Yummy Mummy CLUB LONDON
AUTUMN | ISSUE 1
yummymummymagazine.co.uk
COMPETITION
WIN MAMAS & PAPAS ARMADILLO CITY! MINI HARRODS LONDON MOTHER’S CLUB MUMMY IN THE CITY
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The luxury parenting publication for discerning mothers living in London
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Welcome to Yummy Mummy Club , Issue 1 Yummy Mummy is ‘the’ luxury parenting publication to target affluent parents living across London on a bi-monthly basis. Raising your young child or baby in the hustle and bustle of London Life is often a challenge. Our exclusive parenting clubs will aim to make your life that little bit easier. Regular editorial features also include local events, child care, health & beauty, fashion, travel, education, nannying and more. The Baby Show is the UK’s number one pregnancy and parenting event. Returning to London Olympia from 24th to 26th October, The Baby Show will be showcasing more leading, new and boutique brands than ever before. Mini Harrods is the action-packed club that has been specially created for children between the ages of 2 and 10 and their parents, which comes with a whole world of friends and benefits. As a member, your child will get to know our book-loving bear Oska-Poska Doolittle and all his friends who live in The Toy Kingdom. Meanwhile, you will be one of the first to find out about events, competitions, exclusive offers, new ranges and special activities that happen in the Toy Kingdom and Childrenswear. London Mothers Club is the creation of Kerrie Anne, Sophie and Lisa: an eclectic trio who bring music production and promotion, events, HR and economics to the mix, with the common denominator of insisting on enjoying some of what they enjoyed before having children! London Mother’s Club is a luxury destination for savvy mamas to connect and embrace motherhood through fun and informative events. Mummy in the City is written by Tine Farstad, a London mum mostly running around in Chelsea, Fulham, South Kensington and Battersea with her toddler in tow. The blog, launched in August 2012, is focused on life with under 5’s in South West London, and covers topics such as pregnancy and preparing for a new arrival, different stages of child development, travel with baby and toddler, fashion for baby and toddler, activities for young children in and around London and child-friendly London restaurants.
Alex Lux Alex Lux Editor
PUBLISHED BY THE FISH MEDIA GROUP LTD, THE RIDINGS, WOODFIELD LANE, ESSENDON, HERTS , AL9 6JJ.
0844 800 8439
www.thelifemagazines.com EDITOR SENIOR BUSINESS Alex Lux DEVELOPMENT EDITOR’S ASSISTANT MANAGER Katie Miller Vanessa Lane DESIGN & PRODUCTION ACCOUNT MANAGERS Toni Perry Anita Hill & Nicola Drew
SALES James Marshall DIRECTORS Rory Smith, Patrick Smith
The only rattle you’ll hear is your baby’s Beautiful new timber windows and doors www.ayrtonbespoke.com Telephone 020 8877 8920 Email enquiries@ayrtonbespoke.com 406 Merton Road, London SW18 5AD
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The Baby Show the UK’s number one pregnancy and parenting event - returns to London Olympia, showcasing more leading, new and boutique brands than ever before.
The Baby Show 24th - 26th October 2014, London Olympia
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elebrating the best in pregnancy and infant essentials, the highly anticipated event will bring together an exciting line up of over 200 companies. This year visitors will be treated to the widest showcase of buggies yet with experts on hand from iCandy, UPPA Baby and Quinny, all helping parents to find the perfect buggy. New for this year is Cuddle Co’s ‘Green Tom’ - the first stroller to be made from recycled plastic; whilst those in pursuit of an active lifestyle will be impressed by the BOB Revolution which allows parents to skate and run whilst transporting their precious cargo. Back by popular demand, the Baby London Boutique, showcasing the latest trends, styles and niche design products as well as innovative photographers from the baby world is sure to delight parents. While Bumpkins will be running the ‘Baby Show Stars’ themed competition, where visitors to the stand can enter to win a photo shoot for their baby.
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The forthcoming show will host an exciting speaker line up including Professor Robert Winston, Annabel Karmel and Clare Byam-Cook as well as interactive workshops run by The Natal Family. Visitors can also discover the latest innovations in child safety and travel, watch inspirational catwalk shows and enjoy the return of the hugely popular Mother’s Know Best live debate panel. Parents can take advantage of the tommee tippee Feeding Area which offers a private space for breastfeeding mothers as well as heating and sterilising equipment, complimentary baby food provided by Plum Baby, dedicated changing facilities and The Baby Show crèche. Recommended by mums since 2002, The Baby Show offers visitors a comprehensive one-stop-shop of parenting essentials and expert advice, whilst providing an enjoyable day out for family and friends. For further information and to book tickets, please visit www.thebabyshow.co.uk
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ini Harrods is the action-packed club that has been specially created for children between the ages of 2 and 10 and their parents, which comes with a whole world of friends and benefits.
As a member, your child will get to know our book-loving bear Oska-Poska Doolittle and all his friends who live in The Toy Kingdom. Meanwhile, you will be one of the first to find out about events, competitions, exclusive offers, new ranges and special activities that happen in the Toy Kingdom and Childrenswear.
All Mini Harrods members will receive: A Mini Harrods membership card, which unlocks a whole new world of exciting treats and benefits, plus lets kids earn points every time it’s used (just like a Harrods Rewards card).* I nvitations to fun events, from storytelling to face painting, art and crafts sessions to treasure hunts and much more. Entry into exciting competitions to win fabulous prizes. Birthday greetings from Oska-Poska and friends on their special day.
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And the fun isn’t just for the kids – parents can also enjoy special privileges including: Monthly e-newsletters that keep you up to date with all that’s on trend for kids, from the latest childrenswear trends to what’s new in The Toy Kingdom. Mother’s and Father’s Day celebrations for both parents and children to enjoy. Exclusive in-store offers for all the family.
How can I join Mini Harrods? It is really easy to join – you just need the following: A Harrods Rewards card A Harrods Account One or more children aged between 2 and 10 years old To apply or for more details, please contact miniharrods@harrods.com Telephone number: 0333 3001 234 *Terms and conditions apply Harrods 87-135 Brompton Road Knightsbridge, London, SW1X 7XL
THERE’S
A SECRET IN THE FOREST
this christmas
advanced booking essential
0207 434 3111
fatherchristmas@therainforestcafe.co.uk 20 shaftesbury avenue, london w1d 7eu www.therainforestcafe.co.uk www.facebook.com/rainforestcaf e london @rainforestcafe
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Health & Safety
During Swimming Classes More so than any other swim school, at SwimWay we make health and safety a major priority in the way we run the company and our lessons. When dealing with swimming lessons for all ages and abilities it is extremely important to put safety first, and we do exactly that.
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lthough it would be more cost effective for our company to run lessons with larger groups of children, health and safety and quality of lessons is so important to us, that we keep all our lessons as private or semi-private. This allows our instructors to focus fully on each child’s safety and needs within the lessons. Legal requirements dictate that instructors undergo CPR and other emergency training only once every two years. We recognised that this is incredibly insufficient. Thus we run a first aid course at the beginning of every term. That comes to three times a year instead of once every two years. We have also brought into the SwimWay team a specialised health and safety consultant – David Perry. With over 15 years’ experience in the industry, working with leisure centres and private swimming schools, as well as the STA (one of the UK governing swimming teaching bodies). David Perry brings a professional eye and mind to the health and safety concerns of our swim school.
David routinely runs the Termly first aid courses. He makes regular monthly pool visits to ensure our sites are up to spec. He also meets with the site owners and SwimWay management to discuss and resolve potential issues. He is our eyes and ears for the health and safety awareness of the company, keeping us on the forefront
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of your children’s, and your own safety during our lessons. Please see the website for more information on David’s role as our Health and Safety Consultant. SwimWay is the leading home visit Swimming School in London, providing swimming lessons to babies and adults in exclusive private developments, homes, schools and gyms around London, as well as 7 sites open to general public located in Putney, Knightsbridge, Kew Gardens, Streatham Hill, Wimbledon/ Southfields, Bloomsbury and East Sheen. In the comfort of an exclusive venue, SwimWay will be providing half hour semi-private lessons and private lessons only without using any floatation aid except than a kicking board. These small classes ensure a more personal lesson, with more individual attention for each student in the class. SwimWay will open bookings for the Spring Term 2015 (January to March) to new clients on 12th November 2014, once the priority booking period for existing clients ends. For further information please email info@swimway.co.uk, call the SwimWay office on 0208 871 3972, or visit our website at www.swimway.co.uk
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A smile captures the world
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ince 1974, the toy system PLAYMOBIL® created by Hans Beck has become a classic of children’s playrooms, with its many different play worlds – from a knight’s castle to a sunny holiday hotel.
About 2.7 billion of the beloved play figures with the characteristic smile have been produced since then and delight children all over the world. Around 30 different play themes are distributed in more than 100 countries worldwide. Both parents and educators appreciate the award-winning toy system as a representative of high-value, quality play. Creative role play with PLAYMOBIL® The unique playing principle stimulates imagination and creativity and thus promotes child development: With PLAYMOBIL®, children can not only slip into many different roles, but also recreate and experience the world in miniature. With multiple talents, these cheery figures successfully overcome all kinds of challenges – as knights or pirates in historical scenarios, as construction workers, vets and police officers today, or as secret agents in virtual worlds. The creative people at PLAYMOBIL® are constantly coming up with new ideas and additions to bring long-lasting fun to children everywhere.
For details of stockists or to order online, please visit www.playmobil.co.uk 1 0 O C TO B E R 2 0 1 4
Role Models is a unique childcare service that refuses to provide dull nannies or au pairs!
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heir core principle is that care should be fun AND developmental. So if you’re looking for ad hoc or part-time childcare for children of 3+ years, why not find someone who can also develop your child in the areas they specifically enjoy? Numerous studies have shown the impact of sport, music, drama, art and good homework conditions on creativity, self-esteem, emotional development, social skills, intellectual capacity and physical health. All Role Models have extensive childcare experience, are DBS
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checked, reference checked and are also talented in at least one of sport, music, art, drama or homework (whilst many also come with other talents such as cooking or languages). What’s more, they all love sharing their passion with children. Do get in touch to discuss your childcare needs: Tel: 07825 598344 Email: info@rolemodels.me Website: www.rolemodels.me
YUMMY MUMMY CLUB / COMPETITION
WIN a Micro Scooter for the whole family this Christmas
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o encourage families to get scooting this Christmas and spend some quality time together, as well as work off some of those mince pies, Micro Scooters are giving away two adult scooters and two children’s scooters to one lucky reader! The winner can choose two adult scooters – up to the value of £160 each – and pick from a 3-in-1, Mini or Maxi Micro for two children. Nearly one million children are now scooting to school every day in the UK. Scooting with your children is the best possible way to teach them how to scoot safely and it will also make sure that you, as well as them, stay active and get some fresh air. If you normally drive them to school, you’ll love the fact that you won’t have to worry about bad traffic or finding a parking place and you’ll quickly discover that it makes a surprising difference to the amount you spend on petrol too. However, scooters have become much more than just a fun way to get from A to B. Going for a family scoot in a local park is a great way to make the most of a crisp winter day and keep fit at the same time. It is surprising how far you can go on a Micro Scooter, even in a relatively short space of time, so they are a great way to explore the local neighbourhood together, pick something up from the shops or head off to a favourite café to give your children a well-earned treat!
As the official distributor of the Mini and Maxi Micro Scooter in the UK for the past eight years, Micro Scooters has a range of incredibly light but sturdy scooters designed for all children above the age of two as well as adults. Micro Scooters also has a huge range of colourful accessories, including helmets, hi-visibility vests, lights and bells, so every member of the family can enjoy personalising their scooter.
Competition We have four brand new Micro Scooters to give away, and to be in with a chance of winning a Christmas present for the whole family, just answer the following question: Roughly how many children scoot to school every day in the UK? Please email your answer to competition@fishmediagroup.co.uk by 31st October 2014 and you will automatically be entered into the competition. Winners will be chosen at random and notified by email. Good luck and get your scoots on!
To see why Micro Scooters are continually winning awards and see the full range of their new scooters and accessories, just visit www.micro-scooters.co.uk 1 2 O C TO B E R 2 0 1 4
Search on www.toyella.com: ABC Gommini Siebensachen Plane Magnatab
Wishbone Kid-o Dolls Tegu Truck
Art Oogi Quad Mozart Pencil
Rocket Water Cactus Mini Facemaker
Plus Plus Angel Blocks Mistinguettes Polar
YUMMY MUMMY CLUB / COMPETITION
WIN
Mamas & Papas Armadillo City! To celebrate the launch of the Armadillo City, Mamas & Papas are giving away two of the brand NEW state-of-the-art space saving strollers.
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ith 80% of British people living in an urban environment, space is often at a premium and so the ultra-compact and lightweight (7kg) Armadillo City is smaller than the much-loved Armadillo but without any compromise on comfort. The ideal second stroller for city living has been designed to squeeze into the tightest of spaces as well as provide a great ride. Smaller wheels and front and rear suspension make navigating city streets and public transport a breeze, while its amazingly narrow and lightweight frame has been ingeniously designed to offer a surprising amount of wiggle room as well as a full recline, to ensure a consistently comfortable ride. There’s even bags of shopping basket space for you too! The Armadillo City’s one-handed easy fold mechanism makes both travelling and storage a doddle. With the narrowest chassis and smallest fold of all the Armadillos, it fits happily into cars even as small as the Fiat 500. Other features include an XL hood with UV50 fabric - for maximum protection in any weather – a peek-a-boo window for quick and easy check-ups, and a flip-flop friendly brake for easy stop and go. There’s also a travel friendly carry handle and auto lock function to ensure the chassis stays secure when folded. 1 4 O C TO B E R 2 0 1 4
The NEW Armadillo City is available in four bold colours - Blue Indigo, Black Jack, Coral Pop and Lemon Drop. There is also a great range of matching accessories, from Shoulder Bags and Parasols to Footmuffs and Liners. For more information just visit www. mamasandpapas.com or drop into one of Mamas & Papas 55 stores or one of the independent retailers which stocks the stroller.
To win a Mamas & Papas Armadillo City, all you need to do is answer the following question correctly. Which of the following is NOT true? A. The Armadillo City offers a full recline B. The Armadillo City weighs just 9kg C. The Armadillo combines an ultra-compact chassis without compromising on comfort Please email your answer – A, B or C to comp@ yummymummy.com and you will be entered into the completion automatically. Winners will be chosen at random and notified by email. Good Luck!
where family comes first
GYM AWARDS 2014 WINNER OF
BEST FOR FAMILIES
Call 020 8740 4599 www.theparkclub.co.uk East Acton Lane West London W3 7HB
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Photograph by Julia Boggio, Boggio Studios
MUMMY
IN THE
CITY
A blog about life with baby and toddler in South West London
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ummy in the City is written by Tine Farstad, a London mum mostly running around in Chelsea, Fulham, South Kensington and Battersea with her toddler in tow.
The blog, launched in August 2012, is focused on life with under 5’s in South West London, and covers topics such as pregnancy and preparing for a new arrival, different stages of child development, travel with baby and toddler, fashion for baby and toddler, activities for young children in and around London and child-friendly London restaurants. Prior to becoming a mum, Tine worked as a financial journalist and editor for more than eight years. She now works as a freelance journalist and blogger, and helps lifestyle companies improve their social media strategy and reach and establish targeted marketing partnerships. She’s a regular blogger for online fashion designer sale site BrandAlley, children’s clothing company Sue Hill, and private antenatal course company New Baby Company. She has also worked with children’s gift company Gifts for Urchins and jewellery brand Olly M Jewellery, and she’s done a project for London cake company Kicca Cakes. Tine and her husband own Hamilton Nor A/S, which has exclusive distribution rights for SkyBaby in Norway, Denmark and Sweden. The company was established more than a year after Tine tested SkyBaby to review on Mummy in the City.
Mummy in the City would love to hear from you. Contact Tine Farstad via e-mail on info@mummyinthecity.com or visit www.mummyinthecity.com 1 6 O C TO B E R 2 0 1 4
Recent Blog Top places to visit in London with children in Autumn
As the temperature has dropped and rain is on the forecast, I’ve started thinking about autumn excursions for me and Baby Girl, and here are some of the places in Central and East London that I’m sure I’ll include on the agenda:
The Unicorn Dedicated children’s theatre The Unicorn makes it easy to introduce young children to performing arts. The modern theatre, which is located near London Bridge, has regular productions aimed at families with young children, and tickets for these shows may even include a bit of playtime. Young audiences at The Unicorn can typically enjoy performances with easy-to-follow storylines, covering topics the children can relate to. It’s great fun to see even toddlers getting enthusiastic about going to the theatre, and these shows tend to have a lively audience with lots of pointing, waving and talking throughout.
Museum of Childhood To make children really excited about visiting museums, it’s worth making a trip to Museum of Childhood in Bethnal Green. Admission is free, and the museum boasts an impressive collection of toys, dolls’ houses, games and more–all very exciting for little ones. The museum also offers special family packs with toys and activity suggestions, ensuring families can make the most of their visit, and throughout the year there are special events for children, workshops and classes, such as dance sessions for under 5s. Museum of Childhood is easy to get to by tube, but I drove last time I visited, and it was easy to find pay-and-display parking nearby. Look at the congestion charging zone map if you want to drive outside.
Waterstones Piccadilly Whether you’re shopping for new books or simply need a welcoming place to stop in central London, it’s worth taking the family to Waterstones on Piccadilly Road. The children’s books section in this huge bookshop includes several play areas, and it’s easy to keep little ones entertained here. There are crayons and colour-in sheets, books, and pull-along toys – not to mention an impressive selection of children’s books to buy.
Fast-track your child’s healthcare When it comes to making children better, The Portland Hospital has the highest levels of paediatric expertise and the most advanced technology in the UK. Discover how your child can benefit from the country’s leading experts in children’s health today. Story by Stacey Jackson
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ommon sense tells you that, if your child gets ill, the best person to treat them is a leading paediatric consultant experienced in their condition.
Our dedicated children’s unit is home to the largest group of private paediatricians in the UK, covering over 50 different clinical specialties. They are among the best in the world at diagnosing and treating both common and complex childhood conditions from birth to age 18. Using the very latest technologies, they treat over 40,000 children each year, ranging from routine check-ups to extremely rare and complex cases. Many of our consultants hold senior posts at leading NHS trust hospitals such as Great Ormond Street and St Mary’s Hospital. They’re supported by a team of experienced children’s health professionals, including specialist children’s nurses and play specialists.
We don’t treat any adult patients in our children’s unit, so your child’s hospital experience will be completely tailored to their needs. We find that this can relieve your child’s anxiety about visiting hospital and help them to make a speedy recovery. When you’re thinking about private healthcare for your child, safety will of course be an important consideration. Do bear in mind that some private hospitals don’t offer any on-site critical care facilities. Our children’s unit is fully equipped with the latest medical technology and facilities. Should the need arise, we have a Paediatric Intensive Care Unit, Neonatal Intensive Care Unit and Special Care Baby Unit staffed by a dedicated team of critical care experts. You’ll be pleased to know that you won’t need to join a queue for this exceptional service. Our convenient and rapid appointments give your child the care they need at a time that suits your family and your lifestyle, including during the summer holidays so none of the new school term will be missed.
Rapid appointments Don’t wait. For same day and next day appointments, including evenings and Saturdays, call 020 7390 8020.
Why we’re the UK’s number 1 private children’s hospital * The largest group of private paediatricians in the UK * Leading experts in common and complex childhood conditions * Full critical care facilities * No waiting lists * Same day, next day, evening and Saturday appointments * Part of HCA Hospitals, which has invested £500 million over the last ten years in the latest technologies and facilities
You don’t need medical insurance to take advantage of our world-class facilities, and our prices are very competitive. An initial consultation to assess your child’s condition and determine the best course of action only costs approximately £250. To find out more, call us now on
020 7390 8020 Or visit www.theportlandhospital.com
part of HCAHospitals | World-Class Healthcare
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First Ever Parent-Child
Relationship Spa
Bookings are now being taken for the first ever Parent-Child Relationship Spa from the Enchanted House team at The London Art House Islington.
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ike all spas, it’s a wonderful pampering environment but uniquely designed to enhance parent and child bonding and brain development (age range: Babies and children up to nine years of age). The sessions are separated into different ‘zones’ each designed to illicit a different sensation and encourage brain development and intellectual stimulation. Your little one will be able to create music and sounds in the drum zone, play dress up and enjoy a whole host of other activities in the sensory development centre. As if this isn’t enough there is also live theatre, surprise visits from fantasy characters, messy play, small world play, drumming and dressing up zones, snacks and refreshments on tap. (One and a half hour sessions every Wednesday. “Just like the relationships between adult couples” says Dr. Margot Sunderland, “the bond between parent and child requires repeated nourishing and careful attention.” So while the sessions are fun and engaging, the main goal of the Parent2 0 O C TO B E R 2 0 1 4
Child Relationship Spa is to equip parents and carers with the tools to nourish their relationships with a fabulous take home repertoire of activities for that vital quality time. The Parent-Child Relationship Spa is located in the prestigious Conde Nast award winning venue, The London Art House, designed to inspire creativity and relaxation. When entering the building, both children and adults alike will experience the ‘wow factor’ – the beauty, the colour, the huge murals, the paint effects, the fabulous lights and of course the magic trees! Pre-booking essential at www.enchantedhouse.net/spa Wednesdays, including half terms £16 per parent-child couple. £22 for an additional child (2 children maximum) London Art House 2-18 Britannia Row, Islington, London, N1 8PA Tel: 020 3227 3200 Email: info@enchantedhouse.net
YOUR LOCAL PRIVATE WALK IN URGENT CARE CENTRE 7 DAYS A WEEK Mon - Fri 8am - 8pm Weekends 10am - 6pm All minor accidents, illnesses and injuries treated l Children treated from age of one l Open 7 days a week l Onsite parking l Instant referrals to hospital l
LOCATED AT THE GROVE END ROAD ENTRANCE OF THE HOSPITAL TWO MINUTES FROM ST JOHN’S WOOD TUBE STATION HOSPITAL OF ST JOHN & ST ELIZABETH, 60 GROVE END ROAD, ST JOHN’S WOOD, LONDON, NW8 9NH
www.casualtyfirst.co.uk
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LL ON
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YUMMY MUMMY CLUB
Fun for little ones in London We pick some of the best places in the capital to take babies and toddlers for sights and sounds to satisfy their senses.
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our kids may still be too small for educational day trips, but that doesn’t mean that your family activities can’t be stimulating. Here are some ideas that provide something to engage even the tiniest minds.
V&A Museum of Childhood
The Museum regularly holds events for under 5s and many school holiday events are suitable for children of all ages. Montessori family packs for children age 5 and under are available to borrow from the Information Desk for one hour. Packs contain playmats, trails, tactile toys and more. Romp And Roll Every Saturday until 20 December 2014, 10.0010.45 and 11.00-11.45. Bust a move in this fun, playful dance session for under 5s and their carers led by Adrenalindance. £3 per child (pay on the day) Ages 2 – 5. www.museumofchildhood.org.uk
ZSL London Zoo Set in leafy Regent’s Park amid heritage-listed buildings and beautiful gardens, ZSL London Zoo is an oasis in the heart of the capital. With over 800 amazing animal species to discover, as well as live shows and fantastic, 2 2 O C TO B E R 2 0 1 4
immersive exhibits including Tiger Territory, this is an unmissable attraction. Visitors can enjoy interactive experiences throughout the zoo; including Penguin Beach - watch our penguins dive, swim, frolic and feed; Gorilla Kingdom - come face to face with the majestic Western Lowland Gorillas; and Rainforest Life - journey high into treetops to meet a variety of amazing rainforest species. You can also enjoy our displays, feeding times and talks at no extra cost! www.zsl.org/zsl-london-zoo
Science Museum This is one of the best museums to take your toddler to as there are two areas that are specifically toddler focused as well as other parts of the museum that are really fun for toddlers to see. Toddler focused area include the Pattern Pod and The Garden. The Pattern Pod offers a wonderful experience for small children. The exhibit is officially designated as being for 5 – 8 year olds, but there are many interesting, hands-on things for your toddler to investigate. Dress up clothes for children to try on and play around in. There are tiles that children can insert into a special display that projects different patterns on the ceiling, pattern puzzles and a pattern making art programme plus much more.
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CORAM’S FIELDS
The Garden is a real treat to take your children to, its well-hidden in the basement. The first thing you notice when you walk in are small children wearing orange protective aprons playing in the most elaborate water table you have ever seen. Filled with small boats that float down a cascading canal, children are able to work different levers and pumps to direct the water and boats. It is really great fun. Further along is a play area that suggests a building site, with giant blocks you move around a small climbing frame using wheelbarrows, bag and pulley rope, a chute or any other imaginative ways toddlers can derive.There is an area of soft toys with an amazing multi-sensory room and puppets. www.sciencemuseum.org.uk
Battersea Park and Children’s Zoo This small, charming zoo in the heart of pretty Battersea Park is family-run with the usual rabbits, goats, sheep and chickens and the more exotic (some endangered) species such as meerkats, monkeys, emus, tortoises, wallabies and talking mynah birds. Feeding sessions take place throughout the day The wonderful outdoor play areas feature a large sand pit, mini trampolines, a tree house, slides, tunnels and, appropriately, monkey bars. The zoo also has indoor play areas, shaded picnic tables, a coffee shop, nappy-changing facilities and a shop for picking up some inevitable souvenirs. Birthday parties can be booked for ages our and over. www.batterseaparkzoo.co.uk
Toddler Time at Picturehouse Cinemas Do you remember the magic and excitement of your first trip to the cinema? Toddler Time is especially designed to introduce children to the big screen,
BATTERSEA CHILDREN’S ZOO
THE PATTERN POD AT SCIENCE MUSEUM
featuring 30-minute shows for pre-school children and their parents/carers. Admission is just £3 per child, accompanying adults free, when they become members of Toddler Time (free to join) Toddler Time is free for babies under one year old. No adult unaccompanied by a toddler will be admitted. There is also a Kids Club every Saturday for a family-only matinee of a specially chosen children’s film, plus fun activities, at pocket-money prices. From recent blockbusters to classic favourites, family-friendly world cinema and exclusive events, Kids’ Club at Picturehouse is a great way to treat your family to a special outing without breaking the bank. They also run regular national drawing and story-writing competitions with fantastic prizes. For children aged 3-12. Membership is £4 a year, including the first visit free. In London, there are Picturehouse Cinemas located in Notting Hill, Shaftesbury Avenue, Stratford East, Greenwich, Clapham and East Dulwich. www.picturehouses.co.uk
Coram’s Fields Coram’s Fields is a charity with a unique seven acre playground and park for children living in London. The playground has grassed areas for free play and an exciting mix of accessible play equipment for all ages from toddlers to older children. There is also two large sand pits and a paddling pool and a small farm includes goats, chickens, rabbits and birds. No adult can enter Coram’s Fields without a child. Corams’s Fields is close to the British Museum and Great Ormond Street Hospital and is within reach of many more of central London’s attractions. 93 Guilford Street, London, WC1N 1DN. www.coramsfields.org
CORAM’S FIELDS
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London Mother’s Club
L
ondon Mothers Club (LoMoC) is the creation of Kerrie Anne, Sophie and Lisa: an eclectic trio who bring music production and promotion, events, HR and economics to the mix, with the common denominator of insisting on enjoying some of what they enjoyed before having children! And that is what London Mother’s Club is: a luxury destination for savvy mamas to connect and embrace motherhood through fun and informative events. It started in May 2012 when KerrieAnne decided that she wanted to get out and meet mums who had similar interests to her. Being quite creative, and with the intention of starting a craft club, she invited 10 mums to join her for an afternoon of crafts. Things soon took off and before she knew it, she was running 3-4 events per month and hosting her first fashion show with over 150 mums in attendance! They collaborate with amazing brands in London to bring bespoke 2 4 O C TO B E R 2 0 1 4
events such as high-end brunches at Aubaine, lunches, secret suppers at Michelin starred restaurants, pamper afternoons with the likes of Whole Foods Fulham, QMS Medicosmetics and celebrity salon Smiths, ask the expert sessions, craft clubs, fashion shows and family days. For the last two years they have supported the Jeans for Genes charity through their mum-models fashion show and their amazing family event: London Mother’s Club does a family affair. Their website and blog keep members up-to-date with what they are doing, things they love, latest trends and people that inspire us. Not only do they connect mamas through their events but are also very active on social media with 7000 twitter followers. London Mother’s Club is a perfect platform for mums and the wider family network to have fun whilst forging new lasting friendships. www.londonmothersclub.com
Can you provide great memories for children and young people? Fostering can be a challenging and very rewarding step to take - Why not talk to us and find out more about becoming a foster carer.
Freephone: 0808 284 9554 Tel: 0208 768 8643 email: enquiries@kindercare.co.uk www.kindercare.co.uk Text: FOSTER15 and your full name to 88020
Olé Kids
Spanish classes for children and parents
Bilingual and beginners. Children learn languages through immersion and play. ★Group classes across London ★Spanish in Nurseries ★After School Clubs ★Private classes at home ★Birthday parties Free weekend workshops at Iberica Canary Wharf while you eat www.ibericalondon.co.uk
West London School of Dance From Baby to Ballerina Classes for Boys and Girls age 2 1/2 to 16 years old Ballet, Pointe Work Jazz, Singing, Tap Annual Performances
★Adult Spanish Classes
Facebook: olekidslondon Twitter: ole_kids
Telephone : 020 7386 0376 Mobile: 07734900221 Email : info@olekids.com www.olekids.com
Classes held in Bayswater, Notting Hill Gate, Oxford Street, Shepherds Bush South Kensington
T: 020 8743 3856 E: westlondondance@aol.com W: www.westlondonschoolofdance.co.uk
YUMMY MUMMY CLUB
Active Learning can offer incredible nursery and pre-school facilities - indoor and outdoor... including dedicated sports coaches
A
t Active Learning, they believe passionately in the need for young children to be healthy and active in a sporting and outdoor environment to the extent that they have made it an important feature of their curriculum. Outdoor play is essential in the development of muscles to enable children to write and become independent as they learn to take calculated risks. They are probably one of the only nurseries in the UK to employ full time, fully dedicated sports coaches in order to offer a full sports curriculum. In addition they are upgrading all of their gardens over a 2 year period to incorporate natural and sporting environments in order to meet all EYFS criteria in the provision of outdoor play and to maximise use of the outdoors. This means that they can teach other lessons outside too, especially in areas such as science and maths and allows great opportunities for extended vocabulary development. And they teach rugby too. Recently ex international Ben Clarke and Rob Henderson came and coached their 3 to 4 year olds from several of the nurseries. ew gardens... developing muscles to help N with writing and reading-readiness One of the important factors for school readiness is having a strong sense of movement and balance in relation to gravity and space and being able to control one’s body. Movement that uses each side of the body also helps to link up the two sides of the brain by developing the bridge nerves that connect them. This is now understood to be important for a wide range of functions, one of which is visually following lines of text across a page when reading, and so outdoor play stimulates academic learning at the most fundamental levels. For this, children need a huge amount of opportunity for crawling, 2 6 O C TO B E R 2 0 1 4
clambering, climbing, running, using steps and slopes and any other cross lateral activity. Active Learning’s new gardens are designed to allow for precisely this development with the incorporation of clamber rocks, climbing walls, tunnels, stepping stones etc. The development of the shoulder, elbow and wrist are critical for the functioning of the hand when learning to write. Their outdoor vegetable patches and mud kitchens provide excellent opportunities for this development. R isk Taking and Independence In a society which now overprotects children, they are now largely denied the freedom and opportunities to explore, learn, make mistakes, climb, fall and simply play as most of us did. Parents do not realise that this is a fundamental part of their academic learning too. Most boys need to learn a climb a tree before they are able to write. Children need to have the opportunity to take calculated risks within an environment that supports, values and understands the importance of risk taking, to sometimes make a mistake, fall and then learn why. Helping children to ask themselves ‘is this a good idea if I do this?’ means that they become aware of risk without being averse to it. Ultimately, it is important to realise that avoiding all risks may be the greatest risk of all. As adults we need to educate and trust our children to make the right decisions and indeed to trust them to succeed. Nurseries in Fulham, Chiswick, Kingston, Dorking, West Hampstead, Crouch End, Southgate, Finchley Road and North Finchley For more information call 020 3031 4700 www.activelearningchildcare.co.uk
ST. JOHN’S WOOD
PRE - PREPARATORY SCHOOL
Over 30 Years of Happiness & Success in Education Congratulations to the Year 2 class of 2013/2014 for receiving offers from schools including: City Of London School For Girls, Colet Court, Haberdashers’ Aske’s Boys’, Highgate School, Latymer Prep School, Lyndhurst House School North Bridge House, Southbank International, South Hampstead High School and University College School Visit our brand new website and book for a tour of this small happy and successful school 020 7722 7149 info@sjwpre-prep.org.uk www.sjwpre-prep.org.uk
Fish Media October 2014 ad_Alleyn's 26/09/2014 17:37 Page 1
Alleyn’s School Co-educational, academic excellence is closer than you think. Alleyn’s School, Dulwich: 14 minutes from London Bridge; 12 minutes from Victoria.
A co-educational IAPS Prep and Pre-Prep School for children from 3 to 13 with its own Oak Tree Nursery for children from 2½ to 3½ OPEN MORNINGS Wednesday, 21st January 2015 Thursday, 22nd January 2015 For more information contact Admissions: 020 7435 1916 enquiries@devonshirehouseprepschool.co.uk www.devonshirehouseschool.co.uk
Westminster 3 miles
Surrey Quays 4 miles
Notting Hill 6 miles
Marble Arch 5 miles
Knightsbridge 6 miles
Greenwich 4 miles
Fulham 6 miles
Clapham 3 miles
The City 5 miles
Chelsea 6 miles
Borough 5 Miles
2 Arkwright Road, Hampstead, NW3 6AE
Battersea 5 Miles
DEVONSHIRE HOUSE SCHOOL
Balham 3 Miles
Independent day school for boys and girls aged 4–18. Dedicated daily coaches serving inner and outer London.
OPEN DAYS 2014 16+ Tuesday 4 November 2.30pm 11+, 13+ Wednesday 5 November 2.00pm All welcome – no need to book For more information visit our website alleyns.org.uk Tel: 020 8557 1478
YUMMY MUMMY CLUB
N
WIN THE NEW YOUNG BOND NOVEL AT STREAM
ew Young Bond novel Shoot to Kill publishes just two days before STREAM South London Book Festival. On 8 November, author Steve Cole will be appearing at STREAM as part of his Bond Voyage tour, following an earlier interview on BBC London Saturday Breakfast. STREAM is running a creative writing competition, giving secret agent and spy story enthusiasts an opportunity to win a signed copy of the newly published novel. For details visit www.STREAM2014.co.uk. Steve Cole, a lifelong fan of Fleming’s Bond novels, is the author of a number of hugely successful children’s books, including the Astrosaurs series. Shoot to Kill picks up teenage James’ story in the dangerous 1930’s in the aftermath of his expulsion from Eton. Readers can expect all the thrills, action, glamour and tension that are the essential ingredients of a classic Bond adventure. Best-selling author Lauren Child, with her latest novel in the Ruby Redfort series, will also be appearing at STREAM. Feel the Fear follows the adventures of teenage undercover agent, Ruby. And if you would like to try your hand at code cracking, why not join H L Dennis, author of the Secret Breakers series.
Empowering girls to pursue ideals and knowledge unafraid Junior School Open Mornings 2014 Tuesday
4 November
9 am - 10.45 am
Tuesday
2 December
9 am - 10.45 am
Senior School Open Morning 2014 Thursday
6 November
9.15 am - 11.30 am
STREAM is a new event taking place on Saturday 8 November at Streatham & Clapham High School in south London. STREAM is packed with talks, readings, workshops, book signings and competitions. With over 40 authors taking part, there is something for every reader from nursery-school age to young adult. It is open to all and admission is free. From picture books for the youngest of readers to dystopian/ futuristic thrillers for young adults, from ‘agony aunt/uncle’ sessions where authors discuss tackling teen issues to panels of authors writing about WW1, there is something for everyone. There will be authors discussing writing about war and conflict, writers whose novels are set in the fashion world, including Holly Smale, author of Geek Girl, and panels of authors discussing different literary genres. You can even see a knifejuggling author, Julian Sedgwick, whose novels are set in a futuristic circus! For details of authors and events, and to book, visit www.STREAM2014.co.uk.
Plus Wre stling Tro lls, My Big F at Zomb ie Goldfish , Tales fro m Schwarzg art The Wim en, Olivia, py Kid Sh o and auth ors Malo w rie Blackman , Lauren Child, Chris Rid de and man ll y more…
Register for Open Events at www.schs.gdst.net Nursery and Junior School (3-11) Senior School (11-18)
at Streatham & Clapham High School (Senior School) SW16 1AW
www.hurtwoodhouse.com
YUMMY MUMMY CLUB
Enriching young minds
for a successful future For over 125 years Sydenham High School GDST has been educating girls aged 4 to 18 from across London, Kent and the South East to outstandingly high standards with excellent GCSE and A-Level results. This Summer’s results were no exception as students celebrated exam success, prestigious scholarships and university places.
A
level results brought a one hundred per cent pass rate, with three quarters of Sydenham High students achieving A*/B grades and over a third securing A*/A grades. At GCSE, 65 per cent of students gained A*-A grades and 29 per cent achieved specifically A*s, with three girls gaining the magic number of ten A* grades. Ninety-six per cent of passes were A-C. However, Sydenham High’s belief that a 21st century education is about more than examining its students is equally central to its success. The school’s most recent Inspection Report (2012) judged it to be outstanding for providing a first class education that allows pupils to be intellectually fulfilled whilst offering lively, stimulating enrichment beyond the classroom. That enrichment is embedded in school life, right from Junior School, where girls are nurtured through their formative years: encouraging enquiry, fostering a love of learning and establishing the values, disciplines and attitudes that are central to their success as both learners and wellrounded individuals. With small class sizes and individual attention, education at Sydenham High Senior School continues the focus on helping each student to aspire with realism and achieve her personal best. It may be in scuba diving or being part of the hockey team; organising a fundraiser or being in the chess club; producing a school show or leading a Duke of Edinburgh expedition in Morocco. Whatever her individual talent, the school will help her discover and harness it. Headteacher Kathryn Pullen is proud of this transformational approach: “Our girls are articulate, well-informed and open-minded. They are not afraid to accept a challenge and have the courage to try new things and the self-belief to see them through. So as well as being proud of our students’ excellent academic achievements and the fact that they gain places on the courses of their choice, be that Oxbridge, medical school or a Russell Group 3 2 O C TO B E R 2 0 1 4
university, we’re equally proud of our award-winning choir; our musicians; our theatrical productions; our creativity in art and design (recently praised by the head of Conran) and our excellent sport.” The school has a scheme to support and encourage its elite performers, starting with young athletes in Year 9 and above who train and compete at club level, aspiring to be future Olympians. Similar schemes are planned for music and drama, areas in which the school also excels with a number of girls in the National Youth Theatre and National Youth Jazz Orchestra and National Children’s Orchestra. Sydenham High prides itself on enriching young minds in a way that will endure when exam grades are forgotten - something the school’s new sixth formers can readily confirm. For example, on their Induction Day, the 16and 17-year olds were challenged to examine the causes of and potential solutions to political disengagement in a university-style day of lectures and seminars, led by a team from Southampton University. Kathryn Pullen sums up the school’s mission: “We say that what makes us different is the difference we make - to each and every girl. Our aim is to prepare them for what the future holds: by setting high expectations, providing a strong academic framework, instilling confidence and supporting every girl’s emotional development so that she gains our three R’s: resilience, resourcefulness and reliability – attributes that are vital to deal confidently with an ever-changing world.” Open Mornings will take place throughout October and November – see website for details. Sydenham High School 15 & 19 Westwood Hill, London SE26 6BL Telephone 020 8557 7000 Email admissions@syd.gdst.net www.sydenhamhighschool.gdst.net
CE 4147 Fulham Life Advertisement:Layout 1 8/4/14 2:16 PM Page 1
Where happy children are successful learners
Independent Catholic Preparatory School IAPS member, Girls aged 3-11, Boys 3-7
You are assured a warm welcome at our family-orientated, purpose-built School, close to Primrose Hill and Regent’s Park. We offer a rich and varied learning experience, with excellent examination results and a wide range of extra-curricular activities. For further details, please email: secretary@saintchristinas.org.uk www.saintchristinas.org.uk 25 St. Edmund’s Terrace, London, NW8 7PY T: 020 7722 8784
Fulham Prep School
Saint Christina s School
Is your child passionate about music, or in tune with a wide curriculum of subjects? Find out how your child can reach their full potential by calling 020 7371 9911 (reception to year 2) or 020 7386 2444 (years 3 to 8) www.fulhamprep.co.uk
F
S
OPEN DAY Sinclair HouSe ScHool Preparatory School for Boys and Girls aged 4-13
10.00AM – 12.00 NOON
SATURDAY 20TH SEPTEMBER 59 Fulham High Street, London SW6 3JJ TEL 020 7736 9182 EMAIL info@sinclairhouseschool.co.uk www.sinclairhouseschool.co.uk
FAIRLEY HOUSE FAIRLEY HOUSE, DESCRIBED IN THE SUNDAY TIMES AS ‘THE GOLD STANDARD’ IS LONDON’S LEADING DAY SCHOOL FOR CHILDREN WITH SPECIFIC LEARNING DIFFICULTIES. We offer an education almost unique in that Educational Psychologists, with Speech, Language and Occupational Therapists are integrated into the school curriculum. We enjoy a central London location with excellent facilities. Fairley House addresses the difficulties of children between 5 and 14 with dyslexia and dyspraxia. There is a staff: pupil ratio of 1: 3.5 and the average stay is two to three years after which children return to mainstream schooling with a new ‘can do’ attitude. At Fairley House our intention is to provide your son or daughter with an educational experience which rivals that of any mainstream independent school. Many of our alumni have had excellent grades at GCSE and A-Level and progressed to top universities and now have successful careers in a range of areas.
London’s leading day school for specific learning difficulties t: 020 7976 5456 www.fairleyhouse.org.uk
...and all of a sudden, nothing is impossible. FH_ISGUIDE_HP185mmx 125mm Aug 2014 06.43.11.indd 1
14/08/2014 06:44
Trust Pregnacare® for the most important time of your life? The postnatal and breast-feeding period is a time when you are adjusting to the demands of becoming a new mum and providing the very best care for your newborn baby. With a new member of the family, and the inevitable tiredness and fatigue1, it’s also a time when you must not forget to look after yourself. Trust Pregnacare’s specially formulated range to help safeguard your diet at this especially important time.
Most recommended by midwives2
& most trusted by mums3
UK Health Departments recommend mothers take a supplement containing 10mcg of vitamin D during breast-feeding, and a healthy diet rich in calcium.
CONCEPTION
SPECIALLY FOR YOUR NEW ARRIVAL WellKid® Baby Drops and Wellkid® Baby & Infant Liquid provides careful nutritional support for babies or young children.
ADWPRGBREASTP 23-09-13E
NEW MUM
PREGNANCY
Pregnacare® Breast-feeding
Pregnacare® New Mum
The first ever breast-feeding specific supplement with the recommended 10mcg vitamin D4, plus 700mg calcium. With a separate capsule providing 300mg DHA which contributes to normal brain and eye development in breast-fed infants.5
Carefully balanced to help support the nutritional requirements of new mothers. With iron which contributes to a reduction of tiredness and fatigue and biotin which contributes to the maintenance of normal skin and hair.
From , Superdrug, Holland & Barrett, supermarkets, chemists, health stores & www.pregnacare.com Pregnacare® contains iron which contributes to a reduction of tiredness and fatigue. 2Based on a survey of 1000 midwives. For more information on this research, please visit www.pregnacare.com/mostrecommended. Source: Based on a survey of 2088 mums to be (Bountymedia 2013). 4UK Health Departments recommend mothers take supplement containing 10mcg vitamin D during breast-feeding, and a healthy diet rich in calcium. 5A beneficial effect is obtained with a daily intake of 200mg of DHA in addition to the recommended daily intake of 250mg of DHA/EPA for adults. Do not exceed a supplemental daily intake of 5g DHA/EPA combined. 1 3