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IN THIS ISSUE From conception to birth and beyond - a Mother’s day special Bumper what’s on guide Your child’s development at age 11
Unlock your child’s potential
with our expertly led singing, dancing and acting classes for 4 -18 year olds.
CHEAM & WORCESTER PARK 020 8773 4242
EPSOM 01372 730363
COULSDON & CATERHAM 0345 078 0805
SUTTON 01372 740284
CROYDON 0845 265 7083
SHIRLEY 020 8949 1116
Stagecoach Performing Arts is the trading name of Stagecoach Theatre Arts Limited. Stagecoach Theatre Arts schools are operated under franchise and are independently owned by their Principals. Stagecoach and Creative Courage For Life are registered trademarks of Stagecoach Theatre Arts Limited.
Issue 79 March/April 2018 familiesonline.co.uk
Creative Courage For Life
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THE COLONNADES PURLEY WAY, CROYDON CR0 4RQ 2 Families London Surrey Borders
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Contents 4. News & Views 5. Clubs & Classes News
London Surrey Borders
6. Education News 7. Spring School Open Day Directory
Tel: 01923 239 664
8. Education feature
Editor Tamar Pearson editor@families-LSB.co.uk
10. Conception, Birth & Beyond 11. Mother’s Day Special
Design Rebecca Carr Printer Print Mates
12. Tiddler Directory 14. What’s on at the National Trust
21,000 copies printed 42,000 readers per issue
15. General What’s On 17. Easter Holiday Clubs
Next issue May/June 2018
18 What’s on Children’s Theatre
Booking deadline 7 April 2018 Cover image Deposit Photos 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.
Editor’s note Well, it is that time of year again. It’s time to open our arms to welcome the sunshine back into our lives and dance with sunbeams as we enjoy the longer days and warming weather. This issue we look at some wonderful local ideas on how to spoil Mum this Mothering Sunday, we have a brief glimpse into the lives of children as they enter their tweenage years, and we have an Easter Activity for every day of the holidays. Do cart-wheels, roll down hills and take every opportunity to enjoy Spring.
Tamar xx
Wood Chips Forest School Parent/Carer and Toddler group
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
BRIT Kids
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BRIT Kids at
At BRIT Kids, what do we do? ...More than you can imagine!
Saturday Courses at The BRIT School
Theatre
Performing and Creative Arts classes for 8–15 year olds
Photography
Dance Singing Street Dance
Fashion and Textiles Film Making Music Production Radio
Art Club Printmaking & Illustration Computer Club AEN in collaboration with
CELEBRATING 15 YEARS
Nordoff Robbins Music Therapy
brit.croydon.sch.uk/BRITKids
020 8665 5242 Families London Surrey Borders 3
News & Views
Calling all young gaming enthusiasts to take part in The London Games Festival Games Character Parade London Games Festival welcomes you and your family to join in the UK’s biggest ever gaming cosplay parade! This parade will be one of the festival highlights and a colourful costume celebration of video games! Taking place on Saturday 14 April the parade route covers Cheapside, Paternoster Square, St Paul’s Cathedral, Festival Gardens and Bow Street – before a showcase of the cosplayers at Guildhall Yard, where the parade starts and ends. Guildhall Yard and Guildhall Art Gallery are outdoor and indoor family activities and entertainment. To register please visit www.games.london/parade2018
The Art of Growth Centre opens its doors offering play based learning for local children with delayed speech and language The Art of Growth Centre was inspired through the challenges of loneliness and frustration faced by a local Mum, Natasha whose child struggled with speech, language and communication. ‘’My son has complex medical needs and with the help of various medication, his needs can always be managed. However, there was no medication that would allow him to communicate, understand and express his needs, wants and fears. Outside of my son’s school, no one understood how hard it was for him. He did not have any friends and I would not go anywhere in fear of anyone calling my son naughty because they did not understand him’’, says Natasha. With nowhere to go Natasha decided to return to study and gained a BSc in Psychology and Health studying in areas such as child development, childhood disorders and neuropsychology and with the knowledge learned she has formulated a course to help other parents and young children with speech, language and communication difficulties. Help your child shine and join SuperBunny on a fun journey with Natasha. For more information please visit www. artofgrowthcentre.co.uk
Children’s Authors Top the Pops in Libraries The kids are taking over the libraries! Seven children’s authors - Julia Donaldson, Daisy Meadows, Roderick Hunt, Francesca Simon, Adam Blade, Jacqueline Wilson and Roald Dahl – are among the top 10 most borrowed authors in UK libraries, according to figures from annual data released by the British Library. David Walliams’ popularity continues to soar and he’s now the nineteenth most borrowed author, up from forty first place in 2014-15. Jeff Kinney does not make it into the top ten authors but his Diary of a Wimpy Kid series is clearly a big hit with kids with eight titles in the series featuring in the top 10 most borrowed children’s fiction titles. For parents looking for something for their ‘reluctant reader,’ this library data provides a helpful guide to what other children love. For more details on most borrowed children’s authors and titles visit www.bl.uk/plr.
Join in the fun with Peppa Pig’s Muddy Puddle Walk to raise money for Save the Children Between 23 and 29 April, nurseries, early years groups, families and children up and down the country are being encouraged to take part in a Muddy Puddle Walk to raise money for the international children’s charity. Organising a Muddy Puddle Walk is a great way for your little ones to explore the world around them and jump in muddy puddles for a worthy cause. Whether you splash in puddles along a trail at the park or get creative and make your own puddles indoors from paper and foil – your Muddy Puddle Walk will be a fun day to spend together that littles ones won’t forget. Sign up now at www.MuddyPuddleWalk.org for your free Muddy Puddle Walk Fundraising Pack full of fun Peppa Pig inspired activities to help you get started.
Practise & develop: speaking and listening, turn taking and sharing Superbunny and Me is a programme that supports children to be superheroes in their personal, social and emotional development. It is for children aged 4 to 11. The most important aspect of all our classes is FUN, FUN and more Fun
Call us today on 07591 205646 enquiries@artofgrowthcentre.co.uk www.artofgrowthcentre.co.uk 4 Families London Surrey Borders
Fun Social Skills Taking Turns Communication Listening Speaking Arts & Crafts
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Clubs & Classes News The perfect start to performing arts A new term lies just around the corner and with more children attending Jigsaw Performing Arts Schools than ever before, there has never been a better time to take to the stage than now. Performing arts classes are hugely enjoyable for children of all ages and they are an excellent way to build confidence and social skills. With classes in Croydon, Mitcham, Sutton and across South London, why not book a two-week trial today? Visit www.jigsaw-arts.co.uk or call 020 8447 4530.
All Stars Cricket All Stars Cricket was launched in March 2017. The programme has had an incredible first year with over 1,500 All Stars Cricket centres delivering the programme to over 37,000 kids. All Stars Cricket provides boys and girls from 5 to 8 years old with an opportunity to become a star. The national curriculum of fun, cricket activities and games provides children with the basic movement skills to begin a lifelong love of physical activity. The programme is delivered by trained volunteers who deliver game based activities that teaches basic cricket skills like catching, throwing, hitting a moving ball and social skills like team work and communication. Held at accredited cricket clubs these courses are a perfect way for children to learn about cricket and make friends in safe, and most importantly, fun environment.
singing, dancing and acting, children are allowed the freedom to be creative within a structured and safe environment. Students learn more than the Performing Arts; they learn skills to help them succeed on the stage of life. The performing arts teaches children to be brave, to speak up and have the courage to share their opinions. It teaches life skills such as resilience, self-esteem and is an outlet for children to be active and expressive within a creative setting. Your child can see what it’s all about in a Two-Week Trial. To find out more about Stagecoach classes and the 30th anniversary events call your local Stagecoach Principal or to find your nearest school visit: www.stagecoach.co.uk
This Easter Curtain Up Drama gets a brandnew venue Curtain Up Drama teach speech & drama to children, young adults and adults. Classes involve a wide range of speech and drama activities, such as acting games, improvisation, working with published texts, breathing exercises, physical games, learning lines and sight reading and run weekend and after-school classes for groups and individuals for all ages 5- 18 years, and adults, at all levels. New classes will start after the Easter Holiday at 54 Orchard Road, Sanderstead CR2 9LU. Email Jenna on jenna@curtainupdrama.co.uk, for more information.
Don’t miss an issue! Download the latest issue and our entire back catalogue at issuu
For more information or to register for a summer of #BigMoments please visit allstarscricket.co.uk
To celebrate their 30th anniversary Stagecoach Performing Arts attempt a Guinness World Record 2018 marks the 30th anniversary of Stagecoach Performing Arts, and to celebrate throughout the year various events will be held around the country. One of these will be a performance of Disney’s Beauty and the Beast with dozens of schools around the UK performing the show on Sunday 1st July, in a bid to set a Guinness World Record of the highest number of simultaneous performances. Stagecoach Performing Arts inspires every child to unlock their potential and develop their Creative Courage For Life. Through classes split into
Comprenant l’étude de la langue écrite et orale. Programme pédagogique français. French classes to in all Sept 2016 New French classes opening school children for primary all primary school children. Le samedi après-midi à Wray Common School, Reigate RH2 0LR Contactez-nous 07913 811345 info@petite-ecole-reigate.co.uk | www.petite-ecole-reigate.co.uk familiesonline.co.uk
Families London Surrey Borders 5
Education News Technology Good for Kids Learning Recent research indicates that a staggering 96% of teachers believe technology has had a positive impact on the way children participate and learn in a lesson, whilst 56% believe that pupils are more engaged when technology is used, according to a survey conducted by Smoothwall, a web filtering provider for schools. An impressive 86% of teachers also say that technology has made them perform better and prepare more varied and exciting lessons. And parents are on board too. A survey conducted by The Knowledge Academy shows that 91% of parents believe technology is making it easier for them to be involved with their child’s education and 68% say that technology has increased their ability to help children with school work. However, there are some concerns. At least a third of teachers are worried about using technology in class because they cannot control what each child is doing whist it is being used. A similar number of parents also think that children already have too much access to technology and don’t need it at school. More information www.smoothwall.com and www. theknowledgeacademy.com
Jancett Childcare were delighted to be awarded Sutton’s ‘Best Business for Innovation and Growth’ at the Sutton Business Awards 2017, held in November 2017 Jancett Childcare will be celebrating its 50th anniversary in 2019. We are extremely proud to have been awarded Best Business for Innovation and Growth – an award which recognises an innovative approach to business, customer satisfaction and commitment to our workforce.
Wallington has always been our hub. We are now stepping into exciting times as we prepare to expand outside of our borough into the heart of Surbiton. The papers administered at our Surbiton Centre have been prepared by our experienced team and are similar to both the First Test and the Second Test of Tiffin School and The Tiffin Girls’ School. For more information about our Surbiton Paper Class Centre please visit, www.atozeducationalservices.com/paper-class
More Risky Play for Kids The Chief Inspector of Schools recently announced new training for School Inspectors to ensure they are properly focusing on child safety but not at the expense of opportunities to broaden and enrich young minds. Amanda Spielman, the Head of Ofsted, expressed concern that children are being deprived of rewarding experiences and the ability to cope with normal everyday risk because of an overzealous approach to health and safety. Ms Spielman said “Making sure children are safe at school is, of course, an important part of our work, but I want to be sure we look at the right things in the right way, without going overboard”. Statistics from A& E Departments have shown that injuries from tree falls are down amongst under-15s and that children are more likely to injure themselves in a tumble out of bed! Recent research has also shown that in today’s society only 21% of children play outside today compared to 71% of their parents when they were children. More information visit www.gov.uk/government/speeches
INSPIRE | NURTURE | ACHIEVE An independent co-educational day school for pupils aged 3-18
We look forward to welcoming new families to our baby units, preschools, day nurseries, and our Playsafe out of school clubs. If you would like to work for Jancett Childcare and join our growing team of practitioners, please do get in touch. Telephone 020 8669 1725 or visit: www.jancett.co.uk/work-for-us You can also keep up to update with Jancett’s latest news on Twitter (@ JancettGroup) and via their monthly blog.
Wallington based 11 Plus provider, A – Z Educational Services opens a new branch in Surbiton. AtoZ Educational Services is a provider of Maths and English tuition specialising in the 11+ Examination. We have been helping students with their Grammar School Entrance Examinations for almost 9 years, with exceptional results. Over the years, we have expanded from just classroom-based sessions to preparing students for the actual examination with Paper Classes that are taken under exam conditions. These Paper Classes have been running successfully since 2010 and we have seen so many of our students benefit from this time-constrained exam papers. The unique format of these Papers is tailormade to the actual exams and it is designed to help students build their confidence and eliminate the fear of formal tests. 6 Families London Surrey Borders
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 Mornings Tuesday 6th March 2018 9am - 10.30am
- Senior School
Tuesday 24th April 2018 9am - 10.30am
- Whole School
For further details and to pre-register please visit our website ewellcastle.co.uk 020 8394 3576 admissions@ewellcastle.co.uk
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Spring School Open Day Directory Cumnor House Schools www.cumnorhouse.com
Banstead Prep, SM7 3RA 01737 363601 www.Bansteadprep.com Whole School Open Morning Fri 9 Mar (Contact school to book a tour) Early Years Fun Sessions Wed 14 Mar 9.30am - 11am (Nursery or Reception in 2018) Spring Activity Morning Fri 16 Mar 9.30am - 11am (Reception in 2018) Drop in Open Morning Fri 20 Apr (Reception in September 2018) Chinthurst School, KT20 5AP www.chinthurstschool.co.uk Open Morning - Thurs 8 Mar Open Morning - Thurs 3 May Collingwood School SM6 0BD collingwoodschool.org.uk Open Morning - Thurs 26 Apr Open Morning - Sat 12 May Croydon High School CR2 8YB 020 8260 7508 admissions@cry.gdst.net www.croydonhigh.gdst.net Please contact the school directly to find out more about how your daughter can apply
Open Morning 19 Apr - (Reception) Open Morning 3 May - (Year 1-Year 8) Daily tours of each nursery are held between 9.30am – 10.15am. Call arrange a tour. Downsend Prep School Open Morning - Sat 6 May Downsend Pre Prep www.downsend.co.uk Open Morning - Sat 12 May Elmhurst School for Boys, and Little Elms Nursery, CR2 7DW www.elmhurstschool.net Open Morning - Sat 10 Mar Epsom College, KT17 4JQ www.epsomcollege.org.uk Open Morning - Sat 10 Mar Essendene Lodge, CR3 5PB www.essendenelodge.co.uk Open Morning - Thurs 26 Apr Ewell Castle Junior and Senior, KT17 2AW 020 8393 1413 www.ewellcastle.co.uk Whole School Open Morning –
Tues 24 Apr, 9am – 10.30am Whole School Open Evening – Thurs 7 June, 6pm – 8pm Senior School Open Morning – Tues 10 Mar, 9am – 10.30am Homefield Preparatory, SM1 2TE www.homefield.sutton.sch.uk Open Morning - Thurs 8 Mar Open Morning - Wed 25 Apr Manor House School & Nursery KT23 4EN 013 7245 7077 www.manorhouseschool.org Open Morning - Tues 1 May (Preparatory & Senior). Old Palace School of John Whitgift Preparatory - CR2 7YN Senior - CR0 1AX www.oldpalace.croydon.sch.uk Open Afternoon Sat 21 Apr (Seniors) Working Open Morning Wed 25 Apr (Prep) Working Open Morning - Sat 9 May (Seniors) Reedham Park School, CR8 4DN 0208 660 6357 www.reedhamparkschool.org.uk Parents are always welcome at
Reedham Park School. To arrange a personal tour please fill out our online booking form Royal Russell Junior School, CR0 5BX www.royalrussell.co.uk Open Morning - Wed 14 Mar (Nursery & Junior School) Seaton House School SM2 5LH www.seatonhouse.sutton.sch.uk Drop-in Morning -Tues 6 Mar Sutton High, Nursery and Juniors, SM1 2AL 020 8225 3075 Open Morning - Thurs 1 Mar, 9am (Nursery & Junior) Sutton High Seniors SM1 2AX 020 8642 0594 www.suttonhigh.gdst.net Open Morning Wed 14 Mar - 9.15am (Senior School and Sixth Form).
Please say you saw these advertised in Families London Surrey Borders Magazine
Whole School Open Morning Friday 9 March Early Years Activity Morning Wednesday 14 March Reception Open Morning Friday 20 April Book online www.bansteadprep.com/visit
A new, co-educational independent prep school for girls and boys aged 2 - 11 SUTTON LANE, BANSTEAD familiesonline.co.uk
WWW.BANSTEADPREP.COM
01737 363600 Families London Surrey Borders 7
Your child’s development at age 11 At 11, your child is will be embarking on the biggest period of rapid emotional and physical change since early childhood. It’s an exciting time but can often be confusing and overwhelming for you and them! Here is what to expect and what you can do to help:
At 11 years, your child: •
Is likely to have a large growth spurt and may show other signs of puberty, in girls especially, including underarm and public hair growth, along with increased sweat gland activity and oil production in the skin. Girls may start their periods and boys’ voices may start to change.
opinion and reactions. •
May go to their friends rather than parents when they need advice.
What you can do to help your child’s development: •
Talk to them about the physical changes they can expect and reassure them that everyone will develop at different times. Never tease them about any changes – including spots!
•
Will take increasing responsibility for themselves and will need minimal prompting.
•
May be unsettled by major changes, such as moving to secondary school.
•
Help them take pride in their own achievements and efforts.
•
May be self conscious in public and obsess over their appearance.
•
•
Will be more aware of what is happening in the world and how it might affect them.
Family support is very important when it comes to developing a sense of self, so always talk openly about school, friends and other relationships.
•
May be more sensitive to other people’s
•
Continue to discuss peer pressure and what is right and wrong – stay firm when
it comes to the boundaries you have put in place. •
Like toddlers, it is important to choose your battles! Hold your ground on important issues like school and relax rules around issues like clothes and hairstyles.
•
When you have a difference of opinion, take time to understand them and their point of view.
•
Spend time with your child and their friends and get to know your child’s friends’ parents. Share you concerns and ideas about setting limits.
Junior and Prep Departments in Croydon, Sutton, Epsom and surrounds This time in your young one’s life can be very challenging, and at times very confusing. With spending so many of their waking hours at school, developing independent relationships with their teachers and building friendships with their peers it is so important that they are in an environment that identifies and grows their individual talents to help them reach their full potential as they journey into the teenage years that build the foundations for adult life. Banstead Preparatory School, SM7 3RA 01737 363600 www.bansteadprep.com
Girls join Nursery aged 3, entering a warm, caring environment focused on inspiring confidence.
At Banstead Prep, your child will benefit from outstanding facilities and a broad curriculum, delivered by specialist subject teachers, which very few prep schools are able to match. Our site includes science labs, a full size floodlit all-weather games pitch, sports hall, an indoor swimming pool, professional dance studio and specialist art, music and drama teaching spaces.
Classrooms are light, bright and purpose-built and in the innovative 4D room, a combination of sound, light, music and touch inspires junior school girls to produce wonderful written and creative work.
In our nursery, we offer girls and boys aged from 2 years a happy and secure environment in a dedicated building on the main school site, with full access to all that Banstead Prep can offer. The Nursery team, led by a fully qualified Early Years Teacher, will ensure your child is completely prepared for a confident transition to Reception and beyond. Croydon High Juniors, CR2 8YB 020 8260 7508 www.croydonhigh.gdst.net Croydon High School in Selsdon, Surrey is an exceptional independent day school for girls aged 3 to 18. The Junior School, on the same spacious 22acre site as the Seniors, shares excellent sports facilities, including an indoor swimming pool where girls enjoy lessons from Reception age. 8 Families London Surrey Borders
Thanks to a legacy from a former Music teacher, all Year 3 girls learn a stringed instrument with free tuition for a year. Pastoral care is an absolute priority; supporting girls as they develop socially and ensuring success and effort are celebrated equally. Cumnor House Boys 168 Pampisford Rd, South Croydon, CR2 6DA 020 8660 3445 Cumnor House Girls 1 Woodcote Ln, Purley, CR8 3HB 020 8668 0050 www.cumnorhouse.com Cumnor House School consists of two singlesex highly successful Prep schools in the Croydon and Purley area. The Boys’ School boasts some 75 years-plus heritage and the Girls’ School is a more recent addition, both are proud of an impeccable record of academic excellence, as well as music and sporting achievements galore. The facilities include our own indoor swimming pool, specialist classrooms for science, art, music and
computing as well as a 10 acre boys’ playing field just across the road, which is rare in the Croydon area. At all levels the school has enjoyed first class inspection reports and our results at 10+, 11+ and 13+ are second to none. Ewell Castle Glyn Preparatory School KT17 2AW 020 8393 1413 www.ewellcastle.co.uk Our focus at Ewell Castle Preparatory School is to develop resilient and robust independent learners who can achieve their full potential and cope with the challenges that life provides. We offer a top quality education, a safe and secure environment in which to flourish and develop self-confidence. We ensure that pupils are ‘noticed’, their efforts praised and we really do accomplish the School aim of helping each child to fulfil his/her own personal potential. We have extensive grounds and a vibrant environment. We offer; small classes, a wide curriculum, before and after school care, a wide selection of after school clubs and weekly offsite swimming classes. Visit during one of our many open events.
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Reedham Park School, CR8 4DN 0208 660 6357 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.
60% of all A Level grades at A*/ A in 2017
Sutton High, Nursery and Juniors, SM1 2AL 020 8225 3075 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 aim to develop your daughter both pastorally and academically, based on knowing her personality and her skills set. 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
Prep school located in Purley and South Croydon for Girls and Boys aged 2-13 Now accepting applications for September 2019. Limited spaces available for September 2018.
An academically challenging education for girls from Nursery to Sixth Form
Open Mornings on 14 March & 9 May Book now at www.suttonhigh.gdst.net
Inspiring Curiosity Albert Einstein claimed he had no special talents, just that he was passionately curious. We can’t all be Einsteins, but at Croydon High we provide the spark that ignites lifelong curiosity and love of learning. Whatever stage of that journey your daughter is on, why not bring her along to our next Open Morning? We guarantee there will be plenty to inspire her. Please call 020 8260 7508 (Juniors) or 020 8260 7500 (Seniors) to find out more.
Croydon High Open Morning, Saturday 7 October 9.30-12.30pm
Contact admissions@cumnorhouse.com 020 8 645 2614 | cumnorhouse.com www.croydonhigh.gdst.net familiesonline.co.uk
Families London Surrey Borders 9
Conception, Birth and Beyond – A Mother’s Day Special Boost your Fertility follow our checklist Follow our simple guide to optimise your chances to conceive. Fertility Supplements •
All women trying for a baby should take 400 mcg of folic acid a day to help prevent neurological problems in the baby.
•
20% of women in the UK in the reproductive age group are deficient in Vitamin D. A low Vitamin D level is linked to infertility. Hence, you should also take 10 mcg of Vitamin D daily.
•
Men too should have supplements containing Vitamin C, Vitamin E, Zinc and Selenium to improve sperm quality.
Rubella Vaccination
Rubella infection in pregnancy can have serious consequences. Check your immunity!
Eat healthy
A balanced diet will help ensure your body is healthy enough to become pregnant and nourish a developing baby. A healthy diet can also help to keep sperm production at optimum levels.
Watch your weight
Being under (BMI less than 19) or overweight (BMI over 30) can make you less likely to become pregnant, so making changes to your diet and exercising regularly can to improve your chances.
Cut down on Caffeine
Several studies have shown that caffeine increases the length of time it takes to conceive. Studies have suggested that caffeine consumption increases the risk of miscarriage. The suggested threshold is less than 100mg per day of caffeine. For eg Latte or Cappuccino (16oz) contains 150mg caffeine and Tea (8oz) contains 50mg caffeine.
Exercise regularly
Regular, moderate exercise of around 30 minutes a day helps to maximise your fitness and keep your weight in check. It also boosts levels of endorphins, the body’s own ‘happy hormones’,
which may help to reduce stress. Some people find relaxation techniques or complementary therapies, such as acupuncture, also helps them relax.
Reduce alcohol intake
Women who are trying to become pregnant should drink no more than two or three units of alcohol per week. Men should have no more than four to five units of alcohol per week. Drinking too much can have a negative impact on semen quality and can harm a developing foetus.
Stop smoking
Smoking has been linked to infertility and early menopause in women, and to sperm problems in men. It is also a factor in premature or low birth-weight babies.
Keep cool
The testes should be a couple of degrees cooler than the rest of your body for maximum sperm production. Wearing loose-fitting underwear and trousers and avoiding activities such as saunas and hot showers may help.
Check your Medications
Some prescription drugs can reduce your chances of conceiving, so if you are taking regular medication, ask your doctor about suitable alternatives.
Stop Recreational Drugs
All recreational drugs should be completely avoided. Dr Irfana Koita, MRCOG, Director IVF Matters, Fertility Consultant, London IVFMatters.co.uk
IVF Matters Leading the way in fertility care
• Warm pools • Small classes • Dads welcome!
Specialising in Baby Swimming, Pre-school Swimmers and Toddlers Call 0208 947 2149 or email info@waterlifeswimschool.com 10 Families London Surrey Borders
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Sunday 11 March is Mother’s Day in the UK and we have a few suggestions on how to spend your day
Family day out with the National Trust
Dinner for Two
Fri 9-Sat 10 March At Morden Park Hall children can make Mum a special card by using natural materials from around the park.
Take advantage of the warming weather and get lost in the splenor of sprint with the National Trust.
Brasserie Vacherin have branches in both Croydon and Sutton and will be hosting a delicious Mother’s Day evening on 11 March. £32 per a 3-course meal and a complimentary glass of Prosecco for mother’s. www.brasserievacherincroydon.co.uk
Sun 11 March Ham House will be hosting a special tea themed Mother’s Day, with talks, activities and lunches throughout the day. Treat your mum to a special Mother’s Day treat in the café. Mums go free Hatchlands Park,Claremont Landscape Garden and Winkworth when accompanied by their children.
Mother’s Day Afternoon Tea
Lavish yourself and your family with a decadent Afternoon Tea at Dotty’s Teahouse for £25pp (£12.95 for children under 10), and a special gift for Mum. www.dottysteahouse.co.uk
Pampering for Two
Addington Palace have a luxurious range of different pamper days for mother and daughter, or couples to enjoy together. Mum can also take some time out for herself and enjoy the peace and tranquillity of a floatation tank. www.addington-palace.co.uk
Take a cruise
Join the Wey and Arun canal for a Mothering Sunday Relaxers and treat Mum to a relaxing 90 min cruise. £14 for adults and £10 for children. www.weyarun.org.uk
AS SEEN ON
MAKE YOUR CHILD’S DEVELOPMENT MORE FUN!
DISCOVER RUGBYTOTS
Our dynamic weekly play sessions enable boys and girls aged 2–7 to develop their social and physical skills in a fun, positive environment. For more details, just call or email:
Theatre Trip
0345 313 3242
Share the magic of a top West End musical with your mum, from Mamma Mia! to The Phantom of the Opera your options are limitless. Make the night one to remember with an adventure on a rickshaw and a romantic dinner out. Love Film has some super special on offer www.lovetheatre.com
enquiries@rugbytots.co.uk
rugbytots.co.uk
The world’s favourite rugby play programme Sutton Grapevine Advert 95x60 Artwork (3)[1].pdf
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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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Families London Surrey Borders 11
Tiddlers Directory
Watching your child grow up can be one of the most pleasurable and rewarding experiences. They grow up so fast, so take advantage and enjoy every moment you can whilst they are still little. Here are some ideas on things you can do to celebrate childhood with your little ones before they venture forth into the big wide world. Beboppers Music and Stories
Busylizzy Sutton
Come feel the buzz at Bee Boppers’ Music and Stories! Run by two professional songwriters and teachers, ‘Bee Boppers’ sessions aim to improve confidence, coordination, memory and language skills … all whilst having a great time!
Busylizzy is an affordable, flexible, fun and friendly family club supporting parents and parents-to-be with a combination of fitness classes, baby classes, specialist talks and events.
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. Classes are currently running in Sutton and the surrounding areas and are open to accompanied children from walking age up to 5 years. £6 per session (discount for siblings). FIRST SESSION IS FREE www.beeboppersmusic.co.uk
Busylizzy classes are on every weekday and run 51 weeks of the year. As a member, you can attend any combination of classes using the handy app to book, cancel and reschedule and enjoy classes on your terms, which means no more wasted money if your little one is unwell, or your plans change. You don’t need childcare to attend any of the fitness classes as your baby comes along too. To see the full range of classes for Mummy and baby visit www.busylizzysutton.co.uk
Jo Jingles provides fun singing and movement classes which teach children to play percussion instruments expressively, sing songs and find the rhythm to move and dance. Age-specific classes are tailor-made to engage even the youngest children. Classes encourage hand-eye co-ordination, and help children learn social skills and make friends, as well as encouraging their physical, mental and emotional development. Viv Hunt -Cobham, Epsom & Fetcham nr Leatherhead, 07751 438943 Lorraine Bryant - Banstead, Sutton and Purley, 07376 381617.
MAD Academy Croydon MAD Academy classes for preschool children are free spirited and bursting with energy and fun! The classes are funky and physical, and packed full of singing, dancing, music, games, props and, of course, laughter! Classes are also educational, helping children develop key skills aligned to the government’s Early Years Learning Framework. Alison Storey; alison.storey@ madacademy.com; Tel: 020 8407 1726
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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!
12 Families London Surrey Borders
Jo Jingles
Speech & Drama Classes LAMDA training for all ages After-School and Weekend Sessions Group and Private Tuition Available For further information please call or email:
07947 545 309 020 3620 2866 jenna@curtainupdrama.co.uk www.curtainupdrama.co.uk 54 Orchard Road, Sanderstead, 4, Carlton Road, South Croydon, Surrey, CR20BP 9LU South Croydon, CR2 familiesonline.co.uk
Monkey Music Monkey Music knows that music is fundamental to a pre-school aged child’s development. Their progressive and educational four stage curricula is designed to nurture a lifetime of music: from rock ‘n’ roll to ding-dong, classes are a ‘good fit’ for each separate age group. By the time our little monkeys ‘graduate’, they have a sound base from which to build a musical future.
The Lotus Practice - Baby Massage and Yoga Baby yoga is relaxing and enjoyable for both mum and babies, supporting bonding between you and your baby, quality time that’s fun.
Banstead & Claygate - 01932 223309 Epsom, Leatherhead & Dorking - 020 8432 0811.
Massage offer a unique way to communicate with, and soothe you little love, whilst raising the “feel-good” hormone oxytocin in both yourself and your baby, baby massage helps you both feel calm and relaxed and improves muscle tone and stimulates growth hormones.
My Gym Wallington
For more information please email Pinal at thelotus@hotmail.co.uk.
Have you heard about the amazing new classes for ages 6 weeks to 13 years at My Gym Wallington? The babies are loving the music, sensory and swings, the toddlers are loving the tumbling, rides and puppet shows and the older kids are loving the gymnastics, sports skills and zip wire! Or are you looking for a Birthday Party venue that offers exclusive hire, food and first-class entertainment, meaning no hassle for you, and up to 30 smiling happy children? Well you’ve found it…My Gym Wallington! But don’t take our word for it, book a free trial online at www.mygym.com/wallington
Rugbytots Ltd Rugbytots dynamic weekly sessions enable boys and girls aged 2-7 to develop their social and physical skills in a fun, positive environment. Our structured play sessions take children on a journey of sporting imagination, with engaging and energetic coaches supporting them every step of the way, whilst teaching how to catch, pass, kick, run with the ball and play as part of a team. www.rugbytots.co.uk
Oxygen Freejumping
Stagecoach Mini Stages
Oxygen Freejumping is ready to get your toddlers tumbling with their exclusive sessions for ages 5 and under. As well as the 150 connected trampolines and 12 different jumping zones, you can accompany your little jumpers on the exclusive soft play area, a multi-level toddler’s paradise! Its great fun and a brilliant way to spend quality time with the kids!
Stagecoach Mini Stages classes (for 2 -4year olds) will spark your child’s creativity and help improve literacy, numeracy, communication and social skills.
Waterlife Swim The joys of baby swimming go beyond the first classes & can lead to a lifelong love of swimming. Waterlife Swim School runs small classes in warm pools with enthusiastic, fully qualified “in water” instructors guiding you through a structured programme. For the most rewarding activity in which your baby can fully participate & for an investment in their future Waterlife believes swimming is a must. Contact Lizzie on 0208 947 2149 or visit www.waterlifeswimschool.com
Wood Chips Forest School Wood Chips Forest School is ready for Springtime fun! Come and have fun with your little ones with wonderful Spring activities in beautiful Chipstead. Wood Chips Forest School is a fun and exciting outdoor Parent/Carer toddler group where we welcome families each Wednesday and Thursday. Enjoy sharing woodland games and crafts, den building, bug hunting, songs, stories and a hot chocolate in a fun and friendly 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
Visit www.stagecoach.co.uk to find your nearest class.
To feature your business in our next issue please email: editor@families-lsb.co.uk
www.oxygenfreejumping.co.uk
Kiwi's Pre-schools 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
From baby's first steps to pictureworthy handstands, My Gym grows with your little ones. Our variety of programs that we have from age 6 weeks through to 13 years old and memorable birthday parties shape skills and build confidence to help children be active, healthy, social and, most of all, happy kids.
Kiwi’s Meadvale Copse Road, Meadvale, Redhill
new member special
For more information please contact Catherine on 07899654463 or Email kiwis_cac1@sky.com
www.kiwisplaygrouppreschool.co.uk familiesonline.co.uk
Free Trial Class
Spaces available for January 2018
Book online at www.mygym.com/wallington
020 8669 8510
My Gym Wallington 4 Melbourne Road Wallington SM6 8SY wallington@mygym.com
@mygymwallington
Families London Surrey Borders 13
Enjoys Cadbury’s Famous Egg Hunt with the National Trust
© The National Trust
The Easter bunny has hidden chocolate eggs at all your favourite National Trust properties.Take part in the Easter Egg trail and get your Cadbury chocolate treat at the end, plus lots of fun to be had by all the family. Normal admission prices apply, and small charge for the trial. www.nationaltrust.co.uk
What’s on at
The National Trust Morden Hall Park, SM4 5JD 020 8545 6850 option 4 Tue 3 – Sun 8 Apr, 11am-4pm Duck Trails What’s a duck’s favourite food? Find out by picking up a trail in our new welcome space. £2 suggested donation (incl. duck food) Sat 7 – Sun 8 Apr, 11am-3pm Quacky Races Borrow one of our rubber ducks and race it down the river to see if yours will be the fastest. £2 per duck Claremont Landscape Garden, KT10 9JG 01372 467806 Tue 20 Mar, 11am–12.30pm NAA Welcoming spring walk Join our friendly guide Hilary to find out if spring is on its way! Tue 3–Sun 15 Apr, Wild fowl trail 10am–4pm NAA plus 50p for trail. Learn about birds and their environments. How many can you see swimming on the lake? Tue 3–Fri 6 Apr, 11am–1pm Half–term nature crafts Come and enjoy Easter fun activities with a selection of different crafts every day. NAA plus £1.50 per craft Winkworth Arboretum, GU8 4AD 01483 208936 Tue 3– Sun 15 Apr, 10am–4pm Children’s spring trail Enjoy the outdoors and have fun with our children’s trail during this Easter holiday. NAA plus 50p for trail. Don’t forget to say you saw these in Families London Surrey Borders Magazine 14 Families London Surrey Borders
Ham House and Garden, TW10 7RS 0844 249 1895
Morden Park Hall, SM4 5JD Fri 30 Mar – Mon 2 Apr, 10am-4pm
Ham House, TW10 7RS Fri 30 - Sun 15 Apr, 10am to 5pm (Last trail sold 4:30pm)
Claremont Landscape Garden, KT10 9JG Fri 30 Mar – Mon 2 Apr, 10.30am–4pm
Runnymede, SL4 2JL Fri 30 Mar – Mon 2 Apr, 10.30am-4pm
Hatchlandspark, GU4 7RT Fri 30 Mar –Mon 2 Apr, 10am – 5pm
Winkworth Arboretum, GU8 4AD Fri 30 Mar–Mon 2 Apr, 10.30am–4pm
Spring Tiptoe through the tulips See and walk through displays of thousands of bulbs springing to life throughout the garden, including our tulip maze. NAA Cadbury Egg Hunt: The Safe Cracker Can you crack the Ham code this Easter? Hunt for Egg clues around the garden and piece together the answer so you can crack the safe to free the Cadbury bunny. £3 per trail.NAA Tue 3 - Sun 15 Apr, 10am- 5pm The Egg-cellent Easter Games An ‘Olympics’ of games, with ‘Hop Scotch’, hopping bunny sack race, and an egg & spoon obstacle course. NAA Hatchlandspark, GU4 7RT 01483 222482 Sun 1 & Mon 2 Apr, 11am – 3pm Have A Go Archery Think you’re the next Robin Hood? Exciting, safe archery classes for ages six and above with H&H Archery.
National Trust and Cadbury Easter Egg Hunts in Surrey
Sun 1 & Mon 2 Apr, 12noon – 5pm Pony Magic Pony rides for children. A truly magical experience with beautiful, safe ponies and experienced handlers. Children are led on a 3-5-minute ride, suitable for 2-11-year olds.
Friday 30 March - Monday 2 April Easter fun at Claremont Landscape Garden, Dapdune Wharf, Hatchlands Park, Morden Hall Park, Polesden Lacey, Shalford Mill and Winkworth Arboretum.
Runnymede, SL4 2JL 01784 432891 Tue 3 Apr – 15 Apr, 10.30am – 4pm Runnymede family wildlife trail Discover Runnymede’s wildlife with our self-guided spotter sheet and earn a small prize.
https://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/easter
#nationaltrust
When you join, donate, visit or volunteer, your support helps us to look after special places for ever, for everyone.
© National Trust 2017. The National Trust is an independent registered charity, number 205846. Photography © National Trust Images\Chris Lacey.
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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 10am – 11.15am & 1-2.15pm Little Explorers Morden Hall Park, SM4 5JD 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. Every Fri from Fri 2 Mar - 27 Apr, 10.15am - 11am Under 5’s Sessions Kingston Museum, KT1 2PS Our weekly free craft and story sessions which are constantly changing. Sat 10 Mar, 11am - 4pm Family Workshop Museum of Croydon, CR9 1ET Celebrate the achievements of some of Croydon’s Women for International Women’s Day. Sat 10 Mar, 12noon – 4pm Children’s crafts & card making Penshurst Place & Gardens, TN11 8DG Create a beautiful hand-made card to give on Mother’s Day to show mum just how much you love her. Sat 10 Mar, 9am – 1pm Wallington Farmers Market Old Town Hall and Library Gardens, Wallington SM6 0NB Quality local produce direct from the
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producer 10 Mar, 9am - 5pm Herald of Spring Bourne Hall Museum, KT17 1UF This year’s theme is Mother Nature learn about local green and natural organisations, local open spaces and see the flower displays. Children activities and games. Children’s Scarecrow competition Sat 17 Mar, 10am-1pm Dovecote open morning Beddington Park, SM6 7NN Ever wondered about this brick octagonal building in Beddington Park? Now’s your chance to see inside this 18th century architectural gem complete with original pigeon nest boxes and revolving ladder used for raiding. Sat 17 Mar & Sun 18 Mar Elizabeth I and the Armada: Ready the Battle Stations! Penshurst Place & Gardens, TN11 8DG Journey back in time to the 16 century and prepare for battle! This live-action event is not to be missed. Sat 17 Mar, 1pm - 2.30pm Bourne Hall Museum Kids Clun- D-Day Bourne Hall Museum, KT17 1UF Learn the difference between the weapons and equipment of the land
Easter Holiday Fun at Oxygen Freejumping Oxygen Freejumping, Croydon’s favourite trampoline park, will truly put a spring in your families step this Easter! Oxygen is the place where you can jump, flip, leap, play and soar to your heart’s content, so whether you’re a superstar flipper or bouncing beginner you’ll be in for a treat! This Easter the whole family is welcome to have a bouncing time as you defy gravity on the mega airbags and take part in special Easter games like jumping competitions and tournaments. Take on the Oxygen Allstars at spring-loaded dodgeball, battle your friends on the speed reaction walls and practice your super slamming skills on the basketball hoops. There’ll be Easter egg hunts, colouring-in competitions, bunny races and much more! Plus, exclusively for Families readers, save 10% when you use promo code FAM10 when booking. Located in Unit 5, The Colonnades, Purley Way, Croydon. To book your session, visit oxygenfreejumping.co.uk/croydon. and airborne troops and how they worked together to bring victory. Sat 17 March, 11am - 4pm Family Workshop Museum of Croydon, CR9 1ET Be inspired to create your own piece of art to recognise International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination. Sat 17 Mar, 3.30-5.30pm Wallingdon Mum2Mums Nearly New Sale, The Centre, SM6 9RP Buy quality second hand and nearly new baby & children’s stuff.
21 Mar – 25 Mar Dazzling Daffodils Hever Castle & Gardens, TN8 7NG Be dazzled by the bright sight of thousands of daffodils and find out more about the cheery spring bloom at this new event with free garden tours. Sat 24 Mar, 11am - 4pm Family Workshop Museum of Croydon, CR9 1ET Come and make a water tower inspired by Croydon surveyor Baldwin Latham, for World Water Day. Sat 24 Mar 2018, 12noon – 12.30 and 1pm – 3.30pm
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Wondrous Libraries The British Library, NW1 2DB Join us for this creative workshop and explore different materials to design your own extraordinary library map. Be inspired by the architecture of the British Library, our wonderful collection of maps and tales of unusual libraries. Sun 25 Mar, 11am-12.30pm, 1.30-3pm and 3.30-5pm. Sleeping Beauty (Ye Legend of ye Briar Rose) Little Holland House, SM5 3LW Hand loom, make paper roses /sword, storytelling, Rose Bud Trail. Come dressed up (optional). Refreshments included. £3.50 adults, £2.50 children. Mon 26 Mar & Mon 23 Apr 10.30am start Bach to Broadway, St. Mildred’s, Bingham Road, CR0 7EB Bach to Baby is the critically acclaimed classical concert series for babies and toddlers. Sat 31 Mar - Sun 15 Apr 11.30am4.30pm Spring Rainbows Honeywood Museum, SM5 3NX Take part in our Rainbow ‘cloud’ craft and find the colours of the rainbow and pot of gold. Free drop in throughout opening hours. Sat 31 Mar, 11am - 4pm Family Workshop Museum of Croydon, CR9 1ET Make a portrait celebrating the works of Croydon authors and artists. Sun 1 Apr, 1pm, 1.45pm & 2.30pm April Fools Easter Storytelling Penshurst Place & Gardens, TN11 8DG It’s not just people who get tricked on 1st April! Watch a tale about the Easter Rabbit and the funny prank he fell for. Tues 3 Apr 10.30am-12noon & 1.30pm-3pm Wild Story Time: Monkey Puzzle Sutton Ecology Centre, SM5 3NY Come and listen to Julia Donaldson’s Monkey Puzzle and see if you can help Monkey solve his puzzle and find his mummy. Includes pond dipping to find other baby creatures in the pond. Finish with a craft to take home. £5.50 per child 3yrs + Booking essential. Siblings Welcome. Tues 3 Apr, Fri 6 Apr & Tues 10 Henfold Birds of Prey Denbies Wine Estate, RH5 6AA 11am until 3pm with main display at 12.30pm. Free of charge.
Wed 4 Apr, 11.30am & 2.30pm Cat’s Grin Theatre Present ‘Three Traditional Tales’ Denbies Wine Estate, RH5 6AA Three traditional stories – Goldilocks & The Three Bears, Little Red Riding Hood & The Three Little Pigs Wed 4 Apr, 11am to 12.30pm and 2pm - 3.30pm Flint Knapping Bourne Hall Museum, KT17 1UF Learn to shape flints like the ancient Stone Age craftsmen and discover the lost art of making stone tools. As part of a small group under the tuition of master flint knapper, James Dilley, enjoy the opportunity to make your own authentic Stone Age tool.
Family fun at Hever Castle & Gardens throughout the Easter holidays promises to put a spring in your step.
Wed 4 and Fri 6 Apr, 10am–11.30am or 1.30–3pm. Toddler Trails and Tales (2–4 yrs) Gatton Park, RH2 0TW Enjoy the story of ‘The Scarecrow’s Wedding’ and go for a walk around the park to bring the story to life. Return to create artwork linked to the story.
From 30 March you can celebrate spring by making and decorating an Easter bonnet at daily craft workshops with a chance to show off your creations in a parade in front of the Castle, or put your thinking cap on with a fun quiz in the Castle about the history of Easter and the traditions of the season. Visit www.hevercastle.co.uk for more information.
Thurs 5 Apr, 10am-12noon or 1.30pm3.30pm. Forest Fun (4-7yrs) Gatton Park, RH2 0TW Join us in our Forest School area, explore Cedar Wood, make woodland crafts and enjoy a snack around the fire. Thurs 5 Apr, Mon 9 Apr & Fri 13 Apr 10am, 11am, 12 noon Teddy Bear’s Train Ride & Storytelling! Denbies Wine Estate, RH5 6AA Bring your favourite teddy for a vineyard train ride and storytelling, includes chocolate treat. Fri 6 & Fri 13 Apr 2.30pm-3pm or 3.30pm-4pm Spring Weather Afternoon Craft Honeywood Museum, SM5 3NX Make a colourful windsock and mobile. Sat 7 Apr, 1pm - 2.30pm When a Knight won his Spurs Bourne Hall Museum, KT17 1UF We follow a young knight as he is served and eats a meal. Discover his armour and weapons, how he fights and defends himself with them. Then cheer him on as he takes on other knights for his lady’s favour and his honour. Mon 9 Apr, 10am–12noon or 1.30pm– 3.30pm. Feathered Friends (4–7 years Gatton Park, RH2 0TW
30 March – 15 April Dusty’s Giant Easter Duck Hunt WWT London Wetland Centre, SW13 9WT Spring is a wonderful time to visit WWT London Wetland Centre as new life is bursting out all around with babies, bugs and buds in abundance. But some of our ducklings have gone missing - can you help us find them? Bring your friends and family and follow our Easter GIANT duck trail around our nature reserve to discover where they are hiding. You’ll need all your special detective skills to track them. Look up as well as down, our ducks like to perch above you sometimes. They also love splashing around, so they won’t be far from the water. If you find them all you’ll win a prize! £1 per trail including a prize. As well as searching for our GIANT ducks, there’s also lots of Dusty’s ducky cousins to see, plus join our team for a spot of Pond Dipping or find out how to build a nest during one of our Wild Play sessions. Visit www.wwt.org.uk for more information and opening times. 16 Families London Surrey Borders
24 March – 15 April Find the magic, find the Lindt Gold Bunny at Hever Castle, TN8 7NG
Welcome back the magic of the Lindt Gold Bunny. Explore the beautiful gardens, make special family memories and discover where the Lindt Gold Bunny is hiding at this Easter’s Lindt Gold Bunny Hunt. Complete the trail and see what Lindt chocolate treat the Easter Bunny has in store for you.
Find out more about the birds that live at Gatton, through crafts, trails and games. Mon 9 Apr–Fri 13 Apr Tea in the Japanese Garden Gatton Park, RH2 0TW Surrounded by nature, enjoy exclusive use of the garden for a cream tea or variety of cakes, tea and coffee. Tues 10 Apr, 11am-1pm Folklore Flower Trail Beddington Park, SM6 7NN It’s National Gardening Week! Find the hidden flower images and learn more about the folklore and superstitions associated with each one. In the Grange Garden. Wed 11 Apr 11am-1pm Honeywood Mini Explorers - Winnie the Pooh Honeywood Walk, SM5 3NX Aimed at six to ten year-olds, the children will have an opportunity to listen to a Winnie the Pooh story, solve the mystery of the missing tail, take a Poohsonality Test to see which character they are like and make a collage of their character Wed 11 and Fri 13 Apr, 10am–11.30am or 1.30pm–3pm. Toddler Trails and Tales (2–4 years), Gatton Park, RH2 0TW Enjoy the story of ‘The Smartest Giant in Town’ and go for a walk around the park to bring the story to life. Return to create artwork linked to the story. Wed 11 Apr, 11am & 2pm Tropical Creepy Crawly Roadshow Denbies Wine Estate, RH5 6AA Meet Snakes, Lizards, Mini-Beasts and Frogs for an inspiring Animal Encounter. Thurs 12 Apr, 11.30am & 2.30pm Fancy Dress Disco Denbies Wine Estate, RH5 6AA Traditional children’s disco including party games & dancing 11 Apr, 9.45am to 11.15am and 11.30am - 1pm Budding Artists CATS Club Bourne Hall Museum, KT17 1UF In partnership with Budding artists Bourne Hall Museum has starting a new CATS club. Craft, Art, Technology and Science the children learn some science and technology and use art and craft skills to make something history related. For St George’s Day make a catapult and a knight in shining armour. 6 to 14. £7.
Thurs 12 Apr, 11am-1pm Nature Faces Beddington Park, SM6 7NN Collect natural materials and use them to create nature faces on card. See how creative you can get using what’s around you! By the Pavilion café. Sat 14 Apr, 9am – 1pm Wallington Farmers Market Old Town Hall and Library Gardens, Wallington SM6 0NB Quality local produce direct from the producer Sat 14 Apr, 10am–4.30pm. Garden Structures Gatton Park, RH2 0TW A one-day course making garden structures (obelisks and sunflowers) from willow with under woods man John Waller in the beautiful setting of Gatton Park. Materials and tools provided. Sat 14 Apr, 2-4pm Mum2Mums Nearly New Sale Ruxley Church Hall, Epsom KT19 0JG Buy quality second hand and nearly new baby & children’s stuff 18 Apr – 27 Apr Tulip Celebrations Hever Castle & Gardens, TN8 7NG Follow the trail throughout the grounds with special varieties to look out for including the Ice Cream tulip. Free garden tours are also available. 22 Apr St George’s Day Celebration Hever Castle & Gardens, TN8 7NG Celebrate St George’s Day at Hever Castle and learn more about the patron saint of England. Sat 28 Apr, 10-12pm Croydon Mum2Mums Nearly New Sale All Saints Church, CR2 9AB Buy quality second hand and nearly new baby & children’s stuff Sat 28 Apr NCT Nearly New Sale St Andrew’s Church, Cheam, SM2 7HF Top quality baby and children’s clothes and equipment at bargain prices. Sat 28 Apr, 3pm-5pm Ashstead Mum2Mums Nearly New Sale, Ashtead Peace Memorial Hall, KT21 2BE Buy quality second hand and nearly new baby & children’s stuff. familiesonline.co.uk
My Gym Wallington Easter Camps My Gym Wallington Easter Camps are not to be missed! Featuring Easterthemed games, gymnastics, treasure hunts, crafts, face painting, snacks, Zip Wire and more! Provisionally scheduled for April 3rd and April 4th 12.25pm to 2.55pm (ages 3 to 8) with an Easter Party for 1-3-year olds over Easter weekend! www.mygym.com/wallington Barracudas Easter Holiday Camps It can be hard to keep children entertained during the school holidays. With an unrivalled choice of activities and more ‘Outstanding’ Ofsted ratings than any other comparable provider, Barracudas is an excellent choice for both parents and children alike. For as little as £3.64 an hour, children have a choice of quality activities for every session, run by friendly, professional and enthusiastic staff in exceptional settings. They’re so confident that your child will have ‘such an amazing experience at Barracudas they can’t wait to come back’ that they offer a ‘money back guarantee’ for all new bookers! www.barracudas.co.uk Easter 11 + Maths & English Learning Club Exam Pass Masters will be running a series of Maths and English masterclasses for one week commencing 9.30am to 3.30pm on Monday 9th to 13th April in Wallington. In Maths, masterclasses on challenging topics include algebra and other word problems. English will comprise of Comprehension, Writing, Cloze amongst other topics. Excellent revision. Visit www.11plusmasterclass.com or call 0208 064 1011. Stagecoach Performing Arts Easter Holiday Workshops
Stagecoach Sutton, Mon 9 – Thur 12 Apr West Street, Carshalton, SM5 2XQ Early Stages (4-6) 9.30am – 12.30pm Main Stages (6–18), 9.30am – 4pm www.stagecoach.co.uk Wildlings Forest School Family Fun & Day Camps Thurs 5, Fri 6, Wed 11, Thurs 12 & Fri 13 Apr Sutton Ecology Centre, SM5 3NY Forest School activities in the woods. For further details or to book email wildlingsforestschool@gmail.com.
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Sun 25 Mar Start time 10am Bunny Hop 5k & 10k Fun Run Denbies Wine Estate, RH5 6AA Easter Bunny will be generous to those who join us for the Bunny Hop Fun Run, new for 2018! Sun 25 Mar, 10am-4pm Kokova Chocolate Fair Denbies Wine Estate, RH5 6AA browsing, sampling and buying some of the most amazing chocolates the UK has to offer. Mon 26 Mar – Sun 5 Apr, Lindt Gold Bunny Hunt Hampton Court Palace, KT8 9AU Head out on a hunt for the Lindt Gold Bunny this Easter at Hampton Court Palace. Celebrate the arrival of spring at Henry VIII’s pleasure palace with the Lindt Gold Bunny Hunt, family activities, and the re-opening of the popular Magic Garden. Fri 30 Mar - Mon 2 Apr, 11am 12.30pm & 1.30pm - 3.30pm Easter Egg Search Battersea Park Children’s Zoo, SW11 4NJ Join in the Easter fun, simply purchase a quiz sheet upon entry & use the clues to help you work out where those eggs are! Fri 30 Mar Easter Bunny Day Battersea Park Children’s Zoo, SW11 4NJ Make a set of rabbit ears and get face painted whiskers and a carrot to munch! Rabbit badge making, Story Time and meet a real one! Fri 30 Mar – Sat 31 March ,11am – 4pm Easter Eggstravaganza Painshill Park, KT11 1JE The perfect Easter day out for all the family, discover the landscape in its spring glory in the hunt for hints and clues leading to some delicious chocolatey Easter treats! Fri 30 Mar – Sun 15 Apr, 10.30am – 6pm Easter egg garden trail and craft activities Penshurst Place & Gardens, TN11 8DG The Easter Rabbit’s springtime friend is hiding in the garden. Find hidden clues on giant Easter eggs to discover who! Hop down for Easter-themed craft activities to make an assortment of springtime goodies to take home.
Sat 31 Mar, 12noon - 4pm The Children’s Trust Easter Fair The Children’s Trust, KT20 5RU Come and join the ‘eggcellent’ Easter Fair at The Children’s Trusts national specialist centre in Tadworth. Thier will have lots of ‘eggciting’ activities for the whole family to enjoy!
Tues Fri 3 Apr - Sun 15 Apr Colourful Bunny Search Battersea Park Children’s Zoo, SW11 How many brightly coloured bunnies are there hidden around the zoo? Purchase a quiz sheet upon entry & use the clues to help you work out where they’re hiding! Cost £1 .
Sun 1 April & Mon 2 Apr, 1pm-5pm Open Day & Easter Egg Hunt Gatton Park, RH2 0TW Explore the gardens looking for clues to find the eggs.
Tues 3 & Tues 10 April Chicken & Egg Days Battersea Park Children’s Zoo, SW11 4NJ Make a chick puppet, come see our Egg Display from the smallest to the biggest eggs laid at the zoo. Join in egg and spoon races and listen to Egg Story time and meet a Chicken.
Sun 1 Apr, 10am - 5pm Childrens Easter Trail British Wildlife Centre, RH7 6LF Children will enjoy hunting down those eggs that are hidden amongst the animals. Could they be in the walkthrough red squirrel enclosure, or on the banks of the otter ponds? Also a spring lucky dip for the children.
Tues 3 Apr, 11am-1pm Xplorer Beddington Park, SM6 7NN Explore the park and hunt for the Easter themed markers. Collect a map and complete the challenge.
Mon 2 Apr, 10am, 11am Vineyard Train Chocolate Trail Denbies Wine Estate, RH5 6AA Enjoy breath-taking views of the vineyard, includes a glass of sparkling for adults and chocolate treat for children.
Mon 9 April & Tues 10 Apr 11am-2pm Chicks and Chickens Egg Hunt Sutton Ecology Centre, SM5 3NY Find eggs from different birds and meet chickens and chicks! Make your own egg craft to take home.
Look in to sto g for som ethin p g ‘crab the kids g e by’ th is holi tting day?
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Stagecoach Epsom, Wed 3 – Fri 6 Apr Bourne Hall, Spring Street, Ewell, Epsom, KT17 1UF Early Stages (4-6), 9am – 12noon Main Stages, (6–18), 9.30am – 3.30pm.
Sat 24 Mar- Sun 15 Apr Easter Holiday Fun & Lindt Gold Bunny Trail RHS Garden Wisley, GU23 6QB Hop through one of the four RHS Gardens on the trail of the Lindt Gold Bunny and join in with fun family activities including arts and crafts workshops.
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Stagecoach Coulsdon, Mon 9 - 13 Apr Film & TV Workshop, Hillcroft Primary School, Caterham Learn about performing for camera by making short films, a pop video and learning how to be a presenter Ages 4 – 6, 10am - 1pm. £75 Book both Easter and Summer for £140. Ages 7 – 18, 9.30am - 3.30pm. £130 - Book both Main School workshops for £250.
EASTER EGG HUNTS
80+ FU EX &
activitie s every s at ite!
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OP EN NE AR YO U!
m - 6p
m
C TR INI TY HIG H SCH OO L
Easter: 3rd - 13th Ap Summer:23rd July - 17t ril h August
Fri 30 Mar – Sun15 Apr Easter Holiday Eggstravaganza Birdworld, GU10 4LD In celebration of Birdworld’s 50th Anniversary year, Percy the Penguin has hidden a bumper 50 eggs around the park in a very special EasterEggstravaganza spotting trail. Fri 30 Mar to Mon Sat2 Apr LEGOLAND Windsor Resort, SL4 4AY New Easter themed LEGO® builds, miniature egg hunt, live shows, and more. Little ones can transform into Easter bunnies with their own free LEGOLAND Easter bunny ears on arrival, before venturing into Miniland for our unique egg hunt.
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VI ba OR 0845 123 5299 ftyigl
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EASTER HOLIDAY CAMPS
Giving every child such an
AM EX
they can’t wait to come back!
Families London Surrey Borders 17
What’s On Children’s Theatre Fri 9 Mar A Mid Summer Nights Dream Join Ballet Theatre UK and be transported to a fantastical world of dazzling dance, music and enchantment. Lovers, fairies, mischief and moonlight conspire in Shakespeare’s classic tale. Sat 10 Mar The Jungle Book You are invited to join Mowgli and his friends Baloo the bear and Bagheera the panther on a madcap adventure through the jungle. Tues 17 Apr - Sat 21 Apr Epsom Light Opera Company present Calamity Jane Whip crack away with this timeless classic. Let multi awardwinning Epsom Light Opera Company take you back to the black hills of Dakota. New Wimbledon Theatre The Broadway, Wimbledon, SW19 1QG 0870 060 6646 www.atgtickets.com/venues/ new-wimbledon-theatre Tues 24 – Sat 28 Apr Awful Auntie Overview From the award-winning West End producers of Gangsta Granny comes the world premiere of David Walliams’ amazing tale of frights, fights and friendship, featuring a very large owl, a very small ghost and a very awful Auntie! Tues 1 – Sat 5 May Matthew Bourne’s Cinderella Overview A thrilling and evocative love story, set in London during the Second World War, which forms part of the company’s 30th anniversary celebrations.
Polka Theatre 240 The Broadway, Wimbledon, SW19 1SB 020 8543 4888 www.polkatheatre.com Fri 16 Mar – Sun 18 Mar The Steadfast Soldier This playful retelling of Hans Christian Andersen’s story uses puppetry, projected animations, music and shadow play for a unique theatrical experience. 3 - 6 23 Mar – Sun 13 May Michael Rosen’s Chocolate Cake Follow the adventures of two brothers and the night-time disappearance of a chocolate cake in this scrumptious new musical adaptation by the creators of We’re Going on a Bear Hunt. 4+ Fri 23 Mar – Sun 25 Mar The Little Mochi Man With ‘origami’ puppets, animation and specially composed music, this is the perfect introduction to Japan for young children. Wed 4 Apr – Sat 15 Apr Much Ado About Puffin Join us as we traverse stormy seas and reckless tides to bring you this funny tale about a man all alone, a friendly puffin, and a whole lot of fuss over nothing. 4+ Sat 20 Apr – Sun 22 Apr Twinkle Twinkle There are melodies that live in all of us. A beautiful adventure in music and light, featuring puppetry, magical interaction and a gorgeous score.3 +
Sat 3 Feb - Sun 8 Apr Pinocchio Craftsman Geppetto has made an incredible little wooden puppet, Pinocchio, however one magical night his creation transforms into a real boy! Pinocchio’s adventure has just begun… Wed 11 Apr – Sat 14 Apr Beast The Royal Soothsayer, King Horace’s twin-brother, has prophesied that the King’s second daughter Princess Rapunzel will marry the Beast who lives in an adjoining castle. But Princess Rapunzel much prefers the Beast’s manservant, Jack, best known for once climbing a beanstalk and meeting a Giant.
Shaftbury Theatres, 210 Shaftsbury Avenue WC2H 8DP 0330 333 4812 Wed 4 July – Sun 2 Sept We’re Going On A Bear Hunt Direct from a smash-hit international tour, Michael Rosen’s award-winning book We’re Going On A Bear Hunt is brought vividly and noisily to the stage in director Sally Cookson’s fun-filled adaptation set to Benji Bower’s versatile lively score. Join the intrepid adventurers on their quest to find a bear; as they wade through the gigantic swishy swashy grass, the splishy splashy river and the thick oozy, squelchy mud! Expect catchy songs, interactive scenes and plenty of hands-on adventure! Ages 3+. www.bearhuntlive.com
Sat 27 Apr – Sun 29 Apr Egg and Spoon Join us for a romp through the seasons opening all the gifts of nature, and a gentle introduction to the magic of theatre. 1 - 5
30 March – 15 April Easter Eggstravaganza Bocketts Farm, KT22 9BS Enjoy a great family day out at Bocketts Farm this Spring, with over 300 gorgeous baby lambs due, newborn chicks and cuddly bunnies! Children will love to get up close to the animals in daily Animal Handling and ‘Meet The Shepherd’ sessions, in addition to goat milking, tractor rides, pony rides and pig racing. Plus, complete the Easter Trail and take home a chocolate treat. Ẁith plenty of play indoors and out, including giant slides, jumping pillows and pedal go-karts, you can be sure of a great day out whatever the weather. Visit www.bockettsfarm.co.uk for more information and opening times. 18 Families London Surrey Borders
The Colour House Theatre Merton Abbey Mills, London, SW19 2RD 0208 542 5511 www.colourhousetheatre.co.uk
‘Ingenious’ Daily Mail
Illustrations © 1989 Helen Oxenbury from We’re Going on a Bear Hunt by Michael Rosen
Epsom Playhouse Ashley Avenue, Epsom, KT18 5AL 01372 742 555 www.epsomplayhouse.co.uk
From 4 JULY BOOK NOW
bearhuntlive.com familiesonline.co.uk
The Lotus Practice
30th March - 15th April 2018
EASTER EGGSTRAVAGANZA FANTASTIC FAMILY FUN THIS SPRING!
Now offering baby massage and yoga!
Hundreds of baby lambs due
ü Cranio-sacral therapy
PLUS Animal handling, goat milking, tractor rides, pig racing and pony rides daily!
Baby massage is relaxing and enjoyable for both mum and babies, supporting bonding between you and your baby with quality time that’s fun.
) 07956442223 : thelotus@hotmail.co.uk 8 www.thelotuspractice.com
Mock Tests 11+11+Mock Tests
WALLINGTON SUTTONSchools Stage 1 style - Mock 11+ Stage 2 Sutton Orpington/Kent CEM Selective Eligibility Test Selective Eligibility Test Tests& Stage Selective Eligibility Grammar Schools (SET) & Stage 2 Test Mock Bexley Tests (SET) 2 Sat 21st Apr (Weekend) 29/5/15 Fri Half Term 30/5/15 – Sat. am
Where: Hurst Community
Where: Wallington Centre, Hurst Place,SM6 Hurst Rd, Where: The Centre, Milton Rd, Bexley DA5 3LH Wallington SM6 for 9RP See the website full address. Time: 1.30pm – 3.45pm
E
Easter Trail with Chocolate treats
ü Baby Yoga Courses
Dates: 30/3/15Fri – Mon. pm Dates: 20/2/15 Half Term
AB LAMBYS DU
Meet the Shepherd
ü Baby Massage Courses
Dates: Sat 24th Mar (Weekend) 11/4/15 – Sat. am 28/3/15 Saturday
OVER
400 B
WE’RE LAMBING
31/3/15Wed – Tue. Sch. hols Dates: 18/2/15 Dates: Half Term Dates: Tue 3rd Apr (Easter) 26/5/15 - Tue. Half term 01/4/15 Wed Easter Hols Tue 29thWed Term) 04/7/15 –May SatHalf .(Half amTerm 27/5/15 Where: Crofton Halls, Sutton Orpington SM3 or Where: Road, Crofton Wallington SM6 Where: Sutton Life Centre, 24 BR6 8PR Alcorn Close, Sutton SM3 9PX See the website for full Time: 9.30am - 1pm address.
Fee: £22.50 per paper including detailed Fee: From £25 paper including detailed feedback & Fee: From £45 forper 2 papers and feedback and online software FREE online tests.*to practise. access to all questions.
D AR AW WI NN ING !
www.bockettsfarm.co.uk #
SPECIAL
OFFER
£1 OFF full price farm entry per person* Valid 1st - 29th March 2018.
Only with this voucher (*maximum of 5 people).
FM
A place to belong SCHOOLS IN:
Croydon Mitcham Sutton AND MORE!
3–18 years
BOOK NOW
www.mocktestmasters.com FEEDBACK includes
ü Ranked table results ✔ Detailed report onof your child’s
ü Your✔child’s strength and weaknesses report Strengths & weaknesses üAccess mocktest test questions questions &&answers ✔Access totomock answers papers returned, if applicable ✔üAnswer Your child’s answer papers returned
TWO WEEK TRIAL AVAILABLE!
020 8447 4530 www.jigsaw-arts.co.uk
The MultiSports Group Change your game
MultiSports
Amersham&Chorleywood Sutton & Cheam Weekend sports for boys and girls aged 4 - 16 of all abilities
Tel: 0844 012933350450 774051 www.multisports.co.uk ENROLLING NOW FORFOR OUR OUR AUTUMN TERM WORKSHOP ENROLLING NOW SUMMER WORKSHOP IN JULY AND AUTUMN TERM IN SEPTEMBER
Extensive variety of sports – Professional coaches – Ofsted registered - Childcare vouchers
familiesonline.co.uk
Families London Surrey Borders 19
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
London Stagecoach Performing ArtsSurrey is the Borders trading name of Stagecoach Theatre Arts Limited. Stagecoach Theatre Arts schools are operated under 20 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