by time they leave us. Thus Reedham Park Schools’ founding principle of ‘delivering an exceptional yet affordable education to local children’ remains to this day. Sutton High School Nursery & Junior School 86 Grove Road, Sutton Surrey, SM1 2AL 020 8225 3003 www.suttonhigh.gdst.net At Sutton High School our priority is to enable girls to be happy, confident and independent. Our belief is that when girls enjoy coming to school they develop a love of learning and feel supported to try challenges and discover their individual talents and gifts. We would be delighted to welcome you to visit us to learn how we value the whole girl, from our academic focus, through a connected curriculum, to their enrichment in our extracurricular programme. Girls can join our Nursery in the half- term before their third birthday, and we also provide wrap-around-care during term time. We are ideally situated on a green and leafy site with our Junior School and Senior School on the same campus so transition into Senior School life is the natural next step.
Families London Surrey Borders 9
Nursery News Board Buttons are Recruiting for Nannies Do you have a childcare qualification and a few years nanny experience? Are you looking for a new job in 2018? Then look no further as Buttons Nanny Agency can help you find your next nanny role. You must have the following: • • • • •
DBS/Ofsted registered Paediatric First Aid Certificate Minimum 2 years nanny experience Childcare qualifications Car driver and car owner (for Surrey branch registration)
We are looking for enthusiastic, caring childcare professionals who are seeking to progress in their career. Buttons Nanny Agency was established in 1991 and has a large database of nannies, covering Surrey, London and Hertfordshire. We have part time, full time and emergency/short term roles available. Registration is FREE. Please send your CV to surrey@ buttonsnannyagency.com or for more information on our nanny services, visit www.buttonsnannyagency.com or call 020 3637 4040.
Town and Country wins a Platinum Award in the Best Books for Children (5+) category at the Junior Design Awards 2017 Town and Country is a delightful book that will capture any young mind. Illustrated by Brighton based Craig Shuttleworth, Town and Country gives children an comparable insight into the lives of country and town folk and is full of clever little details – spot buses, trains, and skyscrapers in the town and tractors, mountains, and farm animals in the country. With a mini glossary for each picture – featuring tiny pictures picked out from the main scene – Town and Country is completely absorbing for children who are just starting to engage with simple written words. Town and Country is published by Ivy Books and can be purchased for £8.99 at Waterstone, Amazon and other retail outlets
Local Coulsdon Mum picks up a Gold at the Mother & Baby Awards
My Busy Bots – Busy Bags of Fun At My Busy Bots we create busy bags containing fun, educational activities that will engage your little ones and keep them occupied. Our busy bags can be used either at home or on the go and they’re perfect for keeping children happy and absorbed while at the doctors, getting your hair cut, travelling, answering that crucial email, cleaning, cooking or out for lunch. There’s no glue, glitter or paint – no mess! As busy mums ourselves, we love how they captivate enquiring little minds and encourage time away from using screens. Our activities help them discover new topics as well as develop essential abilities (like fine motor skills and visual perception skills). Neither crafts (which are messy and can be completed only once) nor toys, the bags use everyday items in unusual ways that will intrigue and develop your child. These colourful busy bags also make brilliant gifts for your friends – what mum doesn’t need the gift of five minute’s peace? To see our ranges, visit our website www.mybusybots.com. Follow us on Facebook and Instagram for the latest news, freebies and competitions.
Wood Chips Forest School is back in the woods...! Great news for parents and carers and their little ones! Wood Chips Forest School returns to the woods this February after their short winter break. Now in its fourth successful year this fun and exciting outdoor Parent/ Carer toddler group welcomes families to beautiful Chipstead each Wednesday and Thursday. Enjoy sharing woodland games and crafts, den building, bug hunting, songs, stories, and a hot chocolate in a friendly and fun woodland setting. Run by Susie Timms, a qualified Forest School Leader and one of the first UK Skogsmulle Leaders after training in Sweden. Morning and afternoon sessions are available and must be pre booked. For more information contact Susie: woodchipsinfo@btinternet.com
Banstead Prep Early Years play and stay session Banstead Prep, a Co-educational Nursery and Prep School for girls and boys aged 2 – 11 are running stay and play sessions, including a visit to the Early Years classrooms, for children who would join Nursery in 2018/2019 to attend with a parent or guardian on Monday 22 January and Wednesday 14 March at 9.30am. For more information and to book a place contact Admissions on 01737 363600 or admissions@bansteadprep.com
Local mumpreneur, Anna Lloyd, the inventor of Buggi Lights, a ladybird shaped lights which clip to the bars of a buggy - has been rewarded for her lightbulb moment by winning one of the most rigorously judged awards in the parenting industry. I came up with the idea for Buggi Lights because I simply didn’t feel safe crossing roads at dusk with Sam in the pram. And much as I tried to avoid being out with him at this time, it was virtually impossible in winter when dusk can fall as early as 4pm. Buggy Lights are available from the Hippychick online shop, as well as through JoJo Maman Bebe, Amazon and Precious Little Ones and good independent shops 10 Families London Surrey Borders
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Moo Music www.moo-music.co.uk Let’s Party the Moo Doo way. A Moo Doo is a fantastic way of celebrating a birthday whatever age you are.
Winter Party Ideas We love this feature. It is always such fun to plan and hold your children’s birthday party. We have listed everyone and everything to make your child’s party one to remember.
ENTERTAINERS / ACTIVITIES ARTventures www.artventurers.co.uk ARTventurers have a range of fabulous creative party packages to suit all age groups! Baby Ballet www.babyballet.co.uk Babyballet dance party give your little ones and their friends a chance to play and dance in a real life babyballet class. Baby Sensory www.babysensory.com Baby Sensory will give your little one a fun-packed party that your guests will talk about for weeks and you’ll remember fondly! Creaion Station www.thecreationstation.co.uk Creation Station parties are tailored around your child and are great fun for you too, giving you less to do. EzeeSport www.ezeesport.com Outrageous Multi Sport Party Fun making’ your child’s birthday party EZEE! Froggle Parties Ltd www.froggleparties.com High energy parties that are nonstop fun. Jo Jingles www.jojingles.com Jo Jingles parties are perfect for any celebratory occasion and your can rest assured that our local and qualified music teachers will make sure that your child and their friends have a wonderful and truly memorable birthday party! For parties in Cobham, Epsom & Fetcham and Leatherhead please call Viv Hunt on 07751 438943 vivhjojingles@aol.com Or Lorraine Bryant for parties in Banstead, Sutton and Purley on 07376 381617 lorraine.jojingles@ yahoo.com familiesonline.co.uk
Kiko Soccer School www.kikosoccerschools.com Kiko Soccer School parties aim to provide the most fun football parties for your children without you having to worry about the stress of booking venues, organising games ect. MAD Academy www.madacademy.com MAD Academy birthday parties are all about singing and dancing – and that’s what they do best! ‘’We love nothing more than bringing our MAD enthusiasm, energy and expertise to your child’s party to ensure it’s one everyone will remember’’ MAD Parties cater for all children, from babies of 3 months, toddlers, and young children. Let MAD Academy make your birthday party sparkle! Email: alison. storey@madacademy.com Monkey Music www.monkeymusic.co.uk “My son loved his Monkey Music 1st birthday party - as did all his friends and their older siblings. Very well planned and engaging for the children. Monkey Music parties make having a birthday party easy and more importantly the little ones loved it! Highly recommend.” Every little monkey loves to party. Monkey Music parties bring together singing, dancing and playing musical party games into a great party, that is individually tailored to your little one. You Monkey Music host will ensure that all your party guest, and the birthday boy/girl will have a special day to remember. For parties in in Banstead, and Claygate please contact Dinah at banstead.claygate@ monkeymusic.co.uk. For parties in Epsom, Dorking and Leatherhead please call contact Tina or Emma emma.tina@monkeymusic.co.uk
Perform www.perform.org.uk Based around a colourful theme and involving lots of lively games, Perform use the power of children’s imaginations to transport them to a different world. Play Ball www.playballkids.com Our Playball parties are great birthday party entertainment and are a hit with parents because our Playball coaches take the reins, handle all the games and activities, while you and your guests sit back and watch your party peeps have a blast! Hartbeeps Children’s Parties www.hartbeeps.com Hartbeeps makes your little one’s birthday the best ever by bringing all the magic of Hartbeeps to life especially for them.1-5 years Mini Monkey Gym www.minimonkeygym.co.uk croydon-and-beckenham Mini Monkey Gym pride themselves on providing fun filled, high quality playgym parties for under 5’s. Presto Performing Arts www.prestoperformingarts. co.uk Presto Performing Arts have a wide range of Presto! Party Packages. Ready Steady Go Kids www.rsgk.co.uk Ready Steady Go Kids put all of their amazing Multi-sports fun into a great party experience. Rugbytots www.rugbytots.co.uk A Rugbytots Party is a fantastically fun-filled way to celebrate your child’s birthday or any other special event. Stagecoach Themed Birthday Parties www.stagecoach.co.uk Let your child enjoy the wonderful world of make-believe as Stagecoach takes them on a roller-coaster ride through his/ her imagination. Please visit the website to find your nearest Stagecoach Party provider. Tumble Tots Parties www.tumbletots.com Tumble Tots Epsom, delivers a fun filled 2-hour, tailored party full of active play.Walking to 5 years
VENUES /ONSITE PARTIES Bocketts Farm Park Bocketts Farm Park is the ideal place for a fun filled birthday party. With animals galore, exciting play areas, tractor rides and animal handling sessions, plus the menu of your choice in one of the decorated party rooms, you can be sure of a great day out! Enjoy a full day of fun on the farm park, private animal handling session, fully decorated party room, balloon and animal mask for each child. Call 01372 363764 www.bockettsfarm.co.uk Bouncing Bunnies Soft Play Café 1st Nork Scouts Hut (St. Paul’s) Warren Road, Nork, SM7 1LG Bouncing Bunnies is a family run soft play area for children under six. Craggy Island Sutton Oaks Sports Centre, Woodmansterne Road, Carshalton, SM5 4AN Climbing Parties that are great fun for everyone! Everyone Active Everyone Active runs offer a range of fun filled birthday party packages. For more information, and to find your nearest center visit www.everyoneactive.com Dinotopia Education Centre 286A Lower Addiscombe Rd, Croydon CR0 7AE Dinotopia have a great party centre for small guest list and a small budget, prices start from £9.50 per child. Dotty’s Teahouse 108 High St, Carshalton SM5 3AE A truly delightful teahouse with crafty party packages just for the little ones. Fusion Lifestyle- Croydon Leisure Centers Croydon Leisure offer a range of fun filled birthday party packages. For more information, and to find your nearest center visit www. fusion-lifestyle.com Giggles Soft Play The Harrier Centre, King Georges Recreational Ground, Poole Rd KT19 9R Giggles Soft Play offer exclusive parties on a Saturday and a Sunday. Glazed all Over 102 Stafford Rd, Wallington SM6 9AY Children love being able to choose from a range of items, and then using their imaginations and our extensive range of colours create something to be proud of.
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What’s On
Before setting out please check details with the venue in case they have changed since we have gone to print ...and don’t forget to tell them you saw them in Families London-Surrey Borders! Every Mon Term time only Little Explorers Morden Hall Park, SM4 5JD 10am – 11.15am & 1pm-2.15pm 0344 800 1895/ 0208 545 6850 Help your under 5s discover the world around them and learn about mini beasts, the weather or get green fingered. 18 months - 5years. £2. Book in advance.
Get Fired 914 Brighton Rd, Purley CR8 2LN You bring the people and we’ll supply the creative fun. Great for children’s birthday parties Gymboree Play & Music, Cheam karene@gymboreeclasses.co.uk 07990 761 259 No two children or Gymboree Play & Music parties are exactly the same. Allow us to make your child’s birthday party unforgettable at our fabulous site in Cheam Village. www.gymboreeclasses.co.uk Jupiter Jo’s Soft Play Café Cox Lane, West Ewell, KT19 9PS Jupiter Jo’s Soft Play Café is a fun filled two-level play zone and just waiting to be explored by young astronauts up to ten years old Kidspace Adventures The Colonnades, 619 Purley Way, Croydon, CR0 4RQ London’s number one children’s party venue. Little Lambs Soft Play 38 - 40 Chipstead Valley Rd, Coulsdon CR5 2RA With a wide variety of soft play equipment for under 5’s Little Lamb’s can host a perfect party. Mother Kitty’s Rickman Hill Park, Coulsdon, CR5 3DU A delightful, vintage style soft play café with birthday facilities that promise to delight. www.motherkittys.co.uk My Gym Wallington 4 Melbourne Road, Wallington, SM6 8SY 02086 698510 At the My Gym Wallington location, every birthday party is a perfectly planned celebration created especially for your child, with special song and game requests made prior to the birthday party. Our amazing birthday party specialists will make your birthday party unique and special. And all our birthday parties feature nonstop actionpacked activities, games, puppets, songs, and more! My Gym does it 12 Families London Surrey Borders
all: Setup, Decorations, Service of Refreshments, Cleanup & Much More! To book your party please visit www.mygym.com/wallington Once Upon A Time Soft Play Epsom Square, 7 The Derby Square, Epsom, KT19 8AG A bright and spacious indoor soft play area for 0 to 5 year olds Oxygen Freejumping The Colonnades Leisure Park, Croydon. Oxygen Freejumping, Croydon’s favourite trampoline park, is making your celebrations this year one to remember with the ultimate kids party! Rugrats Stay and Play Café The Royal British Legion Hall, Mickleham Gardens Cheam A new stay and play soft play café for children 0 – 5. Si5 Spy Missions Croydon 7 Exchange Square, Croydon CR0 1TR Si5 SpyMissions is the ultimate spy mission birthday party experience in for kids of all ages. Stitches Haberdashery 16 Upper Mulgrave Road, Cheam, Surrey, SM2 7AZ Cushions, buntings, bean bags and more. Stitches have a range of fantastic, creative party’s suitable form 5 years up.
Jan to Mar 12-4pm Through the keyhole: private lives unlocked at Ham Ham House and Garden, TW10 7RS Discover more about the private lives of the residents of this great house. Tours on selected days and tickets are available on a first come first serve basis NAA. Until Fri 9 Feb Winter walkies Ham House and Garden, TW10 7RS For the first time, our four legged family members are invited in to the garden. We’re ready with walking routes, and Ham bones for our new visitors. NAA. Every Fri in Jan - 10.15am – 11am Snappity the Crocodile’s activities Kingston Museum Wheatfield Way, Kingston KT1 2PS Come along for a story or song and a making activity. Free but donations are welcomed. For under 5’s. Mon 1 Jan – Wed 28 Feb, 10am–4pm Wake up Winkworth Winkworth Arboretum, GU8 4AD Spot which plants have woken up from their winter slumber with our selfguided walks. NAA plus 50p per trail. Sat 13 and Sat 20 Jan, 11am An Actor’s Life for Me - Pinocchio Workshop The National Theatre, SE1 9PX Explore the world of Pinocchio in a fun family workshop where drama, music and design combine in a quest to bring the story of the famous puppet-boy to life. Using costume, improvisation, songs and story-making, families will create scenes exploring how lies and
Sat 13 Jan – Sun 4 Mar Butterflies in the Glasshouse RHS Garden Wisley, GU23 6QB Set hearts aflutter this winter with exotic butterflies among plants from far-off shores in the paradise of the Glasshouse. Be amazed by the many colours and sizes of butterflies in the‘jungle’ and learn all about them with our interactive displays. Sat 13 Jan & Sat 10 Feb 9am–1pm Wallington Farmers Market Old Town Hall and Library Gardens, SM6 0NB Quality local produce. Sat 13 Jan, 2pm-5pm Fighting for Air Honeywood Walk, SM5 3NX National Aircraft Factory Centenary Event Design and make a “WW1 Poster” An artist led workshop inspired by the posters of WW1 looking at the “First Blitz” and spotting enemy aircraft. FREE. Sat 13 Jan, 1pm to 2.30pm Crimean War and Florence Nightingale Bourne Hall Museum, KT17 1UF Discover Florence Nightingale’s life story; hear about her famous lamp at Scutari Hospital and her later campaigns for nursing and health reform in England. £5. Mon 15 Jan, 1pm-3pm Carshalton Community Allotment session Westmead Allotments, Colston Avenue, Carshalton, SM5 2PW Everybody is welcome to take part growing food and take a share of the harvest home to eat! No need to book, it’s entirely free. Sessions run on Mon 1-3pm and Fri 10.30am-12.30pm. Sat 20-Sun 21 Jan, 11am-3pm Big Wetland Birdwatch Morden Hall Park, SM4 5JD Find out more about the birds living
10th - 18th February 2018
FEBRUARY
The Good Ship Lollypop at Tooting & Mitcham Community Sports Club Imperial Fields, Bishopsford Road, Morden, SM4 6BF Funky and fun soft play venue with amazing birthday party packages.
HALF TERM FUN Daily birds of prey flying demonstrations (Mon-Fri only)
Plenty of indoor play & activities
The Sports Village Rose Hill Park, Rose Hill, Sutton, Surrey SM1 3HHAt Sutton Sports Village, your child will enjoy an hour of their chosen activity with our fun and friendly coaches followed by 45 minutes in a decorated party room with food Village Ceramics 31 Station Way, Sutton SM3 8SD Village Ceramics has become a very popular stress free venue for birthday parties in Cheam.
bad behaviour lead to the belly of a beast. Adults £12, children £8.
Early Spring lambing starts PLUS:
Animal handling, goat milking, tractor rides, pig racing and pony rides daily!
70
US GORGEORN NEWBODUE LAMBS
HEATED PLAYBARN & SEATING AREA! D AR AW WI NN ING !
www.bockettsfarm.co.uk
Situated in Leatherhead, Surrey. 5 minutes from J9 M25.
#
SPECIAL
OFFER
£2 OFF full price farm entry per person*
Valid weekends from 6th Jan - 11th Feb 2018. Only with this voucher (*max 5 people). OFF PEAK WINTER WEEKDAY RATES £7 per person apply Mon - Fri, 3rd Jan - 9th Feb 2018.
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in our wetland with our volunteer bird guides. Make a craft too. Sat 20 Jan 3.30-5.30pm Wallingdon Mum2Mums Nearly New Sale The Centre, SM6 9RP Buy quality second hand and nearly new baby & children’s stuff. Mon 22 Jan, 10.30am start Bach to Broadway St. Mildred’s, CR0 7EB Bach to Baby is the critically acclaimed classical concert series for babies, toddlers and their carers. Tues 23 Jan, 11am–12.30pm Winter walk Claremont Landscape Garden, KT10 9JG Join our friendly guide Hilary to see what Mother Nature is up to at this traditionally quiet time of the year.NAA. Sat 27 Jan, 11am Playful Puppets (a relaxed workshop for families with additional needs) The National Theatre, SE1 9PX Become a puppeteer for the day in this practical and fun family workshop. This workshop has been created specifically for families with disabled children aged 6 – 12, but is open to all. Adults £5, children £3.
Sat 24 Feb, 10am– 12noon All Saints Church, Croydon CR2 9AB HALF TERM EVENTS Sat 10–Sun 18 Feb, trail available daily 10am–4pm Half-term invasive species trail Claremont Landscape Garden, KT10 9JG Come and discover some of Claremont’s invading beasts and where to find them. NAA plus 50p for trail. Sat 10 Feb–Sun 18 Feb, 10am–4pm Children’s half-term trail Winkworth Arboretum, GU8 4AD Get some fresh air as you explore the Arboretum with our children’s trail during this half term holiday.NAA 50p for per trail sheet. Sat 10 Feb - Sun 18 Feb, 12-4pm February half-term trail at Box Hill The Old Fort, KT20 7LB Enjoy our half term trail based on 50 things to do before you’re 11 and 3/4s. Sat 10 Feb–Sun 18 Feb Ham unlocked Ham House and Garden, TW10 7RS Follow our trail with keys and locks this February half term and unlock Ham House’s secrets. £2 per trail.
Sun 28 Jan, 11.30am – 1pm & 2–3.30pm Travelling Stories The British Library, NW1 2DB Jump aboard and hear tales that have sailed seven seas with storyteller Olivia Armstrong. yourself and discover how to tell your own travelling tale.
Mon 12-Fri 16 Feb, 11am-4pm February half-term Morden Hall Park, SM4 5JD Make your own portable kitchen garden to take home ready for spring. Learn how to plant your own salad and take care of it with our urban ranger team. £5 per child.
Wed 7 – Sun 18 Feb Southbank Centre’s Imagine Children’s Festival Southbank Centre’s Imagine Children’s Festival returns for a seventeenth year celebrating storytelling and changemakers.
Tues 13 Feb, 11am – 12.30pm and 1.30pm – 3pm Chinese Tales and Ribbon Dance The British Library, NW1 2DB Celebrate Chinese New Year at this fun family workshop. Join artist and performer Jih Wen Yeh as she weaves fascinating stories and performs a beautiful ribbon dance. Then take part in a ribbon dance workshop for all the family.
Weds 14 Feb, 7-9pm Cake and prosecco fundraiser Morden Hall Park, SM4 5JD Help us raise money for our romantic folly by tasting loads of different cakes with a glass of bubbly. £35 per person. Online booking essential. Mon 19 Feb, 10.30am start Bach to Broadway St. Mildred’s, CR0 7EB Bach to Baby is the critically acclaimed classical concert series for babies, toddlers and their carers. Tues 20 Feb, 11am–12.30pm Winter walk Claremont Landscape Garden, KT10 9JG Join our friendly guide Hilary to see what Mother Nature is up to at this traditionally quiet time of the year.NAA. Sat 24 Feb, 3pm - 4.30pm NCT Nearly New Sale St Andrew’s Church, SM2 7HF Top quality baby and children’s clothes and equipment at bargain prices. £1 per adult. NEARLY NEW SALES Mum2Mums Nearly New Sales Buy quality second hand and nearly new baby & children’s items. Sat 27 Jan & Sat 17 Feb 2-4pm Ruxley Church Hall, Epsom Croydon KT19 0JG Sat 3 Feb & Sat 3 Mar10am-12pm Thomas Wall Centre, Sutton SM1 4DP
Fri 16 - Sun 18 Feb 11.30am -4.30pm Chinese New Year - Year of the Dog Honeywood Walk, SM5 3NX Are you a Dog, Monkey, Rooster or a Pig? Have fun with themed craft and follow our ‘Famous Dogs’ trail. FREE. Sat 10 Feb, 1-2.30pm The Tower - Escape, Imprisonment and Execution. Bourne Hall Museum, KT17 1UF Discover the dark bowels of this great Royal palace and the stories of those held prisoner there. £5. Mon 12 - Tues 13 Feb, 11am-2pm Wow! It’s an owl! Sutton Ecology Centre, SM5 3NY Follow the owl trail to see and interact with real live owls! Discover more about these lovable creatures and make an owl mask to take home. £5. 3yrs+. Horniman Museum and Gardens Forest Hill, SE23 3PQ Mon 12 Feb - Fri 16 Feb Family Art Fun Join free and fabulous craft activities inspired by the Horniman’s new family exhibition Colour: The Rainbow Revealed. Free. Mon 12 Feb - Fri 16 Feb Horniman Explorers 11am-12.30pm, 2-3.30pm Take part in a series of challenges that could have you trying on clothes, playing music, drawing and exploring objects on our holiday theme. Wed 14 Feb, 10.30am-3.30pm Big Wednesday - Colour & Carnival Join us for a day of performances and storytelling inspired our new familyfriendly exhibition. Thurs 15 & Fri 16 Feb Colour - Carnival Dance Workshop
Sat 10 – 18 February February Half Term Fun at Bocketts Farm Park Enjoy a great day out on the farm this February Half Term with the start of the Spring lambing. There are up to 70 lambs due from Feb 10th - you may even see one being born! Birds of Prey will also be at the farm Monday-Friday where you can meet them up close and watch the flying demonstrations twice daily. What’s more, there is a full programme of fun farm activities including pony rides, tractor rides, animal handling and pig racing. Outdoors, enjoy the jumping pillows, treehouse towers, pedal go karts and play trails. Plus, the large indoor area with a giant heated playbarn, trampolines, ride-on tractors and a coffee shop means you can have a great day out whatever the weather! www.bockettsfarm.co.uk 10am, 11.15am, 12.30pm, 2.30pm, 3.45pm (45 min sessions) Learn to dance like you’re partying through the streets of Brazil with Gandaia Arts. Ages 4+. £5 pp. Gatton Park, RH2 0TW Mon 12 Feb, 10am-12noon or 1-3pm Fantastic Foxes (4-7yrs) Find out more about these clever
Tues 13 -Thurs 15 Feb, 11am-1pm Half-term drop in traditional crafts Claremont Landscape Garden, KT10 9JG Come and join us in the thatched cottage with some traditional wooden crafts and see how children entertained themselves before television. NAA plus £1.50 per craft. Wed 14 Feb 11am-1pm Honeywood Mini Explorers Paddington Bear Honeywood Walk, SM5 3NX Listen to a Paddington Bear story, make a marmalade sandwich, play pin the hat on Paddington and join in with other themed crafts. 6 – 10 years. FREE. Wed 14 Feb, 11.30am -4pm A 1912 Wallington Wedding Honeywood Walk, SM5 3NX With love in the air, come and see the beautiful wedding dress worn by Emily Clara Brougham. She married Robert Henry Pentleton in the Holy Trinity Church in Wallington in 1912. Wed 14 & Thurs 15 Feb, 11.30am -4.30pm Victorian Valentines Honeywood Walk, 3NX Follow your heart through the museum on our trail and join us to make a Victorian Valentine card. Leave a note on our landing board about what makes your Valentine so special.
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animals, follow a smell trail and take part in a giant collaborative artwork. £7.50 per child. Thurs 15 Feb, 10am-12noon or 1-3pm February Forest Fun (4-7yrs) Join our Forest School, explore Cedar Wood, make woodland crafts and enjoy a snack around the fire. £7.50 per child.
Sat 10 – 18 Feb Living with Nature at Hever Castle Discover more about conservation and local wildlife as part of Hever Castle’s February half-term event, Living with Nature. Following on from the RSPB’s Big Garden Birdwatch (27 - 29 January) and the Big School’s Birdwatch (2 Jan- 23 Feb) families and individuals are invited to visit the historic castle in Kent to enjoy ‘Living with Nature’ aimed at school aged children. Find out how to create habitats and encourage wildlife into your garden and join the RSPB workshop. Join RSPB volunteers on a stroll around the grounds to learn about natural and manmade habitats or take a self-guided ‘Wildlife Detective’ walk to investigate animal footprints and tracks. Learn about nature throughout history from how fur was used to keep warm to which birds belong to the Queen. Encourage creepy crawlies into your garden by building a bug house or buy a bag of bird food and feed the birds. www.hevercastle.co.uk
Wed 14 & Fri 16 Feb, 10–11.30am or 1.30–3pm Toddler Trails and Tales (2–4 years) Enjoy the story of Sharing a Shell by Julia Donaldson and go for a walk around the park to bring it to life. £7.50. Beddington Park, SM6 7NN Wed 14 Feb, 11am-1pm Half-term Xplorer challenge Explore the park and hunt for the themed markers. Collect a map and complete the challenge as fast as you can! Start point by the Pavilion Café. Thurs 15 Feb, 10am Habitat box half-term workshop Build a wooden bird or bat box for our northern woodland belt. Sat 17 Feb, 2pm CTC cycle ride Meet outside the café at 1.45pm. Join Sutton CTC on their beginner’s cycle ride. An easy cycle ride starting from Beddington Park and exploring the surrounding area. Rides last 2-3hrs. Sat 24 Feb, 10.30am Community Tree Planting Grab a spade and help us develop and improve our woodland! Equipment and gloves provided.
SUTTON LIBRARY Mon 12 Feb , 10.30am-12pm Cookery–Perfect Party Food
Cheam Library, SM3 8QH Ages 6-11 - £10.
MacDonald’s Farm show comes the spookiest show ever.
Mon 12 Feb, 1.30pm-3.30pm Decoupage & Decorate – Workshop Westcroft Library, SM5 2TG Ages 6-11 - £10.
Thurs 15 Feb Cirque Enchantment Features stunning choreography, breathtaking vocals and mesmerising cirque performers.
Thurs 15 Feb, 10.30am-12pm Sea-Life Crafts Wallington Library, SM6 0HY Ages 2-5 - £5. Thurs 15 Feb,1.30pm-3pm Wacky Wildlife Crafts Sutton Life Centre, SM3 9PX Ages 2-5 - £5. Fri 16 Feb ,10.30am-11.30am Ballet, Music and Movement Worcester Park Library, KT4 8ES Ages 2-6 - £5. Fri 16 Feb, 10.30am-12.30pm Lantern Making Workshop Phoenix Library, SM6 9NZ Ages 6-11 - £10. Fri 16 Feb, 1pm - 2pm Ballet, Music and Movement Circle Library, SM5 1JJ Ages 2-6 - Cost £5.
THEATRE Epsom Playhouse Ashley Avenue, KT18 5AL 01372 742 555 Fri 26 Jan The Beach Boys Story - A Tribute Guaranteed to leave everyone with a smile on their face, a song in their heart and a truly memorable live music experience to cherish, this is a show you do not want to miss. Wed 14 Feb Crafty’s Creepy Castle From the team behind Marty
Sat 10 March The Jungle Book Join Mowgli and his friends Baloo the bear and Bagheera the panther on a madcap adventure in the jungle. New Wimbledon Theatre The Broadway, Wimbledon, SW19 1QG 0870 060 6646 Wed 21 Feb – Thurs 22 Feb Peppa Pig’s Adventure Peppa Pig and friends are back in the brand new live show. Fri 23 Feb – Sat 24 Feb Russian State Ballet of Siberia’s Romeo and Juliet From the grandeur of the masked ball to the intimacy of the lovers’ balcony, this star-crossed story is unmissable. Polka Theatre 240 The Broadway, SW19 1SB 020 8543 4888 Wed 14 Feb – Sun 18 Feb I Believe in Unicorns An enchanting tale about the power of books and one boy’s bravery. 6–8 years. Thurs 22 Feb – Sun 4 Mar Grandad’s Island A heart-warming adventure filled with songs and laughter. 5–8 years. Wed 28 Feb - Sun 4 Mar Glisten Watch as the theatre fills with colour, sounds and surprises, creating a sensory landscape ready to explore after the performance is over. 0-18mths.
Wear A Hat Day is the UK’s premier brain tumour research fundraising event. It takes place on Thursday 29th March 2018. March is also UK Brain Tumour Awareness Month. Schools and families across the country get involved to help raise funds for research into brain tumours. Brain tumours kill more children and adults under the age of 40 than any other cancer… yet just 1% of the national spend on cancer research has been allocated to this devastating disease. Families are being left devastated by this dreadful disease. This is unacceptable! Brain Tumour Research is the only national charity in the UK that is purely dedicated to raising funds for continuous and sustainable scientific research into brain tumours. Taking part can be as simple as putting on a hat and donating on the day, but most families like to create entertaining fundraising events. Many schools for example have inventive hat competitions, parades and fashion shows and raise hundreds if not thousands of pounds. Register now on www.wearahatday.org and start planning your hattastic fundraising event. More information, event ideas and fundraising tips can also be found on the website.
14 Families London Surrey Borders
Registered charity number 1153487 (England and Wales) SC046840 (Scotland). Company limited by guarantee number 08570737.
Register for Wear A Hat Day 2018 and start planning your event!
familiesonline.co.uk
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Your 2018 local library calendar
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Libraries offer families some great activities for all ages. We have put together all the regular events held at your local library for 2018. Storytime Under 5 years Term time only
Rhymetime 0 - 5 years
MITCHAM AND MERTON Mitcham Library 157 London Road, CR4 2YR 0333 370 4700 1:1 Reading for Children l Mon 4.15–5.45pm (ages 5+) Storytime Tue & Thur 10.30–11am Craft Session for Kids Thurs 11–11.30am Morden Library London Road, SM4 5DX 0333 370 4700 Welcome Morning for Under 5s: 10.30–11am Saturday Stories & Song: 11–11.30am
Wiggle & Jiggle: 0 - 5 years
Homework Club Tues & Thur 3.30–5.30pm, Saturday 2-5pm Bradmore Green Library Bradmore Way, CR5 1PE 020 3700 1003 Crafternoon Tues 3.15–4.15pm (ages 3-11). Storytime: Wed 2.15-2.45pm Bookstart Rhymetime Fri 11–11.30am Games Club Fri 2pm Broad Green Library 89 Canterbury Road, CR0 3HH 020 3700 1005 Rhymetime: Fri 10-10.30am
Craft for Kids: Wed 5–5.30pm
Homework Club Mon & Fri 3.30–5.30pm, Sat 2-5pm
Chess Club for Children: Thur 5–6pm
Coulsdon Library Brighton Road, CR5 2NH 020 3700 1007
Children’s Book Club: 1st Thur of the month 5–6pm
Rhymetime Tue 10-10.30am
Read & Rhyme Fri 10.30–11.30am
Wiggle & Jiggle Thur 11–11.30am
Sing & Read: Thur 11am –12pm
Craftytime Fri 3.45-4.30pm (ages 5-7)
Homework Club Thur–6pm
Rock and Rhyme Sat 10-10.30am (Under 5s)
CROYDON
Story and craft Sat 3-4pm (Under 8s)
Croydon Central Library Katharine Street, CR9 1ET 020 3700 1034 Rhymetime: Wed & Sat 11-11.30am Thurs 10.30-11am & 11.30am–12noon Homework Club Tues & Thurs 4-6pm Saturday 2-5pm LEGO Education Workshop Every Fri alternating between StoryStarter and WeDo from 4-5pm l
LEGO Education Workshop Every Mon alternating between StoryStarter and WeDo 4-5pm l New Addington Library 61 Central Parade, CR0 0JD 020 3700 1009 Rhymetime Wed 11-11.30am Storytime Thur 11-11.30am Homework Club Tues & Thur 3.30–5.30pm & Sat 2 -5pm
Ashburton Library Shirley Road, CR9 7AL 0203 700 1001
Norbury Library Croydon, SW16 4UW 020 3700 1011
Rhymetime Tues 11–11.30am
Rhymetime Fri 11-11:30am
Wiggle & Jiggle Thurs 11–11.30am Book Buddies Thurs 4-4.30pm Under 7’s. Addiscombe Young Writers Two Sat a month. 9.30-10.30am. Ages 6-11. familiesonline.co.uk
Wiggle and Jiggle Thur 10.30-11am Storytime Sat 11-11.30am Purley Library Banstead Road, CR8 3YH 020 3700 1013 Rhymetime Tues 10–10.30am
LEGO Education Workshops 8 - 12 years
Homework Club 9 - 16 years Term time only
Wiggle & Jiggle Tues 11–11.30am 18m+ Rock and Rhyme Sat 10.30-11am Storytime Sat 11-11.30am ages 2+
l Booking required
Rhymetime: Tues 11-11.30am
Rhymetime Fri 11-11.30am
Stay and Play: Tues 10-11am
Worcester Park Library Windsor Road, KT4 8ES 020 8337 1609
Craft Time: Wed 4pm - 5 pm (ages 5 - 10, term-time only) Family Film Sat 2.30pm
Rhymetime Fri 10.30-11am (Spaces are limited, collect a free ticket from the library desk from 10am)
Sanderstead Library South Croydon, CR2 0HL 020 3700 1015
Code Club Computer for children Mon 4-5pm (ages 9-12)
Rhymetime Wed 10-10.30am
Homework Club Tues and Fri 3.30pm 5.30pm, Sat 2pm -5 pm
Coder Dojo 1st and 3rd Sat of the month 2pm – 4pm l info@ wpcoderdojo.org.uk
SUTTON
EPSOM AND SURROUNDS
Wiggle and Jiggle Wed 11-11.30am Storytime Fri 3.30-4pm ages 2½ +
Selsdon Library Addington Road, CR2 8LA 020 3700 1017 Rhymetime Mon 11–11.30am Storytime Tue 10.30–11am Rhymetime Fri 10.30-11am Rock and Rhyme Sat 10.30-11am Storytime Sat 2.30–3pm Crafternoon Sat 3-4pm Games Club Tues 4 pm Parent’s Club Mon 11.30am – 12.30pm & Fri 11am-12pm LEGO Education Workshop Every Tues alternating between StoryStarter and WeDo from 4-5pm l Laughing Club First Mon of the month 4.30–5.15pm. 4+ Shirley Library Wickham Road, CR0 8BH 020 3700 1019 Rhymetime Fri 10-10.30am Craft Workshops Age 4+ Fortnightly Sat 2.30-4pm Book Buddies Mon 4-4.30pm (Under 7’s) South Norwood Library Lawrence Road, SE25 5AA 020 3700 1021 Rhymetime: Mon 11-11.30am and Fri 2–2.30pm Wiggle and Jiggle Wed 11-11.30am Rhymetime Fri 2-2.30pm Storytime Sat 11am Thornton Heath Library 190 Brigstock Road, CR7 7JB 020 3700 1023
Cheam Library Church Road, SM3 8QH 020 8644 9377 Rhymetime Wed 10-10.30am Circle Library Green Wrythe Lane, SM5 1JJ 020 8648 6608 Rhymetime:Tues 1.30-2pm Sutton Life Centre, SM3 9PX 020 8644 9696 Rhymetime Thur 10.30-11am The Phoenix Centre Wallington, SM6 9NZ 020 8770 4901 Rhymetime Fri 10.15-10.45am The Westcroft Centre Carshalton, SM5 2TG 020 8647 1151
Scrabble club Wed 1–4pm
Ashstead Library Woodfield Lane, KT21 2BQ 01483 543599 Rhymetime Fri 10.15-10.45am Storytime: Sat 11.15-11.45am Banstead Library Bolters Lane, SM7 2AW 01483 543599 Rhymetime Tues 10.15-10.45am Fri 10.15-10.45am Dads Rhymetime Contact the library for more days and times Storytime Thur 2.15-2.45pm Caterham Hill Library Westway, CR3 5TP 01483 543599 Rhymetime Thur 10.30-11am Storytime Fri 2.15-2.45pm
Rhymetime Wed 10.30-11am
Caterham Valley Library Stafford Rd, CR3 6JG 01483 543599
Sutton Library St Nicholas Way, SM1 1EA 020 8770 4740
Rhymetime Fri 10-10.30am
Rhymetime Tues 10.15 -10.45am & 11.15-11.45am Fri 10.15-10.45am & 11.1511.45am l
Chatterbooks Every four weeks on Sat, 3-4pm (ages 9 to 12).
Closed for refurbishment until February. Sessions held at Sutton College or Thomas Wall Children’s Centre while Sutton Library is closed for refurbishment.
Rhymetime Mon at Sutton College 1-1.30pm & 2-2.30pm l Rhymetime Thurs at Thomas Wall Children’s Centre 10-10.30am & 11- 11.30am l
Storytime Fri 2.15-2.45pm
Epsom Library The Derby Square, KT19 8AG 01483 543599 Rhymetime Thur 10.30-11am Storytime Tues 2.15-2.45pm Ewell Library Bourne Hall, KT17 1UF 01483 543599 Rhymetime Thur 10.30-11am Storytime Wed 2-2.30pm
Wallington Library Shotfield, SM6 0HY 020 8770 4900
Ewell Court Community Library, Epsom KT19 0EB 01483 543599
Rhymetime Tues 11-11.30am
Rhymetime Wed 2-2.30pm Families London Surrey Borders 15
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Unlock your child’s potential with our expertly led singing, dancing and acting classes for 4 -18 year olds. CROYDON 0845 265 7083 stagecoach.co.uk/croydon
CHEAM & WORCESTER PARK 020 8773 4242 stagecoach.co.uk/cheam
EPSOM 01372 730363 stagecoach.co.uk/epsom
COULSDON & CATERHAM 0345 078 0805 stagecoach.co.uk/coulsdon
SHIRLEY 020 8949 1116 stagecoach.co.uk/shirley
SUTTON 01372 740284 stagecoach.co.uk/sutton
Stagecoach Performing Arts is theBorders trading name of Stagecoach Theatre Arts Limited. Stagecoach Theatre Arts schools are operated under London Surrey 16 Families franchise and are independently owned by their Principals. Stagecoach and Creative Courage For Life are registered trademarks of Stagecoach Theatre Arts Limited.
familiesonline.co.uk Creative Courage For Life