®

South West
March 2017

EASTER
Activities
FREE
Activities

Prep Schools

Using a
Nanny
Most popular
parties
How to
encourage
independent
thinking
© Peppa Pig’s Muddy Puddle
Walk for Save the Children

REALLY USEFUL INFORMATION FOR PARENTS OF 0-12+ YEAR OLDS IN SW LONDON

26
YEARS CHECK OUT OUR NEW, HYPER LOCAL WEBSITE ! WWW.FAMILIESONLINE.CO.UK
2
 Contents
Did you 4-5 Local news
know?
You can now enter 7 Families Top Five activities this month
your own listings FOR FREE
on Familiesonline.co.uk
11 25 PREP SCHOOL FEATURE
Once a week we pick events at
random, which get pushed via our
The Benefits of a Rich Music Curriculum
weekly ‘What’s On this week’ How to foster Independent Thinking
newsletter and on social media.
Don't miss out!
Open days listing
An afternoon at the White House School
Prep school and education news

27 CHILDCARE FEATURE
Families SW|Issue 264
® Are you ready for 30 hours of free childcare?
How to choose a childminder
WEBSITE: www.familiesonline.co.uk How to find the perfect nanny with the help of an agency
TEL: 020 8696 9680 Childcare news
EDITORIAL: editor@familiesSW.co.uk
NEWS: news@familiesSW.co.uk 32-37 EASTER ACTIVITIES LISTINGS PART 1
ADVERTS/ARTWORK:
Arts and craft, sports, music, drama, dance, days out
and Easter eggs hunts!
adverts@familiesSW.co.uk
EVENTS, DIARY DATES, WHAT’S ON: 38 FREE Activities
whatson@familiesSW.co.uk
NEXT ISSUE: April 2017 41 To learn to communicate, infants need parents, not tablets
DEADLINE: Early March 2017
42-45 PARTIES FEATURE
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Popular party themes
From superhero to princesses and football parties!
• ‘Families SW’ London, established in 1990, is part
of Families Magazines Ltd, a franchise company.
All franchised magazines in the group are independently
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Familiesonline.co.uk | 020 8696 9680 | March 2017 3

NEWS

BALLET AT THE LYRIC

The New English Ballet Theatre comes to
the Lyric Hammersmith this spring with new
ballet classes for children aged 5-7 and 8-10. An

unmissable chance for your little ballerina to learn

from industry professionals at only £8 per class.
GO ON A MUDDY PUDDLE WALK FOR CHARITY Classes take place on Saturday afternoons from
This spring Peppa Pig teams up with the world’s leading children’s charity to launch a fundraiser 1pm, no experience necessary.
like no other. Between 8 and 14 May nurseries, early years Find out more at www.lyric.co.uk,
groups, families and children are encouraged to take part in a www.nebt.co.uk, call 020 8741 6850 to book
Peppa Pig’s Muddy Puddle Walk for Save the Children.
Organising a Muddy Puddle Walk is a great way for little ones to
explore the world around them and jump in muddy puddles for a
worthy cause. Sign up your nursery or family now at
www.muddypuddlewalk.org to get your free Fundraising Pack,
full of fundraising ideas and tips for great walks and activities –
including free Peppa stickers and Save the Children balloons.
www.savethechildren.org.uk

FEED THEIR IMAGINATION... WATCH THEIR

IMAGINATION GROW
Children from Jigsaw’s agency have
been involved in exciting work on film
WOULD YOU LIKE TO
and TV, and the Youth Theatre are EARN EXTRA MONEY?
getting ready for their upcoming Capital Focus Groups are looking for people
performances at the Oxford House who enjoy giving their opinions and are willing to
Theatre, London. share their views on the products and services
they use for many of the country’s largest
Spring is in the air, which means a
companies and well-known products. It’s free,
new school term lies just around the
it’s fun and you will be financially rewarded as a
corner… the ideal opportunity for
thank you for taking part!
your children to discover drama,
singing and dance for the very first Register now to earn extra money, by calling Liz
time. One thing is for certain: if on 07761128059 or
you’re looking for an enjoyable extra- e.dahlgren@btinternet.com
curricular activity for your child this
spring, then look no further than the performing arts.
Visit www.jigsaw-arts.co.uk for more information, or call 0208 4474530 to book a two week trial.
REGISTER NOW FOR WEAR
A HAT DAY
LITTLE LEARNERS EXPAND Did you know that Brain Tumour research is
Little Learners crèche is going from strength to strength: it was ranked ‘Outstanding’ in an severely underfunded, with
Ofsted report following an inspection at the end of 2016, they also announced expansion with just 0.7% of national cancer
the opening of a new site in Balham. Launched in 2013, Little Learners is run by a team of research spending in the UK?
dedicated childcare professionals, delivering structured play sessions to encourage children aged Brain Tumour Research is
15-30 months to develop pre-school skills in an engaging environment. asking families and schools
Building on the success of its first crèche in Battersea, Little Learners opened its doors on Weir across the UK to support
Road in Balham in January, offering sessional care. Both venues offer parents a simplified pay Wear a Hat Day on 31
structure that includes affordable, flat fees for sessions, flexible terms and zero registration costs. March. Whether you are
They follow the principles of Dr Maria Montessori with activities carefully selected to promote hosting a coffee morning with
creativity, logical thinking, social interaction, physical challenges (including yoga!), literacy and friends or a hattastic event with your whole
communication. company, the first step is always the same
register today
07941 103 860 info@claphamlearners.com www.claphamlearners.com www.braintumourresearch.org/wearahatday

4 March 2017 | 020 8696 9680 | Familiesonline.co.uk


SCHOOL CHILDREN ENCOURAGED TO
CYCLE AND SCOOT
Schools across South London are invited to join The Big Pedal 2017 -
a national challenge to get more young people cycling and scooting to
school, backed by two times Olympic gold medallist Joanna Rowsell
Shand. The Big Pedal 20- 31 March sees pupils, teachers and parents
leave their cars at home and get on their bikes and scooters, with this
year’s theme being ‘Around the world in 10 days’, so pupils can track
their progress on a map of the world, learning about the countries and
cities they pass through on their way. ‘The Big Pedal campaign is a
fantastic way for kids to cycle together whilst learning about the rules of
the road in a fun way,’ said Joanna Rowsell Shand. ‘I hope this year as
many schools as possible will take part in the UK’s largest school cycling
and scooting event.’ Sign up now at
www.bigpedal.org.uk
LOCHINVAR RATED OUTSTANDING
Congratulations to Lochinvar Pre-School Playhouse in
Balham, which has been rated Outstanding by Ofsted in December
2016. Established over 40 years, they are registered
for children 2-5 years, offering a safe and stimulating
environment with quality care and education. Staff
are qualified, committed and enthusiastic
practitioners. They offer full and part time sessions
and have an outside play environment. Ofsted
said: ‘Staff make plans that are exceptionally precise
and tailored to meet the needs of their key children’
and ‘Children’s behaviour is exceptional’. Excellent
transport links. C/O Alderbrook School, Oldridge Road, Balham, SW12
8PP. 020 8675 5624 Lochinvarpre-schoolplayhouse@btconnect.com
Familiesonline.co.uk | 020 8696 9680 | March 2017
NEWS
SAVE ALPHABET NURSERY!
Wandsworth Council is considering plans to redevelop Northcote library
and Chatham Hall to provide a new state of the art library. However this
would be at a cost of knocking down Chatham Hall and building 3 storey
flats. Allison Mckenzie-Lewis has been the Head teacher at Alphabet
Nursery School based at Chatham Hall for 27 years, which
accommodates between 55-60 children within this community. As you
can imagine they are all devastated and are against this proposal.
A petition has been set up to stop the development, go here:
http://bit.ly/2k2D9ls
COULD YOU BE A ROLE MODEL?
Wonderful local educators Role Models are expanding. Their resolution
for 2017 is to meet rising demand for their Creative Childcare,
Confidence & Resilience Courses, Leadership Programmes and Special
Needs Camps, and this year they are also offering 1-2 week residential
courses for 8-14 year old international students, delivering their
Confidence & Resilience programme in the morning and fun activities in
the afternoon (choose from musical theatre, art, football, tennis or
outward bounds), plus some brilliant day excursions. Sign up now for
their half-term Confidence & Resilience
Taster Day on Feb 13th, as well as longer
courses in the Easter and summer holidays,
in Wimbledon and Chelsea.
020 3637 7107, info@rolemodels.me
www.rolemodels.me
5
 THE MONTESSORI SCHOOL
THE MONTESSORI
CHILDREN
We provide a delightful
environment for children from
2yrs of age. Offering the full
Montessori curriculum with
visiting teachers for Music,
Dancing, Yoga, French, Drama,
Sports & Gymnastics.
CALL US TO BOOK A
VISIT TO THE NURSERY
0208 673 8037
102 Chestnut Grove Balham,
London, SW12 8JJ
www.themontessorischool.co.uk
6
TEA TIME FOR
TODDLERS
This session takes place
from 3:30pm to 4:30pm
for children from
approximately 2yrs of age
to attend with an adult.
BEFORE & AFTER
SCHOOL CARE
We offer a drop-off and
pick-up service to and from
local schools, with
breakfast club, help with
homework and supper.
Holiday school also
offered.
 FAMILIES TOP FIVE

FAMILIES TOP FIVE...

With Easter just around the corner, here are our top picks of activities for
you and your family to enjoy during the holidays.

T_Rex_cast - Daniel Schwen via Wikimedia

© Plastiques Photography
A young Wonderlab visitor is reflected inside the Infinity Boxes exhibit

INVESTIGATE THE NEW INTERACTIVE

THE TYRANNOSAUR CHRONICLES GALLERIES
Royal Institution Science Museum
Albemarle Street, Mayfair W1S 4BS Exhibition Road, South Kensington SW7 2DD
www.rigb.org www.sciencemuseum.org.uk
20 April Throughout March
Tyrannosaurus is the most famous dinosaur in the world, with its six-ton Don’t miss out on this fantastic new interactive gallery with live
weight and bone crushing bite, but how did the tyrannosaurs come to demonstrations and an Explainer-led experience revealing the beauty
dominate their prehistoric world? Join palaeontologist Dr David Hone to and wonder in the science and mathematics that shape our lives. Truly
find about the evolution, ecology and behaviour of this fascinating group fascinating! £8/£6.
of dinosaurs. Age 7+, 6pm.
GIANT EASTER DUCK HUNT
The London Wetlands Centre
Queen Elizabeth, Barnes SW13 9WT
www.wwt.org.uk
1-17 April
Some of the Wetland
Centre’s ducklings have
gone missing, can you help
them find them? They have
disguised themselves as the
ducks that live at the Centre,
so follow the Easter duck
trail around the reserve to
discover where they are
hiding. £1 per trail including
a prize, plus admission to the
Centre. Always lots of fun!

MOOMIN ADVENTURE
Kew Gardens
TW9 3AB
ADVENTURES IN MOOMINLAND www.kew.org
Southbank Centre 1-17 April
Belvedere Road SE1 8XX Experience the wonderful
www.southbankcentre.co.uk world of the Moomins this
To 23 April Easter. With the arrival of
Continuing on the Moominland theme, why not visit this immersive, spring they will be coming
interactive exhibition exploring the internationally-recognised stories of out of hibernation and
the Moomin family through the life of its author Tove Jansson? It finishes visiting the Gardens for all sorts
soon and has proved immensely popular so far. Age 7+, 10am-6pm, of mischief and fun. Try and find
from £10. them in and amongst Kew’s fascinating plants.

Familiesonline.co.uk | 020 8696 9680 | March 2017 7

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The benefits of a rich music curriculum
The benefits of learning music have been extensively documented. Compelling evidence
confirms it has a positive impact on children’s academic, social and personal development.
Early musical training develops the left hand side of the brain. It develops
co-ordination, motor skills and strengthens memory. It can also encourage
the recognition of patterns and structure and assists in the understanding
of maths, particularly the concepts of proportion, fractions and division.
Yet despite these academic advantages, music is often squeezed into – or
even completely out of - a school timetable, due to the dual pressures of
funding and scheduling.
AN ENDURING LOVE OF MUSIC
However, if music is an integral part of the life of a school, it can allow
musical ability to be identified and nurtured in each child. The principal
aim of Parkgate House in Clapham is to support children in cultivating an
enduring love of music within a supportive and encouraging environment.
Generous curriculum time is dedicated to achieving this goal. Specialist
lessons allow the children to explore and develop an interest in music
from an early age and develop their own individual musical identity.
UPBEAT
Combine this approach with an upbeat and supportive musical learning
environment and the result has a profound effect on the pupil’s
engagement and enjoyment. Close collaboration between teacher and
pupil - as they jointly assess, monitor and evaluate musical progress –
leads to empowered and independent children who take a resilient
approach, not just towards their music but towards the rest of their
studies.
DEVELOPING CONFIDENCE
Confidence, both musical and personal, can develop through giving public
performances or sitting music exams. And preparing for performances -
either as a soloist or as part of a group - is an important aspect of the
music curriculum at Parkgate House. The children have even performed
at prestigious venues such as The Cadogan Hall and The Barbican Centre.
HARMONY
Playing in a group promotes collaboration and develops teamwork as the
group has to reflect on their progress and performance. Group members
also learn to support one another and, importantly, celebrate their shared
successes. Jane O’Rourke, Head of Music at Parkgate House notes: ‘The
enjoyment of making music together cannot be underestimated; working
toward a common goal and acquiring the musicianship skills necessary to
play with others is extremely valuable.’
Familiesonline.co.uk | 020 8696 9680 | March 2017
PREP SCHOOL FEATURE
© Parkgate House
OPPORTUNITY
As well as being offered individual instrumental and singing tuition, all
Parkgate pupils have the chance to sing in a choir, play in a recorder
ensemble, violin quartet, or the ukulele club. All musical contributions are
valued. Some pupils, inspired to create their own bands, have staged their
own performances – fully supported by the school.
And pupils regularly get to hear professional musicians perform at both
internal workshops and visits to concert venues such as the Royal
Albert Hall.
CREATIVE CROSS OVER
Throughout the year, cross-curricular links are made with the Art, Drama
and English departments. Children collaborate to compose musical
soundscapes for paintings or cultivate their creative writing skills by
listening to, and analysing, the musical elements of a piece of music. The
children also combine their drama and musical skills in the school’s annual
musical theatre productions.
MUSICAL YOUTH
Exposure to a wide range of musical styles and genres ensures that pupils
expand their musical vocabulary and knowledge, learning not only about
key composers and musicians, but the history of music. In addition to
practical and performance elements, the curriculum includes listening and
evaluating, as well as composing and improvising music.
When faced with the challenge of improvisation, pupils learn to take risks
and to persevere in unfamiliar territory. As a result, pupils feel more
confident about experimenting and in doing so develop their creativity,
sense of expression and independent musical style.
VIBRANT MUSICAL EXPERIENCES
Jane O’Rourke observes: ‘When children feel that their ideas are valued
and are comfortable to take such risks - viewing these as a natural part of
their learning journey - they are more likely to develop a positive and
resilient attitude to their learning. This inevitably leads to higher attainment
levels. The vibrant musical experiences we offer at Parkgate allows us to
fulfil our mission statement: Develop Confidence – Provide Opportunity –
Realise Potential – in every single child.’
Parkgate House School 020 7350 2452 www.parkgate-school.co.uk
11
12
13
14

Independent thinking – A lesson for life
‘Give a man a fish and you feed him for a day. Teach a man to fish and you feed
him for a lifetime.’ Chinese Proverb
Encouraging independent learning in children can set them up not just for
their education, but for life. The skills fostered by independent learning –
the ability to problem solve, think creatively and respond resiliently - are
all useful skills for the wider world. Think of Steve Jobs, founder of Apple
or author, JK Rowling both of whom had to exhibit these traits before
finding success.
Independent learning doesn’t mean working alone, it means getting
children to play a major role in their own learning. It encourages children
to take risks, give it a go and never feel shame when they get it wrong.
Children are able to employ a range of strategies to explore and find
creative solutions to the challenges in front of them. And studies suggest
that independent thinkers work to higher standards, are more motivated
and have higher self-esteem than other children.
‘Spoon feeding, in the long run, teaches us
nothing but the shape of the spoon.’
(E.M.Forster)
Rather than teachers seeing the child as an empty vessel waiting to be
passively filled with facts, independent learning encourages children to
become active learners. The active learner mindset is also sometimes
referred to as a ‘growth mindset’ which acknowledges that intelligence is
not fixed, but can be developed. Instead of being fed information,
children are encouraged to question what they are being told, work things
out for themselves and set their own goals and targets. And these
concepts are just as applicable to children from the early years to those in
secondary school and beyond.
SO HOW DOES IT WORK?
One independent learning strategy is for the teacher to set a question,
encourage the children to discuss it in groups and to form their own
opinions, before the teacher inputs again later on. This can be effective
and insightful for both pupils and teachers. Donal Brennan, Headmaster
at The Hampshire School where independent learning strategies are
Familiesonline.co.uk | 020 8696 9680 | March 2017
EDUCATION
© The Hampshire School
routinely used, comments: ‘The value is that when the children are
presented with a blank piece of paper, they feel eager and ready to write,
as their minds are alive with thoughts and ideas already discussed and
explored in their activity lessons.’
In another approach, the teacher may challenge a pupil’s response to
questions, forcing the student to define their answers more clearly and
thereby reinforcing information.
THE TEACHER’S INPUT
Mr Brennan describes a recent activity for Year Two children on ‘Water is
Life’, which saw the children exploring the question ‘Why do we need
water?’ The children sought answers from resources positioned at activity
stations around the classroom. They were encouraged to collaborate
within their teams and discuss the pros and cons of their responses. When
these groups shared their findings with the class, the teacher was attentive
to the answers so that they could reflect back any helpful points to the
children, reinforce key vocabulary and highlight any higher-order thinking.
FAIL AGAIN. FAIL BETTER
By way of an example of how independent learning fosters resilience, a
Year 7 student at The Hampshire School was preparing a slide examining
the structure of a plant cell. While other classmates achieved it on the first
attempt, one particular student found the task more challenging. With the
support of his classmates the student persevered, eventually succeeding
on his fourth attempt. Mr Brennan concludes: “Independent learning
encourages a ‘go get it’ philosophy, a positive mindset where children
think: ‘I will not be scuppered in my attempt to make it work.’ They feel
at ease with making mistakes.”
To be released from the fear of failure is a lesson not just for children. As
Winston Churchill observed: ‘Success is stumbling from failure to failure
with no loss of enthusiasm.’ It is a great lesson for life.
The Hampshire School, 020 7352 7077
www.thehampshireschoolchelsea.co.uk
15
16

Call to book your place now
Compiled by Joanna Parry
SW1
HILL HOUSE SCHOOL
4-13 Co-Ed Tours every weekday morning in
term time, 8.30am booking required
020 7584 1331 www.hillhouseschool.co.uk
SW2
STREATHAM AND CLAPHAM PREP
SCHOOL 3-11 Girls 7/3 9-10.45am
020 8674 6912 www.schs.gdst.net
SW6
FULHAM PREP SCHOOL
4-13 Co-Ed Pre-Prep Open Morning 23/3
9.15am, 10.15am and 11.15am call to book a
place and time slot 7371 9911, Prep School
tours by appointment only 020 7386 2444
www.fulhamprep.co.uk
PARSONS GREEN PREP
4-11 Co-Ed Midweek tours on Thursdays at
9am by appointment only 020 7371 9009
www.parsonsgreenprep.co.uk
LANGFORD PRIMARY SCHOOL
4-11 Co-Ed Tours every week, book in advance
020 7736 4045 www.langfordprimary.org.uk
SINCLAIR HOUSE SCHOOL
2-11 Co-ed Prep 23/03 10-11.30am and
Nursery 24/03 9.30-11am
SW7
THE HAMPSHIRE SCHOOL
3-13 Co-Ed Tours of main school on
Wednesdays at 9am and of Early Years School
on Mondays and Thursdays at 1.30pm
020 7352 7077
www.thehampshireschoolchelsea.co.uk
ST NICHOLAS PREP SCHOOL
2-10 Co-Ed Open Day 26/1 9.30am plus Open
House every Wednesday and Thursday during
term time 9.30-10.30am book in advance
020 7225 1277 www.stnicholasprep.co.uk
SW8
NEWTON PREP
4-11 Co-Ed Friday tours by appointment 9-
10.30am 020 7720 4091
www.newtonprepschool.co.uk
SW10
REDCLIFFE SCHOOL
3-11 Girls 3-8 Boys Tours Tuesdays and
Thursdays during term time 9.30am booking
required 020 7352 9247
www.redcliffeschool.com
Familiesonline.co.uk | 020 8696 9680 | March 2017
SW11
DOLPHIN SCHOOL
4-11 Co-Ed Open Mornings most Thursdays
9.15-10.30am by appointment 020 7924 3472
www.dolphinschool.org.uk
THE DOMINIE
6-11 Co-Ed Tours by appointment Please
contact the school to find out more about their
specialist teaching for dyslexic children 020
7720 8783 www.thedominie.co.uk
THAMES CHRISTIAN COLLEGE
11-16 Co-Ed Open Mornings 7/3 and 25/4
020 7228 3933
www.thameschristiancollege.org.uk
SW12
WHITE HOUSE PREP SCHOOL
4-11 Co-Ed 6/5 9.30-11.30am. Tours Tuesday
mornings at 9.15am book in advance 020 8674
9514 www.whitehouseschool.com
LONDON STEINER SCHOOL
4-11 Co-Ed Open morning 22/3 9.45am and
11.45am, plus weekly school tours by
appointment every Tuesday at 11.50am
020 8772 3504 www.waldorflondon.co.uk
HORNSBY HOUSE
4-11 Co-Ed 9/3 and 8/6 9am 020 8673 7573
www.hornsbyhouse.co.uk
SW13
THE HARRODIAN SCHOOL
4-18 Co-Ed Regular tours during term time
020 8762 6321 www.harrodian.com
SW15
IBSTOCK PLACE SCHOOL
3-18 Co-Ed The Prep School 3/5 and 21/6
9.30am, The Senior School 10/5 5-7pm
booking required 020 8876 9991 / 020 8392
5803 www.ibstockplaceschool.co.uk
FALCONS SCHOOL FOR GIRLS
4-11 Girls 18/3 10.30am-12.30pm 020 8992
5189 www.falconsgirls.co.uk
SW16
STREATHAM AND CLAPHAM HIGH
SCHOOL
11-18 Girls 10/3 9.15-11.30am 020 8677 8400
www.schs.gdst.net
SCHOOL OPEN DAYS
The White House School
W18
THE ROCHE SCHOOL
2.5-11 Co-Ed Open Mornings 8/3, 12/5 and
21/6 9.30-11am, or at other times by
appointment 020 8877 0823
www.therocheschool.co.uk
SW19
KINGS COLLEGE SCHOOL
7-16 Boys, 16-18 Co-Ed 11+ Open Evening
12/6 6pm, 16+ Open Evening 14/6 6pm,
Junior School Open Morning 23/6 9.30am 020
8255 5437 www.kcs.org.uk
THE STUDY PREP SCHOOL
4-11 Girls Open Morning 11/3 9.30am-12pm,
plus tours on Tuesdays 9.20-10.30am 020 8947
6969 www.thestudyprep.co.uk
WILLINGTON IND PREP SCHOOL
4-13 Boys Open Day 22/3, plus tours of the
school by appointment 020 8944 7020
www.willingtonschool.co.uk
WIMBLEDON COMMON PREP
(also known as Squirrels) SW19 4-7 Boys
Tours of the school by appointment
020 8946 1001
www.wimbledoncommonprep.co.uk
SW20
THE NORWEGIAN SCHOOL
Co-Ed 3-16 Open on 1/4. Tours of the school
can be booked at any time 020 8947 6617
www.norwegianschool.org.uk
SE21
ROSEMEAD PREP SCHOOL
3-11yrs Co-ed Open Mornings 9.30-11am
26/1 & 8/3 020 8670 5865
www.rosemeadprepschool.org.uk
W6
RAVENSCOURT PARK PREP SCHOOL
4-11 Co-Ed Open Mornings 8/3, 4/5 and 13/6
9.15am 020 8846 9153 www.rpps.co.uk
W14
PARAYHOUSE SCHOOL
4-11 Co-Ed Open Morning 7/3 at 10am 020
8741 1400 www.parayhouse.com
17
18
 SCHOOL FEATURE

An afternoon at the White House School

In November, The White House Prep School was named as one of the top 10 schools in
London and 54th in the country by The Sunday Times. So we wanted to find out more...

Q: Is the school’s commitment to smaller class sizes making
the difference?
A: The School recently celebrated its 30th anniversary, and for Founder
and Principal, Mary McCahery, the year saw another highlight after
being named one of the top 10 Schools in London by The Sunday
Times. “The pupils were thrilled when we told them” says Mary and
“felt an enormous sense of pride”. “It’s all down to the hard work of
both pupils and staff” states Headmaster Daniel Cummings “but as
important as National recognition can be, this has confirmed what we
see throughout the school every day and we are all very proud to be
part of such a wonderful school."
Q: But how have you achieved this?
A: The White House know that the pupils’ development throughout their
time at the School is paramount to their achievements later on. From
Kindergarten to Year 6, the School prides itself on choosing to be
deliberately small in size with smaller class sizes ensuring that every
child can be treated as an individual. This personalised teaching
approach ensures an outstanding education (a fact which has been
confirmed by both OFSTED and ISI) and allows teachers to find out
what really excites and engages the children to help them excel.
24 Thornton Avenue, SW12 0LF, 020 8674 9514 www.woodentopsnurseries.com www.whitehouseschool.com
This approach to education is at the heart of the School but its
dynamic nature means they can also be flexible to ‘pupil voice’ and
emerging interests. Budding Zuckerbergs can now learn the basics of
coding in the upgraded IT suite and via the adoption of a cloud-based
curriculum, whilst those with a keen interest in engineering can join
the Car Club which sees pupils race a self-built car at Goodwood
racetrack.
For the Kindergarten, the School has recently adopted an exciting
Forest School approach to outdoor learning for ‘natural thinking’.
Highlights for children include ‘Muddy Mondays’ and ‘Welly
Wednesdays’.
Q: Congratulations from Families!
A: Thank you. The Sunday Times recognition is reflected in the offers the
pupils receive when they leave the School at 11+. Most go onto
JAGS, Dulwich College, Alleyns and Emmanuel or top boarding
schools, with over 30% of the children receiving scholarships to their
preferred schools.
What’s clear is that our school’s dedication to the children and their
education is helping them to flourish, whilst ensuring the pupils are
happy, confident and caring, and still excited and challenged at school.

Familiesonline.co.uk | 020 8696 9680 | March 2017 19

21
 EDUCATION NEWS

NEW PREP SCHOOL TO OPEN

IN SEPT 2017
Exciting times: A new Boys’ Preparatory School is opening in Central
London in September 2017. Eaton House Prep will be located at 2
Elvaston Place, London SW7 and will offer
places for up to 20 boys each year with their
first Year 4 class joining in September 2017.
Eaton House Preparatory School will replicate
the success of their existing Prep School at Eaton
House The Manor with pupils benefiting from
the very highest levels of prep school education
and gaining admission at 13 + to leading
GOING ‘SOFT’ HELPS STUDENTS GET London day, and boarding schools.
A ‘CAN DO’ ATTITUDE Eaton House Preparatory School will be led by
New research has demonstrated the impact of soft skills such as control, Mr Huw May, currently Headmaster at Eaton
commitment, challenge and confidence in promoting mental wellbeing. House The Manor Pre-Preparatory School. Mr Huw May
The research was conducted by leading psychometric test publisher AQR A dynamic curriculum will ensure that all boys
International for the Independent Schools Council (ISC) using the using a achieve their potential, empowering them to navigate successfully the
model which looks at important so-called ‘soft skills’. next steps in their academic journey and beyond!
In the test, which defines mental toughness as the 'mindset that every
As well as 8+ admission, a limited number of places will be available for
person adopts in everything they do', nine and ten year old students
admission at 7+ in September 2017 with guaranteed progression to the
(Year 5) at Sydenham High Junior School achieved a strong total
Prep School in September 2018.
score of 4.2. This is in line with the average across all ISC schools taking
Head of Admissions Ms Jennifer McEnhill jmcenhill@eatonhouseschools.com
part and contrasts with the lower 3.94 recorded by state schools. It was
also higher than the average score for all female pupils in the study (4.0). www.eatonhouseschools.com
In addition, a number of students scored considerably above this,
particularly for confidence, challenge and emotional control - some as
high as 8-10.
By performing at the top end of the scale, Sydenham High’s students
show an exceptionally positive ‘can do attitude’; are more content and
able to manage stress; more ambitious; more aspirational and prepared
to take risks; more likely to persevere and achieve their goals in higher
education and employment.
According to the Head of Sydenham High Junior School, Claire Boyd, the
school’s innovative Flourish and Fly programme helps: “We can’t predict
what the future will hold for our students but we can prepare them with
the skills – psychological as well as academic – that they will need to face
that future head on.”
020 8557 7000 www.sydenhamhighschool.gdst.net

The new purpose built library

THE STUDY OPENS ITS DOORS

The Study Preparatory School, Wimbledon, is one of London’s WILLINGTON PREP NEWS
leading prep schools for girls aged 4-11. Although academic rigour is at
Just a short walk from Wimbledon station, Willington Independent
the heart of this successful school, its highly creative and nurturing ethos
Preparatory School has a proud history of educating boys between
ensures that its girls enjoy a well-rounded and broad based education.
the ages of 4-13 since 1885.
Particularly strong in music, sport and the performing arts, the
opportunities for the girls to showcase The diverse and enriching curriculum offers the boys plenty of depth,
their talents and develop their skills are academic rigour and creative opportunities. Small class sizes ensure each
many, with specialist teaching from the child is fully supported and catered for. Sport (played at the nearby
start, a wide array of extracurricular playing fields) and music are an integral part of life at Willington. The
clubs, and an individual approach to ongoing building programme includes a climbing wall and purpose-built
learning. Academic success stems from library and has already seen the launch of a new computing suite.
happy, confident and respectful girls
who go on to some of the leading Extra-curricular clubs range from fencing and judo to touch typing and
senior schools in the country. The orchestra and a comprehensive programme of educational visits and
Study’s 11+ success record is trips further enhance pupil life.
remarkable, with many offers and At Willington, individual strengths are celebrated, effort is rewarded and
scholarships awarded each year; the total of scholarship offers over the self-worth fostered, cultivating a quiet confidence that develops little boys
last five years is an impressive 92. Come and see for yourself why The into exceptional young men.
Study is such a special place at its forthcoming Open Morning on
Saturday March 11 at between 9.30am and 12noon. The School’s next Open Morning is Wednesday 22nd March.
Call 020 8971 0452 or email admissions@willingtonschool.co.uk to
020 8947 6969 www.thestudyprep.co.uk book your place.

Familiesonline.co.uk | 020 8696 9680 | March 2017 23

 Est 1976
Ofsted registered and MEAB Accredited
An independent nursery school for children 2 to 5 years

• 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
Nightingale 1 Montessori: St Luke's Church Hall, 194 Ramsden Rd, SW12 8RQ. 07958 567210
Nightingale 2 Montessori: St Stephen's Church Hall, 35 Weir Rd, SW12 0NU. 07930 401769
Contact: info@nightingalemontessori.co.uk www.nightingalemontessori.co.uk
Register early to avoid disappointment.

24
 EDUCATION NEWS

ALLEYNS APPEARS IN SUNDAY TIMES

FREE TRIAL SESSION AT EXPLORE PARENT POWER 2016
LEARNING Congratulations to Alleyn’s Junior School, which appeared in the recent
Sunday Times Parent Power 2016 supplement. The School made its way
We all know that the lead up to exam season can be a daunting time for
into the top ten of the ‘Top 100 Independent Prep Schools’ list, one of only
child and parent. With phonics screening checks, teacher assessments,
three co-educational schools across the UK to do so.
and SATs, you might often wonder how best to support your child.
Alleyn’s Junior School Headmaster, Simon Severino, said “We pride ourselves
While there is no magic formula for exam success, there are many ways
on taking a holistic approach to the well-being and education of our boys and
to help children feel prepared and confident about assessments.
girls. Naturally we are pleased and proud of this result that is external
Start early by planning ahead validation of the academic standards that our children can achieve through
Revisiting a range of subject areas in manageable, weekly chunks can be hard work and the support of their teachers over the years. However, I am
much more beneficial to supporting memory, skills, and confidence than also clear that the sort of holistic education that we offer is so much more
‘cramming’. than just statistics. Happy boys and girls achieve high standards.”
020 8557 1500 www.alleyns.org.uk
Revising in your own way
Some children like visual representations and sticky notes around the
house whereas others will respond better to conversations and
answering questions aloud. Find a learning style and timetable that works
for your child and create a plan to suit this.

Remain positive
Be positive and praise them when you see them accomplish something
great: hearing “you’ve done a fantastic job today!” will undoubtedly build
their self-belief.
Explore Learning offer tailored maths and English tuition from expert staff,
and exam preparation workshops and parent information evenings
throughout the year so that everyone feels confident at home.
Centres in Fulham, Wandsworth and Nine Elms. To book your free trial
session, visit www.explorelearning.co.uk/blog/exam-preparation-how-to-
support-your-child
Girls from Kensington Prep in Fulham enjoying the high tech Explore Floor

KENSINGTON PREP NEW SPACES FOR

BOOKS FOR UGANDA GROWING MINDS
One of Parsons Green Prep School’s Year 2 teachers, Shalyn Barrie, Kensington Prep School in Fulham now has some of the best facilities
recently travelled to Kampala of any prep school in London, with the completion of an innovative
in Uganda to visit a school £2.7m ‘Creating Spaces for Growing Minds’ building project.
for orphans and donate New spaces for learning include a high-tech Explore Floor, multi-media
stationery and books to recording studio, Eco-Greenhouse and spacious classroom breakout
them. Maranatha High spaces. The imaginative spaces give girls wonderful opportunities to
School in the district of experience independent learning, exploration and collaborative work.
Ggaba in Kampala does The new facilities have been designed to complement the girls’ excellent
important work for classroom-based learning and teaching in dedicated subject rooms
vulnerable children, so including drama, IT, art and science. Parents love the regular podcasts
Shalyn stuffed her rucksack girls are producing in the multi-media studio and there is also a green
with as much stationery and screen for video production.
books donated by her Year 2 The school provides a rich curriculum, is academic and girls go on to the
class as she could carry. The director was delighted with the new some of the top secondary schools. Its forward-thinking approach
materials, which were soon being put to good use by the children. The awakens girls’ curiosity and develops their creativity, collaborative skills,
two schools are now busy creating links between the Year 2 classes. and courage to take risks.
www.ParsonsGreenPrep.co.uk www.kensingtonprep.gdst.net

Familiesonline.co.uk | 020 8696 9680 | March 2017 25

 THE STUDIO
DAY NURSERY
(Established 1987)
Montessori Teaching Method
8.00am to 7.00pm Full & Part-time
Cooked Lunch & High Tea provided
Boys & Girls Aged 2yrs-5yrs

93 Moore Park Road Fulham SW6

All enquires: 020 7736 9256
Principal: J.M.R. Williams, NNEB, RSH (Norlander).

0844 879 7189 www.likeminders.co.uk

All our
applicants are
personally  Nannies, Maternity Nurses,
interviewed Housekeepers and Mother’s Helps
and their  Permanent and Temporary
references  Residential, Daily, Full and Part-Time
checked
 Evening Babysitting Register

Tel: 020 8947 4666

info@wimbledonnannies.co.uk
Facebook: Wimbledon Nannies
www.wimbledonnannies.com
Twitter: @wimbledonannies 184 Copse Hill, SW20 0SP

26
 CHILDCARE

Are you ready for 30 hours of free childcare?

At the moment parents in England are entitled to the equivalent of 15 hours of childcare per week for
3 and 4-year olds. Depending on parental income, some 2-year olds also qualify. From September this
provision is being doubled to the equivalent of 30 hours of free childcare per week. Read on to find
out if you qualify and how the changes might affect your family.

FREE CHILDCARE: DO YOU QUALIFY? FUNDING ISSUES

The 30 hours of free childcare are only available to parents who work the
equivalent of two days (more than 16 hours) per week and who earn less
than £100,000.
It is only available to families living in England and your child must be aged
3 or 4 when the scheme starts. The 30 hours provision does not apply to
parents claiming for 2 year olds or those working less than 16 hours per
week, although it looks like the current provision of 15 hours’ free
childcare will still apply.
WHEN AND WHERE DOES IT START?
The scheme is currently being piloted in eight local authority areas -
Wigan, Staffordshire, Swindon, Portsmouth, Northumberland, York,
Newham and Hertfordshire. It is due to be launched across the rest of
England in September 2017.
WHAT ELSE DO YOU NEED TO KNOW?
It is important to understand that the 30 free hours are only provided for
38 weeks of the year, not all 52. This is broadly equivalent to school term
times and it works out to a total of 1,140 free hours per year (compared
to 570 hours currently).
The Government is encouraging childcare providers to offer the
entitlement flexibly and extend the 1,140 hours over the whole year if
possible. This would mean you would receive less than 30 hours of free
childcare per week. While nurseries cannot charge for the 30 hours,
some may start charging for ‘extras’ such as meals that they had previously
provided for free.
As well as the prospect of extra charges, some nurseries may not be able
to offer the additional hours at all, as many childcare providers fear they
will struggle to provide the extra hours of free care without additional
funding from the Government.
Purnima Tanuku, chief executive of charity the National Day Nurseries
Association (NDNA) told The Yorkshire Post: “Funding is not really
adequate to deliver high quality care and providers are making less. Costs
are increasing but the amount that childcare providers receive has stayed
the same.”
Writing in The Guardian, Neil Leitch, Chief Executive of the Pre-school
Learning Alliance, said: “The simple fact is that the 30-hour offer can only
work if government funding actually covers the costs of delivering early-
years places, something that the PLA’s Fair Future Funding campaign is
calling on the government to ensure.”
OTHER CHANGES COMING IN 2017
…are you ready for these?
There are a number of other changes being introduced in 2017.
It was confirmed in the Autumn Statement that the National Living Wage
would rise in April from £7.20 to £7.50 per hour.
There have also been some changes to benefits. From April 2017 support
provided through Child Tax Credit and Universal Credit will be limited to
two children. This means that any subsequent children born after this date
will not be eligible for further support.

27
CHILDCARE

How to choose a childminder

There are many advantages to hiring a childminder as opposed to using
commercial childcare such as a nursery. One of the main reasons is consistency;
it is hugely positive to have the same person look after your child.

A childminder can also be flexible, particularly if parents work atypical
hours. Socially there can be advantages as often there are several
children, all of different ages, being looked after under the one roof, which
can help to teach important skills as they interact together. For younger
children, being looked after in a calm home environment can be
preferable to a busy nursery, where it may be noisy and stressful.
HOW CAN YOU FIND A CHILDMINDER
All childminders have to be registered and inspected by OFSTED in
England or CSSIW in Wales, giving you peace of mind that they are
carefully regulated. This means they are professional child carers who
have undertaken training and professional development.
WHAT QUALIFICATIONS TO LOOK
OUT FOR
Childminders are required to follow the early years foundation stage
(EYFS), which provides a structure of learning and care for children from
birth to five years old. This ensures that they are trained to create a
stimulating environment for your child.
Find out more about your childcare options from Families Online: www.familiesonline.co.uk/childcare
They will also be expected to provide toys and activities suitable for the
ages being looked after.
Childminders must complete first aid training and a course that covers
topics such as child nutrition, food hygiene and health and safety. Some
childminders also complete extra courses to extend their skills.
Every childminder must be checked by the Disclosure and Barring Service
(DBS), along with all adult members of their family who share their home.
They will have their home properly inspected by an appropriate authority,
such as OFSTED.
HOW TO MAKE THE DECISION
It is common to request a trial period to make sure your child is happy
with them. Ensure you visit the childminder so you can meet the
childminder and see the kind of environment your little one will be
exposed to. Ideally you should be able to visit as often as you need while
you are making your decision, and ask as many questions as you like until
you are satisfied.

28 March 2017 | 020 8696 9680 | Familiesonline.co.uk

 CHILDCARE

LIKEMINDERS OFFERING
PERMAMENT NANNIES TOO
We were pleased to hear that Like Minders, your favourite
babysitting agency, has just added permanent nannies to
their list of trusted services. They have some really lovely
professional nannies ready to work, so do get in touch if NEW BABY ROOM!
you're looking for some help, both live in or live out. They The Working Mums Daycare & Pre-school in Battersea have a new baby
will always match the nanny's experience and personality to room. They can now offer childcare from babies onwards.
your family's needs and requirements, plus you can
They offer a welcoming, warm, secure and caring environment, where children are
interview each candidate, so that they can make sure that
able to experiment and have fun, take risks, learn from their experiences and grow
you are 100% happy with your new nanny.
in confidence. Please do book an appointment with the Nursery Manager Shelia
Their services also include babysitting, part time nannies, Lanning to view the room.
temporary nannies, emergency childcare and holiday
020 7924 4204 www.workingmumsdaycare.co.uk
nannies.
0844 879 7189 childcare@likeminders.co.uk
www.likeminders.co.uk

GOOD NEWS FROM DOWN

UNDER HEAVENLY NANNIES
Local agency Heavenly Nannies has teamed up with a
leading Nanny college in Australia whose graduate nannies
are keen to gain 2 years overseas experience nannying in
London. This, coupled with a successful partnership with a
New Zealand nanny agency, means this popular local nanny
agency can now offer more highly prized ‘Aussie & Kiwi’
Nannies and Junior Nannies. APNA accredited ‘Heavenly’
routinely places British nannies and nannies of all European
nationalities but has seen a marked increase in demand for
nannies from Commonwealth countries – possibly relating
to Brexit.
With thousands of successful placements behind them, the
team at Heavenly can discuss your precise needs and find
the best solution for your situation. You will find them
friendly, professional and knowledgeable - and their fees
refreshingly competitive.
Nanny candidates must provide a portfolio of good
references, DBS, ID and other supporting documents—all
checked, and candidates are interviewed one or more
times by the team. As ‘Experts in Childcare’ with years of
experience, Heavenly can usually correctly determine a
nanny’s ultimate suitability for your family and will guide you
seamlessly through the recruitment process and beyond.
Their helpful team vow to go out of their way to help you!
0333 800 8085 info@heavenlynannies.com
www.heavenlynannies.com
GENDER PAY GAP WIDENS FOR WOMEN
WHEN THEY START A FAMILY
The gender pay gap has halved for women in their 20s over the past couple of
decades but it widens again once they have kids, according to a new study.
The research, from think tank the Resolution Foundation, found that women born
between 1946 and 1965 faced a pay gap of 16% during their 20s. This fell to 9% for
women born between 1966 and 1980 and to 5% for those born between 1981
and 2000.
This suggests that more young women are finding employment in higher paying
roles and industries but pay inequality hits home again when they hit their 30s.
According to the report, women born between 1981 and 2000 can expect a 9%
pay gap by the time they reach 30, which is little different from the previous
generation.
Laura Gardiner, senior policy analyst at the Resolution Foundation, said: “Young
women today face relatively little disadvantage in terms of their pay packets
compared to what their parents' and grandparents' generation faced.”
"But while many millennial women haven't experienced much of a pay gap yet, most
probably will once they reach their 30s, when they start having children. What's
more this pay penalty is big and long-lasting, and remains for younger generations
despite the progress in early careers."

Familiesonline.co.uk | 020 8696 9680 | March 2017 29

 LITTLE ANGELS NURSERY SCHOOL
A Traditional Teaching Nursery - Learning through Play

We are an Ofsted rated 'Good' day care nursery school.

We lay the foundation of learning 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 many years'
experience in Early Years.
Open all year round 8am to 6pm
Monday to Friday except bank
holidays and four weeks in a year.
15 hours weekly free sessions
available for 2-4yrs.

Please contact our office on

020 7274 8333.
info@littleangelsbrixton.co.uk
www.littleangelsbrixton.co.uk
50 Gresham Road,
Brixton, SW9 7NL

DON'T MISS THE APRIL ISSUE WITH THESE FEATURES:

Babies • SEN • Easter Listings part 2

If you want to be listed or advertise please contact us on
editor@familiesSW.co.uk

30

How to find the perfect nanny
with the help of an agency
Employing a nanny to look after your child is one of the most important choices you will make. After all, this
person will feed, nurture, comfort and play with your little one whilst you are not there. It needs to be the
right person for you and your child. So how do you go about finding your own modern-day Mary Poppins?
Be prepared - finding the best nanny for your family can take time and
energy. You can advertise, ask friends and families for recommendations,
use an online nanny service, or if it seems too daunting to do the search
on your own, you can use an agency.
DOING IT YOURSELF
If you have placed your own advert for a nanny position, then be
prepared to sift through the responses you receive – sometimes upwards
of twenty responses per position - to make your shortlist of nannies to
interview.
Applications need to be checked, references followed up and work
experience verified. DBS checks (the new CRB check) must be done,
driving licence checks made if your nanny is to use the car, and ensuring
first aid qualifications are up to date.
USING AN AGENCY
Using an agency speeds up this process because they act as a screening
service to weed out applicants with poor job histories or references. The
nannies on their books are already vetted and ready to work.
A good agency will recognize the importance of not just a quick
placement, but of ensuring compatibility between the nanny and the
family. The agency should have considered your criteria in looking for a
nanny and tailored their recommendations to suit your needs.
FINDING A GOOD MATCH
Diana Keverian-Rand, co-founder of Nappy Valley Nannies based in
South West London, explains that they meet all their nannies personally
and aim to get to know them so that they can match their personality with
a suitable family: ‘We treat our nannies as family. We pride ourselves on
the relationships we build with our families as well as our nannies.’
Meeting your prospective nanny in person is crucial. Just like buying a
house, employing a nanny is a very personal thing. What looks perfect on
paper may not have the right ‘feel’ for you. Diana Keverian-Rand also
Familiesonline.co.uk | 020 8696 9680 | March 2017
CHILDCARE
points out that a CV does not always reflect a nanny accurately and this is
where direct verbal references are important. ‘The family may be
declining a nanny who is perfect for them!’
STAYING POWER
Using a nanny who has signed up with a professional agency usually
means they are a career nanny and not, say, a student from abroad who
wants to travel and sees childcare as a temporary means of achieving this
and who may move on just as your child has become attached to them.
This also works in reverse. Nannies may be attracted to signing with an
agency because the families using them are paying a fee and are therefore
committed to employing a nanny on a long-term basis, thus avoiding the
bête noire of nannies —having to look for a new role every six months.
WEIGHING UP THE COSTS
It is worth bearing in mind that although using an agency can cost more
than the other options, it does offer you a degree of protection. Nappy
Valley Nannies for example, has a trial period of eight weeks, so that if
your nanny isn’t working out as you’d hoped, they offer either a partial
refund or will start a new search and replace the nanny free of charge.
And as an additional benefit, you receive the ongoing advice or mediation
an agency offers to smooth out any issues that may arise after a nanny is
placed.
Diana told us: “We are by far one of the most competitive agencies out
there. We pride ourselves on the meticulous work we do, the
relationship we build with our families as well as nannies and know that
the best form of advertisement is referral be it from the families who we
have helped or nannies who recommend us to fellow nannies as one of
the most caring agencies to register with.”
So, if you are time-poor, an agency could help you streamline your
search, offer you support and make it as stress-free as possible to find, not
just any nanny, but the perfect nanny for you.
020 8946 5320 www.NappyValleyNannies.co.uk
31
32
 SEE MORE EVENTS IN OUR ONLINE WHAT’S ON CALENDAR
Sew Pretty Easter workshops
We took every care in
preparing these entries but
sometimes events are
cancelled or times changed.
Please double check event
with the organiser to avoid
disappointment.
Compiled by Joanna Parry
ARTS AND
CRAFTS
EDDIE CATZ
Putney, Wimbledon and Earlsfield
First Floor, 68-70 Putney High Street
SW15 1SF
42 Station Road SW19 2LP
279 Magdalen Road SW18 3NZ
020 3475 5268
www.eddiecatz.com
Throughout Easter Holidays
Holiday Workshops
With three branches now in SW
London, there will be plenty of
Easter Camps to choose from.
Prices usually include lunch and a
free play at the venue. Eddie Catz
appears in all venues twice a day to
meet and greet the children.
THE CRAFTHOUSE
329 Upper Richmond Road West,
East Sheen SW14 8QR
020 8487 2863
www.thecrafthouseuk.com
3-21 April
Holiday Art Workshops Exciting
art and craft and sewing
workshops based on seasonal art.
10am-3pm daily, age 5-10, see
website for details and to book.
THE CREATIVITY ROOM
Venue TBC in Clapham area
07852 336 405
info@thecreativityroom.co.uk
www.thecreativityroom.co.uk
Familiesonline.co.uk | 020 8696 9680 | March 2017
March/April dates TBC
Easter Workshop Exciting,
creative workshops for children
aged 5-10. Find out more at
www.thecreativityroom.co.uk.
CUCKOO HIBOU
181 New Kings Road SW6 4SW
020 7731 5552
www.cuckoohibou.com
3-13 April
Easter Cuckoo Club A multi-
activity morning club with ballet,
cookery class, music and arts and
crafts. Age 2.5 to 6, 9.30am-12pm,
£35 per morning / £160 for the
week. Email to book on
info@cuckoohibou.com
PLAY WITH PAINT
PLAY WITH PAINT
07779 100 659 @paintwritenow
www.paintwritenow.co.uk
Workshops in Wimbledon for 6-11
year olds with Katherine Smith,
Oxford Graduate.
Fridays 10/3 and 7/4, 4.30pm-
5.30pm at Holy Trinity Church £20
per child, payment in advance to
reserve place.
The workshops are a space in
which students can experiment
and be playful with art, and in this
way develop intuition as artists.
Formal focuses will be colour and
composition.
SEW PRETTY
Wimbledon Park Road SW19 6PE
07714 252660,
www.sewpretty.me.uk
3-13 April
Easter Sewing Workshops
Feeling creative? Want to become
a fashion designer? Or maybe just
wanting to try something different
and be proud to say to your friends
 EASTER HOLIDAY LISTINGS PART 1
‘I made it myself’. Age 7-12, half
day 10am-1pm or 1.45-4.45pm,
£28, full day 10am-4.45pm, £56.
Plus Young Designers club age 13-
18, 10-13 April, see website for
details.
LANGUAGES
CLUB PETIT PIERROT
Venues in Chelsea
020 7385 5565,
admin@clubpetitpierrot.co.uk
www.clubpetitpierrot.co.uk
3-7 April
French Easter Holiday Clubs
Creative activities and fun projects
such as arts and crafts, cooking,
singing, dancing, sporty games,
theatre and language games in
French. 9am-3pm with half-day
sessions also available, ages 3-5 and
6-8. Book early to avoid
disappointment!
1 April
Fun French Easter Session
Storytelling, singing and dancing
sessions, 9.45-10.15am (1-3 years),
10.30-11.15am (3-6 years) at
lovely French bookshop Librairie
La Page, 7 Harrington Road, SW7
3ES. Booking necessary.
NAOMI MARTIN TOUCH
TYPING
Sinclair House School, 59 Fulham
High Street SW6 3JJ
07949 204553,
www.nmtouchtyping.co.uk
27-31 March, 3-7 and 10-13
April
Touch Typing Courses Touch
typing courses for children aged
7+, classes are 90 minutes long,
£250 for the week. Classes are
mixed age and ability. Sibling
discounts available.
Learn French with Et Patati Patata while having fun!
PLEASE MAKE
SURE YOU SAY
YELLOWBIRD WHERE YOU
EDUCATION SAW THEM—IN
Parsons Green Prep “FAMILIES”
School, 1 Fulham Park
Road, Fulham SW6 4LJ
020 7731 0695 / 07790 912318,
hello@yellowbirdeducation.com
www.yellowbirdeducation.com
29 March – 13 April
Easter Creative Writing
Workshops Exciting, creative
workshops. 29-31 March at 10am-
2pm - £299, 3-7 April at 10am-
1.30pm - £369, 10-13 April at
10am-2pm - £339. Book online.
ET PATATI PATATA
Thomas’ Academy, Parsons Green
SW7 07966 893674,
caroline@etpatatipatata.com
www.etpatatipatata.com
3-7 April
Fun French Day Camp Learn
French without leaving London! 30
hours per week of French
immersion led by an experienced
native French teacher, 9am-3pm,
ages 4-6, 7-10 and 12-16. A wide
range of fun activities including Pop
French Music, French cooking,
French Art, Capoeira, Science Day,
French Coding and more.
MUSIC AND
DRAMA
AMANDA’S ACTION
CLUB
Skylark Café, Wandsworth Common
SW18 3RT 01895 623999,
info@amandasactionclub.co.uk
www.amandasactionclub.co.uk
Throughout Easter Holidays
Active Music Baby and Toddler
Classes Fun and energetic, for
little ones and older children too.
£10 pay as you go, check website
for times.
33
EASTER HOLIDAY LISTINGS PART 1 
EASTER CONFIDENCE
& RESILIENCE
COURSES
Role Models are holding fun
and unique Confidence &
Resilience Courses for ages 8-12
from April 3-7th (10am – 3pm)
at Chelsea Academy School &
KCS Wimbledon School.
The courses include team-
building exercises, interview
skills, debating & public speaking.
They focus on developing a
growth mindset and the key
‘soft’ skills required to thrive in
different environments at school,
at home and in life ahead. Cost
is £390+VAT (including lunch).
Learn more:
www.rolemodels.me
020 3637 7107.
CHELSEA QUAVERS
The Hall of Remembrance, Flood
Street SW3 5SY
07899 678 655
www.chelseaquavers.com
10-13 April
Easter Music Workshops
Includes body percussion, singing,
musical activities, games, puzzles,
improvisation and performance
opportunities on a variety of
instruments, combining to give
every child an experience to
remember. Singing, musical
activities, games, puzzles, writing
music and more. Age 4-12, 9am-
1pm, £75 per day; age 5-12, 9am-
4pm, £95 per day.
34
SEE MORE EVENTS IN OUR ONLINE WHAT’S ON CALENDAR
CHICKENSHED
Chelsea Academy, Lots Road SW10
0AB
www.chickenshed.org.uk
10-13 April
Chickenshed Kensington and
Chelsea Easter Holiday Project
A great opportunity for children to
develop their performance shills in
drama, music, dance and singing.
Create an original piece based on
ideas and concepts from The
Grimm Fairy Tales that family and
friends will be invited to see at the
end of the week. £100, 50%
discount for siblings, 10am-4pm
daily, age 6-11.
ALLSORTS DRAMA
020 8767 5298 or 020 8969 3249
www.allsortsdrama.com
Several venues, see website for
details & booking.
Allsorts drama for children will
be running their popular Easter
drama workshops for ages 4-6 &
7-11yrs. The children will have fun
with games, prop making and
working towards a show that they
will perform to family and friends
on the last day.
Term time classes for ages 4–16 in
SW1, W11 and NW3. Free trial
class for the summer term.
FUNKY MONKEY
Keyboard Classes
Streatham, Battersea, Herne Hill,
Beckenham 01732 457100,
mail@funkymonkey.info
www.funkymonkey.info
3-14 April Funky Chicken
Tumble into Wonderland with Perform Drama
Easter Music Workshops These
Funky Chicken workshops are
brilliant taster one or five day
courses for 4-9 year olds. Carefully
devised fun-packed, one day or
week long courses - read, play and
write notes C-A alongside learning
basic keyboard technique. Wrap
this around inspired activities
including composition, artwork,
singing and performance and you
have the perfect course that little
ones love. Booking early essential -
10 places ONLY per course.
PERFORM DRAMA
• Clapham South – St Francis
Xavier College SW12 8EN
• Kensington – Baden Powell
House SW7 5JS
020 7255 9120
enquiries@perform.org.uk
www.perform.org.uk/wonderland
10-12 April Alice in Wonderland
Holiday Courses. Tumble into
Wonderland this Easter holiday
with an unforgettable treat for 4-7
year olds. Things get ‘curiouser
and curiouser’ thanks to tea with
The Mad Hatter, a game of
imaginary flamingo croquet, and an
amusing chat with The Cheshire
March 2017 | 020 8696 9680 | Familiesonline.co.uk
Cat. The course ends with a mini-
musical, complete with costumes,
for family and friends to enjoy.
10am-3pm, £225 for 3 days, 25%
sibling discount, book on 020 7255
9120.
SPARKS
(formerly Studio Film School)
Broomwood Hall School, Nightingale
Lane SW12 8NR
3-5 April. Sparks Movie Making
Course - Licenced to Thrill
This Easter we’re making a spine-
tingling thriller movie to keep your
audience on the edge of their
seats! Members will develop skills
in directing, camera operation, and
acting too. With plenty going on
behind and in front of the camera,
members will come away with
new skills and a thriller movie to
be proud of! 9am - 3pm. To book,
visit www.sparks-ignite.com,
or call 020 7101 9329.
 SEE MORE EVENTS IN OUR ONLINE WHAT’S ON CALENDAR
Enjoy a Sparks movie making course
STAGECOACH
Battersea
Northcote Lodge, 26 Bolingbroke
Grove SW11 6EL
07956 288928,
battersea@stagecoach.co.uk
www.stagecoach.co.uk/battersea
11-12 April
Easter Holiday Performing Arts
Camp 3 days of fabulous musical
theatre activities for ages 4-6,
9.30am-12.30pm and ages 7-16,
10am-4pm each day. Free
performances at the end of the
course. Brilliant all round
confidence building and performing
arts perfecting fun!
THE STRINGS CLUB
At the London Steiner School, 9 Weir
Road, Balham, SW12 0LT
0121 296 9204
www.thestringsclub.org/easter-sw
Award-winning Ofsted registered
Holiday Camps offering range of
high-quality musical experiences,
specifically centred around stringed
instruments including ukulele,
violin, guitar and cello. A friendly,
fun filled and inspiring musical
adventure for 4-11 year olds.
Camp runs for 2 weeks from
3rd of April.
Quote FAMILIESSW2017 for
up to 10% off for advance
bookings for Holiday Camps
and Term Time Courses. Book
in advance to save more!
UPBEAT MUSIC
Thomas’ Academy, Parsons Green SW6
07816 901396,
upbeatmusic@btinternet.com
www.upbeatmusiccourses.co.uk
3-7 April
Easter Holiday Course Write a
song, record it and then perform
it. Singing, dance, guitars, drums
Familiesonline.co.uk | 020 8696 9680 | March 2017
and mini gig also included. Receive
a USB wristband with your MP3 on
it – a perfect gift to send to friends
and family. 10am-4pm, 4-12 years.
SPORT
BATTERSEA SPORTS
CENTRE
Hope Street SW11 2DA
020 8871 8529,
bsc@wandsworth.gov.uk
www.wandsworth.gov.uk/bsc
3-7 April
Holiday Fun Holiday sports,
activities and fun, ages 6-13, £13
per day, drop in only, or £40 for the
week, which is bookable.
CENTRAL LONDON
GOLF CENTRE
Burntwood Lane SW17 0AT
www.clgc.co.uk
23 March - 21 April
Junior Golf Camps The camps
are for junior golfers of all ages and
abilities, giving them the
opportunity to receive coaching,
participate in challenges and
competitions and practice all areas
of golf including a driving range,
course and adventure putting
course. Full day £45, half day £30,
9am-3pm.
CHELSEA FC SOCCER
SCHOOL
Venues across SW London
020 7957 8220
londondevelopment@chelseafc.com /
soccerschools@chelseafc.com
www.chelseafc.com/foundation /
www.chelseasoccerschools.co.uk
Throughout Easter Holidays
London Soccer School For boys
and girls aged 4-13. Times vary
according to course, from £30.
 EASTER HOLIDAY LISTINGS PART 1
High-quality musical experiences with the Strings Club (and 10% off)
FULHAM FC
FOUNDATION
Venues in Fulham
0870 442 5432,
holidaycourses@fulhamfc.com
www.fulhamfc.com
Throughout Easter Holidays
Holiday Courses Holiday courses
for all abilities in a fun and
challenging environment. 3-5yrs, 9-
11am, 6-14 yrs, 9am-3pm, from
£15 per day.
LITTLE GYM
Smugglers Way SW18 1DB
020 8874 6567,
wandsworth_fulham@thelittlegym.eu
www.wandsworthfulham.thelittlegym.eu
Throughout Easter Holidays
Christmas Fun Don’t miss out on
these ever popular camps at their
Wandsworth gym. These 3-hour
camps (OFSTED approved) for
over 3s build new skills and
develop confidence while the kids
have loads of FUN. Call the team
for specific timings.
Alpine French School offer a fantastic range of sporting activities
SWIMWAY
020 8871 3972
www.swimway.co.uk
Courses in Balham, East Sheen,
Kew Gardens, Putney,
Wandsworth Common,
Wimbledon and Kensington, from
3rd to 7th April (5 days) and 6th to
9th April (4 days). Swimway
courses are extremely popular so
best to book quickly.
WIGMORE TENNIS CLUB
43 Becmead Avenue, SW16
www.tenniscoaching.london
A great little club with great
teachers. Introduction to all the
strokes in tennis, technical and
tactical advice, and an opportunity
to develop skills in a relaxed
environment.
For children 3-14yrs of all abilities.
Either from 10am-12:30pm or
from 10am-3pm, with the option
of having extended hours in the
morning and at end of the day.
Sessions for tots aged 3-4 from
10-11am.
35
EASTER HOLIDAY LISTINGS PART 1  SEE MORE EVENTS IN OUR ONLINE WHAT’S ON CALENDAR

WIMBLEDON PARK bigger and better than ever before!

WATERSPORTS
Home Park Road SW19 7HX
020 8947 4894,
www.merton.gov.uk/leisure-
recreation-and-culture/active-kids-
school-holiday-courses
3-7 and 10-13 April
Easter Holiday Courses Make
new friends on this fun multi-
watersports course based on both
water and land, plus sailing courses
for all abilities from novice to
advanced. Age 8-16, 10am-4pm, 3-
7 April £265, 10-13 April £220.
YOUNGSTARS
Multi-Sports and Activity Camp
Balham, Clapham, Parsons Green,
Putney and Wimbledon
07749 343116, info@young-
stars.co.uk
www.young-stars.co.uk
3-13 April
Easter Holiday Camps Plenty of
fun, games and excitement whilst
kids are introduced to all aspects
of sports in an all inclusive and
non-competitive environment. 3-
10 years, times and prices vary.
SPECIAL
The afternoon is full of non-stop
dance activities, including break
dancing superheroes, workshops
and free disco dancing, arts and
crafts, baby play areas, pop up
photo booths, giveaways, fully
licensed bars in every room, luxury
goodie bags and much, much
more! From 2 -5pm. £15 for
adults £10 for kids (under 16)
DAY CAMPS
LITTLE HOUSE OF
SCIENCE
Imperial College, Coopers Arms
Chelsea, Kensington United and
Hollywood Arms, SW10 Have a go at golf with Central London Golf Centre
0800 092 1062
www.littlehouseofscience.com
and take on new challenges such as language skills and try some great
Little House of Science foster
The Avengers School of Archery, adventure activities at Alpine
children’s curiosity and re-enforce
Super Camps Driving School and French School’s French Summer
STEM related subjects in a fun,
Motor Mania. 10 to 12 year olds can Camp. 9th July – 19th August, for
project-based way. 11, 12 and
come together in their very own children aged 6-17 years.
13th April: Aeronautics and
common room as well as spend
Forces. 18, 19, 20th April
Ladybugs & Echosystem. All
more time tackling activities in
depth. Prices start from £38 per day.
FARM
workshops are 2h long, for 4-9 yrs.
£45/child. BOCKETTS FARM
SUMMER Fetcham, Leatherhead,

EVENT
FESTIVAL OF FUNK!
The Bedford, Balham, SW12 9HD
www.funkymoves.com
Sunday 23rd April
The popular family event was the
talk of SW London when it
launched in 2015, and with two
years in the planning for this year’s
festival, it is definitely returning
SUPERCAMPS
Venues across SW London
01235 467300,
www.supercamps.co.uk
Throughout Easter Holidays
Holiday Activity Camps The
ultimate in fun and games with a
wide range of non-stop activities.
Early Years crews for 4 to 5 year
olds ensures learning and
development within a fun
environment. The 6 to 9 year old
crews can explore new activities
HOLIDAY
ACTIVITIES
ALPINE FRENCH
SCHOOL
juniors@alpinefrenchschool.com
www.alpinefrenchschool.com/juniors
French language summer
camps: residential, day or family
camp options available. Based in
Morzine, just 1 hour from Geneva
in the French Alps, improve your
Surrey
KT22 9BS
01372 363764
www.bockettsfarm.co.uk
1-18th April
Plenty of animals for you to see in
the undercover barn plus goat
milking, animal handling, pig racing,
tractor rides, pony rides etc. You
might be lucky and see baby
animals being born! Easter Quiz
Trail with chocolate treats! See
website for timings.

36 March 2017 | 020 8696 9680 | Familiesonline.co.uk

 SEE MORE EVENTS IN OUR ONLINE WHAT’S ON CALENDAR  EASTER HOLIDAY LISTINGS PART 1

EASTER EGGS HUNTS!

The National Trust has teamed up with Cadbury to offer
families across London the ultimate weekend with their
ever-popular Easter Egg Hunts and plenty of fun along the
way. Unleash your inner explorers through muddy
woodlands, around mystical lakes, along nature trails and
through spring gardens blooming with life. Please visit
www.nationaltrust.org.uk for full details.
©National Trust Images

There are eight Cadbury Easter Egg Hunts to choose from across
London, these two are local:

Morden Hall Park

Cadbury Easter Egg Hunt, 14 - 17 April, 10am - 5pm
Morden Hall Park's favourite and busiest event of the year, where
you'll search all across bridges, meadows and our new wetlands
boardwalk for clues about different animal homes that will lead you
to Bunny's secret stash of chocolate. Tell us the answer to all of the
clues and you'll receive your delicious prize, a Cadbury chocolate
Easter bunny. Price: £4
Easter Baskets, 10 – 13 April, 10am-12noon
Make a green Easter basket in the garden centre and bring it with you
to the Cadbury Egg Hunt. Price: £2 per basket.
©National Trust Images
STREET AND HIP HOP DANCE
CLASSES FOR 6-12 YEAR OLDS
Fresh, modern, exciting and exhilarating, Perform X dance classes
are unique high-energy weekly sessions designed to boost children’s
coordination, improve their concentration and give children a fun
energetic way to develop physical skills, get fit and have fun.
Combining energetic games, physical improvisations and exhilarating
moves, these weekly sessions are not only great fun but are also
guaranteed to get young hearts beating faster. And, with studies citing
British children as being among the least active in the world, never before
has it been so important to get children moving.
Perform X classes use original street and hip-hop music and are based
around a specially designed curriculum. All class materials are produced
by Perform and at the end of each term, there's a performance of a
choreographed piece to a specially written track.

FREE, no-obligation trial. Bookings can be made by calling

020 7255 9126 or by visiting www.perform.org.uk/x

Ham House and Garden, Richmond

Cadbury Easter Egg Hunt, 14 – 17 April, 10am – 5pm
Help Bunny find hidden clues and answer questions along the way,
and receive a scrumptious chocolate bunny prize to take home with
you. Price: £3 (Normal admission prices apply).
Easter holiday fun, Sat 1 – Thu 13 Apr 10am-5pm
Come and play during the Easter break. There’ll be art activities,
storytelling, spring trail and a range of 50 things activities. Normal
admission prices apply.

Familiesonline.co.uk | 020 8696 9680 | March 2017 37

38

Feeling skint? There’s lots to do in London for free!
Compiled by Joanna Parry
Many free family workshops at the British Library
CHICK’S GREAT
EGGSCAPE
Bank of England Museum
Bartholomew Lane EC2R 8AH
www.bankofengland.co.uk/museum
3 - 13 April
Join the hunt to find the hidden
chicks and golden egg by following
the trail around the Museum and
then decorate an Easter animal
mask or finger puppet to take
home. There’s a chocolate egg for
every child.
FAMILY SATURDAYS
Battersea Arts Centre
Lavender Hill SW11 5TN
www.bac.org.uk
Final Saturday of the month
Fun, free activities for ages 0-11,
including face painting, music, toy
and clothes swaps, plus older
children and young people can get
involved in their Homegrown
programme. Includes The Bee’s
Knees, a magical indoor play space
for ages 0-5. 10am-1.30pm, free,
(The Bee’s Knees is £3 per child).
PLAY ON WORDS
British Library
NW1 2DB
www.bl.uk/whatson/events
25 March
Play with words and performance
in this creative family workshop.
Gathering inspiration from across
the British Library’s collection,
explore how artists, writers and
musicians have experimented with
chance and random selection to
make art, poetry and performance.
10.30am-12pm and 1-2.30pm,
drop in, age 5-11.
Familiesonline.co.uk | 020 8696 9680 | March 2017
SEE MORE EVENTS IN OUR ONLINE WHAT’S ON CALENDAR
ROPES &
PHOTOGRAPHY
Foundling Museum
40 Brunswick Square WC1N 1AZ,
www.foundlingmuseum.org.uk
4 April
Play Photography Build an
imaginative play area out of
recycled household materials in
this artist-led family workshop
inspired by Child’s Play. Age 5+,
sessions 10am, 1pm and 3pm.
7 April
Knots and Ropes Learn how to
tie knots and make your own
skipping rope in this free family
workshop. Age 5+, sessions 10am,
1pm and 3pm.
FOOTBALL FOR WOMEN
On Wandsworth Common
(Bolingbroke side of the common,
opposite Morella road) on Saturdays
12:15 - 13:15 or 14.00.
To join email bfcmums@gmail.com
Broomwood Football club is
now offering football training
sessions for women for all ages and
ability in the
community.
Membership for
the season
16/17 is free –
funded by the
Sports and
Recreation
Alliance’s prize
money. It’s fun
and better exercise then running
apparently!
HANDS-ON
ARCHAEOLOGY
Fulham Palace
Bishop’s Avenue SW6 6EA
www.fulhampalace.org
19 March
Come along to this drop-in session
for a rare opportunity to get up
close and personal with some of
their archaeological finds and learn
more about the rich history of this
ancient site. No booking necessary.
GEFFRYE EXPLORERS
Geffrye Museum
136 Kingsland Road, Hoxton E2 8EA
www.geffrye-museum.org.uk
Every Saturday in March
Fun children’s activities including
Quiz Desk, Feely Box and
Backpacks. 12.30-4.30pm.
HORNIMAN MUSEUM
AND GARDENS
100 London Road SE23 3PQ
www.horniman.ac.uk
4-7 April
Easter Holidays: Spring is in the
Air Decorate plant pots, make
scented herb bags and create
garden animals from clay. Age 11
and under, 10.30am-12.30pm and
2-4pm.
12 April
Big Wednesdays: Spring A day of
family activities in the Museum
including art, performance and
storytelling inspired by the start of
spring. 11am-3.30pm. Drop in.
14 and 17 April
A World of Stories - Good Friday
and Easter Monday Their popular
storytellers bring the collections
alive with stories from around the
world. 11am, 12.15pm, 2pm and
3.15pm, drop in.
15 and 16 April
Horniman Easter Fair
Find goodies in their special arts
and crafts market, go on an Easter
Egg trail, or venture through the
rabbit hole.
MUSEUM OF LONDON
EC2Y 5HN
www.museumoflondon.org.uk
19 March
Digital Workshop Step into a
Victorian photograph, make an
animation of a prehistoric animal
and explore contemporary
London. Age 5+, 12.30-1.30pm,
2-3pm and 3.30-4.30pm, free.
11-12 March
Family Festival - Families Find
Out Investigate the Great Fire of
London like never before with
students from Imperial College
London and get ready to be
 FREE ACTIVITIES
inspired by science and technology
in this extravaganza of activities in
the galleries. All ages.
Sundays in March
Museum Explored Explore the
galleries through fun, hands-on
activities. 11am and 2pm. Plus, join
a fun and engaging tour of the
museum’s galleries, especially for
families. Age 5+, 2-2.30pm.
Saturdays in March
Hands-on history Hear
incredible London stories as you
touch and hold real museum
objects. Age 5+, 2-4pm.
Wednesdays in March
Little Moles Toddlers Group
and Mini Moles Babies Group
Fun, hands-on, creative sessions
for toddlers, parents and carers.
3.30-4.30pm, book in advance.
Plus sensory, hands-on, play-based
activities for you and your baby to
enjoy together, 11am-12pm.
MAGIC CARPET
STORYTELLING
The National Gallery
Trafalgar Square WC2N 5DN
www.nationalgallery.org.uk
Every Sunday in March and
April
Fly away on a magic carpet, which
comes to land in front of a different
painting each week, and join Paul
Rubinstein for a musical magic
carpet storytelling. Age 2+, 10.30–
11am and 11.30am-12pm.
NCT MEET UP
Gambado Chelsea, 7 Townmead
Road SW6 2PY
www.nct.org.uk/branches/kensington
-chelsea
Every Wednesday in March and
April
A great opportunity to meet other
mums with babies under 1. 9.30-
11am, £1, show your NCT card to
get in.
TOY LIBRARY
Sure Start Roehampton
Roehampton Centre, 166
Roehampton Lane SW15 4HR
www.eastwood.wandsworth.sch.uk
Tuesdays and Fridays in March
and April
Weekly sessions where children
aged 0-5 years can play with
educational toys to help their
learning and listen to stories. No
need to book.
39
40
 To learn language, infants need parents, not tablets
If you are one of those parents who splashed out on an educational app or DVD for your baby, hoping to transform
them into the next Einstein, then read on. For a fascinating new study from New York University shows that the best
learning tool for language development in infants isn’t on a screen, but through face to face time with their parents.

SCREEN TIME IS NOT LEARNING TIME

Contrary to popular belief, babies and infants don’t learn language from
apps, television or videos—even those that come with the word
‘educational’ on them. When babies seem mesmerized by the sounds,
shapes and movement on the screen, we mistake their focus for learning.

Copyright INSERM study on the impact of television on children

But research shows they aren’t actually processing the language that
accompanies the sounds and images.
STUDY
A study compared two groups: the first group of mothers repeated words
such as ‘flower’ ‘grass’ and ‘water’ regularly to their babies during their
day. In the second group the mums were given a DVD of exactly the
same words and pictures to play to their babies. Babies who had been
exposed to the words by their mothers, had actually learned the words.
The DVD babies however, had not.
SOCIAL INTERACTION
Social interaction is such an important factor in language development,
particularly of infants, because of the reactions and responsiveness
between the parent (or caregiver) and the infant – something
development psychologists call ‘synchrony’. This rapport—the smiling,
speaking and gesturing back and forth between a parent and baby—are a
critical factor in learning, but crucial for the baby on an emotional level
too. Something an app would struggle to mimic.
REACTION AND CONTEXT
For example, a baby might move towards a toy truck. The parent sees
this and says the word ‘truck’ or describes what the baby is trying to do:
‘Are you trying to reach the truck?’ This helps the baby learn the words for
the objects and the events in their world. As an app or DVD can’t work
out what a child is looking at, it can’t react in the same way.
VOCAL CUES
Nor can an app or DVD give the rich vocal cues that we as parents offer
our babies. Our looks, gestures and changes in the pitch and tone of our
voices can act like a spotlight in a play—focusing the babies attention on
what is important: ‘Wow! Look! Here’s your cup!’ These richly
responsive exchanges form the best building blocks of a baby’s growing
vocabulary.
BUILDING VOCABULARY
No one knows a child like a parent does. A parent knows that when he
says ‘Ba’ when playing with a ball, he is trying to say ‘ball’ and can
encourage him. Once a baby can say ‘ball’, the parent moves on to teach
them other new words. And so a child’s vocabulary builds. Parents are
also more likely to use a wider range of words to describe things such as
colours and tastes, which again expands a child’s knowledge.
Professor Catherine S. Tamis-LeMonda who ran the research
commented: ‘Parents employ an array of skills to help infants understand.
No computer can know so well the infant who is watching the video –
parents are better than any algorithm.’
Drawing of children aged 5-6 years having spent
less than one hour of television a day
Drawing of children aged 5-6 years having spent
more than three hours of television a day
It appears it is not just language development that is adversely affected
by too much screen time
INTENT
Astonishingly, research has shown that babies can recognize that people
have intentions and goals, but cannot recognize this in screen characters.
Babies were shown a hand reaching for an object, but switching to take a
second object. The babies became interested because they thought the
person had preferred the first object. When the hand was replaced with
a mechanical claw, the babies were disinterested in the outcome. It was
the human aspect of the experiment that held meaning for the babies.
DADS, THE BRIDGE TO THE
OUTSIDE WORLD
Other research has showed that Dads have an important contribution to
make to their infant’s language development. The research showed that
as mums generally may spend more time with the baby, when the baby
says ‘haa’, the mum understands the baby wants water. When Dad
spends time with the baby he wouldn’t necessarily know this and so
would ask the baby more questions. The result was that the baby
eventually changed what he said to ‘water’ in order to be understood by
Dad. By challenging their infants to express themselves more clearly to fit
in, Dads ‘act as a bridge to the outside world.’
NOT ALL TECHNOLOGY IS BAD
For those parents who fear that their children won’t grow up to be digital
natives without early access to technology—rest assured. Research has
also shown that a child’s computing technical skills won’t be adversely
affected if they wait until the ages of three or four.
And finally, for parents who travel or have grandparents who live far away
from their children, there is some good screen news—video chat apps
such as Skype can help with language learning. All the more reason then
to call Grandad a bit more. It’s educational.

Catherine S. Tamis-LeMonda is Professor of Developmental Psychology at New York University. Read the full unedited article in Child and Family Blog.
www.childandfamilyblog.com

Familiesonline.co.uk | 020 8696 9680 | March 2017 41

 | A place to meet, to learn and to inspire each other...|

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Children/Adults
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42
 PARTIES

Eleven popular party themes

There are few things that children enjoy more than their birthday party, but as a parent, it can be difficult
to know how to meet their expectations. Whether you're trying to think of an original party idea, or are
determined to keep up with the Joneses, here are eleven popular children party themes that are great
for the little ones (and plenty of fun for you, too!).

SUPERHERO DISNEY
Superhero-themed parties are becoming increasingly gender-friendly, with A tried and tested classic theme is Disney. There are literally hundreds of
plenty of popular female superheroes. Whether it's Batman or Cat Disney characters to choose from and, much like superheroes, this theme
Woman, Superman or Supergirl, Green Lantern or Wonder Woman, lends itself to either single character or film focus, or an array of all the
Thor or Harley Quinn, there are superheroes galore to choose from. different Disney darlings. It's also a great theme to choose for parties with
Always popular for fancy dress parties, this is perhaps the easiest choice to both boys and girls in attendance. Keep an eye out for good deals when
go for when picking a theme because there are so many costumes, looking for party favours, as there is a lot of unofficial Disney merchandise
decorations, and gift options available. You can focus on your child's available that won't break the bank!
favourite superhero, or make it a medley with a bunch of different ones.
TRY Action Station: They offer imaginative interactive storytelling
PRINCESS parties. Choose from mermaids, funky witches and wizards, fairies or
A classic for little ones every where, the princess themed party is as princesses, pirates, knights or cowboys, spies or drama parties. Clowns,
popular with adults as it is with children. Big dresses, fancy shoes, magicians, jugglers, circus skills experts, face painters, make- up artists and
beautifully quaffed hair, and tiaras. You can really go all out with this theme DJs also available. www.theactionstation.co.uk
and get creative: turn a big chair into an elaborate throne, get a red
carpet, and don't forget the royal party favours - child-sized clutches and
dress-shaped bags make great goody bags! An elaborate princess castle
cake is also a must-have for this theme.
TRY Bedazzled: Whether it be fairies saving the captured princess,
pirates searching for treasure, the children will feel like they visited a
magical land and will be chatting about it long after the party finishes.
www.bedazzledevents.org.uk

COOKERY
Another unusual theme to try out is cookery parties. If your children
enjoy baking, making pizza, or even trying their hand at something a little
more complicated, this is for them. There are plenty of restaurants and
cafes that will host children's parties and teach the children to cook. If not,
you can get them all floppy hats, aprons, and rolling pins, and stage your
own Master Chef tournament at home! PIRATES
Children absolutely love a good pirate party to make them go “arghhhh”.
TRY Kids en Cuisine: Choose from a variety of options like Smoothie
Party invitations can be really creative too. Simply make your own
party, Pizza making or Biscuits party. Invitations, aprons chef hats and party
treasure map with “X marks the spot” and a pirate poem for good
bags included. www.kidsencuisine.com
measure. Get the little ones to dress up as a pirate or their favourite
ORDER from Pappa Ciccia: They can deliver their authentic Italian character from a pirate film, Tinkerbell anyone?!
pizzas to any venue or even to a park! www.pappaciccia.com
TRY Gymboree Play & Music: They provide exclusive use of their
playroom and Reception Area and a teacher to lead activities based on a
theme of your choice, tailored to your child’s interests. The theme could
be anything that you wish. Lots of fun with zero clean up!
www.gymboree-uk.com/Putney

Familiesonline.co.uk | 020 8696 9680 | March 2017 43

PARTIES

DRAMA PARTIES MAGIC

Children love putting on a A birthday party without magic is like a 99 without the flake. Magic is part of
costume, love make believe and children’s world, they adore magic and seeing their eyes light up with
role play: they can invent stories, excitement and joy is priceless!
invent characters and create a
TRY Richard Pinner:
world of their own. Provide a
trunk full of dressing up clothes, a Drawing on 25 years of
few props like sunglasses, belts, personal experience, Richard’s
hats etc and a place to play (under shows are perfect for modern
the trampoline, under a tree, in a children, maintaining traditional
darkened room etc) and leave birthday party values whilst
them to it! using cutting edge magic.
www.MagicAndLaughter.co.uk
TRY Stagecoach: Their Parties
are packed full of fun, lively party WITCHES AND
entertainment including dramatic Perform Parties WIZARDS
games, fabulous songs and fun for The rise of Harry Potter has
everyone. Themed Parties (for popularised witches and
ages 4-10yrs) or Murder Mysteries (for ages 11-16yrs). wizards to the point that most
www.stagecoach.co.uk/parties magical themed parties are
now specifically Harry Potter
TRY Perform Parties: Their parties are high energy, fun and totally Create your own mosaic with Prickly Poppy
affairs. If you have a Potter-
infectious. Choose a theme and watch the guests enjoy lots of lively
addict on your hands, this is
games, songs and improvisations. www.perform.org.uk/parties
definitely a good way to go,
TRADITIONAL TEA but don't shy away from this theme if your children aren't mad about the
Potterverse. There's great fun to be had with witches and wizards, from
PARTY Gandalf to Glinda, and Merlin to Witchfire. Wands, cauldrons, capes, and
Pretty florals and pastel colours are broomsticks are all must-haves. If you are going down the Harry Potter
the key to this theme, so start by route, stage your own game of Quidditch - if not, magical duels,
making invitations festooned with broomstick races and, of course, an actual magician will go down a storm!
flowers cut from wrapping paper.
Ask the children to dress up as if they FOOTBALL
are going for afternoon tea at a posh Not just for the boys, a football party is great to get boys and girls to play
hotel. Girls can wear pretty dresses together. Ask the children to come dressed for a game of football - they
and boys can put on smart trousers can wear their school PE kit if they don’t have a football shirt. If you can,
and a shirt. This theme really suits all ask a coach from a local five aside team to come to the party to teach the
those old-fashioned party games like children some new skills such as keepy-uppy. Round off with a friendly
Pass the Parcel and Musical Chairs. match.
Make some dainty sandwiches with
the crusts cut off, with little cakes and TRY Playball for a ball skills party: You can make use of all the Playball
serve them on vintage mismatched drills and equipment (big bouncy balls, hoops, bean bags, beacons,
cups and saucers. shapes, ropes). The children can do the activities and games according to
Lydie is such FUN! a particular sport such as football, hockey, basketball, tennis, cricket or
TRY Lydie’s parties: Lydie offers rugby etc. www.playballlondon.com
truly fabulous Fashion tea parties with a twist for glamour girls who enjoy
having fun with fashion and all its accessories! www.lydieparties.com TRY Adam Ants: In addition to magic, balloon modelling, puppets,
music, dancing, games, face painting, they also offer amazing disco/sports
ARTS AND CRAFT parties. www.adamantsparties.co.uk
Messy but fun, arts & crafts parties are loved by all children—but not
always by their parents! Kirsteen of Prickly Poppy told us: “I have always GETTING THERE IN STYLE
hated to throw anything away; believing that everything deserves a second Fox Limousines are a chauffeur service offering stretch limousines and
chance. I love the whole process of putting broken pieces together to wedding cars for every occasion. They have 8-13-14-16 seater vehicles,
create something new and beautiful. My daughters would love to join in that come in pink and white to cover everything from Birthdays, School
and started bringing friends from school to have a go. A wonderful Proms, Cruises, Hen parties and weddings for older ladies. The children
atmosphere of artistic calm would ensue, I was in my element and from get soft drinks, balloons inside, the adults enjoy a bottle of bubbly and
here Prickly Poppy Mosaic Parties were born. With us, children create balloons inside. They have been serving Central London, Surrey, Kent,
something they can treasure for ever— something other than sweets, to Sussex areas for over 18 years.
remember the occasion. 07947 820 182 www.pricklypoppy.co.uk 020 8406 3758 info@foxlimousines.co.uk www.foxlimousines.co.uk
TRY The Creation Station: Give your child a fun and inspiring arty
birthday party packed with hands on creative art and crafts activities to
celebrate their special day and entertain all their friends in style. Relax as
they provide all the fun and the party bags filled with treasured
masterpieces too! www.thecreationstation.co.uk

Plenty more party related articles on www.familiesonline.co.uk, including parties on a budget, 10 party hacks for parents or
help with throwing the best party.

44 March 2017 | 020 8696 9680 | Familiesonline.co.uk

 Silly Millie the Clown
Parties for 3-9 year olds
Funny Magic Show, Puppet’s, Party Games,
Silly Songs and Balloon Animals

Call 020 7823 8329 - 07939 239397

www.sillymillietheclown.co.uk

FOX Limousines

Limousine hire for Children's Birthdays,

School Proms, Tours
White, Pink, Black Limousines
Soft drinks and balloons for children's parties
T: 020 8406 3758 or 0844 856 5466
www.foxlimousines.co.uk info@foxlimousines.co.uk

PARTIES! Wonderfully fun musical parties

for your under-5’s! Guitar-accompanied songs
with actions, joining in, jumping and dancing,
instruments, puppet and parachute!
The perfect party for little ones.
Call 020 8677 6871
info@blueberryplaysongs.co.uk www.blueberryplaysongs.co.uk

45
 For enquiries please call 07566 219288
moniquet.slt@gmail.com
www. moniquespeechtherapy.com
141b Kingston Road, London, SW19 1LJ

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#FamilyFunUK

46
 HEALTH

Protect your pelvic floor after birth

After Camilla gave birth to her beautiful 3.9 kg girl, she went to see her doctor for the routine
6-weeks post-natal check who gave her the all clear, saying that she had healed well. A few weeks
later, Camilla, keen to get back to shape, managed to squeeze in a jog between two breastfeeds.
After 200m she felt something dragging in her pelvic floor but she thought, this must be normal.
A few days later she went back to running, added a few abdominal crunches and that is when she
realised something was not right. How embarrassing! She had wet herself!
Jessica thought “this leakage must be part of being a new mum” and she kept running
but her symptoms were not getting any better.

STRESS INCONTINENCE WHICH EXERCISES ARE BENEFICIAL?

Jessica’s urine leakage whilst running, which could also be provoked by
sneezing, coughing, laughing, jumping and high impact sports is called
stress urine incontinence with loss of bladder control in response to
increases in intra-abdominal pressure. Stress incontinence is related to
weakness and loss of function of the pelvic floor muscle.
Jessica is not alone! The facts are: 64% of women will suffer from
incontinence after giving birth. But the good news is something can be
done be done to control your bladder or bowels or prevent problems.
Other common symptoms of pelvic floor dysfunction are: prolapse
(descent of organs), sexual pain (7.5% of women) and lack of sexual
sensation.
NEW MUMS ALL RECOVER
DIFFERENTLY AFTER BIRTH
Some mothers can jog quite soon and some only after 12 months.
Pregnancy (natural birth or Caesarean) is not only physically demanding
but also puts a lot of stress on—and can sometimes damage—the pelvic
floor, abdominals and nerves.
If you have or are at risk of pelvic floor problems, make sure you choose
exercise that does not put stress on it such as: running, jumping, deep
lunges, heavy weight lifting, boxing and high impact sports. Abdominal
exercises such as sit ups, crunches or double leg lifts can really push down
your pelvic floor.
There are many SAFE PELVIC FLOOR EXERCISES which incur less stress
and downward pressure on your pelvic floor: low impact cardiovascular
exercise such as walking, swimming, cycling and postnatal classes.
Sometimes you just need to adapt the positions, the weights, the intensity
and pace according to your progress.
If you present or are at risk of Pelvic floor dysfunction DON’T PUT UP
WITH IT! If you are not sure if you are doing the right pelvic floor
exercise or need advice seek help and advice from specialists such as
women’s health physiotherapists
NEED HELP AND ADVICE?
Why not have a MOT Post-natal check performed by a women’s
health physiotherapist?

The pregnancy hormone Relaxin, which makes your muscles and
ligaments soft and stretchy, can stay in your system for up to five months
after birth. This explains why some mums get joint pain or find it difficult
to strengthen muscles.
Rehabilitation after a sprained ankle, can take up to six months before
returning to sports. Labour is a traumatism to the body! As for any injury,
healing time and the phases of recovery should be respected to optimise
full function and prevent future problems.
We are all keen to get back to pre-pregnancy body but NO RUSH!
LISTEN TO YOUR BODY!
The MOT includes assessment of:
• the strength and function of the pelvic floor muscles (manual vaginal
assessment)
• the healing and mobility of scars: C-section, perineal tears or
episiotomy
• the abdominals and abdominal separation (diastasis)
• posture and pelvic alignment
In addition, we can give advice on safe exercise and return to sport and
discussion of treatment options if necessary.

Christine Julien-Laferrière is women’s health physiotherapist and pelvic health therapist for women, men and children.
40 Webbs Road, London SW11 6SF battersea@physio4all.com 020 7228 2141
www.physio4all.com

Familiesonline.co.uk | 020 8696 9680 | March 2017 47

48
 The little guide to little bilingual brains
Dr Evelyne Mercure
Infants and young children have an impressive capacity for learning languages. They are curious,
very eager to communicate and their brains are designed for fast learning. There are several
interesting advantages to raising bilingual children.
1 Learning two languages encourages children to think about
languages. Bilingualism attracts children’s attention to language itself,
making children more aware of the sounds, words and regularities in
languages. This gives them a head start in school when learning
phonics or grammar rules.
2 Bilingualism might make your child better at multi-tasking
or listening to someone speaking in a noisy environment.
When speaking one of their languages, bilinguals must inhibit the
impulse to use words in their other language. To achieve this task, they
activate parts of their brain involved in cognitive control. This extra
practice at controlling their own thoughts may lead to a ‘bilingual
advantage’ in certain cognitive tasks.
3 Mastering two languages will give children a better
understanding of their family’s cultural background. The
most unique aspects of a culture always risk getting lost in translation.
For this reason, being bilingual helps children become ‘bicultural’,
making them more aware of cultural differences and more likely to
take part in two cultures.
4 Bilingualism does not cause language delays. Bilingual children
usually learn two languages at the same pace as monolingual children
are learning one.
Every family and every child is different. There are a million different ways
of raising bilingual children and the most important is to find a way that
feels right for your family. Here are a few tips that can help making these
decisions for your family.
1 Maximise face-to-face communication. From the first days of
life, babies love making eye contact and hearing their loved ones
speak, vocalise and sing. Face-to-face communication is the motor of
language learning and early experience is key. Making sure you talk to
your baby as much as possible, and you involve your child in as much
conversation as possible will lead to better abilities in one, two or
more languages.
Familiesonline.co.uk | 020 8696 9680 | March 2017
2 Have a plan. It is important to think about what ‘bilingualism’ means
for your family. Would you like your child to have a basic
understanding of another language? Are you hoping for your child to
be fluent in two languages? Or read and write in two different
languages? Make sure you provide plenty of experience for your child
to achieve each of these goals. It might be a good idea to decide on a
language to be used at home. One parent may decide to use one
language when addressing their child, while the other parent will use a
different language. Think of the language(s) you want to use when
reading to your child or singing to them. The more exposure your
child will get in one language, the more fluent they are likely to
become in that language.
3 Keep it fun. Your child’s motivation to learn each of their languages
will make a huge difference to their achievement. A child may find it
unpleasant if they feel constantly tested and criticised when speaking.
The main focus should be on what is being said and not how it is being
said.
4 Find role models. One way of keeping their motivation up, may be
to involve people who are not fluent in your child’s dominant
language. This may encourage them to use a language they are less
comfortable in. It will also show them that this language is spoken by
people other than mum and/or dad. Children will also learn a lot from
other children, especially older ones, cousins are great! They will want
to speak like them and adopt their accent and expressions.
Offering a bilingual environment to your child is a richness they will benefit
from all their life. They may not only learn two languages, but also a new
way of thinking about cultural diversity. Do not be afraid of making the
most of their incredible language learning abilities!
Evelyne Mercure is currently an ESRC fellow at UCL Institute of Cognitive
Neuroscience, investigating the impact of language experience on infants’
brain and cognitive development.
49
WHAT’S ON  SEE MORE EVENTS IN OUR ONLINE WHAT’S ON CALENDAR

We take much care in

preparing these What’s On
pages, but please do double
check with organiser before
setting out as things change.
DIARY DATES
Somerset House
Strand WC2R 1LA
www.somersethouse.org.uk
4 March
Free Family Drop In Workshop:
History, Mystery & Futures
Foretold. Ever counted the kings
and queens who once filled the
former palace? Or seen the
IF YOU ONLY DO ONE
THING THIS MONTH…
Museum of London
EC2Y 5HN www.museumoflondon.org.uk
To 17 April
Fire! Fire! This is a truly amazing exhibition showing how
London rose from the ashes of the Great Fire. 350 years ago
one of the most infamous disasters struck the capital – today
you can step into Pudding Lane and see what life was like for
ordinary Londoners in the 17th century, before walking into the
bakery where the fire started and seeing how the flames spread
across the city. Experience the destruction through the eyes of
people who were there at the time, explore the evidence for
yourself and find out how the city rose from the ashes in this

(c) Museum of London

riverside arts and architecture shift interactive exhibition. Throughout the exhibition the museum is
and change? Explore the behind also hosting a programme of fire-themed walks and tours,
the scenes history of Somerset workshops, family activities and festival days, but it’s only on for
House in an afternoon of designed another few weeks so make sure you don’t miss out. Tickets
discovery. 2-3pm, ages 6-12. £4-8 children, £8-12 adults, buy in advance online to avoid the
long queues! Firefighting equipment in Fire! Fire!
Dulwich and District NCT
Nearly New Sale
The Emergency Course A 3- will help give disadvantaged into the rich history, geography and
St Faith's Community Centre, Red
hour course covering care of the children the literacy skills they science of chocolate. 10.30am-
Post Hill, North Dulwich SE24 9JQ
unconscious baby and child as well need to succeed. 3pm.
www.nct.org.uk
as most commonly occurring 5-13 April
4 March
Lots of fun family friendly
injuries and illnesses such as Royal Institution Easter Activities Workshops and
choking, bleeding, breaks, bleeds, Albemarle Street, Mayfair W1S 4BS events over the Easter holidays
activities as well as an opportunity
burns, head injury and febrile www.rigb.org include Art of the Garden, Lotions
to pick up some nearly new
convulsions. 9.30am-12.30pm, 19 March and 29 April and Potions, The Wiggly Wild
bargains, meet other parents and
£60/£65 Family Masterclasses Show, Passion for Plants and much
grab a slice of cake from the pop-
These workshops are aimed at more. Ages and prices vary, see
up cafe. 10.15am-12.15pm, £1.50
entry for adults.
Ham House children aged 7-11 with their website for details.
www.nationaltrust.org.uk/ham- families. 10.30am-12.30pm and
First Aid Courses house-and-garden 1.30-3.30pm, includes Paper Fulham Palace
Ham Street, Richmond-upon-Thames Folding, Problem Solving and Bishop’s Avenue SW6 6EA
Battersea
TW10 7RS Briefcase Breakout. www.fulhampalace.org
020 8133 8552
8, 15, 22, 29 March 8 April
www.firstaidtraininglondon.co.uk
info@firstaidtraininglondon.co.uk
Ghost tours Reputed to be one Tower of London Little Green Fingers Gardening
of the most haunted houses in St Katharine's & Wapping, London Session Sow seeds in their
18 March and 8 April
Britain, discover the ghostly tales EC3N 4AB specially prepared Little Green
Paediatric First Aid (1 day) £96
scattered through the history of www.hrp.org.uk/tower-of-london Fingers bed and explore how
Discount code: Families.
Ham House. Drinks and Selected Sundays to 2 April vegetables and flowers grow
refreshments in the Orangery Twilight Tours The Tower’s during this hands-on gardening
Brockwell Park
followed by an atmospheric after- Yeoman Warders give an exclusive workshop. 10.30am-12pm
Community Greenhouses
hours ghost tour in the house and twilight tour of the Tower. Take in
Brockwell Park SE24 0PA
garden. £22, 7.30-9pm, age 12+ world famous sights such as Southbank Centre
www.brockwellgreenhouses.org.uk
Traitor’s Gate, the scaffold site and Belvedere Road
18 March
Where’s Wally? Walk for the Bloody Tower, and be appalled SE1 8XX
Fun with Paper and Seeds
National Literacy Trust and amazed by tales of prisoners www.southbankcentre.co.uk
In this hands-on workshop for
Clapham Common and past residents. Suitable for To 23 April
children aged 5+ learn how to
www.literacytrust.org.uk/support/fun over 12’s, £27.50 / £25 Historic Adventures in Moominland
make your own recycled paper
draising_and_events/fun_run/wheres Royal Palaces members. The first major exhibition devoted
decorated with leaves and petals
-wally-2017 to The Moomins: Adventures in
from the garden. Make a seed mat
to take away and grow as the
19 March Chelsea Physic Garden Moominland. This brand new
The every Families SW 66 Royal Hospital Road, Chelsea immersive experience explores the
perfect mother's day gift. 10.30am-
popular recommends SW3 4HS internationally-recognised stories
12.30pm, £5
Where's Wally? www.chelseaphysicgarden.co.uk of the Moomins through the life of
fun run is back. 4 April its author Tove Jansson. Visitors to
First Aid for Life
Choose between 5k or 10k for Chocolate Tuesday Delve into the exhibition will travel through
Balham and Westminster
adults and 1k race for under 12s. the world of chocolate, create seven different interactive worlds
www.firstaidforlife.org.uk
From £9, family tickets available. your own unique blend and taste that explore the inspirations
4 and 24 March,
Plus live music, free fun races, some unusual flavours. During the behind her much-loved stories.
1, 5 and 21 April
rides and food stalls. All proceeds day you’ll have the chance to look From £12

50 March 2017 | 020 8696 9680 | Familiesonline.co.uk


BABIES AND
TODDLERS
Foundling Museum
40 Brunswick Square WC1N 1AZ,
www.foundlingmuseum.org.uk
16 March and 6 April
Bach to Baby These classical
concerts for babies and their
families are performed by mother
and pianist Miaomiao Yu, along
with other internationally-
renowned musicians, bringing the
past alive for little ones and their
families. 10.30–11.30am, £12,
children free.
Do-re-mi Babies Concerts
Barnes, Chelsea, Fulham,
Wandsworth
www.doremibabies.co.uk
Dates throughout March and
April
Inspirational and fun classical
concerts. Babies and toddlers are
welcome to crawl, dance, sing, cry,
nappy change and more, so you
can relax and enjoy some
Familiesonline.co.uk | 020 8696 9680 | March 2017
SEE MORE EVENTS IN OUR ONLINE WHAT’S ON CALENDAR
wonderful music. £10 per adult,
children free, tickets online or on
the door. Dates vary depending on
venue.
Morden Hall Park
Morden Hall Road, Morden SM4 5JD
www.nationaltrust.org.uk
Every Monday in March and
April
Little Explorers Bring your little
ones to enjoy crafts, outdoor
activities, songs and stories. Little
Explorers is a fun activity session
for children aged 2-5, 10am, £2
per child, £1 siblings.
The Royal Albert Hall
Kensington Gore SW7 2AP
www.royalalberthall.com
Tuesdays and Wednesdays to
12 April
Storytelling and Music Sessions
A series of sessions for babies and
toddlers aged 0-4, to encourage
interaction between parents/carers
and their little ones using musical
instruments, singing, movement
and stories. 10am and 11.30am, £5
Fulham Palace Explorers
Fulham Palace
Bishop’s Avenue SW6 6EA
www.fulhampalace.org
Mondays and Tuesdays in
March and April
The Palace Explorers Join the
Palace Explorers, weekly
parent/carer and toddler sessions
for children aged 2-4. £4 per child,
which includes a drink and healthy
snack, booking essential. 9.30am-
10.30am
DRAMA
The Cambridge Theatre
Seven Dials, 32-34 Earlham Street
WC2H 9HU
www.uk.matildathemusical.com
Throughout March
Matilda The Musical Inspired by
the twisted genius of Roald Dahl,
Matilda revels in the anarchy of
childhood, the power of imagination
and the inspiring story of a girl who
dares to change her destiny.
Colour House Theatre
Watermill Way SW19 2RD
www.colourhousetheatre.co.uk
Saturdays and Sundays to 9
April
Red Riding Hood Little Red
Riding Hood is walking through the
woods on her way to care for her
poorly old Grandma. A fantastic
traditional tale with a musical twist
and lots of action and excitement.
2pm and 4pm, £12/£10
Saturdays and Sundays from
22 April
Sleeping Beauty As the King and
Queen celebrate the birth of their
beautiful baby Princess Aurora, an
evil Green Fairy casts a spell on the
new-born, stating that when she
reaches 16 years of age she will
prick her finger on a spindle and
die. 2pm and 4pm, £12/£10
 WHAT’S ON
Hampton Court Palace
East Molesey, Surrey KT8 9AU
www.hrp.org.uk/HamptonCourtPalace
Selected Thursdays and
Saturdays in March
Tiny Explorers Explore and play
in the Palace together. Discover
the stories of Hampton Court
Palace through music, movement,
messy play and more. £6 per child,
price includes up to two adults £5
per child for members. 10.30am –
babies, 1pm – walkers, 2.30pm –
walkers.
Kensington Palace
W8 4PX
www.hrp.org.uk/kensingtonpalace
Selected Wednesdays and
Saturdays in March
Tiny Explorers Explore and play
in the Palace together. Discover
the stories of Kensington Palace
through music, movement, messy
play and more. £6 per child, price
includes up to two adults £5 per
child for members. 10.30am –
babies, 1pm – walkers, 2.30pm –
walkers.
Lyric Hammersmith
One Lyric Square W6 0QL
www.lyric.co.uk
4 March – 8 April
Seventeen Seventeen is set in
that time after the end of the last
day of school, but just before
everyone moves on. It’s about the
cusp of adulthood, the cusp of
complete change. Wise and a little
bit sad, Seventeen turns our
notions of adulthood and
adolescence on their head. A cast
of veteran actors play a group of
seventeen year olds in this unique
production. From £15
New Wimbledon Theatre
The Broadway, SW19 1QG
www.atgtickets.com/venues/new-
wimbledon-theatre
11-15 April The Red Shoes
Matthew Bourne’s magical new
adaptation of the legendary Powell
and Pressburger film reunites the
team who brought you New
Adventures’ world-wide hit,
Sleeping Beauty, with sumptuous
designs by Lez Brotherston. From
£16.50
24-29 April Grease He’s the one
that you want! Tom Parker, from the
UK’s top boy band The Wanted, is
to star in his first ever theatrical role
as bad boy Danny in Grease, the
No.1 greatest musical. From £15
51
WHAT’S ON  SEE MORE EVENTS IN OUR ONLINE WHAT’S ON CALENDAR

THE POLKA THEATRE

240 The Broadway, Wimbledon SW19 1SB
www.polkatheatre.com
Polka is one of the few theatres in the UK
dedicated exclusively to young audiences
aged 0 – 12. With a thriving creative learning
programme, workshops, storytelling sessions and
a welcoming café, playground and garden,
there’s always space at Polka to play, laugh,
discover and create.
3-5 March
Mavis Sparkle With a feather duster in one
hand and a few tricks up her sleeve, join
Mavis on a journey north to see nature’s
biggest light show. Age 4+, £12.50/£9
15-19 March
Princess and the Pea Become part of this
playful and comic story of a prince in search
of a real princess, a clever queen, a tower of
mattresses and of course a tiny pea. Hans
Christian Andersen’s classic bedtime story is
played out among sheets and blankets with
puppets and projections. Age 3-7, £12.50/£9
24-26 March
Wow Said the Owl A curious owl is
determined to stay awake to see what day
light brings. Despite the beauty of the
daytime world, the nighttime stars are the
most beautiful of all. Age 2-5, £12.50/£9

10 March – 2 April 6 April – 14 May

To Dream Again at Polka Theatre
To Dream Again Dreams meet reality in a
new play inspired by Shakespeare’s A
Midsummer Night’s Dream. Sophie’s world is
changing, so she reaches out to her parents,
Demetrius and Helena. Through her stories
maybe she can help them recapture the
moment when they were young and in love?
Age 7-11, £13.50/£10
Sarah and Duck’s Big Top Birthday
Sarah and Duck decide to hold a circus party
for Scarf Lady in their garden, to celebrate
her birthday. All their friends turn up to
practice different routines and create a big
top birthday to remember. Age 3-6, £15/£10

Omnibus Clapham
1 Clapham Common Northside
SW4 0QW
www.omnibus-clapham.org
Bright Sparks Link and Rex are
like light and dark, left and right.
Watch these two opposites get
their wires crossed as they strive
to find ways to work and play
together. A playful, visually rich and
delightfully humorous show that
explores the beauty of difference.
11am and 2.30pm
9 April A Strange New Space
A non-verbal one woman show for
3–7 year olds and their families,
with physical theatre, beautiful
hand-made puppets and original
music by Matt Huxley. 11am-
2.30pm
The Peacock Theatre
WC2A 2HT
www.sadlerswells.com/peacock-
theatre
To 11 March Mother Africa Get
ready for a blast of sunshine as the
global phenomenon Mother Africa
brings its trademark mash-up of
spectacular circus stunts and
traditional African live music and
dance to the West End.
Puppet Theatre Barge
Little Venice, Blomfield Road W9 2PF
www.puppetbarge.com
Saturdays and Sundays to 19
March The Red Balloon An all
time favourite inspired by the
Albert Lamorisse film. £8.50/£12
The Royal Albert Hall
Kensington Gore
SW7 2AP
www.royalalberthall.com
11 March Titanic Live Titanic
Live returns to the Royal Albert
Hall, following its sell-out world
premiere in 2015, to celebrate the
20th anniversary of the beloved
blockbuster.
17 March Classical Spectacular
Schools’ Matinee Back by
popular demand, the Royal Albert
Hall presents a special schools’
matinee performance of Raymond
Gubbay’s Classical Spectacular.
Sadler's Wells
Rosebery Avenue EC1R
www.sadlerswells.com
23 March – 1 April
English National Ballet Sadler’s
Wells Associate Company English
National Ballet is back with
another triple bill of masterpieces
from the 20th century.
3-8 April New Adventures
Matthew Bourne returns to his
roots for his company’s 30th
anniversary, featuring a programme
of fun and witty pieces that
launched his career, with designs
by long-time collaborator Lez
Brotherston.
Unicorn Theatre
147 Tooley Street, Southwark SE1 2HZ
www.unicorntheatre.com
12 March – 10 April
Jeramee, Hartleby and
Oooglemore Revelling in
delightful innocence and glorious
stupidity, Jeramee, Hartleby and
Oooglemore is a surprising and
surreal encounter with three
people who have a lot to say but
only three words with which to say
it. Ages 3+, from £10
MUSEUMS,
GALLERIES &
DAYS OUT
Star Wars Identities
Exhibition
The 02 Arena, Peninsula Square
SE10 0DX
www.list.co.uk/event/654902-star-
wars-identities-exhibition
Throughout March
An exhibition exploring the
concept of identity through
characters from the Star Wars
universe. Visitors are taken on an
interactive quest and leave with a
personalised Star Wars character
of their very own. From £10

Unicorn Theatre The Velveteen Rabbit

52 March 2017 | 020 8696 9680 | Familiesonline.co.uk


Spring weekend family activities at The Wetlands Centre
Charles Dickens Museum
48 Doughty Street WC1N 2LX
www.dickensmuseum.com
19 March
The Housemaid’s Tour Step
back in time to 1839…Dickens and
his young family are preparing to
leave for a journey to their ‘home
from home’. But during their
absence, the housemaid is up to no
good. Discover the secrets of the
esteemed young writer and his
growing family. 10.15am, 11am and
11.45am, £15/£8
Last Sunday of every month
Highlighting the Collection.
Discover a unique set of
Dickensian curiosities from a
cheque signed by Dickens, to a
beautiful dolls house, an engraved
snuff box and even a collection of
original props from The Invisible
Woman. Drop-in object handling
session.
Florence Nightingale
Museum
2 Lambeth Palace Road SE1 7EW
www.florence-nightingale.co.uk
To 30 April
The Age of the Beard: Putting
on a Brave Face in Victorian
Britain.
This winter, the Florence
Nightingale Museum attempts to
unravel the astonishing appeal of
mutton chops, goatees and the
most flamboyant of moustaches
with a photographic exhibition and
season of special events dedicated
to the Great British Beard.
Foundling Museum
40 Brunswick Square WC1N 1AZ,
www.foundlingmuseum.org.uk
7 April
Knots and Ropes Learn how to
tie knots and make your own
skipping rope in this free family
workshop. Age 5+, sessions 10am,
1pm and 3pm, free.
Familiesonline.co.uk | 020 8696 9680 | March 2017
SEE MORE EVENTS IN OUR ONLINE WHAT’S ON CALENDAR
Geffrye Museum
136 Kingsland Road, E2 8EA
www.geffrye-museum.org.uk
3 March
Teenage Bedrooms: 'like a house
inside of a house' Step inside the
homes of 26 London teenagers to
explore the meaning and
significance of contemporary
teenage bedrooms. Within the
home the teenage bedroom can be
a space apart, described by one
participant in this study as ‘like a
house inside of a house’.
Kensington Palace
W8 4PX
www.hrp.org.uk/kensingtonpalace
25 March
Make History Workshop
Get hands on with the palace’s
creative workshops for families. Be
inspired by a new palace story
each month, and make a piece of
the past by taking part in a range of
exciting activities, from gardening
and painting to chocolate making.
11.30am, 1.15pm and 2.45pm
25 March
Time Explorer Station
Explore the palace and discover its
stories using themed activity bags,
games, trails and make and takes.
Pick up your choice of story
adventure from the Time Explorer
Station inside the palace. Ages 5-11
London Transport Museum
Covent Garden Piazza WC2E 7BB
www.ltmuseum.co.uk
To 23 April Designology –
Shaping London
An exhibition celebrating the
influence brilliant design has on our
daily lives. Design lovers will be
able to see early and modern
examples of Tube maps.
The London Wetlands
Centre
Queen Elizabeth, SW13 9WT
www.wwt.org.uk
Saturdays and Sundays to 19
March Spring Weekend Family
Activities Spot the first signs of
spring and see which birds have
returned from their winter holiday
in warmer climates. Enjoy a pond
dipping session to see what mini-
beasts are about and get creative
with nature crafts. Free with
admission.
Morden Hall Park
Morden SM4 5JD
www.nationaltrust.org.uk/morden-
hall-park
24-25 March
Mum’s the Word Shh, don’t tell
mum, but you can plant a special
present to take home for her for
Mother’s Day at Morden Hall Park.
£4 per child, 10am-12pm, 3-5pm
Museum of London
EC2Y 5HN
www.museumoflondon.org.uk
18 March Great Fire Family
Walk Visit the sites struck by the
fire in this fun and interactive
family walk. 11-11.45am, age 5+,
£5-£7, book in advance.
National Maritime
Museum
Park Row, Greenwich SE10 9NF
www.rmg.co.uk
To 17 April
Emma Hamilton - Seduction
and Celebrity Largely
remembered as the woman who
captured the heart of the nation's
hero, Admiral Horatio Nelson,
Emma was an extraordinary
woman in her own right. The
exhibition traces her spectacular
career from rags to riches and
back again. £14/£6
Natural History Museum
Cromwell Road SW7 5BD
www.nhm.ac.uk
Throughout March and April
Wildlife Photographer of the
Year Enjoy the world's best
nature photography revealing the
astonishing diversity of life on our
planet, from urban foxes to
mountain hares.
Royal Institution
Albemarle Street, Mayfair W1S 4BS
www.rigb.org
10 March
Wi-Fi Wars Debug III: Revenge
of the Bugs Future-tech
videogaming comedy show WiFi
Wars returns to the RI for another
 WHAT’S ON
fun development night. Be the first
people ever to try their newest
toys. 7pm, from £10
10 April Explosive Food
Find out about the incredible
amount of energy contained in
food in this deliciously interactive
show packed with exciting
chemistry and physics
demonstrations. Age 7+, 2.30pm
and 6pm
Tower of London
St Katharine's & Wapping, London
EC3N 4AB
www.hrp.org.uk/tower-of-london
To 13 April Life in the Medieval
Palace Step back into 1299 and
the palace of King Edward I and
explore a world of chivalrous
knights and beautiful ladies,
troublesome lords and royal
prisoners as the king and his court
take up residence at the Tower of
London. 11am-12.30pm and 1.30-
3.30pm
Throughout March and April
Armoury in Action
A new family friendly exhibition
revealing the fascinating story of
arms and the armoury at the
Tower. From shooting arrows,
assembling firearms to brandishing
swords, a thousand years of history
at the Tower of London will be
brought to life in this exciting,
hands-on experience.
Selected dates in March
The People’s Revolt
Infiltrate the Tower of London
after hours in this immersive,
interactive experience. Feel what
it’s like to be at the centre of a
present day ‘Peasants’ Revolt’.
Live the build-up through digital
storytelling then blur the lines
between history and reality as you
storm the Tower and decide the
fate of the nation. 6pm, 6.30pm,
7pm, 7.25pm and 7.50pm, from
£20.50
V&A Museum of
Childhood
Cambridge Heath Road
E2 9PA
www.museumofchildhood.org.uk
25 March Magical Museum
Sleepover Enjoy an evening of
creative activities, a magical
museum trail and storytelling,
before settling down to a special
night’s sleep in the company of
fairies, puppets, dolls and trains. In
the morning breakfast will be
served on the Marble Floor of the
Museum. 7pm–9am, £45, age 7-12
53
WHAT’S ON  SEE MORE EVENTS IN OUR ONLINE WHAT’S ON CALENDAR
Drop In Family Sundays at the National Gallery
ART
ACTIVITIES
Foundling Museum
40 Brunswick Square WC1N 1AZ,
www.foundlingmuseum.org.uk
4 April
Play Photography Build an
imaginative play area out of
recycled household materials in
this artist-led family workshop
inspired by Child’s Play. Age 5+,
sessions 10am, 1pm and 3pm, free.
Fulham Palace
SW6 6EA
www.fulhampalace.org
16 April
Springtime at the Palace
Celebrate all things springtime at
this Easter Sunday activity day, with
whimsical storytelling, an Easter
trail, Georgian chocolate making
SPECIAL
NEEDS
Somerset House
Strand WC2R 1LA
www.somersethouse.org.uk
4 March
Free Family Drop In
Workshop: History, Mystery &
Futures Foretold Ever counted
the kings and queens who once
filled the former palace? Or seen
the riverside arts and architecture
shift and change? Explore the
behind the scenes history of
Somerset House in an afternoon
of designed discovery. 2-3pm,
ages 6-12. Suitable for
accompanied children with special
needs.
Museum of London
EC2Y 5HN
www.museumoflondon.org.uk
4 March
54
workshops and a whole host of fun
art and craft activities. Chocolate
making workshops will be held at
11.30am and 1.30pm, £5 per
person, booking essential.
Storytelling and Easter trail are
free, 11am-3pm, no booking
necessary.
V&A Museum
Cromwell Road SW7 2RL
www.vam.ac.uk/families
Throughout March
Family Activities Pick up a family
trail from the Information Desk
and explore the museum through
puzzles, drawing and observation.
There are also hundreds of exciting
hands-on exhibits containing plenty
to touch and try out, plus regular
activities and workshops for ages
7-12
FREE
Morning explorers (ASC
friendly) Morning Explorers
offers families with children who
have an Autistic Spectrum
Condition the opportunity to
explore the museum while it is
quiet. Discover fascinating objects
and take part in relaxed family
activities such as sensory rooms,
self-directed trails and an arts and
crafts session. Age under 13, 8.30-
10am, advanced booking required.
FREE
Science Museum
Exhibition Road, South Kensington
SW7 2DD
www.sciencemuseum.org.uk
11 March
Early Birds Early Birds enables
families with children who have an
Autism Spectrum Condition to
come along and enjoy the
Museum free from the hustle and
bustle of the general public. The
Museum opens early at 8.30am,
•If you have info, please send to whatson@FamiliesSW.co.uk
National Portrait Gallery
St Martin's Place WC2H 0HE
www.npg.org.uk
Every third Sunday
Drop In Family Sundays Drop-in
with children aged 3+ to take part
in portrait-related events.
FREE
To 23 April
Picasso’s Portraits. Picasso's
portraits epitomise the variety and
innovation of his art. This major
exhibition of over eighty works
focuses on the artist's portrayal of
family, friends and lovers and
reveals his creative processes as he
moved freely between drawing
from life, humorous caricature and
expressive painting from memory.
FREE
The Wallace Collection
Hertford House, Manchester Square
W1U 3BN
www.wallacecollection.org
Throughout March
Take a family multi-media tour and
bring the exhibits to life.
FREE
Sir John Soane’s House
13 Lincoln's Inn Fields
WC2A 3PB
www.soane.org
Third Saturday of every month
Enjoy free drop-in activities for all
ages. 1.30-4.40pm.
FREE
and some of the interactive
galleries remain available
exclusively to booked Early Birds
guests until 11.15am. As well as
exploring some of the galleries
you can enjoy a selection of fun
workshops and exciting
demonstrations. Email
familyprogrammes@sciencemuse
um.ac.uk to be added to the Early
Birds mailing list, or call 020 7942
4000 to book.
18 March and 13 May
Science Night Science night is a
special sleepover for 7-11 year
olds, open to all children but if the
staff know that children with SEN
are coming then they are able to
plan appropriate activities for
them. They can also give extra
information beforehand such as
pictures of staff for children to
familiarise themselves with, visual
stories, etc.
March 2017 | 020 8696 9680 | Familiesonline.co.uk
The National Gallery
Trafalgar Square WC2N 5DN
www.nationalgallery.org.uk
Every Sunday in March and April
Family Sundays Art activities
designed for families to enjoy and
learn together, 11am and 2pm, age
5-11 FREE
Tate Modern
Bankside, SE1 9TG
www.tate.org.uk
Throughout March
Family Friendly Art Activities A
range of free arty and crafty
workshops, see website for details.
FREE
Tate Britain
Millbank SW1
www.tate.org.uk/britain
Throughout March
Family Friendly Art Activities A
range of free workshops and family
trails, see website for details. Every
weekend the free Art Trolley
encourages children to imagine and
create, make colourful collages and
style a wonderful sculpture. FREE
Dulwich Picture Gallery
Gallery Road, Dulwich SE21 7AD
www.dulwichpicturegallery.org.uk
Throughout March
Vanessa Bell 1879-1961 A
major exhibition of works by
modernist painter Vanessa Bell, a
central figure of the Bloomsbury
Group. From £7
Imperial War Museum
Lambeth Road SE1 6HZ
www.iwm.org.uk
First Sunday of every month
Audio-described Tours
Experience the First World War
Galleries through one of these live
audio-description tours for blind
and partially sighted visitors, ages
14+. 9.30am, booking essential
on 020 7091 3157 or
visitorenquiries@iwm.org.uk
FREE
Gambado Chelsea
7 Station Court
SW6 2PY
www.gambado.com/centres/chelsea
Dates in March and April
Chelsea Autism Session Come
and join these fantastic Chelsea
Autism friendly indoor soft play
sessions at Gambado! Children £5,
includes 1 adult, extra adults
£2.50,
see website for details.
55