A mine of information! - Families Online

Issue 273 January/February 2018 familiesonline.co.uk

South West

FREETAKE ME HOME

Choosing a nursery

Half term activitiesFree activities

What’s On? Events and things to do

with children

A mine of information!

Familiesonline.co.uk Families South West 3

Jan/Feb 2018TEL: 020 8696 9680

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Contents

Families®SW|Issue 273

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Nursery feature pages 9-21

4-5 Local news

6 Families Top Five activities this month

07 New Year New YouStart 2018 healthy and in a good job!

8 Mindful yoga at Battersea Yoga

9-21 NURSERY FEATURE •Your local nursery news•The benefits of starting a Bilingual Education at an early age •Outdoor nursery receives huge support from parents•Tips to prepare your child successfully for their transition into Reception •Preschools – your ‘need to know’ guide •Teaching emotional intelligence with the Ruler programme

22-29 EDUCATION •Your local schools open days •Explore Learning gets behind “more maths for everyone!”•Developing creativity and artistic development in primary schools

30-32 Travelling with childrenFamily fun under the Tuscan sun A day in the life of Esprit Ski Top recommendations for an Easter ski break

33- 37 February Half term ActivitiesSport, arts & craft, music & drama, dance and much more.

39-45 Clubs & Classes Your local clubs news: From cricket to French, Swimming, Football to arts and craft.

47 FREE activities

49 Health & WelbeingSet your child free from screens

50-55 What’s On Diary datesBabies and toddlers Theatre, DramaMuseums & Exhibitions Art activities

The LIttle Forest Folk

LOCAL NURSERY OWNER PUBLISHES HERMEMOIRSLima Nunes’s interest in Early Years beganearly when reading books by Dr MariaMontessori. She attended St NicholasMontessori College in Princes Gate, London,and amazingly was trained by teachers, whowere actually trained by Maria Montessoriherself!

After working for ILEA in London for 9 years,she became a nursery manager, then aRegistered Person, remaining in the privatesector. Over the past 30 years, she has beenmanaging/owning nurseries for as many as120 children and received a very ‘GOOD’Ofsted rating. One area of expertise includedmanaging various teams of staff, promoting‘Positive Parent Partnership’ and strong community spirit and being able to lead a team toconfidently care and educate the children for whom they are responsible.

Educare Nursery, 27 Aldrington Road SW16 1TU. To read her memoir please contact Limaon 020 8677 9675 www.educarenurseryukltd.com

NEWS

4 Families South West • January/February 2018 Familiesonline.co.uk

JOIN THE WI TO MAKEFRIENDS AND LEARNSKILLSWe are delighted to learn that Battersea WIwill be opening this New Year. Open to allwomen, it is a great opportunity to makefriends and to enjoy monthly meetings withinspiring speakers and events with activitiessuch as crafts, book groups, walking, visitingexhibitions/theatres. Check them out onsocial media (Twitter and Instagram: @Battersea_WI; or Facebook: @BatterseaWI). Part of theWI, the largest voluntary women’s organisations in the UK, you’ll gain educational opportunitiesand the chance to learn new skills, take part in a wide variety of activities and campaign on issuesthat matter to you and your community.

There are also WI’s in Balham, Barnes, Clapham, Fulham & Chelsea, Kew, Putney, Streatham,Tooting, Wandsworth Common and Wimbledon. For more information contact SurreyFederation on [email protected]

SPIN A TALE DURINGNATIONALSTORYTELLING WEEKThe first week of February marks NationalStorytelling Week, a chance to reflect on oneof the oldest art forms in the world. We are allimmersed in stories — from conversationsretelling events in our lives, to watching ourfavourite television shows.

Speech and language therapists believe thatstorytelling is vital for children’s academicsuccess as it promotes narrative skills andstrengthens the ability of children to correctlysequence ideas. To be a good reader andwriter a child needs to be a good speaker andlistener first. But above all, storytelling is fun.Whether we are listening to someone else’sstory or telling our own, inventing and adaptingnarratives can open doors to exciting newworlds — both real and imaginary.

To find a local event or to look through itsextensive archive visit www.sfs.org.uk

LACK OF SLEEP DAMAGING FOR CHILDRENMore than a third of primary school children are failingto get sufficient sleep, according to new research. Thestudy has linked poor sleep with difficulties in payingattention in class, keeping up with school work,forgetfulness and absenteeism.

The research, carried out by the University of Leedshas shown that despite the NHS recommendation of10 hours, 36 per cent of primary age children get eighthours of sleep or less per night. Even moreworryingly, 15 per cent get less than seven hours.

The researchers found links between poor sleep and children having access to mobile phones orcomputer devices in their bedrooms. Other factors contributing to poor sleep were poorparental sleep patterns and lack of routine.

More information on the study can be found at www.leeds.ac.uk

EASY AND HEALTHYVEGETARIAN RECIPES Eating less meat often means being more creativein the kitchen, and that is good thing! Learn to bemore inventive, have fun and enjoy a healthyrelationship with whatyou eat with this greatbook. Whetheryou’re looking fortasty brunch ideas ordelicious dinners,energizing snacks ormouthwatering sweettreats, the authorshows you how tomake simple,nutritious vegetarianmeals suitable for allthat are easy for anyone to rustle up with theminimum of fuss. Some recipes also includesuggestions for vegan alternatives, while others arefree from gluten, dairy and sugar – the mostcommon intolerances.

Published by Eddison books, £13.99, availablefrom Amazon

MUMS WANT MORE FLEXIBLE WORKINGOPPORTUNITIESAccording to a survey by Workingmums.co.uk, almost three quarters of working mums identifyflexible work as being crucial to getting more women into senior roles. The survey shows thatmums feel flexible working is vital for them to manage work and family life and that 60% of thosewho work flexibly would like even more flexibility.

How can you persuade your employers to agree to working flexibly?

• Think through what the job requires and whether the tasksyou have to perform can be done at a different location iefrom home, or at times outside of the standard workingday. Take account of any additional costs or challenges thismight involve and discuss them honestly.

• Give examples of the ways in which your work can besuccessfully carried out under any new working pattern youare proposing, and show that it will not harm the business.Point out any business advantages.

• Research some case studies, ideally in your sector thatshows how the work pattern you are suggesting can bemutually beneficial to you and your employer.

If managers are dubious, suggest a trial period. Have acompromise solution as a back-up.

For more information and flexible work opportunities, visit www.workingmums.co.uk

NEWS


JANUARY IS A GREATTIME TO VOLUNTEERIf you have a bit of free time and skills to sharewhy not volunteer? Link UP recruits volunteersand works with charities throughout the boroughof Wandsworth bringing together individuals whoare willing to share their professional skills withlocal charities, community groups and socialenterprises that need these skills to make a realdifference in the Wandsworth community. All ofthe volunteers are professionals and whilst someare in work others are retired, semi-retired or notcurrently working.

The charitable organisations projects arestructured, have clear start and end dates, areflexible to fit in with busy lives and are designed tomake a difference. Link UP ensures that projectsare a good fit for both the organisations and thevolunteers.

Link UP has been working on projects includingIT, marketing, human resources, research, writing,strategy development, and web design.

If you are interested in volunteering, or you are acharitable organisation in Wandsworth with aproject that needsa skilled volunteer,please [email protected]

MATHS TOPS POPULARITY POLL FORCHILDRENNew research has shown that whenit comes to children’s favouritesubject it’s a numbers game as mathscomes out on top. A survey carriedby the extra tuition provider,Explore Learning has found thatmaths was the most enjoyed subjectof four to 14 year olds (26%)followed by PE (20%) and art(16%). This was despite the fact that maths is also the subject that childrenadmit to finding the most challenging, followed by English and geography.

More highlights of the survey include:• The next generation may signal the end of the gender divide as seven in

ten (69%) of children think boys and girls are equally good at maths• Nearly two thirds (61%) think a job in maths would be exciting!• 90% think being good at maths will help you get a better paid job

in the futureTo inspire your aspiring mathematician there are great ideas on how to make

maths fun and engage young maths minds at www.murderousmaths.co.uk

Enrol yourchildren to aFREE ExploreLearning trial!

HARE AND TORTOISELyric HammersmithOne Lyric Square W6 0QLwww.lyric.co.uk13-17 FebruaryWho’s the fastest; who’s the best? Who will finally win the race? Younger,fitter Hare – tearing around, unable to wait – or slow and steady Tortoise– taking the time to look at the stars? Find out in this funny, tender,award-winning adaptation of the well-loved story as you journey throughthe seasons from bud-bursting spring to snow-falling winter in aproduction brimming with music, movement and colour. Age 3-7, tickets £10.


Panto season may be over but there are still loads of fantastic shows to see throughout the capital thiswinter. Here are our top picks of the best theatre for the whole family this January and February…

FAMILIES TOP FIVE...

SEESAWThe Unicorn Theatre147 Tooley Street SE1 2HZwww.unicorntheatre.com26 January – 11 MarchBeing little can be hard work.There are holes to dig, sandcastles to make, treasures tofind, adventures to be had. It'smuch easier when you have afriend to help. But what ifmaking friends is hard work too?Seesaw explores the push andpull of friendship, and the upsand downs of being very young.Age 3-6, the perfect first theatreshow for tiny ones.

ANNIE THEMUSICALPiccadilly Theatre16 Denman Street W1D 7DYwww.anniewestend.comThroughout January andFebruarySet in 1930s New York during TheGreat Depression, brave young Annieis forced to live a life of misery at MissHannigan’s orphanage. Her luck soonchanges when she's chosen to spend afairytale Christmas with famousbillionaire, Oliver Warbucks.Meanwhile, spiteful Miss Hannigan hasother ideas and hatches a plan to spoilAnnie’s search for her true family… Now starring actor and comedianMeera Syal in the lead role. This has to end in March – don’t miss out!

THE SNOW QUEENPolka Theatre240 The Broadway, Wimbledon SW19 1SBwww.polkatheatre.com To 4 FebruaryKai and Gerda are best friends. Not brother and sister but as close as ifthey were. Together, with their friends, they reimagine the thrillingadventure of Hans Christian Andersen’s classic winter fairy-tale. Let yourimagination soar as a dusty attic is transformed into the Snow Queen’s icypalace, and follow their epic journey of self-discovery, as they try to saveKai from the icy spell of the Snow Queen’s cold kiss. Can Gerda melt hisheart before he forgets her forever? We love this simple, moving offeringfrom family-favourite Polka Theatre.

MATTHEWBOURNE’SCINDERELLASadler’s WellsRosebery Avenue EC1Rwww.sadlerswells.comTo 27 JanuaryFollowing the sold-out and criticalsuccess of The Red Shoes, NewAdventures return to Sadler's Wellsthis Christmas with one of ourmost popular and belovedproductions, Matthew Bourne'sCinderella – a thrilling andevocative love story set in Londonduring the Second World War, which forms part of the company's 30thanniversary celebrations. Matthew Bourne at his very best.


GENTLE PAEDIATRIC OSTEOPATHYChoosing the right healthcare for your child can feel challenging. If you’re after a gentle, non-pharmaceutical approach then try theOsteopathic Centre for Children (OCC). Their highly-trainedosteopaths will give you the time you need to discuss your concerns,and after observing your child, will use effective, non-invasive physicaltechniques to help promote, maintain and restore health and wellbeing.

They specialise in treating children from birth to 18 years presentingwith a whole range of conditions, as well as women in the perinatalperiod, and will always work alongside traditional medicine whereappropriate.

OCC parent, Georgia said, ‘What I like about the consultants at theOCC is that they don’t give me a hard time if we do decide to go downthe [NHS drug-treatment] route but support my family in what we donext. Having seen the effect of the osteopathic treatment on my family,the OCC will always be my first port of call for my children’s health. Wethink it is absolutely brilliant.’

Book an appointment today on 020 8875 5290www.occ.uk.com

Registered charity number 1003934

NEW YEAR NEW YOU

ARE YOU CONFIDENT LOOKINGAFTER YOUR CHILD’S HEALTH?Would you know what to do if your child choked or stopped breathing?Do you feel confident looking after your child when they're unwell?Doctor Bear is a team of four paediatrician mummies who understandthose middle of the night panics with a feverish child. They have usedtheir collective, extensive experience to create fun and highly informativecourses about managing childhood illnesses and injuries.

They also offer bespoke courses to run in your home where you canchoose from their bank of topics and tailor-make a course most relevantto your needs. “We are passionate about empowering caregivers with up todate and 'from the horse’s mouth' knowledge about child healthcare. Pleasesee our 5* reviews on Facebook, for further course information and our blogsee our webpage.”

www.doctorbear.co.uk Follow their blog on Instagram: doctorbears

‘Thanks for the bespoke course for our NCT group, run by friendlypaediatrician mummies with lots of first hand experience. Highlyrecommended.’ Testimonial, November 2017

Highlyrecommended10% off courses

quoting FSW

Paediatrician Mummies Promoting Child Health

The only UK charity providing

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osteopathy on adonate-what-you-

can basis

Transportation for children and young people

ARE YOU LOOKING FOR TERM TIMEWORK?Are you a parent, teacher, nanny or childminder?

Do you own a car? Are you a confident driver with a minimum of 2 yearsdriving experience and a clean driving record?

If yes, join Kids Services today!Kids Services believe that all children and young people need to be safeand happy. They are looking for people with energy and commitmentwith knowledge of safeguarding, to provide safe transport services forchildren around London.

Kids Services provide a bespoke service for parents, escortingchildren to and from activities or just the daily school run.Additionally they provide childcare for parents who requirehome assistance.Positions available for staff to work between the following hours: 07:30am-9:30 am and 3pm-7pm (hours may vary)Starting at £10ph for London and Central London from £12 ph.www.kidsservices.co.uk [email protected] or 020 8835 7008All drivers have a fully enhanced DBS.

FIND A FLEXIBLE FULL TIME OR PARTTIME JOBAre you a parent juggling family life and work? Looking to return backto work after maternity leave or extended career break? Perhaps youwould like a job with flexible working hours or the possibility to workfrom home?

Do you assume finding work that is challenging, interesting and that pays well is too good to be true? Think again!

Mothers & Careers offers you access to wonderful employers in theUK with the most flexible, family-friendly working policies. Theyprovide information about flexible jobs, returner programmes, careerresources and advice. Full-time, part-time, home-working or evening-hours. Their current job opportunities are from companies likeDeloitte, Ferrum, The Bridge, UnderTheDoormat and more.

What are you waiting for?

To receive their careers newsletter, email [email protected]

To search and apply for jobs, please go to the job boardon www.mothersandcareers.com

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But what is mindfulnessand where can you learnit?Let’s be clear. Mindfulness is a skill everyonecan learn; it’s a way of calming the endlesslyactive mind by shifting your awareness; you letgo of the chatter in your head and instead,come back to your senses.

It’s not a quick fix—it takes a great deal ofpractice—but the rewards can be truly life-changing.

It’s useful to know that mindfulness is a state ofawareness, an attitude, an approach to life—it’snot a technique as such. That said, there arelimitless practices through which you cancultivate mindfulness. Most of these take onlyminutes to learn—but a lifetime to perfect.

Whatever practices you employ—sitting,walking, breathing, yoga, mantras and more—

mindfulness students eventually discover thesame thing: that with repeated practice, there isan OFF button after all.

With the stress of modernlife, mindfulness is not aluxury but a necessityIsn’t mindfulness a new and trendy practice?Nope. It’s as old as the hills and has beentaught for thousands of years in every corner ofthe planet. It’s just that the demand formindfulness is now so huge, thanks to ourstressed-out, over-digitalised lives, that it isappearing constantly on everyone’s radar.

Battersea Yoga is a studio dedicated tomindfulness practices; for nearly 20 years theyhave supported students to stay mindful both onand off the mat.

Finding Battersea Yoga studio for the first time isa bit like stumbling across a secret; not far from

Battersea Park’s Sun Gate, tucked away offCambridge Road, there’s a long prettydriveway. On entering the tranquil studio, yousoon forget that you’re in London, the place hasa magical air about it, as if you have arrived ‘atyour own door’…

To get you started, here’s a simple mindfulnessexerciseNext time you are waiting for the kettle to boil,walking in the park or sitting at your desk, simplystop, breathe and become aware of all five ofyour senses. Check them off: sound, sight,taste, smell and touch: What can I see, hear,taste, smell, touch in this moment? You must beaware of your breath as you let the senseexperiences come to you. This exerciserequires no effort. The sounds are there. Thecolours are there. Just notice them. When youengage the senses, the thinking mind stops. Inthe moment of simply noticing, you are aware,but not thinking.


Finding Battersea Yoga Studio for the first time is a bit like stumbling across a secret

“With repeated practice, mindfulness students do find there is an OFF button after all.”

Coming back to your sensesMindfulness has been hitting the media headlines for years; the NHS encourages it, Royals promoteit, Corporations crow about it—and now, even the Government has a mindfulness All-party group.

No corner of British society it seems, is exempt from the clamour for mindfulness.

“Battersea Yoga has been an absolute lifelineto me, my essential weekly re-set for whatcan often feel like a frantic mind andexhausted body. I came across BatterseaYoga after spotting an ad for a free class...struggling with the juggles of life and newmotherhood I had just been prescribedantidepressants and was about to take myprescription to the chemist that day;something made me decide to give the classa go first.

Four years on and I've learnt how to lookafter and nurture my mind and body, accessdeep peace and reduce stress through life-changing meditation, yoga and self-reflection—all of which allow me to parentand function with far deeper awareness... Inever did make it to the chemist!”

Jo C, ‘Busy London Mum’

FREE mindfulyoga session

for the first 100readers

Battersea Yoga’s ‘Foundations of Mindfulness’ Course is taught as a 12-week course on Thursday evenings. The studio also offers small private groupclasses by arrangement and specialist mindfulness courses on www.batterseayoga.com

From January 2018, they are offering 100 new students A FREE CLASS TO EXPERIENCE MINDFUL YOGA.Claim your class at www.batterseayoga.com/magic100


NURSERY FEATURE

PEREGRINES: A NEW PREP-SCHOOLPeregrines is a new co-ed Pre-Preparatory Schoolopening in September 2018. Peregrines is a familyschool set in stunning surroundings where boys andgirls aged 3 to 8 are cherished and encouraged toflourish and thrive. Enjoying a convenient locationwithin a conservation area in Putney, Peregrines hasspacious green play areas, superb facilities anddedicated teachers. Peregrines will inspire andchallenge your child to foster a curiosity and interestin the world around them and to develop a lifelonglove of learning.

After Peregrines, Falcons School for Girls and FalconsSchool for Boys offer places to pupils at Year 4.

They welcome and encourage everyone to visit the school for a tour and to meet theHeadmistress. To arrange your visit please contact the Registrar, Harriet Stokes [email protected]

No.11 Woodborough Road, Putney, London SW15 6PY Contact: Harriet Stokes, Registrar 020 8992 5189 www.peregrinespreprep.co.uk

ECOLE DU PARCNURSERY IS TOP OF THECLASSStaff and families at L’Ecole du Parc inClapham are celebrating after receiving anOutstanding grade in all four areas in itsrecent OFTED inspection. The inspector foundthat the quality of teaching was "exceptional"and that children "became highly confidentbilingual communicators”. She also praisedchildren as "extremely confident and very highlymotivated to learn".Eva and Elisa, co-Heads, said: “we are delightedthat our staff's dedication and talent have beenrecognised.”L’Ecole du Parc provides high quality educationin a French-immersion or bilingual French-English environment. They welcome childrenaged between 2 and 5 years old and somefamilies can now benefit from the new 30-hourfunding.

020 7993 6460 www.ecoleduparc.co.uk

ROCHE NURSERY SCHOOLChildren and staff at The Roche Nursery School, Keswick House, in East Putney are delightedwith their grand new extension. The newly built hall boasts fine period features including largeFrench windows and chandeliers and is brimming with creative play equipment to suit the children’sparticular enthusiasms and interests. All classrooms, including a light and spacious garden room,open on to a wide, leafygarden with its manyopportunities forchildren to explore andprofit from their play.

The children greatlyenjoy the Forest Schooleducational programmeboth on site and duringvisits to WimbledonCommon, and fondlycall the sessions ‘FreshAir Friday!’

Please ring for anappointment on 020 8704 4857.

THE PLAYROOMLONDONThe Playroom is a privately owned homefrom home-style nursery specialising inchildcare for up to 3 years old. It provides astimulating and exciting environment forchildren to explore and play. Children learnthrough planned activities based on theirindividual needs and interests. They also offera bilingual learning programme (Spanish).

Modern, glassfronted building 5 minutes fromEarlsfield station with a large and secureoutdoor play area. 0203 016 3438www.theplayroomlondon.co.ukGrand new extension of the Roche Nursery school

PLAYTIME NURSERYChildren at Playtime Nursery Wandsworth have beencreating some incredible and exciting art work. For Diwalithey turned milk bottles into colourful elephants, the childrenwere able to dress up in traditional clothes and explore newtextures and learning through their senses creating Rangolipatterns with coloured rice. The children created tea lightholders with clay and decorated them in sequins and glitter.Finding new and creative ways to celebrate and explorefestivals and holidays is a great strength at playtimeWandsworth. All artwork was put up on display to showcasethe children’s exceptional artwork!!Twice awarded the title of "Best Day Nursery in the South East of England 2015 – 2016. Top 10 inLondon 2017" and voted “Number one for best group of companies in 2016”.

www.playtimenurseries.com


TEA TIME FORTODDLERS

This session takes placefrom 3:30pm to 4:30pm

for children fromapproximately 2yrs of age

to attend with an adult.

BEFORE & AFTERSCHOOL CARE

We offer a drop-off andpick-up service to and from

local schools, withbreakfast club, help withhomework and supper.

Holiday school alsooffered.

THE MONTESSORICHILDREN

We provide a delightfulenvironment for children from2yrs of age. Offering the fullMontessori curriculum withvisiting teachers for Music,

Dancing, Yoga, French, Drama,Sports & Gymnastics.

CALL US TO BOOK AVISIT TO THE NURSERY

0208 673 8037102 Chestnut Grove Balham,

London, SW12 8JJ

THE MONTESSORI SCHOOL

www.themontessorischool.co.uk

The Ruler programme is a brilliant and very successfulmethod that helps to develop the emotional intelligenceand well-being of everyone associated within thenursery. It is followed by the Willow Nursery inClapham Old Town, which has a strong moral ethos, tohelp the children understand their emotions andtranslate them into actions, for example caring for eachother and being kind to each other.

RULER has been created by The Yale Centre for Emotional Intelligence inthe US and has been built on decades of evidence-based research.

RULER is an acronym and stands for:• Recognising emotions in yourself and others• Understanding the causes and consequences of emotions• Labelling emotions accurately—if you can name it you can tame it• Expressing emotions appropriately• Regulating emotions effectively

The first anchor tool for the early years is called the ‘Mood Meter’. Thishelps the children think of emotions in terms of energy and pleasantness.The second anchor tool is ‘The Charter’—the children describe the waythey would like to feel when they’re at The Willow and what they can doto help themselves and their friends feel this way.

Every two weeks a new “feeling word” is introduced, they talk about howthat word feels, how to recognise it in ourselves and others and if it is ared or blue feeling how to manage our emotions to get to the right place.

Lulu Luckock, RULER-trained teacher says, “Having introduced thisprogramme to The Willow and a couple of other schools in London, I amamazed that is not something that all schools undertake. It is incrediblysimple to put in place and use, even for the very young, and it is provingto be hugely beneficial for all involved. It is very sweet and gratifying tohear a child come in and explain to a teacher that they are feeling ‘yellow’today”.

All the staff are trained by a qualified teacher in the RULER method andparents also have the opportunity to attend workshops to help them ‘talkto their children in colour!’

http://ei.yale.edu/ruler/ruler-overview/

www.thewillownursery.co.uk


SO WHAT ARE THE UPSIDES?Beyond the obvious – a few hours of childcare – preschool is a great wayto get your little one used to being separated from you or other carers. Itcould also help them become familiar with an environment that’s morelike school and some of the routines and behaviours expected there, suchas sharing, listening and taking turns.

HOW MUCH FREE CHILDCARE AM IENTITLED TO? All three and four-year-olds in England receive 570 hours per year of freechildcare. This can be in a preschool, nursery or with a registeredchildminder and is normally taken as 15 hours weekly over 38 weeks, butthere’s often flexibility on this. You may be eligible to get up to 30 hoursfree childcare (1,140 hours per year), ask your childcare provider or localcouncil.

HOW CAN I CHOOSE THE RIGHTPRESCHOOL FOR MY CHILD? Speak to other local parents about their experiences and read Ofstedreports for the nurseries/ preschools you’re considering. Really though,there’s no substitute for taking a proper look around, meeting staff andseeing what your own impressions are.

HOW MANY HOURS A WEEK? You don’t have to use up the full entitlement of 570 hours and could sendyour child for fewer if you think 15 hours a week is too much for theminitially. Some parents find it works well to start off with just a couple ofmornings weekly and build up to more (you will often be able to pay forfurther hours beyond the entitlement).

HOW CAN I GET MY CHILD SETTLED IN?Staff will be very aware that young children may need help getting used toa new place and people and so should have some sort of settling inprocedure. If you’re especially concerned, speak to them and see whattheir advice is – you may even be able to stay with your child during thefirst few visits.

Preschools – your ‘needto know’ guide

By Liat Hughes-Joshi

More parents than ever send their children to preschoolor nursery, thanks in part to free places now offered.Preschools are about learning through play and their

benefits can be significant, although there’s no obligationto sign up if you don’t think it will be right for your child.

Teaching emotionalintelligence with theRuler programme

Butterfly Preschool

NURSERY FEATURE


Tips to prepare your child for theirtransition into Reception successfully

By Bronwyn Kidd, Headmistress of the Early Years at The Hampshire School, Chelsea

What skills, other than fine motor skills, will truly support your child having a seamless andpositive start to their Reception year?

“In my experience, the children who have adapted and thrived thequickest already have the following embedded skills: self-manager,effective communicator, creative, reflective, can explore independentlyand safely and know how to be a team member.

Support your child to self-manageWhilst this may add half an hour to your morning routine, a child who isable to dress themselves, put on their own shoes and perhaps even packan item in their bag, is on the way to becoming an independent learner.

Develop their communication skills Setting aside vocabulary and sentence structure, is your child able to beeffective in their communication and work with a friend, team member orknown adult to achieve a common goal? Can they communicate thatthey would like to share a toy or are they able to independently thanksomeone, whilst maintaining eye contact? Help your child to make eyecontact with known adults, use simple manners to converse whengreeting or thanking someone and keep reinforcing positive behavioursand clear communication until it becomes a natural act. This will standthem in good stead to be able to effectively and politely converse withpeers and adults at school, when the need arises.

Give your child age appropriate experiencesWhilst it may seem boring to stand by and watch your child dig with thesame stick in the mud for what seems like endless hours, it is all part oftheir experience and supports integral development. Your child will notbe able to sit at a table and write about seasonal changes if they havenever experienced an opportunity to kick autumn leaves. Then give themtime to reflect on their experiences and talk them through, use as manyvocabulary building words as you can to help build that word bank forfuture oral and written tasks.

Reassure any worries with positivity and understandingDo not dwell on the negatives. Children are resilient little beings who areadaptable, eager to learn and be part of a community. The start of theirschooling is an exciting time and their progress through the stages willastound you. Enjoy their journey alongside them.”

If you would like to find out more about their SECRET to learning, ortheir nursery school programme, visit The Hampshire School, Chelsea.www.thehampshireschoolchelsea.co.uk

Play performed in thirteenlanguages at Parkgate!

This year Parkgate marked the European Day of Languages with a very specialretelling of the story The Three Little Pigs. Children from Prep who have aEuropean mother tongue performed this famous story in thirteen different languagesrepresenting and celebrating the diverse culture and linguistic talent at ParkgateHouse School. Children have also dipped their toes into Mandarin and Spanish thisterm. There are many more exciting language events coming up including aLanguage Day and a play performed by Prep 6 entirely in French and Spanish!

80 Clapham Common North Side, London SW4 9SD www.parkgate-school.co.uk

NURSERY FEATURE


Christ Church Street French Nursery

We are a bilingual nursery and all parents are

welcome whether or not they are French. All the

staff are qualified and 70% of the staff speak

French; children learn French every day.

The nursery is a warm and happy place for

any child to be part of our family.

Children from 1 year old are welcome.

3 Caversham Street, SW3 4AF

020 7351 9648 and 07530 825528

[email protected]

www.frenchnursery.co.uk

Excellent facilities * Newly renovated premises * Stimulating,caring and homely environment * Qualified and experienced staff

* Outside garden * Good OFSTED report * French * Music & movement * Early years foundation stage curriculum

* Baby unit * Close to public transport * Sensory room

56-58 Blairderry Road, Streatham Hill, London SW2 4SB020 8674 4844 www.oaktreedaynursery.com

OAK TREE DAY NURSERY3 months to 5 years 8 am to 6 pm (Mon to Fri)


LITTLE ANGELS NURSERY SCHOOLA Traditional Teaching Nursery - Learning through Play

"Overall, staff provide a stimulating learning environment wherechildren are motivated and eager to learn" OFSTED

Please contact our office on 020 7274 [email protected]

50 Gresham Road, Brixton, SW9 7NL

We are an Ofsted rated 'Good' day carenursery school. We lay the foundation oflearning where your child's interests form

the base to develop their full potential.Our nursery is very homely and friendly,

and staff are fully qualified with manyyears' experience in Early Years.

Open all year round 8am to 6pm Mondayto Friday except bank holidays and four

weeks in a year.15/30 hours weekly free sessions available for 2-4yrs.

Our skilled staff prepare children aged 25 years for their nextschool and start them on a journey of lifelong learning.

Incorporating art, cooking, music, sport, languages, drama, yoga and all aspects of the Early Years Curriculum. Please

arrange a visit to see the learning and excitement in action.

www.oaktreenurseryschool.co.ukRamsden Hall, 21 Ramsden Road, Balham, SW12 8QX

Tel: 020 8166 5932


After many years of educating children, there is no doubt in my mind thatstarting them off at an early nursery age with a bilingual education hasenormous benefits to their development. At this age, a child’s mind is likea sponge, it can more easily absorb new information presented to it thanan older child’s in assimilating a second language, as it is not yetconditioned by previous learning. The younger the child, the easier it is.

The beauty of starting early (age three) is that you have pretty much ablank sheet of paper, so whatever your nationality is, or whicheverlanguage you speak at home, it is easier. If your child only speaks onelanguage with you and you give them a bilingual education this can helpthem to acquire an additional language as part of a natural process.

By immersing your child in a second language at an early age, this not onlyhelps the child to become proficient in this second language but alsoopens up other opportunities. And if you are already a bilingual family,learning in a bilingual school can only reinforce these languages.

CHILDREN WITH A BILINGUALEDUCATION ARE MORE ADAPTABLE

• Language is not just about learning sets of words and grammar, it isalso learning about another culture.

• The advantage of a bilingual education gives children a broaderoutlook and greater awareness of different races and nationalities. Theybecome more understanding of others, tolerant and aware of the worldin general, whilst also gaining self confidence and a sense of responsibilityto themselves and to others.

• In a world that is constantly changing, communication is becomingincreasingly important. Children who are able to communicate with avariety of cultures are the ones who will have more advantages in life.

PRACTICAL & COGNITIVE BENEFITSOF A BILINGUAL EDUCATION

• An early years bilingual education helps to develop the brain. Childrenbecome able to use two languages at the same time, switching constantly,developing skills in overcoming inhibitions, increasing concentration skillsand working memory.

• Consequentially children who are educated bilingually often performbetter on tasks that require multi-tasking, decision making and problemsolving, even though the particular situation may have nothing to do withlanguage.

• And for sure a second language learnt at an early age is one that will beuseful throughout a child’s education and remain for life.

• This will allow you and your child more choices when choosing furthereducation, be it secondary school, university or abroad (A Levels, BAC or IB)

• Being fluent in an extra language can make a candidate stand out fromother prospective employees. It can open doors to extra opportunitiesthat others without these skills may miss out on. In today’s growing globaleconomy those with a bilingual education have the advantage.

AND WITHOUT DOUBT THISBILINGUAL EDUCATION IS BESTSTARTED AT AN EARLY AGE

Some Tips• Enrol early, availability is limited and demand high.• Visit schools to see if you like the culture.• Do not worry if you are of a different nationality.• You do not have to speak a second language yourself, but it helps if

you do, so use it at home.• Try to have a nanny at home who speaks the second language.• Use books and TV to reinforce the second language at home.• Take holidays in the country in question.• Early assimilation of two languages is slower, but do not worry, they

soon catch up in both languages.

International & Bilingual Schools ages 3 -11 years 020 7371 8350

L’Ecole des Petits, 2 Hazlebury Road Fulham SW6 2NBwww.lecoledespetits.co.uk

L’Ecole de Battersea, Trott Street Battersea SW11 3DSwww.lecoledebattersea.co.uk

EDUCATION

The benefits of starting a Bilingual Education at an early age

By Nicholas Otten, co-Founder L’Ecole des Petits & L’Ecole de Battersea

Parlez-vous Français? Do you speak English? Hablas Español?

Choosing where to send your child to school is a big decision, one of the most important things that you will ever have to consider.

Who would have thought that the concept of anoutdoor nursery, yes outdoor, would catch on inLondon?

When I first visited the Little Folk nursery on Wimbledon Commonin 2015, I was deeply touched to see those little children learning todraw, play and learn with nature. I was struck by the simplicity of theconcept. However I had no idea that only a year later, due tooverwhelming popular demand, the Little Forest Folk would haveopened four new sites in under a year. (There are nurseries inWimbledon, Chiswick, Fulham, Wandsworth and now Barnes.) Sincelaunching their first forest school branch, Little Forest Folk have acquiredan immense amount of support and interest and an Ofsted rating ofOutstanding, which they received earlier this year at their firstWimbledon location.

Their latest nursery, in Barnes, sees the 2-5 year olds all meeting for ahearty breakfast in Rocks Lane Tennis Pavilion before donningwaterproofs to walk to the surrounding magical forest setting. The fieldsand forest of Barnes are the setting for a host of forest activities for thechildren from creating mud pies, treasure hunts, bark rubbing, minibeast exploration, experimenting with science, dressing up and creativerole play to reading stories, mark making and mathematics in the forest.Always on the move, balancing, running, climbing, coordinating, thechildren of Little Forest Folk are always learning more about our world,all in the heart of London.Families asked Founder Leanna Barrett, a few questions:

Q: Why are parents so enthusiastic about being sending theirchildren outdoors so much? Isn't it too cold in winter?

It is now universally acknowledged that the benefits of children spendingtime outdoors, engrossed in nature are incredible. In a world where lifeis ever increasingly sedentary, where childhood obesity and diabetes areon the rise along with a significant increase in mental health challengesfor children, days spent outdoors offer an alternative, healthier lifestyle.Our children are physically active all day long, running, jumping, climbingand balancing. Their fitness and stamina levels are astonishing, as aretheir coordination, balance and general dexterity.

Giving young children freedom of time and space within nature, in aworld where they self-direct their own learning in mixed-age groupsallows for awe and wonder to be experienced on a daily basis.Through sheer joy and fascination with their environment, our childrendevelop wonderful personal, social and emotional skills. They areconfident, independent, self-motivated and resilient little learners.

We firmly believe that there is no such thing as bad weather, only badclothing. We provide all families with a seasonally changing kit list ofappropriate layers for the children to be wearing to ensure they aresuitably attired. We source fantastic outer waterproof layers fromScandinavia, which we provide to ensure our children are always warmand dry.

Q: We believe there are no or very few toys available in yournurseries: can you explain why and how children learnoutdoors

Many toys are quite closed-ended, aiming to entertain. We want ourchildren to be creators, not consumers. We provide minimal toys forchildren, all extremely open-ended to enhance or stimulate creativeplay. We aren’t trying to fill children’s heads with knowledge, we arethere as facilitators to assist children to develop their own skills aroundcritical thinking, problem solving and their general personal, social andemotional strength and resilience.

If we give them the space to do so, children will learn constantly. Whenour children are building a den they are learning how to communicatewith each other, how to issue instructions and how to collaborate.They use maths to work out the structure that will best allow their dento take shape. They develop their physicality by carrying sticks acrossthe forest and balancing them. Their creativity flourishes. As they taketurns to speak, to consider all opinions, they are learning kindness,patience and empathy.

We give our children more credit than most. They may be small, butthey are still people. We see ourselves as creators of curiosity – ourrole is to light the spark of curiosity then we can stand back and watchthe fireworks go off.

www.littleforestfolk.com

Outdoor nursery receives hugesupport from parents

NURSERY FEATURE



Make a splash!... at Dawmouse Montessori SchoolCome and see how we teach with passion in our twoMontessori Schools in Fulham.

Fully qualified staff, small class ratios, established forover 20 years, modern in our approach.

Call Miss Emma on 020 8398 9294 or visit our websitewww.dawmouse.co.uk

• EYFS and Montessori Method of teaching • MEAB inspected and accredited Montessori nurseries (the only ones in SW12)• Ballet, Drama, Football, French and Music classes • Morning, afternoon and full day sessions (term time only)• Summer Clubs

Est 1976Ofsted registered and MEAB Accredited

An independent nursery school for children 2 to 5 years

Contact: [email protected] www.nightingalemontessori.co.ukRegister early to avoid disappointment.

Nightingale 1 Montessori: St Luke's Church Hall, 194 Ramsden Rd, SW12 8RQ. 07958 567210Nightingale 2 Montessori: St Stephen's Church Hall, 35 Weir Rd, SW12 0NU. 07930 401769

345 Nursery School provides an outstanding startto a child's educational journey. We ensure thatour pupils have gained a sense of independence,

selfconfidence and a desire to learn.Our independent nursery is situated close toWandsworth Common and has a very large

outdoor space. The curriculum includes Sport,Spanish, Music, Ballet and Tennis.

Contact Jill [email protected]

345 Nursery School, Fitzhugh Grove, Trinity RoadLondon SW18 3SA Tel: 020 3633 4185

SW1ST MATTHEW’S SCHOOL3-11 Co-Ed Visits by arrangement throughoutJanuary 020 7504 0500www.stmwschool.org.ukEATON HOUSE BELGRAVIA PRE-PREP3-8 Boys Open Evening 28/2 7-9pm 020 79246000 www.eatonhouseschools.comMORE HOUSE SCHOOL 11-18 Girls Visits by arrangement in January020 7235 2855 www.morehouse.org.ukST. JOSEPH’S CATHOLIC PRIMARYCo-ed. Nursery open day 15/3 2-3pm. 020 7589 2438.

SW4EATON HOUSE THE MANOR 8-13 Boys Open Mornings 17/1, 24/1, 31/1,21/2, 28/2 and 7/3 9-10.30am 020 7924 6000www.eatonhouseschools.comPARKGATE HOUSE SCHOOL 2.5-11 Co-Ed Open Day 24/2 9.30am-12pm020 7350 2461 www.parkgate-school.co.ukALLEN EDWARDS PRIMARY 4-11 Co-Ed Open Days TBC in January,booking required or call school to arrangealternative date 020 7622 3985www.allenedwards.co.uk

SW6FULHAM PREP SCHOOL4-13 Co-Ed Pre-Prep Open Mornings 6/2 and13/3 9.15am, 10.15am and 11.15am, call tobook a place and time slot 020 7471 4217,Prep School tours by appointment only 0207386 2444 www.fulhamprep.co.ukPARSONS GREEN PREP 4-11 Co-Ed Midweek tours on Thursdays at9am by appointment only 020 7371 9009www.parsonsgreenprep.co.uk SINCLAIR HOUSE2-13 Co-Ed Prep School Open Morning 15/310-11.30am, Montessori Nursery OpenMorning 16/3 9.30-11am 020 7736 9182www.sinclairhouseschool.co.ukL’ECOLE DES PETITS 3-6yrs. Co-Ed Open Mornings 11/1, 18/1,25/1, 1/2, and 8/2 020 7371 8350www.lecoledespetits.co.uk

SW7THE HAMPSHIRE SCHOOL 3-13 Co-Ed Tours of main school onWednesdays at 9am and of Early Years Schoolon Mondays and Thursdays at 1.30pm 0207352 7077www.thehampshireschoolchelsea.co.ukST NICHOLAS PREPARATORY SCHOOL2-10 Co-Ed Open Morning 18/1 9.30-11amplus Open House every Wednesday andThursday during term time 9.30-10.30am bookin advance 020 7225 1277www.stnicholasprep.co.ukEATON HOUSE BELGRAVIA PREP8-13 Boys Open Morning 28/2 9-10.30am,Open Evening 14/3 6-8pm 020 7924 6000www.eatonhouseschools.com

FRANCISCAN PRIMARY SCHOOL 4-11 Co-Ed Reception and Nursery SchoolsTours throughout January and February 9.15am020 8672 3048 franciscan.wandsworth.sch.uk

SW10REDCLIFFE SCHOOL 3-11 Girls 3-8 Boys Open Day 2/2 9am, plustours Tuesdays and Thursdays during term time9.30am booking required 020 7352 9247www.redcliffeschool.com

SW11THE DOMINIE6-11 Co-Ed Tours by appointment Pleasecontact the school to find out more about theirspecialist teaching for dyslexic children 020 7720 8783 www.thedominie.co.ukTHAMES CHRISTIAN COLLEGE 11-16 Co-Ed Open Mornings 27/2, 8/3 and25/4 11am-1pm 020 7228 3933www.thameschristiancollege.org.ukCHRIST CHURCH CofE PRIMARY 4-11 Co-Ed Open Day 8/1 10.30am-12pm byappointment only 020 7228 2812www.christchurchbattersea.co.ukL’ECOLE DE BATTERSEA 4-11 Co-Ed Open Mornings 12/1, 19/1, 26/1and 2/2 020 7371 8350www.lecoledespetits.co.uk

SW12LONDON STEINER SCHOOL 4-11 Co-Ed Weekly school tours byappointment every Wednesday at 9am 0208772 3504 www.waldorflondon.co.ukRAVENSTONE SCHOOL 4-11 Co-Ed Open Morning 9/1 9am 020 86730594 www.ravenstoneschool.co.uk

SW13THE HARRODIAN SCHOOL 4-18 Co-Ed 11+ Open MorningJanuary/February TBC, plus regular tours duringterm time 020 8762 6321 www.harrodian.com

SW15IBSTOCK PLACE SCHOOL 3-18 Co-Ed The Prep School Open Morning31/1 9.30am booking required 020 8876 9991/ 020 8392 5803www.ibstockplaceschool.co.uk GRANARD PRIMARY SCHOOL 4-11 Co-Ed Open Morning Tour 10/1 at9.30am call to book a place 020 8788 3606www.granardprimary.co.ukPUTNEY HIGH SCHOOL 4-18 Girls 11+ Open Day 9/3 9am 020 8788 4886 www.putneyhigh.gdst.netPEREGRINES PRE-PREP SCHOOLCo-Ed 3-8 Open Day 3/2 10.30am-12pm,register in advance 020 8992 5189www.peregrinespreprep.co.ukFALCONS SCHOOL FOR GIRLSGirls 7-11 Scholarship Day 17/3 9am, registerin advance 020 8892 5180www.falconsgirls.co.uk

SW16STREATHAM AND CLAPHAM HIGH11-18 Girls Open Morning 9/3 9.15-10.45amregister online 8677 8400 www.schs.gdst.net

SW18THE ROCHE SCHOOL 2.5-11 Co-Ed Open Mornings 17/1 and 2/39.15-11.15am call to make an appointment on020 8877 0823 www.therocheschool.co.ukST MICHAEL’S CE PRIMARY SCHOOL 4-11 Co-Ed Open Morning 8/1 byappointment only 020 8874 7786www.stmichaelswandsworth.sch.ukPARK HOUSE SCHOOL / TRAMHOUSE SCHOOL 4-19 Co-Ed Open days 25/1, 22/2, 22/3 and19/4 1-3pm 020 3031 9707 / 9700www.beyondautismschools.org.uk

SW19THE STUDY PREP SCHOOL 4-11 Girls Tours on Tuesdays in January andFebruary 9.20-10.30am 020 8947 6969www.thestudyprep.co.ukWILLINGTON INDEPENDENT 4-13 Boys Tours of the school by appointment020 8944 7020 www.willingtonschool.co.ukWIMBLEDON COMMON PREP (also known as Squirrels) 4-7 Boys OpenMorning 24/1 9.15-11am, go to website tomake a booking. Plus tours of the school byappointment 020 8946 1001www.wimbledoncommonprep.co.ukWIMBLEDON HIGH SCHOOL 11-18 Girls 11+ Open Mornings 21/3 and 28/3time TBC 020 8971 0900www.wimbledonhigh.gdst.net

SW20THE NORWEGIAN SCHOOL Co-Ed 3-16 Open afternoon 21/4 12-2pm,plus tours of the school can be booked any time020 8947 6617 www.norwegianschool.org.uk

W6RAVENSCOURT PARK PREP SCHOOL 4-11 Co-Ed Open Mornings 1/2 and 6/3 9am,booking nec. 020 8846 9153 www.rpps.co.uk

SE26SYDENHAM HIGH SCHOOL4-18 Girls. Senior + 6th: 13/3 9.30-11.30. Junior 21/3 9.30-11.00sydenhamhighschool.gdst.net

WEST SUSSEXWINDLESHAM HOUSE RH20 4-13 Co-Ed Day and Boarding Open Morning20/1 9.30am-12.30pm 01903 874700www.windlesham.com

WILTSKING EDWARD’S SCHOOL BATH Pre-Prep & Nursery 7/3; Junior 8/3 kesbath.com 01225 820399


SCHOOL OPEN DAYSCompiled by Joanna Parry

We take every care preparing this info, but things can change, so do please check with schools or websites before setting out.

Call tobook yourplace NOW


In November 2017, the government released their budget which statedthey were committed to investing more money for maths teaching inschools. Whatever your political belief and aside from the debate, we canall get behind the chancellor’s sentiment of “more maths for everyone”.

Charlotte Gater, Head of Education at Explore Learning added "This waywe can help children to develop the skills needed, not only in so manyjobs, but also to be financially healthy. Whilst listening to the budgetspeech, and the chancellor’s comments on how much the country spendson debt, it is clear that we need to teach children the importance of goodfinancial management.

Help you help your children have a goodunderstanding of budgets:

1) Get them involved with shopping Give them a budget tospend for the week and get them to meal plan. Encourage themto shop around different brands or supermarkets to see if they canget more for their money.

2) Teach them about interest rates Does your child turn tothe bank of Mum and Dad to borrow money? Give them someoptions: 1) They can either save up their pocket money or do jobsto earn the money. 2) You will give them the money upfront, butthey then have to pay you back with interest. So, if they want £50they have to give you £55 back over a set period of time. Thisway they will start to understand about the debt they could createby using loans.

3) Learn about pay A great activity we do with our oldermembers at Explore Learning is to get them to research howmuch they would get paid for their ideal job. They then have tosee how far their monthly wages would go. Looking at tax, rent,bills etc gets them to see how much disposable income theywould have!

Explore Learning gets behind “more maths for everyone!”

FREE TRIALCall 033 01243802 to book

Great ways to learn to be good about money

Explore Learning is award-winning maths and English tuition for children aged four to 14, voted number one private tuition centre in the UK! We’re confident you’ll love it so why not call to book your free trial with your nearest centre today on 033 0124 3802.

Why do year 7 students arrive fresh from primary schools with suchdisparity in interest, skills and knowledge, in relation to art? While mostadults agree that a balanced curriculum is best for our children, in myexperience, many primary schools have an insufficient provision for art.With a nation-wide focus on literacy and numeracy, art can often find itselfdropped out of the weekly class timetable as busy teachers try their bestto fit everything in. Limited resources and lack of teacher confidence canalso be detrimental to a well-rounded arts education. There are thingsparents and teachers can be aware of to ensure a richer art experiencefor children:

DIVERSIFY THE ART YOU SHOWCHILDRENI believe we have a duty to deliberately expose children to a broad rangeof art and artists. I have seen many schools fall into the trap of routinelyteaching art lessons inspired by the same dead, 20th century, male, whiteartists or teaching art lessons tenuously linked to class topics. I love a VanGogh and Egyptian art as much as the next person, but it is important thechildren feel represented by the art they see and that they are madeaware of the enthralling range of art out there to consume, including fromdiverse ethnic backgrounds and created from different ideas and materials.Where possible, I make a point of showing the children photographs ofartists and talking with them about the context of those individuals and theart they make/made.

GET TO KNOW THE POTENTIAL OFDIFFERENT MATERIALS ANDTECHNIQUESThere is a misconception that skills in art cannot be taught, that we eitherhave a natural propensity for making art or we are doomed to life ofdrawing stickmen. While I have certainly seen some children withimpressive natural gifts in art, I have also seen year 1 children develop into

competent and confident year 6 artists because skills were broken downfor them, they had time to practice and implement those skills and theskills were progressively built on over a period of time; in much the sameway as we learn in any subject area. Equally though, time in ‘creativeplay’ or exploring the potential of materials and techniques, allowschildren the opportunity make exciting discoveries for themselves.

ALLOW TIME FOR FREE-FLOWINGCREATIVITYStructure, lesson content and a sense of direction are all important withinschool art lessons, but we must also safeguard art-time as a space forgenuine creative and inventive thought. Children benefit from anenvironment where they can process the world in a way that makessense to them as individuals, and then represent it in whichever way theychoose. When my students and I discuss what I call the ‘big questions’around art, they express that art makes them feel ‘free’ and that it’s a timewhen ‘no one can tell me my work is wrong’, they say that they feel‘relaxed, creative and calm making art’. As adults, these are things wecrave: a sense of freedom, respite from the everyday, a sense of calm andtrust in our inner world.

TALK ABOUT ARTAs well as making their own art, it is also enriching for children to have thechance to debate and discuss artworks, to decide for themselves what is,or is not art and to develop their own preferences and opinions. Inschool, I place equal importance on time spent looking at and discussingart. In an increasingly visual world, being able to infer meaning fromimages and to critically consider them is a valuable asset. You can useimages from books, postcards or a screen but it is also great to make themost of the free galleries in London. Don’t feel you have to see all the artin one gallery visit. It is fine to sit yourselves in front of one artwork andtake it in for as long as you like.


EDUCATION

Why we should develop creativity and artisticdevelopment in primary schools

By Emily Gopaul

Emily Gopaul has worked in a range of primary settings, as an art education consultant in various London primaries and held regular posts at privateschools and academy chains. She currently teaches art part-time at Earlsfield Primary.

Her book ‘Teaching Primary Art & Design’ is published by Bloomsbury. www.theprimaryartclass.com


www.firstclasslearning.co.uk

First Class LearningPutney

Vicky Barnett BA, MSc, PGCE020 8876 2553

Children Learning to Succeed...

Maths, English, 11+ Preparation


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Register now to earn extra money, by calling Liz on07761128059 or [email protected]


FAMILY FUN UNDERTHE TUSCAN SUN Villa Radicata is in a stunning,undiscovered part of Tuscany and canbe rented on a self-catering basis orthey have tailor made family breakswith babysitting provided and allfood/wine/activities included (Yoga and various fitness classes, cooking formums, art, pizza/pasta making, mini yoga and baby Italian for toddlersand older children). A well deserved massage for mum is included plusan excursion to the medieval town of Anghiari. At Villa Radicata you willfind true Italian hospitality along with great food so you can spend qualitytime with your children plus “mummy time” (with no cooking or washingup!) knowing your children are happy with their Italian “nonna”.

Villa Radicata at a glance:•Stunning lake and mountain views•Sleeps up to 12 •Fenced pool and garden, stair gates•Highchairs, cots, sterilizer, baby equipment, plenty of toys, •Activities: Yoga, fitness classes, cooking lessons, art, baby Italian, babymassage, mums massage, shopping•Free pick up from local airport

Contact Rita on 0039 349 5018679, 0778 557 1292www.mum-and-baby-experience.co.ukwww.holiday-villa-in-tuscany.com

TRAVELLING WITH CHILDREN


Let’s follow an Esprit Sprite (aged 6) to see exactly what happenson a typical day….

8.30am Esprit Snow Rangers escort all the excited children to skischool, who follow behind chanting ‘repeat after me’songs. Then it’s time to clip on the skis and spend thenext few hours with the ski instructors, learning to zipdown the mountain. Meanwhile mum and dad get tohead for first lifts. Esprit Sprite lessons (ages 5-12) run forall abilities with a 1:8 ratio. Our younger guests aged 3-4have Spritelet lessons in the afternoons, when it’sgenerally warmer and snow is softer.

11.30am Skis off, and it’s back for a supervised lunch whilst parentscan lunch up on the mountain.

2.00pm Snow Club– Now it’s time for fun afternoon of games,treasure hunts, igloo and snowman building, arts andcrafts, bum boarding and more!

5.30pm High Tea– fully supervised by the childcare team, with lotsof yummy healthy food to fill those tummies. Mum anddad can come and join too and catch up on theirchildren’s day.

7.30pm Cocoa Club starts whilst parents enjoy Adult Dining.Every night has a different theme and involves games,story-telling or quiz nights. FREE Baby/Child-Listening isalso available every night in all Esprit Chalet Hotels, XtraChalets and larger chalets, and in all properties on staffnight off.


A DAY IN THE LIFE OF ESPRIT SKIEsprit Ski looks after the childcare with flexible or seamless all day options, so you can enjoy your skiing –

but what does that mean?!

Esprit Childcare gives you the ability to spend as much time on the slopes as you desire, with all and part-day careavailable. Babies and toddlers go to the exclusive Esprit Nursery, whilst older children are taken to ski school…

just part of their super-convenient ‘Seamless Service’ that helps you maximise your time on the mountain.

Esprit Ski offers catered chalets and Chalet Hotels in top resorts in TheAlps. Packages include flights, transfers and chalet board. Esprit’syoungest guests can enjoy Nursery from 17 weeks - 40 months.Nurseries are run by qualified Nannies or Nursery Nurses, and havestrict ratios.

Call the Esprit team on 01483 345 194 or visit www.espritski.com for more details.



TOP RECOMMENDATIONSFOR AN EASTER SKIINGESCAPEA ski trip at Easter offers a host of benefits: longer, warmer and sunnierdays, quieter slopes and great value for money. You can enjoy the slopesin the glorious sunshine with no need to be totally bundled up, which isespecially practical for those travelling with children, who tend to feel thecold so much more than adults do. The warmer weather does makechoosing the right resort so important to ensure the snow quality is stillgreat. Powder Byrne have given us their top recommendations for anEaster ski trip to remember.

HEAD TO ZERMATT: For older families who are keen skiers looking to cover great distancesand perhaps more adventurous expeditions on powder, it doesn’t get anybetter than Zermatt. With numerous incredible restaurants to treat yourtaste buds and plenty of lively après-ski opportunities, this resort offers thecomplete package.

AMAZING AROSA: Perfect for families with novices and younger children thanks to the veryeasy access to the slopes, meaning there’s absolutely no hassle. There’salso a large, sunny restaurant terrace that overlooks the nursery slopes soyou can enjoy coffee or lunch while you watch your little ones conquerthe slopes. Arosa is also great for skiers who want to put miles on theirskis and who are looking for a variety of skiing thanks to its links withLenzerheide which mean there’s a huge ski area to enjoy. A little lesslively than Zermatt, evenings in Arosa are all about the food so there areloads of exceptional restaurants to choose from.

GET THE MOST FROM YOUR EASTER ESCAPE: A ski trip is about so much more than just the skiing, it’s aboutexperiencing all the little things that make a ski holiday so unique andPowder Byrne is so good an ensuring their clients experience all the bestof their resort. Their ski guides use local knowledge to find the very bestruns, their Client Concierge team advises and makes bookings at thefinest spas and restaurants, and they go out of their way to make sure thateverything’s possible. There’s even a Mountain Host programme to lookafter the needs of non-skiers, from snow-shoeing to cookery classes andice-skating!

To find out more about an Easter escape with Powder Byrne, call 0208246 5300 or visit powderbyrne.com


HALF TERM HOLIDAY LISTINGS

We took every care inpreparing these entries butsometimes events are cancelledor times changed. Pleasedouble check event with theorganiser to avoiddisappointment.

Compiled by Joanna Parry

SPORTSWIMWAYBalham, East Sheen, Putney,Kensington, Kew Gardens andWimbledon020 8871 3972,[email protected] FebruarySwimming Courses Intensivecourses to improve your child’sswimming technique, on a privateor semi-private basis. Courses runfor half an hour each day, bookearly to avoid disappointment. Age3-9, dates and times dependent onvenue.

YOUNGSTARS MULTI-SPORTS AND ACTIVITYCAMPBalham, Clapham, Parsons Green,Putney and Wimbledon 07749 343116, [email protected] www.young-stars.co.uk12-16 FebruaryHalf Term Holiday Camps Plentyof fun, games and excitementwhilst kids are introduced to allaspects of sports in an all inclusiveand non-competitive environment.3-10 years, times and prices vary.

CENTRAL LONDONGOLF CENTREBurntwood Lane SW17 0AT020 8871 2468

www.clgc.co.uk12-16 FebruaryJunior Golf Holiday CampsSearching for activities for your kidsto do during February Half Term?Central London Golf Centre offersthe perfect sporting option withthese junior golf half-term camps.The camps for 7-14 year olds aretailored to children of all levels,whether they just want to try golfor have been playing for sometime. Morning only camp 9am-12pm, £30, whole day camp 9am-3pm, £45. Bring a packed lunch.

FULHAM FCFOUNDATIONVenues in Fulham0870 442 5432,[email protected] February HalfTermHoliday Courses Holiday coursesfor all abilities in a fun andchallenging environment. 3-5yrs, 9-11am, 6-14 yrs, 9am-3pm, from£15 per day.

CHELSEA FC SOCCERSCHOOLVenues across SW London020 7957 [email protected] www.chelseasoccerschools.co.ukThroughout February HalfTermLondon Soccer School For boysand girls aged 4-13. Times varyaccording to course, from £30.

LITTLE GYMSmugglers Way SW18 1DB020 8874 6567,wandsworth_fulham@thelittlegym.euwww.wandsworthfulham.thelittlegym.euThroughout February HalfTerm Holiday Fun Don’t miss out on

these ever popular camps at theirWandsworth gym. These 3-hourcamps (OFSTED approved) forover 3s build new skills anddevelop confidence while the kidshave loads of fun. Call the team forspecific timings.

LITTLE KICKERSVenues across SW Londonwww.littlekickers.co.ukThroughout February HalfTermClasses and Workshops A positiveintroduction to sport by teachinghigh quality football skills in afriendly, pressure-freeenvironment. There are fourdifferent classes tailored specificallyto the needs of children between18 months and 7 years.

PLAYBALLLatchmere Leisure Centre Sports Hall020 8123 2217 www.playball-london.com12-15 February

Half Term Camps Playball holidaycamps are tailored to meet theneeds of younger children and arebased on the fundamental sportskills for tennis, hockey, cricket,golf, football, rugby, basketball,football and volleyball. Add inbouncy castles, slides and treasurehunts and you have an amazing funfilled day of entertainment. Age 3-8, 10am-1pm.

SW SWIMMING SCHOOLEmanuel School SW11 1HS0208 767 2723,[email protected] FebruaryIntensive Swimming CoursesA 5-day intensive splash courseswhere children swim everyday withsame instructor. All lessons are 30minutes each day, running between9am-12pm Monday to Friday.

Learn a variety of ball skills with Playball this half term

Try FREE classes at the Little Gym, Wandsworth


ARTS ANDCRAFTSEDDIE CATZ •Putney, Wimbledon and EarlsfieldFirst Floor, 68-70 Putney High StreetSW15 1SF•42 Station Road SW19 2LP•279 Magdalen Road SW18 3NZ0203 4755268 www.eddiecatz.comThroughout February HalfTermHoliday Activities across the threebranches in SW London – Putney,Earlsfield and Wimbledon ColliersWood – there will be plenty ofholiday camps, creative workshopsand parties to choose from, for 4-8years as well as toddler classes.See www.eddiecatz.com for moreinformation and to book online.Prices usually include lunch and afree play at the venue, plus EddieCatz appears in all venues twice aday to meet and greet the children.

HORNIMAN MUSEUMAND GARDENS100 London Road SE23 3PQwww.horniman.ac.uk15 and 16 FebruaryCarnival Dance Workshop Learnto dance like you’re partyingthrough the streets of Brazil withGandaia Arts. Energetic rhythms,flowing dance and hoop skirts willget you into the mood of thisfamily-friendly workshop of theMaracatu performance from NorthEast Brazil. Age 4+, £5.

LITTLE HOUSE OFSCIENCEImperial College, Kensington SW7 2AZ0800 092 1062,[email protected] FebruaryWho wants to be a biologist? 3-dayhands-on, project based fun andeducational holiday camps for ages4-11, 10am-3pm, £240 per child,sibling discounts available.Workshops can also be booked forseparate days. Book early to avoiddisappointment.

DOVE STUDIOSChelsea, SW3 6JZ07775 682 094 | 020 7352 6668www.dove-studios.comBrilliant craft & creativitysessions. Painting, drawing, clay,paper-crafts & more. A great wayto enhance your child’s creativeskills. 10am-6pm.

MUSEUM OF LONDONEC2Y 5HNwww.museumoflondon.org.uk13 FebruaryLondon Nature Reserves Learnabout hidden treasures nestledamongst London’s urbanenvironment in this recreation ofthe Camley Street nature reservehiding behind Kings Cross station.Explore re-creations ofwildflowers and learn about pondlife, reeds, bugs and bees. Takepart in nature rubbings, identifyanimal footprints and learn aboutreducing our plastic waste.

THE WALLACECOLLECTIONHertford House, Manchester Square,Marylebone W1U 3BNwww.wallacecollection.org13 FebruaryIn the Buff: Life DrawingAn intensive one day courseparticularly relevant for studentsstudying art. Work with artistAlison Kusner to explore thehistory of the female nude in artbefore drawing directly from a livemodel. Free, but booking essential,11am-4pm, 16-18 years.

LANGUAGESET PATATI PATATA Thomas’ Academy, Parsons GreenSW707966 893674,[email protected] FebruaryFun French Day Camp Join the award winning Frenchimmersion programme and learnFrench without leaving London.

Fun activities including Frenchmusic, French art, patisserie,French coding, French musical,sport…and it’s all 100% Frenchfun! Age 4-13, 9am-3pm.

ALPINE FRENCHSCHOOL French Alps+33 4 50 79 08 38www.alpinefrenchschool.com12-16 FebruaryFrench Camps (Morning, Day andResidential) GCSE French Lessonsin the French Alps. Combine afamily skiing holiday with Frenchtuition! 12-15 years, private andgroup tuition, from €225, seewebsite for more information.

MUSIC ANDDRAMA DANTASTICPRODUCTIONSVenues across SW London07460 222003www.dantasticproductions.com/classesThroughout February Half TermBaby and Toddler Classes Actionpacked, interactive musicaladventure classes aimed to inspire,educate, build confidence and

improve fitness. Expecting plenty ofsinging, dancing, puppets,instruments and sensory activities.Drop in classes, no need to book,dates vary depending on venue.

FUNKY MONKEYKEYBOARD CLASSESStreatham, Balham, Herne Hill,Beckenham01732 457100,[email protected] in February TBCFunky ‘One Hit Wonder’ TasterDays Leave your little ones inthese very creative hands for fun-filled music workshops for 4-8 yearold beginner musicians, introducingthem to the electronic keyboard,how it works, and how to startreading and writing music too.10am-2pm, £40/£35 siblingdiscount.

POLKA THEATRE240 The Broadway, WimbledonSW19 1SB020 8543 4888 www.polkatheatre.com14-16 FebruaryHalf Term Holiday WorkshopsA range of exciting holidayworkshops for budding actors,directors, designers and costumemakers, including Behind theScenes: Model Box Making, Behindthe Scenes: Actors Bootcamp andPlay In A Day workshops. Ages,times, dates and prices vary, seewebsite for details.

THE STRINGS CLUBLondon Steiner School 9 Weir RoadBalham London, SW12 0LT0121 296 [email protected] Easy booking system onwww.thestringsclub.org12-16 FebruaryPacked full of fun-filled musicgames and activities, this is an idealintroduction for those new toplaying an instrument. Invaluablefor those budding players inenhancing ensemble performance

Learn French while skiing with Alpine French School

HALF TERM HOLIDAY LISTINGS SUCH ABRILLIANTIDEA!

skills and ensuring regular practiceduring the school holidays. Freeinstrument to take home 9:30am–4pm10th February Award-winning Discovery Day theperfect way to ignite your child’slove of music. Packed full of high-quality, unmissable musicalactivities, we promise to inspireyour child from the offset, takingthem on a memorable musicaladventure! 10:30am Ages 4-11FREE

DAY CAMPSTHE BUTTERFLYPRESCHOOL HOLIDAYCAMPS32b Webbs Road SW11 6SF020 7738 0019www.thebutterflypreschool.co.ukDates in February TBCFun Holiday Camps Craft activities,baking and Forest School. 9am-3.30pm, half day and full dayoptions, from £12 per hour.

DEVELOPINGSKILLSNAOMI MARTIN TOUCHTYPINGSinclair House School, 59 FulhamHigh Street SW6 3JJ07949 204553,www.nmtouchtyping.co.uk12-16 FebruaryTouch Typing CoursesTouch typing courses for childrenaged 7+, classes are 90 minuteslong, £250 for the week. Classesare mixed age and ability. Siblingdiscounts available.

SPARK4KIDS CODINGWORKSHOPS020 8090 1444 www.spark4kids.comHoliday coding workshops

Spark4Kids run holiday workshopsto introduce children to ComputerCoding, Minecraft Modding,Robotics, Games Design, Python,HTML/CSS and JavaScript in a fun,engaging environment. Ages 5-7years, and 8+. Visit the websitefor more details.

HOLIDAY FUNWILD CHILDwww.paradisecooperative.org/wildchildWild Child is an exciting club forchildren aged 8-11 run inpartnership with Paradise Co-opertaive. It allows children to trynew things, excite the imaginationand learn the way of nature.Through this they are hoping tohelp raise a generation that isaware of who they are, mindful ofnature and has the capacity toimagine and think creatively. Theclubs are held in a beautifulcommunity garden, just next toWandsworth Common. For campinformation go to the website.

BOCKETTS FARM PARKLeatherhead, Surreywww.bockettsfarm.co.uk 10-18 FebruaryEnjoy a great day out on the farmwith the start of the Springlambing. There are up to 70 lambsdue from Feb 10th—you may even

see one being born! Birds of Preywill also be at the farm Monday-Friday where you can meet themup close and watch the flyingdemonstrations twice daily. Plus afull programme of fun farmactivities including pony rides,tractor rides, animal handling andpig racing. Outdoors, enjoy thejumping pillows, treehouse towers,pedal go karts and play trails.Large indoor area with a giantheated playbarn, trampolines, ride-on tractors and more.

BATTERSEA SPORTSCENTRE SW11 2DA020 8871 8529www.enablelc.org.bsc12-16 FebruaryGet active with a range of leisureactivities. Age 6-13, see websitefor details.

LITTLE GYMSmugglers Way SW18 1DB020 8874 6567,wandsworth_fulham@thelittlegym.euwww.wandsworthfulham.thelittlegym.euThroughout February & HalfTermSerious Fun Don’t miss out on theopportunity to try one of thesepopular classes for children of allages at this Wandsworth gym for

FREE. The programme focuses onbuilding new skills and developingconfidence while the kids haveloads of fun.

SPECTACULAR‘BUTTERFLIES IN THEGLASSHOUSE’ EXHIBIT RHS Garden WisleyWoking, Surreywww.rhs.org.uk/wisley13 January-4 MarchMore than 50 species of exoticfree-flying butterflies will inhabitthe Tropical Zone of the cathedral-like Glasshouse for this eye-catching exhibit. The specialguests will showcase theirmagnificent colours, patterns andform amongst lush-tropicalplantings, such as palm trees,bananas, bromeliads and climbers,as well as aquatic plants that thrivein the warm jungle pool. Brilliant!


HALF TERM HOLIDAY LISTINGS

Spring lambing at Bocketts Farm Park

Wild Child - This is FUN!

Don't miss the Spectacular Butterfliesexhibit at RHS Garden Wisley


PROMOTION

Very exciting news: The AJ U5’s mini cricket coachingprogramme has just been launched

by AJ Coaching CricketAcademy.

AJ mini cricket is aimed at givingboth boys and girls between 2-5yrsan introduction to cricket, with an

emphasis on enjoyment andparticipation.

AJ Coaching Cricket Academy want their mini cricketers to develop fundamental motor skills that willaid their lifelong involvement in physical activity as well as important social skills including teamwork andbeing a good sport! Using specially adapted cricket equipment, sessions include a series of activitiesand games that focus on three key areas of skill development: ball skills (improving hand / eyecoordination), movement skills and batting skills.

Each week your child will play game based activities that will keep them active, whilst having fun and making new friends.

Get ready to ignite your child’s passion for cricket

New mini cricket coaching academy for 2-5 year olds

Venue: Wimbledon College School, Edge Hill, SW19 4NS

Please contact Ali Jaffer on [email protected] or on 0779 0935 428 or log onto www.ajcoaching.co.uk

SWIMWAYSpring Term 2018 general bookings arenow open, do book quickly as it is alwaysvery popular! SwimWay operates in anumber of exclusive venues in London.The majority of the locations are privatehouses with beautiful swimming poolsperfect for swimmers of all ages and skilllevels. From small group parent and babylessons for ages 6-36 months to 1 : 1 and 1: 2 children’s lessons for ages 2-9 years,SwimWay can cater to all your swimmingneeds. Health and Safety is a major priorityfor Swimway—they run a first aid course atthe beginning of every term, rather than the required every two years. See the Holiday listings page 33 for their February half term courses.

Balham, East Sheen, Putney, Kensington, Kew Gardens and Wimbledon. 020 8871 3972,[email protected] www.swimway.co.uk


CLUBS AND CLASSES

CLUBS FOR DYSLEXICCHILDRENUnlock Learning run individually tailored,supportive and fun clubs that bring childrenstruggling in the classroom together.Tech+ Clubs build core literacy skills enablingchildren to access the wider curriculum These 10-week courses, with a max of 12 ineach class, include online accounts(encouraging practice at home) for phonics,working memory and processing speed.Helping children read, write, spell and type.

Visit the website for times, dates and locationsof the clubs for their February half-termworkshops or call Sophie on 07970 212727. www.unlocklearning.org.uk

LES PETITS CHOUXLes Petits Choux runs French classes onWednesdays at St Michael’s Church inSouthfields, from 4pm. They offer classesfor beginners and for bilingual children.They use songs and games as well as storiesand craft activities to help with speaking,reading and writing the language. Thechildren also have the opportunity to takepart in various French drama workshops toencourage their speaking and to bring thelanguage to life.

For more details visitwww.lespetitschoux.org.uk or follow themon Facebook @lespetitschouxsouthfields

Time to book new classes, learn new skills and above all have fun! These local classes are all brilliant!

BATTERSEA YOGAIf you know that early morning is thebest time for your yoga practice, jointhe new Express Hatha class at6am on Tuesdays, Wednesdays andThursdays. This new class will giveyou energy, clarity, focus and drive forthe rest of the day.

Restorative & Yoga Nidra is theperfect end to the week, Friday6.30pm and 8pm. Relax into theweekend with Laurent Roure, with hiseffortless expertise in guiding you through postures with the sole aim of allowing gravity to take thereigns and do the work for you. Yoga Nidra is the practice of Yoga Sleep—fully surrender as youallow thoughts to float away and your mind to be still.

020 7978 7995 [email protected] www.batterseayoga.com

LE “FRENCH” CLUB Le French clubs for under 5 years olds is agreat way for the children to absorb and learnFrench effortlessly while having fun. Childrenwill explore French through a variety ofmethods including games, songs and rhymes,arts and crafts activities. At The Living Room, Furzedown SW16.Contact Sophie 07946196012 or by [email protected]

IRISH DANCINGIt’s time to dance! The KOS Academyof Irish Dancing is running classes forchildren 3yrs plus at St Simon StockChurch Hall, Hazlewell Road, PutneySW15 6LU every Wednesday from 5.30to 6.30pm. Classes are run by championdancer Katie O'Sullivan. First class free.Adult classes also available.

Please email for more details and to [email protected]

CHELSEA YOUNGWRITERSChelseayoungwriters.co.uk

[email protected] 3773 5381•Spring Term 2018 13 January - 24 March•After-School & Saturday clubs•Half Term Holiday Programme: 12-16 February Creative writing, editing , 11+ courses.Reading-comprehension club. Story critique.Skype individual coaching by children’s authors& writing practitioners.

Venues: Chelsea, Notting Hill/Holland Park,South Kensington, Marylebone, Swiss Cottage/Hampstead, Richmond.


CLUBS AND CLASSES

BOYS DANCE CLASSES Garner Boys’ Academy of Dance is rapidly gaining areputation as South West London’s only school dedicatedto boys’ dance training. Dance Attack and Boys Balletclasses are held on Saturday mornings in Southfields.Dance Attack is a high energy mixed styles class and BoysBallet is a unique ballet training programme developed byprincipal – Ben Garner. Ben said “the boys learn so muchfrom each other and really appreciate the opportunity todance with other boys.” Ages 6 – 11.

07884 187913 www.garneracademydance.com

TALKING TOTSDid you know that the crucial time to helpyour child learn to talk and communicate is upto the age of three? At Talking Tots, theyhelp develop these important skills throughfun, interactive classes designed by experts forbabies, toddlers and pre-schoolers. Supportyour child’s development and secure a placefor the new term today!

Email [email protected] or visitwww.talkingtots.info/swlondon

NEW CLUB PETIT PIERROT IN KNIGHTSBRIDGEThis January 2018 Club Petit Pierrot is opening another one of their ever-popular fun FrenchParent & Toddler groups "Les ateliers des petits". This is a weekly 45 minute multi-sensory sessionfor 1-3 year olds, with a wide variety of fun activities such as stories, music, movement and arts &crafts…all in French!It will take place at The Library at St Columba'sChurch in Pont Street, on Tuesdays from 10amto 10.45am. Highly recommended. Book earlyto avoid disappointment!

www.clubpetitpierrot.co.uk 020 7385 [email protected] Petit Pierrot also have clubs in Chelsea,Fulham, Putney, Earlsfield, Notting Hill,Hampstead and St John's Wood/Maida Vale.

ET PATATI PATATAThe dynamic team at Et Patati Patata haveexpanded their school again: after the successof their Award-winning Saturday French school,Et Patati Patata opens in West Kensington everyThursday at 4pm in January 2018. For all levelsfrom 3-14-year olds, this is a FLAM school(certified from the French government). It isled by an experienced, certified native Frenchspeaking primary teacher (école françaiseAcadémie de Paris), the intensive classes followthe French curriculum. They already have aFrench Saturday school in Fulham.

They won a host of awards including theSupplementary School.Gov.Uk Silver AwardHealth Safety Security Outstanding Teaching forchildren!

Check out their February French camps page 34. 07966 893674, [email protected]


CLUBS AND CLASSES

UNLOCK YOUR CHILD’SPOTENTIALPerformance is so much more than learning how tosing, dance and act, it takes character, discipline,concentration and commitment. Through learning theperforming arts, Stagecoach students become moreself-assured, expressive, sociable and imaginative—sothey can tackle any new situation with resilience,creativity and courage. These are the life skills thathelp young people to succeed on any stage.

Early Stages (4-6yrs)Learn the foundations of performance. 90-minuteclasses are split into three sections: singing, dancingand acting. This is a fun and fabulous introduction toperforming arts for younger children who want to exploretheir creativity and imagination.

Main Stages (6-18yrs, split in groups)Learn the core skills of singing, dancing and acting in their fun and engaging classes, children aregiven both structure and freedom to express themselves and have the opportunity to perform infront of friends and family.

Stagecoach weekly classes help enhance life skills such as confidence, teamwork, coordination andcommunication. Inspirational teachers with performing arts experience. www.stagecoach.co.uk

AMAZING TWO WEEK TRIALAVAILABLE

WATER BABIESWater Babies runs fun, innovative babyswimming classes across South West London.Lo Winchurch says: “Our fully qualifiedteachers are world class and could havetrained as private pilots five times over, in thetime it takes them to fully qualify with us.With a multi-award winning programme,which teaches vital water confidence andsafety skills from birth, our overall aim is toteach you to teach your baby to swim. Sowe’ll always explain why we’re doingeverything, as well as carefully demonstrateexactly what to do.”

020 7585 1510 www.waterbabies.co.uk

Darby English aged 10mths taken by Ian-Taylor forWater Babies

LONDON BABY SWIMAt London Baby Swim, they offer Baby andToddler Swimming classes at dedicated BabySwimming Centres in London. They provide agentle introduction to baby swimming in aplayful, fun and safe environment with aprogression that will develop naturalswimming skills. Courses last 10 weeks with 4terms per year following the seasonsWinter/Spring/Summer/Autumn.

www.londonbabyswim.co.uk

MAKING ART FUN FOR ALL AGESDove Studios offer brilliant craft and creativity sessions: painting, drawing, clay, paper-crafts andmore. A great way to enhance your creative skills whether you are a beginner or advanced.Adults, children, groups and 1:1 classes. Mon-Fri during Term Time and Holiday Camps. Open10am-6pm in Chelsea, SW3 6JZ.

07775 682 094 020 7352 6668 www.dove-studios.com

PAINT WRITE NOWwww.paintwritenow.co.uk 07779 100 659

Spring Term Creative Classes withKatherine SmithCreative Writing Saturdays,Wimbledon: 9am-9.45am, 6-7 year olds;10am-11am, 7-8 year olds; 11.45am-12.45pm, 9-11 year olds; Sundays, Raynes Park: 9am-10am, Years 3-4

Art Saturdays, Wimbledon: 2pm-3pm; Sundays, Raynes Park: 10.15am-11.15am£240 per term, small classes,

15% discount if you sign up to both courses

Inspire your children; sign up today!


GREAT SWIM LESSONSavailable for children and adults

www.theswimschool.co.uk

Lessons available for allability levels atLinden Lodge School,Princes Way, SW19 6JB

0845 644 8216

FREE SWIMASSESSMENTS

MUDCHUTE FARM Pier Street E14 3HP www.mudchute.orgThese 32 acres on the Isle of Dogsmake up one of London’s biggestfarms. The main attraction is theEquestrian Centre, a riding schoolwith an all-weather arena andshow jumps, but it also has plentyof animals wandering about in thefields, plus a petting zoo and duckpond.

FLEDGLINGS ON THECOMMONBolingbroke Early Years Centre,Chivalry Road, Wandsworth CommonSW11 1HT20 JanuaryStay and play sessions aim to helpparents/carers learn how toinclude play in every day routinesvnes with their children. 9.30-11.30am, age up to 8.

BRITISH LIBRARY96 Euston Road NW1 2DBww.bl.uk/events28 JanuaryTravelling StoriesJump aboard and hear tales thathave sailed the seven seas withstoryteller Olivia Armstrong. Findout if you’re taller than the KlenckeAtlas, one of the largest in theworld, become a storytelleryourself and discover how to tellyour own travelling tale. Free,drop in, age 5-11.13 FebruaryChinese Tales and RibbonDance Join artist and performerJih Wen Yeh as she weavesfascinating stories and performs abeautiful ribbon dance. Then takepart in a ribbon dance workshopfor all the family. Free, drop in, age5-11.

CASS ARTSWORKSHOPS66-67 Colebrooke Row N1 8AB www.cassart.co.ukSaturdays in January andFebruaryThese sessions are a great way toinspire ideas and nurture buddingartists. A free activity table is setout with a range of materials,inviting kids to let theirimaginations run wild. Drop-in, allmaterials supplied, 10am-12pm.

DRAGON BABIESSouthbank Centre, Belvedere RoadSE1 8XXwww.southbankcentre.co.uk15, 22, 29 January and 5, 12,14,1 6, 19 and 26 FebruaryToddlers aged 3-5 can experiencethe sounds of Southbank Centre'sgamelan (Javanese orchestra)through singing, movement andplay. 11am.

NATURAL HISTORYMUSEUMCromwell Road SW7 5BDwww.nhm.ac.ukDates throughout January andFebruary Investigate for Families Get a feel for how scientists workby having a go yourself. Explorehundreds of real nature specimensthat form the evidence museumscientists use in their work. Age 3-11, 11am-5pm.

V&A MUSEUM OFCHILDHOODCambridge Heath Road E2 9PAwww.vam.ac.uk/moc10 FebruaryChinese New YearJoin them to celebrate ChineseNew Year of the Dog withinstrumental song and danceperformances, Chinese operamask making, martial artsdemonstrations and teaceremonies. Drop in, all ages.10-16 FebruaryOff the Page, Onto the StageCelebrating the final weeks of theMichael Morpurgo: A Life Time inStories exhibition, be inspired byhis stories, and work with setdesigners and puppeteers to bringstories to life. Enjoy liveperformances and puppetdemonstrations. Drop in, all ages.

MORDEN HALL PARKMorden SM4 5JDwww.nationaltrust.org.uk/morden-hall-parkThroughout January andFebruaryJoin a nature trail around the parkand make some delightful crafts totake home. £4 per child, entry toMorden Hall is free. 11am-4pm.

NATIONAL ARMYMUSEUMRoyal Hospital Road, Chelsea SW3 4HTwww.nam.ac.ukFour floors of interactive fun,telling the story of the British Armyand asking questions about its roleand purpose with a total 2,500objects and interactives to explore.What it’s like to serve as a soldier,'Why do we have an army?'.Exploring the army as a culturaland military force in our everydaylives. Examining the countries andcultures the British Army hasencountered and interacted with.There is even a chance to climbinto an interactive life-size tank. Play Base for 0-8yrs olds, aneducational soft play area styled asan army base camp.

BATTERSEA ARTSCENTRELavender Hill SW11 5TNwww.bac.org.ukFinal Saturday of the monthFamily Saturdays Fun, freeactivities for ages 0-11, includingface painting, music, toy andclothes swaps, plus older childrenand young people can get involvedin their Homegrown programme.Includes The Bee’s Knees, amagical indoor play space for ages0-5. 10am-1.30pm, free, (TheBee’s Knees is £3 per child).

FOREST SCHOOLLollard Street Adventure Playground,102 Kennington Road SE11 6PXnaturevibezzz.wordpress.com14 FebruaryFree forest school activities forpre-school aged children. 10am-12pm

BROMPTON LIBRARYBrompton Road SW5 0BSFirst Saturday of every monthSaturday Storyland 10-10.40am,plus story and craft 10.30-11.30am.

THE NATIONALGALLERYTrafalgar Square WC2N 5DNwww.nationalgallery.org.ukEvery Sunday in January andFebruaryMagic Carpet Storytelling Fly away on a magic carpet, whichcomes to land in front of adifferent painting each week, andjoin Paul Rubinstein for a musicalmagic carpet storytelling. Age 2+,10.30–11am and 11.30am-12pm.

GOD’S OWN JUNK YARDUnit 12, Ravenswood IndustrialEstate, Walthamstow E17 9HQ

www.godsownjunkyard.co.ukFridays and Saturdays inJanuary and FebruaryWe love this wonderland of

creativity - it's a great placefor the kids to explore unusual art,old movie props and even signsfrom Charlie and the ChocolateFactory. Artist Chris Braceycreated incredible works for artprojects and movie sets for nearly40 years until his death late lastyear. His God’s Own Junk Yardspace in Walthamstow is a studiowhere you can see his work – acombination of recycled urbandebris and electric light in a galleryof wonderful colour. Still a workingneon sign business, it’s open to thepublic Friday to Sunday, and itsRolling Scones Café is open allweek.


There’s plenty to do in London for FREE! Compiled by Joanna Parry

FREE ACTIVITIES

Four floors of interactive fun, a full size tank to climb on and more at The NationalArmy Museum

This isHUGE fun!


BLOSSOM TREE CHILDCAREAffordable Childcare

Long and short term affordable, Au pairs and Nannies We are a family-based Agency offering advice and assistance to

families thinking about childcare options. We shall support you before, after and during all placements.

Look forward to hearing from you.

[email protected] blossomtreechi3020 3302 7197 www.blossomtreechildcare.co.uk

Help us discover how babies learn!Calling all infants from birth to 18 months to take part in

fun studies at the Birkbeck Babylab in central London. Weprovide a black cab if you live within 5 miles of Birkbeck,

or we refund any travel expenses.

Calling all baby Scientists!

020 7631 [email protected]

0844 879 7189 www.likeminders.co.uk

PUBLIC SPEAKINGIndividual Tuition: Verse & Prose, Reading,Acting, Interview Technique, Confidence.

LAMDA/Trinity exams taken.C. Price. 0207 735 3156 / 07721 762351

[email protected]. Wieland. [email protected]


WE ARE ADDICTEDTechnology has powerfully improved our lives, but we no longer havecontrol over it. The impact of our addiction is immense: our attentionspan is crippled, our ability to connect with ourselves, our children andthe world at large is compromised. This behavioural addiction cuts acrossdemographics: the executive constantly checking his emails, the teenworrying about her Instagram Likes, the mum lost in reading online posts.These devices meet a chronic social need. They don’t demand much ofyou but they have a big impact.

It is very revealing that Bill Gates and Steve Jobs limited hometechnology usage for their kids on the very products they helped

create. They already knew the addictive power of digital technology!

THE INTERNET IS LIKE JUNK FOOD –CREATED TO HOOK USJust as unhealthy snacks play on a biological need for sugar and fat,research at an American university has shown that Facebook, Instagram,and Twitter hook us by delivering ‘variable rewards.’ As messages,photos, and ‘Likes’ appear randomly, we compulsively check for them,craving that dopamine-activating prize. So, advice for a happy childhood and subsequently adolescence seemsstraightforward: Get your kids to put down their phone, turn offtheir laptops, and do something that does not involve a screen.

SLEEP AND EYESIGHT ARE AFFECTED TOOParents are now warned peering at phones indoors and not playingoutside is fuelling short-sightedness. Screen time is also cutting intochildren’ sleep. Sleep experts classify a teen getting less than seven hoursa night as significantly sleep deprived. However, teens who read booksand magazines more often than the average, are actually less likely to besleep deprived. The correlation between depression and screen use isstrong enough to suggest that more parents should be telling theirkids to pick up a book to feel better.

CONTROL SCREEN USAGE IN 2018:

• Take a digital inventory: make a list of all the devices, apps andsocial networks you use regularly. Decide which ones you need andjettison the rest. You don’t need to be on every social media platform,make smart choices.

• Stop the push-up notifications to alert you of new messages,tweets, likes etc. Check emails and social channels in scheduled andlimited times during the day.

• Use tech to limit tech – install any app designed to keep track ofyour device usage (QualityTime, RescueTime). The Hawthorne Effectwill kick in: simply being aware you are measuring the usage time willprompt you to cut back.

• Figure out your values. What is it that you actually want to bedoing with your time?

• Put the iPad away: The best thing you can do is explained by apsychological principle called Propinquity—things closer to you inspace will always have a bigger effect on you than things that arefurther away. From 5:30pm to 8:00pm every night I put my iPhoneaway in my office. Once out of sight, eventually out of mind. I spendthose hours, talking to my kids, reading or having dinner together.

• Children must play outside more. Don’t skip going to the parkbecause it’s cold or wet. Connecting with nature has a profoundlybeneficial effect.

GET THEM INTERESTED IN BOOKSINSTEAD!Would you like your child to read for pleasure? The secret is simple andworks every time: you need to read with them. Whilst your child isyoung establish a routine of reading to them every night, this forges bondsand prepares your child for sleep. When older your child must see youread: read magazines (Families of course) and books. Try the Book ClubBoys, a book club for boys, except there’s no reading required and noneed to sit in a chair. The book club leader is dynamic. He might get up,expostulate or whisper. By whatever means he will excite, awaken andenthrall your young boy with the heady joys of literature. Boys will listento an age appropriate and ambitious chapter book read aloud and then beasked to feed back their emotional and intellectual responses to what theyhave heard.

ACT NOWDon’t be complacent. Our ability to reach personal fulfilment and tosucceed in the future workplace depends on our ability to regain controlof technology and of meaningful interactions now.

Lucia offers free consultation on www.luciamizzoni.com

www.Bookclubboys.com : a ten week club starting on 18/1/18,designed specifically for boys to enjoy reading, analytical thinking andcreative imagining. Book Club Boys uses movement, sound and drama.

Disconnect to connect. You have the powerto set your child free from screens

By RTT Hypnotherapist and Life Coach Lucia Mizzoni

The explosion of digital technology has made parenting much more challenging. Digital technology hastaken over our lives. Our addiction to screens is having severe consequences on our genuine connections

in real life, starting with our own families.

The research is clear:

All screen activitiesare linked to less

happiness.


WHAT’S ON SEE MORE EVENTS IN OUR ONLINE WHAT’S ON CALENDAR�

We take much care inpreparing these What’s Onpages, but please do doublecheck with organiser beforesetting out as things change.

LONDONPHILHARMONICORCHESTRAFUNHARMONICS FAMILYCONCERTSouthbank Centre SE1www.southbankcentre.co.uk25 FebruaryThis event marks the 30thanniversary year of the LPO’sEducation and Communityprogramme. Joining the Orchestraare brilliant young instrumentalistsand singers from London MusicMasters, Junior Trinity. 12pm, from £12

KIDS CLUB FILMClapham Picturehouse, 76 Venn StreetSW4 0ATwww.picturehouses.com/cinema/Clapham_PicturehouseSaturdays in January andFebruaryMovies exclusively for children andtheir parents and carers IncludesMy Little Pony and Shaun the Sheep.

THE BRIGHT EMPORIUM103 -105 St John’s Hill SW11 1SYwww.thebrightemporium.comEvery Wednesday in January andFebruary Messy Toddlers All the mess, allthe fun but none of the tidying up.For mini artists in the making. 10am,age 1-4

LITTLE SCIENCEImperial College, Exhibition Road SW72AZwww.littlehouseofscience.comSaturdays in January andFebruaryFantastic science workhops, helpinglay the foundation for your child’sfuture academic progress. 10am,age 5-8

TCH KIDS CLUBThe Climbing Hangar, 33-35 ParsonsGreen Lane SW6www.theclimbinghangar.com/londonSaturdays in January andFebruary Sports Club. Climbing session led byexperienced instructors and open toall abilities. Age 7-9, 9.30am

PAEDIATRICFIRST AIDLondon First Aid TrainingVenues in Battersea SW11www.firstaidtraininglondon.co.uk13 JanuaryCourse includes resuscitationprocedures, drowning, choking,shock, spinal injury, burns and scalds.

DROP-IN CHOCOLATEMAKINGThe Chocolate Museum, 187 FerndaleRoad SW9 8BAwww.thechocolatemuseum.co.uk20 JanuaryPop in for a creative and fun activity,and take your yummy chocolatehome with you. From £9.50

ROBOTICS WORKSHOPImperial College, Exhibition Road SW7 2AZwww.inspiredmindstutors.com/

workshops20 JanuaryTake robots apart to learn how theywork. They build your own! Thesecarefully crafted workshops are fullof hands-on, fun activities. 11am-1pm and 2-4pm

MUM2MUM MARKETRicards Lodge High Schoolwww.mum2mummarket.co.uk3 February and 17 MarchCome along and buy all kinds ofnearly new toys, clothes, books,strollers, car seats, feedingaccessories, baby equipment and somuch more. Or if you fancy a quickclear out, why not book a stall?Admission £2 on the door, childrenFREE. Visit the Mum2mum Marketwebsite to get 2 for 1 admission. 2-4pm

CHELSEA PHYSICGARDEN66 Royal Hospital Road, Chelsea SW34HSwww.chelseaphysicgarden.co.uk13 FebruaryChocolate Tuesday. Join them tolook into the history, geography andscience of chocolate and celebratethis very special substance. The daywill include craft activities, a Gardentour, chocolate tasting and thechance to create your own mixturesto take away. There’ll be a gourmettasting session with staff fromRococo Chocolates. Age 7+14 February Lotions & Potions - anintroduction to herbal medicine.Can a food be a medicine? Can apoison be a medicine? Find outsomething of the history of medicineand the amazing power of plants toheal and soothe as you make someof your own natural and low-costremedies to take away as well as amini medicinal garden. Age 7+, £15

CARNIVAL DANCEWORKSHOP Horniman Museum and Gardens, 100London Road SE23 3PQwww.horniman.ac.uk15 and 16 FebruaryLearn to dance like you’re partyingthrough the streets of Brazil withGandaia Arts. Energetic rhythms,flowing dance and hoop skirts willget you into the mood of thisfamily-friendly workshop of theMaracatu performance from NorthEast Brazil. Age 4+, £5Some great events at the lovely Chelsea Physic Garden

IF YOU ONLY DO ONE THING THIS MONTHDON’T MISS IMAGINE CHILDREN’SFESTIVALSouthbank Centre, SE1www.southbankcentre.co.uk7-18 FebruaryThis February, don’t miss out on Southbank Centre’s annualmulti-arts Imagine Children’s Festival. It returns for itsseventeenth year with 12 days of jam-packed fun over half-term week for kids and their families, including the bestchildren's theatre, activities to get stuck into and events byinspirational authors. Be tickled by Roald Dahl's RevoltingRhymes, wriggle along to dance-theatre Tidy Up and joinradio personalities and debut authors, Greg James and ChrisSmith, for an action-packed Kid Normal event. Firmfavourites such as Bedtime Stories and Fun DMC also return,along with plenty of new activities. Plus, over 50 per cent ofworkshops and activities are completely FREE! Roald Dahl's Revolting Rhymes

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SEE MORE EVENTS IN OUR ONLINE WHAT’S ON CALENDAR WHAT’S ON�

SOUTHBANK CENTREwww.southbankcentre.co.uk12, 19 and 26 JanuaryRug Rhymes A short session ofnursery rhymes, poems andrhyming stories. Times vary.

THE GRAVENEY ANDMEADOW40 Mitcham Road SW17 9NA www.graveneyandmeadow.comWednesdays in January andFebruary Kids’ and toddlers’ arts and craftclasses. See website for details.Thursdays in January and FebruaryPram Chorus Child friendlydaytime choir, 10am, £7 per adult,see website for times.Fridays in January and FebruaryRhythm n’ Babies Music classes forbabies and their carers withinstruments. 9.30am, £5

THE BEDFORD PUB77 Bedford Hill SW12 9HDwww.thebedford.comTuesdays and Fridays in Januaryand FebruaryBaby Sensory classes and PramChorus. See website for details. Last Wednesday of every monthScreaming With Laughter. London’soriginal afternoon comedy club,designed for parents with babiesunder 1 year. See the best actsfrom TV and the comedy circuitwithout having to book ababysitter. Buy tickets atwww.wegottickets.com/ScreamingWithLaughter

BYOB COMEDYClapham, East Dulwich, Teddington,Putney, Tooting

www.byobcomedy.comDates in January and February Bring Your Own Baby ComedyA funny, friendly afternoon of topcomedy and you get to bring yourown baby! They provide toys, babychanging, buggy parking, bottlewarmers and more, so that baby ishappy and you can relax and enjoytop comedy stars from the circuitand TV.

UNICORN THEATRE 147 Tooley Street SE1 2HZwww.unicorntheatre.comSaturdays in January andFebruaryUp Club Join the Unicorn PlayClub most Saturdays for FREEdrop-in activities from portraitpainting and potato printing to giantrocket making and more. 12noon -2pm

SINGING MAMAS CHOIRSouth London Liberal Synagogue,Streatham / The Half Moon(Workshop Room), Herne Hill07947 609780.southlondonsingingmamas@gmail.comwww.singingmamaschoir.comTuesdays or Wednesdays inJanuary and February,depending on venueA Community of Choirs forWomen, with or without children.Sing world songs, folk songs, gospeland more. A warm welcome awaitsall singing abilities.

NATIONAL MARITIMEMUSEUMPark Row, Greenwich SE10 9NFwww.rmg.co.ukTuesdays in January andFebruary

Play Tuesdays Embark on amuseum adventure that includestrails, arty workshops, songs andstories. 10.30am, 11.30am, 1pmand 2pm

MUSEUM OF LONDONwww.museumoflondon.org.uk Wednesdays in January andFebruaryLittle Moles Toddlers Groupand Mini Moles Babies GroupFun, hands-on, creative sessions fortoddlers, parents and carers. 3.30-4.30pm, book in advance. Plussensory, hands-on, play-basedactivities for you and your baby,11am-12pm

DO-RE-MI BABIESCONCERTSBarnes, Chelsea, Fulham,Wandsworthwww.doremibabies.co.ukDates throughout January andFebruaryInspirational and fun classicalconcerts Babies can crawl, dance,sing, cry, nappy change and more,so you can relax and enjoy themusic. £10 per adult, childrenFREE, tickets online or on the door.Dates vary depending on venue.

MORDEN HALL PARKMorden Hall Road, Morden SM4 5JDwww.nationaltrust.org.ukEvery Monday in January andFebruaryLittle Explorers Enjoy crafts,outdoor activities, songs andstories. Ages 2-5, 10am, £2 perchild, £1 siblings.

THE ROYAL ALBERT HALLwww.royalalberthall.comTuesdays and Wednesdays inJanuary and February

Storytelling and Music Sessions Aseries of sessions for babies andtoddlers to encourage interactionusing musical instruments, singing,movement and stories. 10am and11.30am, £5

FULHAM PALACEBishop’s Avenue SW6 6EAwww.fulhampalace.orgMondays and Tuesdays inJanuary and FebruaryThe Palace Explorers Weeklyparent/carer and toddler sessionsfor children aged 2-4. £4 per child,which includes a drink and healthysnack, booking essential. 9.30am-10.30am

BACH TO BABYFoundling Museum, 40 BrunswickSquare WC1N 1AZfoundlingmuseum.org.uk22 FebruaryDiscover the award-winningclassical concert series for babies,toddlers and parents. Themedconcerts are performed by pianistMiaomiao Yu along with otherinternationally renownedmusicians. 10.30am, £12 adults,children FREE

KENSINGTON PALACEhrp.org.uk/kensingtonpalaceSelected Wednesdays andSaturdays in January andFebruaryTiny Explorers Discover thestories of Kensington Palacethrough music, movement, messyplay and more. £6 per child, priceincludes up to two adults. 10.30am– babies, 1pm – walkers, 2.30pm –walkers.

BABIES AND TODDLERS

Rug Rhymes South Bank Centre

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MIni Moles babies Group at the Museum of London

BATTERSEA ARTSCENTRELavender Hill SW11 5TNwww.bac.org.uk15 - 17 FebruaryKid Carpet & The NoisyAnimals After a long, exhaustingmusic tour, Kid Carpet is going ona nice relaxing holiday. But thismight not be the soothing holidayhe had expected as the NoisyAnimals takeover his break withbig beat songs, wonky donkeys,special effects, puppetry andanimation. 11am and 2pm, from£8, ages 3-8

CAMBRIDGE THEATRESeven Dials, 32-34 Earlham StreetWC2H 9HUuk.matildathemusical.comThroughout January andFebruary

Matilda The Musical Inspired bythe twisted genius of Roald Dahl,Matilda revels in the anarchy ofchildhood, the power ofimagination and the inspiring storyof a girl who dares to change herdestiny.

COLOUR HOUSETHEATREWatermill Way SW19 2RDwww.colourhousetheatre.co.ukSaturdays and Sundays to 21JanuarySnow White and the SevenDwarves Poor Snow White isbanished to the forest where shestumbles upon and befriends sevendwarves. However, with the evilQueen in hot pursuit it’s not longbefore she tricks Snow White intoeating a deadly apple. Will thedwarves be able to save the dayand find a handsome Prince towake Snow White with his kiss? Saturdays and Sundays 3 February

8 AprilPinocchio. Craftsman Geppettohas made an incredible woodenpuppet, however one magical nighthis creation transforms into a realboy. Pinocchio’s adventure has justbegun… 12pm, from £10

NATIONAL THEATREUpper Ground SE1 9PXwww.nationaltheatre.org.ukThroughout January andFebruaryPinocchio On a quest to be trulyalive, Pinocchio leaves Geppetto’sworkshop with Jiminy Cricket intow. Their electrifying adventuretakes them from alpine forests toPleasure Island to the bottom ofthe ocean. This spectacular newproduction is brought to the stageby a team including the director ofHarry Potter and the Cursed Childand the writer of Matilda theMusical.

NEW WIMBLEDONTHEATREThe Broadway, Wimbledon SW19 1QGatgtickets.com/venues/new-wimbledon-theatre21-22 FebruaryPeppa Pig’s Adventure JoinPeppa as she goes on an exciting

camping trip to the woods withher friends Pedro Pony, Suzy Sheepand Gerald Giraffe. With lunch-boxes packed and Daddy Pigdriving the bus, Peppa is excitedabout her outdoor adventure fullof games, laughter and live music.

OMNIBUS CLAPHAM1 Clapham Common Northside SW4 0QWwww.omnibus-clapham.org18 FebruaryOnce Upon a City Join in thisinteractive storytelling session asyou follow the journey of a brilliantprincess from the North to theSouth of the City to meet another,equally brilliant princess. 11am and2pm, age 4-7, from £7

PEACOCK THEATREWC2A 2HTwww.sadlerswells.com5-17 February Zippos Cirque Beserk! A jaw-dropping spectacular thatcombines contemporary cirque-style artistry with adrenaline-fuelled stunt action. This talentedtroupe includes over thirtyjugglers, acrobats, aerialists,daredevil stuntmen and the world’smost hair-raising circus act, themotorcycle Globe of Death.

POLKA THEATRE240 The Broadway, WimbledonSW19 1SBwww.polkatheatre.com To 11 FebruaryMy Brother, My Sister and MeWith a new baby in the family, alittle sister has to move in with herbig brother. She’s got used to theidea but her brother and Gecko,his constant companion, are reallynot keen. Especially when shestarts to unpack her very largecollection of hats!



Colour House Theatre

DRAMA



V&A MUSEUM OFCHILDHOODCambridge Heath Road E2 9PAwww.museumofchildhood.org.uk 24 February and 24 MarchToddler Art Class Join artistsAlbert Potrony and Aya Kobayashifor an exciting morning of art.10.30am-1pm

LANDMARK ARTSCENTREFerry Road, Teddington TW11 9NNwww.landmarkartscentre.org21 January, 24 February and 24March

Kids’ ART Club Fun workshopsincluding drawing, painting, reliefmaking, printing and collage. 10am-12pm, age 5-11, £1312 FebruaryArt Workshop with Ace Art A workshop inspired by DamienHirst’s Abstract Spinner Canvases,using painting, colour mixing,design and construction. 10.30am-12.30pm, £13, age 8-14

FOUNDLING MUSEUM40 Brunswick Square, Camden TownWC1N 1AZwww.foundlingmuseum.org.uk 15 February Animal Dramatics Animate thecreatures found in exhibition TheLost Words in this drama and artworkshop. Make a mask and bringyour chosen animal to life.10.30am, 1pm and 3pm, age 7+,FREE

TATE BRITAINMillbank SW1P 4RGwww.tate.org.ukDates in January and February Under Fives Explore the GalleryExperiment with a range ofmaterials while discovering excitingroutes and journeys through thegalleries alongside other families.

HORNIMAN MUSEUMAND GARDENS100 London Road SE23 3PQwww.horniman.ac.ukEvery Saturday in January andFebruaryArt Makers Have fun withdifferent art techniques to createsomething inspired by theHorniman’s collections or seasonalcelebrations. 1.30pm and 2.45pm,£3, age 3+

V&A MUSEUMCromwell Road SW7 2RLwww.vam.ac.uk/familiesThroughout January andFebruary Family Activities Explore themuseum through puzzles, drawingand observation. There are alsoexciting hands-on exhibitscontaining plenty to touch and tryout, plus activities and workshopsfor ages 7-12 FREE

NATIONAL PORTRAITGALLERYSt Martin's Place WC2H 0HEwww.npg.org.ukEvery third Sunday of themonthDrop In Family Sundays Drop-in with children aged 3+ to takepart in portrait-related events.FREE

THE WALLACECOLLECTIONHertford House, Manchester SquareW1U 3BNwww.wallacecollection.org 4 FebruaryThe Little Draw Use specialistdrawing, handling and surfacedesign techniques to respond tostimulating forms and colourpalettes. All ages, 1.30pm–4.30pm,FREE14 and 15 February Animal Portraits Explore howanimals have been portrayed in artover the centuries from family petsto cheeky monkeys and ferociouslions, then learn how to draw andpaint your own animal portrait. £20,age 8-11 (Wednesday 14) and 12-15(Thursday 15), 10.30am-3.30pm16 February The Dragon’s Pearl Cuttinggrass in the hills one day, Tchangmakes a wonderful discoverywhich will change his life forever.Celebrate Chinese New Year with

a retelling of this ancient myth,then make your own animal maskinspired by the Chinese zodiac.Age 4+, 11am–12.30pm, FREE

SIR JOHN SOANE’SMUSEUM13 Lincoln's Inn Fields WC2A 3PBwww.soane.orgThird Saturday of the monthFREE drop-in art activities for allages. 1.30-4.40pm

THE NATIONALGALLERYTrafalgar Square WC2N 5DNwww.nationalgallery.org.ukEvery Sunday in January andFebruary Family Sundays Art activities forfamilies, 11am and 2pm, age 5-11,FREE

TATE MODERN Bankside, SE1 9TGwww.tate.org.ukThroughout January andFebruaryFamily Friendly Art Activities Arange of FREE arty and craftyworkshops, see website for details.

DULWICH PICTUREGALLERYGallery Road, Dulwich Village SE21 7ADwww.dulwichpicturegallery.org.ukFirst and last Sunday of eachmonthArt Play Creative drop-inworkshops for adults and children,with a different activity each session.Make anything and everything frombunting to block printing and allthings in between. 2-3.45pm

FULHAM PALACEBishop’s Avenue SW6 6EAwww.fulhampalace.org14 February Family Activity Day: Building ThePalace. Open the door to thePalace’s awesome architects andbaffling buildings at this fun filled dayof hands on activities: help build aPalace made of paper, try your handat brick rubbing, make a Tudor archor create a 3D diorama. 11am–3pm, £2

ART ACTIVITIES

Did you know the Wallace Collection has lots to offer for children?

•If you have any events forinclusion, please send to

[email protected]

BANK OF ENGLANDMUSEUMThreadneedle Street EC2R 8AHwww.bankofengland.co.ukTo 2 MarchTill Time's Last Sand - A historyof the Bank of England Delveinto the variety of documents inthe Archive collection, includingcorrespondence, architecturalplans, Court of Directors’ minutesand forgery papers.

FOUNDLING MUSEUM40 Brunswick Square, Camden TownWC1N 1AZwww.foundlingmuseum.org.uk13 FebruaryMobile Poetry Discover thenatural world depicted in The LostWords with artist Anne Harild.Using collage, cut-out letters andcard, create your own poemmobile featuring animals and plants

in the show. 10.30am, 1pm and3pm, age 5+, FREE14 February The Lucky Button OrchestraInspired by Michael Morpurgo’snew book, explore the musicallegacy of the Foundling Hospital.Make your own musical instrumentto take home and play. 10.30am,1pm and 3pm, age 5-10, FREE16 FebruaryThe Lost Gardens Make adream garden for the foundlings atthe hospital. 11am and 2pm, age5+, FREE

HAMPTON COURTPALACEEast Molesey, Surrey KT8 9AUwww.hrp.org.uk/HamptonCourtPalaceThroughout January andFebruaryThe Magic Garden Discoversomething new around every twistand turn in an immersive worldpopulated by mythical beasts,including a 25m dragon! Take thefamily to become Tudor Knights,besiege the battlements, storm theTiltyard Towers and explore amysterious secret grotto. Includedin palace admission.7, 14 and 21 JanuaryFamily Ghost Tours Take in thepalace’s ghoulish locations withspine-tingling commentary. Hearfrom 500 years of chilling tales,such as the Tudor royal nursewhose spirit is said to stalk herformer apartments and themysterious figure ‘Skeletor’ caughton CCTV in the palace in the deadof night. From £7

HORNIMAN MUSEUMAND GARDENS100 London Road SE23 3PQwww.horniman.ac.ukTo 14 JanuaryBritish Wildlife PhotographyAwards 2017 An exhibition ofover 100 photographs thatshowcase the beauty and diversityof wildlife in Britain. Theextraordinary images were alltaken by talented photographersworking in the UK ranging fromestablished professionals to under-12s. FREE12-16 FebruaryFamily Art Fun Join FREE craftactivities inspired by theHorniman’s new family exhibition

Colour: The Rainbow Revealed.From 16 FebruaryColour: The Rainbow RevealedBe dazzled by prisms showing howcolours are made, peer through agiant human eyeball to find outhow we see colour and discoverhow animals use colour to attractand hide. FREE

KENSINGTON PALACEW8 4PXhrp.org.uk/kensingtonpalace25 February and 25 MarchFuntastic Sundays Fun-filledactivity days with the chance to tryout the palace’s trails, enjoy StoryTime or take part in specialcreative workshops.

LONDON TRANSPORTMUSEUMCovent Garden Piazza WC2E 7BBwww.ltmuseum.co.ukThroughout January andFebruary Poster Girls. Girl power comes toCovent Garden when Poster Girls -a major new exhibition about 20thand 21st century female graphicartists opens at the Museum.

MUSEUM OF LONDONEC2Y 5HN www.museumoflondon.org.uk Sundays in January andFebruaryMuseum Explored Explore thegalleries through fun, hands-onactivities. 11am and 2pm. Plus, joina fun and engaging tour of themuseum’s galleries, especially forfamilies. Age 5+, 2-2.30pmSundays in January and FebruaryHands-on history Hear incredibleLondon stories as you touch andhold real museum objects. Age 5+, 2-4pm3-4 FebruaryVotes for Women WeekendCreate banners inspired by theiconic designs of the Suffragettes.Discover the hidden stories of thewomen and men behind theSuffragette movement throughperformances, digital workshopsand poetry. Age 10+, FREE4 and 14 Feb, 3 MarchRoman London Family WalkTravel back 2000 years and walkthe streets of Roman Londinium.Imagine you are a Roman soldier at



LOOK OUT

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FREEACTIVITIES

Family workshop at the Foundling Museum

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MUSEUMS, GALLERIES AND DAYS OUT

the fort gate into the city or agladiator as you enter the remainsof the city’s amphitheatre. 11am,age 5+, £5/£7.50, book in advance.

NATIONAL MARITIMEMUSEUMPark Row, Greenwich SE10 9NFwww.rmg.co.ukSaturdays in January andFebruaryCharacter Encounters Join anexciting performance and journeybringing maritime history to life.12pm, 1pm, 2pm and 3pm, age 6+

NATURAL HISTORYMUSEUMCromwell Road SW7 5BDwww.nhm.ac.uk Throughout January andFebruary Whales Beneath the SurfaceA major new exhibition exploringthe extraordinary life of whales.

ROYAL OBSERVATORYGREENWICHBlackheath Avenue SE10 8XJwww.rmg.co.uk/royal-observatory12, 13, 26 and 27 JanuaryAn Evening with the StarsThe popular after dark experienceincludes the chance to look throughthe gigantic Great EquatorialTelescope at the night sky. 5.25pmand 6.45pm, from £14, age 7+16 JanuaryThink Space Lecture Find outabout the latest research anddevelopments in astrophysics.5.15pm, age 11+, from £7Weekends in January and February

Weekend Space Cadets Familyworkshops related to spacescience and exploration, from theInternational Space Station to thelatest discoveries about the SolarSystem. 12.45pm, from 5+, FREE

SCIENCE MUSEUMExhibition Road, South KensingtonSW7 2DDSciencemuseum.org.ukThroughout January andFebruaryWonderlab: The Statoil GalleryDon’t miss out on this fantasticnew interactive gallery with livedemonstrations and an Explainer-led experience revealing thebeauty and wonder in the scienceand mathematics that shape ourlives. Truly fascinating! £8/£6

TOWER OF LONDONSt Katharine's & Wapping, LondonEC3N 4ABwww.hrp.org.uk/tower-of-london Throughout January andFebruaryArmoury in Action A familyfriendly exhibition revealing thefascinating story of arms and thearmoury at the Tower. Fromshooting arrows and assemblingfirearms to brandishing swords, athousand years of history at theTower is brought to life in thisexciting, hands-on experience. To 9 FebruaryLife in the Medieval PalaceTravel back to 1299 and enter theMedieval palace of King Edward I,Hammer of the Scots, in this liveperformance drama. Discover a

world of chivalrous knights andladies, troublesome lords and royalprisoners. 11am and 2.30pm,included in admission.Selected Sundays to 2 AprilTwilight Tours Take in world-famous sights such as Traitor’sGate, the scaffold site and theBloody Tower, and be amazed bytales of prisoners and pastresidents. Age 12+, 6.45pm, from£25Selected dates in FebruaryNightwatchers Enter theshadowy world of statesurveillance where messages andphone calls lead participantsaround one of history’s mostnotorious prisons. From £18, 6pm,6.30pm, 7pm, 7.25pm and 7.50pm

V&A MUSEUM OFCHILDHOODCambridge Heath Road E2 9PAwww.museumofchildhood.org.uk 10-11 FebruaryCreative Writing WorkshopAcclaimed children's author RossMontgomery leads a creativewriting session. 2-4pm, age 8+, £1012-16 FebruaryWorld of Set Design WorkshopExperience the design process andbuilding fun together. 10.30am and2pm, age 8+, £1013 and 15 FebruaryChildren’s Literature FilmScreenings Screenings ofadaptations based on children'sclassic stories, Private Peaceful andFantastic Mr Fox. £4 (under 3sFREE, but booking required), 4pm



Museum of London Roman London Family Walk

WOULD YOU LIKE TO EARNEXTRA MONEY? Capital Focus Groups are looking for people who enjoygiving their opinions and are willing to share their views on theproducts and services they use for many of the country’s largestcompanies and well-known products. It’s free, it’s fun and youwill be financially rewarded as a thank you for taking part!Register now to earn extra money, by calling Liz on07761128059 or [email protected]

Museum of London London Nature Reserve

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