Families London Kent Borders May - June 2017 Issue 37 by Families Magazine

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ISSUE 37: May - June 2017

London-Kent Borders www.familiesonline.co.uk

HOW TO MAKE HOMEWORK MORE FUN

FREE WAYS TO ENTERTAIN YOUR KIDS

this Summer

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Education Wellbeing Out & About RECRUITING NOW

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Families London–Kent Borders Magazine or Twitter @familieslkb

In this issue... ISSUE 37: MAY - JUNE 2017

4 Preparing for your childs 11+ exams 5 The importance of sleep Secrets to a good nights sleep 7 The benefits of after school clubs and classes From ballet to bass guitar there’s an after school activity out there for every child

10 Education 7 ways to make homework fun

The benefi t clubs and s of after school classes

12 Free ways to keep the kids entertained this summer Ideas and activities that cost next to nothing 13 Out & About The best of What’s On near you PLUS win tickets to What the Ladybird Heard!

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Families London-Kent Borders Magazine is part of Families Magazines Ltd a franchise company. All franchised magazines in the group are independently owned and operated under licence. Families ® is a registered trademark of Families Magazines Ltd, Remenham House, Regatta Place, Marlow Road, Bourne End, Bucks, SL8 5TD. The contents of Families London-Kent Borders Magazine are fully protected by copyright and non of the editorial or photographic matter may be reproduced in any form without prior consent of the publisher. We take every care preparing this magazine but the publishers and distributors cannot be held responsible for the claims of advertisers nor for the accuracy of the contents nor for any consequence.

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Editor: Mima Walia 07792 006546 editor@familieslondonkent.co.uk

What’s On Editor: Louise Kettlety Design: Kevin Smith

Front cover: Bigstock photography

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Family

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2. Provide comprehensive detailed feedback. 11+ Mock Masters will give you ranked results, a comprehensive report of your child’s strengths and weaknesses, useful mock test statistics and access to the mock test questions and answers. 3. Parents often recommended them to other parents.They have been featured in The Times national newspaper and have customer testimonials on their website. Take a look for yourself on www.mocktestmasters.com.

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5. What are you getting for the mock test fee? Fees include quality 11+ questions, superb feedback reports and all questions and answers. They also give you access to an 11+ checklist. At 11+ Mock Masters we fully realise your child only has one chance at gaining their best possible mark in their 11+ exam. To receive their free e-book ‘How To Use Mock Tests To Gain An Advantage In The 11+ Exams’. Email: info@mocktestmasters.com

Wellbeing Travel

The importance of sleep for children A

s adults, we are more than aware of how important a good night’s sleep is - we need it for balance, mood stability and to enhance brain function. And anyone who has children will concur that getting a full night’s sleep is essential to combat temper tantrums and tiredness, which can be traumatic for toddlers. Experts from the NHS think that as much as we should prioritise healthy eating and exercise, we should also be ensuring children get around nine hours of solid slumber nightly, to improve their learning. Particularly when they are young and acquiring knowledge on everything as they begin to shape and understand the world around them, children need a requisite amount of sleep to boost retaining information and help embed knowledge from throughout the day. Ultimately, our brains need rest overnight to allow us to absorb information better, and this is even more important for young minds. SO HOW MUCH SLEEP SHOULD THEY BE GETTING? The NHS issues guidelines for optimum sleep time for different age groups have been collected by the Millpond Children’s Sleep Clinic. These are: Between the ages of 4 and 16, children should be sleeping through the night for 11 hours, which gradually goes down to about 9 at 14, with 15-minute decrements over the time space. WHY IS SLEEP SO IMPORTANT? We only need to look at some of the

poor decisions or small mistakes we have made ourselves when we are tired, and we can begin to understand the importance of sleep. How many times have you started something which you then struggled to finish, simply because of the impact tiredness has on judgement and motivation? When coupled with the vital rest time for busy, spongelike brains, getting adequate sleep makes a lot of sense. Whether it’s through using sleep aids or planning a meticulous routine, there are several ways to ensure your children are reaching the requisite sleep hours for their age group. SO, HOW CAN YOU ENCOURAGE THEM TO SLEEP? Essentially, fostering a good sleeping habit is much easier with young children than teenagers, who know how to fight back! Laying the right foundations when they are young, and encouraging them to see sleep as a part of healthy living should make maintaining it, even when they have discovered the joys of socialising, much more straightforward. ROUTINE, ROUTINE, ROUTINE Whilst they try to convince themselves and their parents otherwise, children thrive on routine, and our brains learn when to start shutting down and getting the all-important rest they need. Trying as best you can to instil a routine of preparing for and going to bed at the same time every night will help your child, no matter what age they are.

This includes brushing teeth and getting pyjamas on at a certain time, which starts to surreptitiously prepare the brain for sleepy time. Getting them settled into a routine means preparing the brain for its rest period. LIMIT THE TECHNOLOGY For many people, the evening routine relies on technology. Be it smartphones, tablets or television, we all, including our children, use devices to unwind with at night. However, these bits of tech are actually stimuli, which make the going to bed routine harder to implement. After dinner, try enjoying some conversation or a board game to encourage them to chat about their day and also allow the brain some allimportant decompression time. Where possible, discourage them from having TV or gadgets in the bedroom at all, as these can be used as a distraction. In fact, making sure that the bedroom is most closely associated with sleep is a better way to negotiate this obstacle - which means keeping it tidy and clutter-free. THE IMPORTANCE OF LIGHT Whether it’s through blackout curtains or nightlights, achieving the correct balance of light in your child’s room is key to ensuring consistency in their sleep pattern. Invest in some heavy duty curtains so that whether winter or summer, their room is dark, and use a little nightlight for a subtle glow that helps orientate them if they do wake up in the night. www.familiesonline.co.uk MAY - JUNE 2017

Building body confidence

THE UK’S NO.1 FOR CHILDCARE DURING THE SCHOOL HOLIDAYS Super Camps’ fabulous new Multi-Activity programme at allows children to get involved in some great activities. As well as taking part in the fun-packed programme, children are cared for by fully qualified and vetted staff to create a thoroughly enjoyable time on camp. As Ofsted noted, Super Camps runs “an excellent programme of wellplanned, fun and exciting activities that contributes highly to the children’s play and learning environment”.

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t seems crazy to think that we are half way through Spring already and our thoughts turn to our summer holidays once again. As ever, we are busy at Ismini Phillips Pilates & Body Movement Studio meeting our clients’ needs by offering a variety of classes suitable for all from our beginners Pilates class on Monday mornings, to the new High Intensity Power Pilates (HIP Pilates) class for those who want to advance their Pilates practice to increase their stamina and strength even further. We have also added Yogalates to our timetable so our clients can enjoy the mix of yoga and Pilates in one class!

Camps run from 30th May – 2nd June. www.supercamps.co.uk

Our bootybarre classes continue to be extremely popular, not only because they complement Pilates so well, but also because they are fun, with visible results from sculpting, strength and flexibility to increased cardiovascular stamina which is so necessary in today’s sedentary world. If you have not attended any of our classes why not look us up and see what the fuss is all about? No matter how old you are, you can always learn more and build your confidence in a body that is made for moving. We offer high calibre teachers who have had a variety of training, so no two classes are the same and our aim is to help you reach your goals! You can contact Ismini on 07711 906750 or email her at ismini@isminiphillips.com to find out more about the range of classes on offer and how they can help you Ismini Phillips - Familys Magazine advert AW 2710914_AW.pdf gain a fitter and healthier lifestyle!

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Clubs & Travel Classes

One Hit Wonder Taster days Funky Monkey’s ‘One Hit Wonder’ taster days will be running in the May half term and are a brilliant allround introduction to the electronic keyboard for 4-8 year old beginners. We have carefully devised a funpacked, varied day in which we incorporate how to read, play and write notes C-A alongside learning basic keyboard technique. Wrap this around countless inspired music-based activities including composition, artwork, singing and performance skills and you have the perfect day of music making that little ones love. All equipment and mid morning snack provided, please bring packed lunch. 10 places ONLY per course. 29th, 30th, 31st May and 1st and 2nd June 10am - 2pm Streatham, Herne Hill, Sydenham, Sevenoaks 01732 457100 mail@funkymonkey.info www.funkymonkey.info

PERFORM WEEKLY DRAMA, DANCE AND SINGING A unique mix of drama, dance and singing specially formulated to bring out every child’s true potential. Small classes and lots of individual attention. No-obligation FREE trial for newcomers. Summer 2017 term themes: From April, Perform 4-7s will be saddling up and going on a Wild West adventure to find the Horse with the Golden Mane. The 7-12s will be zooming off on a fun-filled outer space adventure with Robinson Crusoe in a space-age version of the castaway survival classic. Ages: 4-12 Dates: Summer term runs until 21st July and starts up again 2nd September 2017 020 7255 9120 / enquiries@perform.org.uk www.perform.org.uk/try

COMPUTER CODING FOR KIDS Games Coding, Robotics Drones, Websites, Minecraft Fun, engaging sessions Term/Holiday courses Ages 5 to 14+

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Clubs & Classes

GET ONBOARD A

re you looking for an activity for your children where they can learn new skills, make friends and have fun in the fresh air? This summer, get your youngsters active by introducing them to sailing and windsurfing through RYA OnBoard. They’ll learn an exciting new sport in a safe environment, get out on the water and gain valuable life skills from problem solving to taking responsibility. Once they get started in sailing the opportunities are endless.

Everything you need is provided by the instructor. It’s affordable, fun and you don’t need to have done it before. Anyone aged 8-18 can take part in OnBoard sessions and with over 245 RYA approved venues across the country there’s bound to be one near you. You might even find you want to join in too! To find your nearest OnBoard activity visit rya.org.uk/onboard #GetOnBoard

GETACTIVE See the endless possibilities sailing and windsurfing can bring Keep your children stimulated, active and entertained this summer by introducing them to sailing or windsurfing through the RYA’s OnBoard programme. They’ll learn an exciting new activity in a safe, structured environment and gain valuable life skills, from problem solving and decision making to leadership and teamwork. The programme also compliments school curriculums in many key subject areas. Fun, affordable and open to anyone age 8-18, there are over 245 RYA approved clubs and centres across the country taking part. To find your nearest visit rya.org.uk/onboard

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MAY - JUNE 2017 www.familiesonline.co.uk Families_Magazine_Ad2.indd 1

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Clubs & Classes

The benefits of after school clubs and classes Whether or not you think you may be raising the next Picasso or David Beckham, there’s no doubting the pluses of after school clubs.

hile finances may not permit your little ones being involved in different activities every night of the week, there’s no doubt that a couple of well-chosen clubs can be great for giving your child an insight into areas that the school curriculum doesn’t cover. From ballet to basketball and art to archery, there’s an after school activity out there for every child. And the best thing about them is they’re brilliant for all sorts of reasons – not just learning a new skill. For a start, after school clubs give kids the chance to let off steam outside of the classroom. When you consider that in many countries around the world, kids don’t even start school until 6 or 7 years old, a full day in the classroom for youngsters can be a big ask. That’s why an alternative to textbook learning can be hugely rewarding. SO, WHY ARE CLUBS SO IMPORTANT? Team sports like football, rugby, and netball are not only brilliant for keeping kids active but also helping them learn team work where they can begin to appreciate what’s good for the whole team, rather than just thinking of themselves. Competitive sports are also great for learning difficult life lessons like being a gracious winner - and loser. However, if you’re on the lookout for team building clubs with a less competitive edge, you could consider Brownies and Scouts – kids love them! Meanwhile, learning a musical instrument is ideal for discovering the art of practice, patience and persistence. Drama clubs are perfect

for shy kids who learn to find their voice singing and acting alongside others, while ballet and dance is suited for kids to learn discipline and self-expression. DON’T FORGET THE FUN FACTOR! The list is endless. There are clubs for almost anything you can imagine. Archery, chess, horse riding, computer clubs, film making and even circus skills are all proving popular alongside the more traditional arts and crafts, swimming, tennis and Kung Fu. However, new skills, team work and confidence building aside, the most important thing to think about when deciding which club to choose is the fun factor. www.familiesonline.co.uk MAY - JUNE 2017

Education Travel

7 WAYS TO MAKE HOMEWORK FUN!

‘

omework? Boooring!’ Is this a regular moan in your house? We’ve all been there! We want our children to progress and do well at school but after a long day, many youngsters will feel reluctant to sit down to get on with their homework - and no amount of nagging seems to help! We’ve teamed up with the experts at Explore Learning to bring you seven awesome ways to make homework ACTUALLY fun. SET UP A FUN AND CREATIVE SPACE Having a special place to do work, decorated in personalised decor, can really help children to focus. Avoid busy areas and make sure there is no other distractions, like technology or televisions. Younger children may appreciate their own artwork hung on the walls, while older children may prefer more desk space and personalised planners, so they can organise their work.

MAGICAL MOTIVATORS

BE POSITIVE Always be upbeat about school and homework and give your child bags of encouragement. Reinforce how well they are doing, write them inspiring messages and chat to family members about your child’s achievements. Keep homework battles at bay by using incentives to keep your child on track. Younger children may be motivated by sticker charts, where they can pick a reward once it is full, whilst older kids may be persuaded to crack on with their work with the promise of time on the iPad. Make sure your child understands the value of developing good homework habits, rather than just receiving a reward! FIND A STUDY BUDDY Hold a homework playdate where your child and one of their friends do their homework together. Set some rules ahead of time and reward them afterwards with an activity of their choice. Or join your child yourself and accomplish some work of your own – be it catching up on emails, paying bills or planning a holiday. Win-win! TURN IT INTO A GAME Turn learning into a fun game. For spellings, you could use flashcards or writing words in foam, or for maths, you could use sweets like Smarties to

help visualise numbers. When they get a right answer, they get to eat some!

MAY - JUNE 2017 www.familiesonline.co.uk

MAKE IT VISUAL If your child feels overwhelmed by everything they have to do, visually being able to see their progress will help. Make a list or chart on a white board or special planner and get them to cross each task off as it is completed. Some new pens and exciting stationary will also keep them happy! GET OUTSIDE

If the weather is good, why not let your child do their homework outside? The fresh air will help them concentrate after being inside a stuffy classroom all day. Let them have a short break in between exercises, like a game of Frisbee or football.

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Out & About

FREE WAYS TO KEEP THE KIDS ENTERTAINED THIS SUMMER they get some fresh air, and it can also make them think that they are playing the rebel. You’ll be safe in the knowledge that they are creating art knowing the next spot of rain will clear away the evidence.

rying to keep children occupied can be difficult enough on evenings and weekends, let alone when you have six weeks of summer holidays to contend with. But trying to keep them busy, and trying to not spend a lot of money doing it, is another matter.

4. HEAD TO THE BEACH Children love beaches, it’s almost universal. They have a seemingly unlimited supply of a material they rarely get to play with, sand! Having that open space, cool breeze and ice cream in hand makes the beach a unique experience. Running away from the waves, skimming stones, building sandcastles, making pictures in the wet sand...hey, you might even turn into a kid yourself for the day!

Whilst the zoo, cinema and sporting events can be fun, they soon burn a whole in your pocket and leave you looking for your next pay check to take your children to the next big thing. But don’t fear, there is help at hand, and a lot of ideas and activities that can be done for next to nothing. 1. TRIP TO THE POND A local pond is a great way to find wildlife that may be missing from your back garden. From frogs and tadpoles to fish swimming below, it gives little ones a taste of the outdoors in a safe environment. You can also take part in a classic pastime - just grab some bread and feed the ducks, they’ll love it. 2. HIKING All you have to do is put on your most sensible form of footwear and head out there. Getting out up a hill or through a forest can open up your children’s imaginations. The smell and touch of the outdoors are a welcome change from everyday life. The kids will love exploring new surroundings too. 3. CHALK Children have a mischievous side and may have seen their favourite cartoon character dabble in a bit of graffiti. Grabbing some chalk and scribbling on the pavements is a great way to open up their artistic side while

MAY - JUNE 2017 www.familiesonline.co.uk

expensive. But what a lot of people don’t realise is there are countless free museums to be explored on a whole range of different subjects. You don’t have to go far either; there’s probably one in your own town. The beauty of them is that your children will be learning, having fun and being inspired at the same time, meaning they can be a wonderful recipe for knowledge. 8. GARDENING One of the beautiful things about gardening for adults is the ability to create a vision in your head, plant, and then watch that vision grown into reality. There is no reason why your children can’t be a part of that process too. Help them plant some flowers or seeds and not only do you have entertainment for one day, but it’s something you can go back to and chart how they grow. It’s a wonderful biology lesson for children, and they won’t even realise it! 9. PUZZLES They seem to be a dying breed now with the invention of mobiles and tablets, but sitting down as a family and completing a jigsaw, a puzzle or a board game is a wonderful way to spend a few hours with the family. All you need to remember is not to get too competitive!

5. BAKING Cooking is an important life lesson for anybody, so why not start them out young with the most joyous from of cooking, baking! Dependent on their age, you could get a cartoon cake mix or make your own grown-up cake. The kids will love getting involved, especially with all the messy parts of baking. Getting them to clean up after themselves, however, may be a bit more difficult! 6. BIKE RIDE Bikes are a great, free and fun way to spend a few hours. Whether you have somewhere local or can drive to a park, the children will love the independence and freedom that comes with riding a bike. It’s a great way to travel long distances in a short space of time, and they’ll feel like they’ve really achieved something. 7. MUSEUMS AND ART GALLERIES Some museums and galleries are

10. SPORTS AT THE PARK Grab a bat, ball or whatever they love and head to the nearest park. Get your friends and their families involved and make a day of it. You don’t have to attend expensive sports events or classes to enjoy what they love. Get involved yourself and they’ll love it even more. For more ideas to keep the kids entertained visit: www.familiesonline.co.uk

THE BEST OF WHAT ’S ON N EAR YOU

Out & About 1 M AY

Justin’s Party

TRAVEL BY HERITAGE TRAIN TO SEE

The Orchard Theatre, Home Gardens, Dartford, Kent, DA1 1ED. 01322 220000. www.orchardtheatre.co.uk

AT THE SPA VALLEY RAILWAY

Justin’s Party is a brand new show which is packed full of fantastic songs, dances and hilarious games guaranteed to make it THE party of the year!

Popular children’s characters Bing and Flop will be at the Spa Valley Railway on 29 May 2017. Bing and Flop will be making personal appearances at one of our stations ready to see lots of Bingsters arriving on trains from Tunbridge Wells West. They will appear at intervals throughout the day, so don’t forget to bring your camera!

11am & 2pm / From £16.50

The Tiger Who Came to Tea UK Tour 2017 Canterbury Gulbenkian within University of Kent, Giles Lane, Canterbury, Kent, CT2 7NB. 01227 769075. www.tigerstealive.com/tour

A musical play adapted and directed by David Wood, based on the book by Judith Kerr. Following a smash-hit West End season, the tea-guzzling tiger is back on the road in this delightful family show; packed with oodles of magic, sing-along songs and clumsy chaos! For children aged 3+. £14.50 Until 4 May

2 M AY

The First Hippo on The Moon Churchill Theatre Bromley, High Street, Bromley, Kent, BR1 1HA. 020 3285 6000. www.churchilltheatre.co.uk

From Number One bestselling Children’s author David

BING & FLOP

Bing is a three year-old energetic, playful character who loves to engage with the world around him together with his carer, Flop. The animated pre-school characters were adapted for TV from the popular Bing Bunny books written and illustrated by Ted Dewan. Trains will depart from Tunbridge Wells West for Eridge at: 10:00, 11:55, 13:45, 13:45 & 15:35. Train fares include travelling on either a steam or diesel train: Adult - £12, Senior - £11, Child - £6, Family - £31 (2 adults + 2 children or 1 adult + 3 children). To book train tickets and for additional information about the Spa Valley Railway visit www.spavalleyrailway.co.uk

Walliams comes an explosively funny space adventure for children of 3 and up. Two big hippos. One ENORMOUS dream. Who can make it to the moon first? Shows at 1:30pm & 5pm. Relaxed Performance - Thu 4 May, 10.30am / £19.50, Under 16s £14.50 Until 6May 2017

5 M AY

Dinosaur World

7 M AY

OAKS CAMPS IN SEVENGE AND TONBRID

FAMILIES17

Dare to experience the dangers and delights of Dinosaur World in this interactive new for show all the family. Grab your compass and join our intrepid explorer across unchartered territories to discover a prehistoric world of astonishing (and remarkably life-like) dinosaurs. Meet a host of impressive creatures, including every child’s favourite flesheating giant, the Tyrannosaurus Rex, a Triceratops, Giraffatitan and Segnosaurus, to name a few! For all the family ages 3+. Running Time: 50 mins + 15 min post show ‘meat and greet’ with the Dinosaurs! £15.50, Danger Seats (Row A - F) £18. Fri 1pm / Sat 10:30am & 1:30pm. Until 6 May

COURSES FOR ACTIVITIES AND THE SCHOOL NG RI CHILDREN DU HOLIDAYS

, 8AM - 6PM MONDAY - FRIDAYED REGISTERED ST OF • AGES 4 - 12 DE SAVE 15% WITH CO

The Orchard Theatre, Home Gardens, Dartford, DA1 1ED. 01322 220000. www.orchardtheatre.co.uk

Mother Daughter Days - S pring Fair

FROM

£PER3DA4Y

Bishop Justus CofE School, Magpie Hall Lane, Bromley, Kent, BR2 8HZ. www.motherdaughterdays.com

An indoor event and fun day out for you to share with someone special. Treat yourselves to a pamper session with a qualified practitioner plus enjoy workshops, stalls and free demonstrations. Light

refreshments available. 9.30am-4pm / £3 per person / Children under 16yrs Free and must be accompanied by an adult.

1 3 M AY

The Great British Dog Walk Ightham Mote, Mote Road, Ivy Hatch, Sevenoaks, Kent, TN15 0NT. 07435 964466. www.hearingdogs.org.uk

Fab charity walk for all dog lovers to support Hearing Dogs for Deaf People. There are lots of fun activities for adults and children! Choose from two routes, a longer 8km (not suitable for wheelchair users) and a shorter family-friendly (approx. 3km). Adults: £10, Children (under 16): Free, Dogs: Free.

Baby & Child First Aid Class Trinity Gallery, Trinity Theatre and Arts Centre, Church Road, Tunbridge Wells, TN1 1JP. 07939507662 daisyfirstaid.com/tunbridge-wells

Learn and practice life-saving first aid skills. The 2 hour fun and relaxed class covers Treatment of an unconscious casualty, recovery positions, shock, resuscitation & CPR, choking, head injuries, seizures, bleeding, burns, fractures, anaphylaxis, meningitis, sepsis, and other childhood conditions.

www.familiesonline.co.uk MAY - JUNE 2017

Out & About

To find out more or to book please contact Nicola at tunbridgewells@ daisyfirstaid.com. 2.30pm-4.30pm / £25 per person (Booking Essential)

1 4 M AY

MUM2MUM MARKET Tonbridge (Nearly New Sale) Angel Leisure Centre, Angel Lane, Tonbridge, Kent, TN9 1SF. 01732 359588. www.mum2mummarket.co.uk

Buy or sell top quality pre-loved baby & kids goods. FREE goody bag for the first 100 people. Free car parking. 10am-12pm / £2 entry or download 2 for 1 voucher on website (kids are free).

See Chase & Marshall from Paw Patrol Kent Life, Lock Lane, Sandling, Maidstone, Kent, ME14 3AU. www.kentlife.org.uk

Making their debut at Kent Life, we are super excited to have a visit from Chase & Marshall from Paw Patrol, who will be appearing at intervals throughout the day. Adults £9.95, Children (3-15) £7.95, Concessions £8.95, Family (2+2) £29.95, Kent Life Members FREE. 10:30am – 4:30pm.

1 9 M AY

Roots Gathering 2017 Hole Park, Benenden Road, Rolvenden, Kent, TN17 4JA. therootsgathering.blogspot.co.uk

A micro festival that will offer workshops and talks on practical things like natural beekeeping and wild cookery. Traditional crafts and arts like wood carving and clay sculpture, earth mandalas and bull roarer

making. Drumming, meditation and camp fire performances and much much more. Tickets must be booked in advance, no tickets will be for sale at the gate. Camping available. Until 21 May

2 5 M AY

Babe, The Sheep Pig - The Little Pig with Big Dreams The Orchard Theatre, Home Gardens, Dartford, DA1 1ED. 01322 220000 www.orchardtheatre.co.uk

Tom O’Connell Productions and Polka Theatre present Babe, The Sheep-Pig - The Little Pig with Big Dreams. Based on the best-selling book by Dick King Smith. Join us for an enchanting family favourite, as the classic novel which inspired the Oscar-winning film, is brought to life by a cast of West End performers in a show brimming with laughter, thrills, stunning puppetry and original live music. Babe follows the incredible story of one piglet’s rise to become the world famous Sheep-Pig. Tickets £19.50 £22.50, Under 16s £5.00 off. Preshow dining available. Various show times. Until 28 May

2 7 M AY

Grand Medieval Joust Leeds Castle, Maidstone, Kent, ME17 1PL. 01622 765400. www.leeds-castle.com

Step back in time to the Middle Ages and see fully armoured jousters battling it out in an authentic jousting competition. Enjoy living history encampments, firepower and trebuchet demonstrations and mounted skill at arms displays. Included with the price of admission. Until 29 May

2 7 M AY Gig For Life

The Hop Farm Family Park, Maidstone Road, Paddock Wood, Kent, TN12 6PY. 01622 872 068. www.thehopfarm.co.uk

A new family music festival in aid of Cancer Research UK. Bands include 10cc, Maverick Sabre, Toploader and more. 12 - 11pm / Free - £65

2 8 M AY

Medieval Weekend Lullingstone Castle, Eynsford, Kent, DA4 0JA. www.lullingstonecastle.co.uk

Lullingstone is transformed into a magical medieval village – step back in time to experience the authentic sights and sounds with ‘living history’ displays (including live firing of mini cannons and mock battles!), character dress, campfires, tents and medieval weapons, courtesy of the remarkable Woodvilles medieval re-enactment group. Everyone can get involved with the archery sessions – fun for all the family! £10 per adult, children under 15 Free. 11am - 5pm. Until 29 May

2 9 M AY

Paint a Bird Box Ruxley Manor Garden Centre, Maidstone Road, Sidcup, Kent, DA14 5BQ. 020 8300 0084. www.ruxley-manor.co.uk

Have fun painting your very own bird house then take it home to watch the birdies nest. Session includes: wooden bird box, paints and paint brushes. £5.99 per child. Until 2 Jun

3 0 M AY

The Dog and the Dinosaur Hall Place and Gardens, Bourne Road, Bexley, Kent, DA5 1PQ. 01322 526574. www.hallplace.org.uk

What did the dog dig up in his garden? Find out in our hilarious story and make your own dinosaur to wear home. 10am & 2pm (1 hr session). / £ 4 children, adults free. Until 2 Jun

1 JUNE

Family Bushcraft Sevenoaks Wildlife Reserve and Jeffery Harrison Visitor Centre, Sevenoaks, Kent, TN13 3DH. www.kentwildlifetrust.org.uk

3 hour bush craft session suitable for adults and children aged 8+. Have a go at fire lighting and den building and learn all about wood lore at this exciting family event. Led by a qualified Forest Schools leader in the wooded area at Sevenoaks Wildlife Reserve. Booking essential as places are limited. All children under 16 must be accompanied by adults. £15 per person/ £50 per group (x4 minimum 1 adult). 10am - 1:30pm.

SWASHBUCKLING FUN AT GROOMBRIDGE PLACE

27 MAY TO 4 JUNE | 10AM - 5.30PM

Visit Groombridge Place near Tunbridge Wells on Bank Holiday Weekend for some swashbuckling fun at the Pirates and Mermaid Event. Ahoy there! Come on down me harties to Groombridge Place this May half term and meet the naughty pirates and mystical mermaids of Groombridge lakes! There will be story-telling, a pirate sing a long, Mermaid crafts, bouncy castle and lots more to see and do. As well as all the activities, everyone will have access to the Enchanted Forest to enjoy playing and exploring Crusoe’s World, with its authentic large wooden ship complete with rope bridges. Swing through the trees on our amazing giant tree swings before running and having fun on the raised board walk with its zip wire, suspension bridge, and rope swings! See the fascinating birds of prey displays with owls, falcons and eagles! Watch the majestic Peacocks from the café and stroll round the lovely gardens which overlook the attractive moated 17th century manor house. See website for further information about Groombridge Place www.groombridgeplace.com

MAY - JUNE 2017 www.familiesonline.co.uk

Out & About

Barn Dance

The Woodlands Farm Trust, 331 Shooters Hill, Welling, Kent , DA16 3RP. www.thewoodlandsfarmtrust.org

Traditional Barn Dance with live country music by Skinners Rats. Bring your own food and drink. 7.30pm - 11pm. £14

4 JUNE Stick Mania

Riverhill Himalayan Gardens, Riverhill, Sevenoaks, Kent, TN15 0RR. 01732 459777. www.riverhillgardens.co.uk

Your chance to make ANYTHING from sticks. 11am – 4pm. Normal admission applies.

8 JUNE

Wealden Times Midsummer Fair Hole Park, Benenden Road, Rolvenden, Kent, TN17 4JA. www.wealdentimes.co.uk

Showcasing over 250 handpicked exhibitors selling contemporary and vintage home wares, garden accessories, fabulous fashion and jewellery as well as artisan food and drink. This summer the fair will feature a Healthy Living Festival as well as the brand-new Garden Hub, both of which will have talks and demonstrations from experts including Davina McCall over the three days of the fair. Discounted advance tickets available online. 9am to 4.30pm. Gate Prices: Adult (age 16 and over) £9.50; Child (aged 5-15) £3.50; Under 5’s free. Until 11 June

siege of Dover. Family £50.40. 10am – 5pm. Until 11 June

11 JUNE

Milkshake! Live Churchill Theatre Bromley, High Street, Bromley, Kent, BR1 1HA, 020 3285 6000. www.churchilltheatre.co.uk

Starring Milkshake! favourites Bob the Builder, Little Princess, Wissper, Fireman Sam, Pip from Pip Ahoy!, Winnie and Wilbur, Milkshake’s very own Milkshake! Monkey and two Milkshake! presenters, this all singing, all dancing, musical masterpiece, will take audiences on a journey through the world’s favourite fairy tales. Set amongst Milkshake’s magical bookcase, this brand new live show is sure to amaze and delight! The Milkshake! cast will be singing songs and sharing stories that audience members, young and old, will know and love. Tickets £18, Under 16s £16, Family Ticket - 4 Tickets £64. Shows at 11am & 2pm.

17 JUNE

Northern Ballet - Goldilocks & the Three Bears 2017 Churchill Theatre Bromley, High Street, Bromley, Kent, BR1 1HA. 020 3285 6000. www.churchilltheatre.co.uk

Now the magic continues with a brand-new retelling of Goldilocks & the Three Bears at The Churchill Theatre. Bringing this classic children’s story to life, this is the perfect opportunity for your little ones to enjoy live ballet, music and theatre for the first time. 12.30pm and 2.30pm / From £9.50

10 JUNE

St Christopher’s Food festival & Wild West Fair & Dog Show Green St Green, Sevenoaks Road, Orpington, Kent, BR6 6JS. 01689 892991. stchristophers.org.uk/foodfestival

Enjoy a wild west- themed fun day out. With stalls, games, horse rides, fabulous live entertainment, fantastic food and dog show. 11am - 4pm. Adults £2, Children free.

After the Siege: The Knights Templar Dover Castle, Castle Hill, Dover, Kent, CT16 1HU. www.english-heritage.org.uk

On the 800th anniversary since The Battle of Sandwich, also called the Battle of Dover, meet some of the Knights Templar. See them practise their weapon skills and hear their stories of this the year following the great

Father’s Day Hever Castle and Gardens, Hever Road, Nr Edenbridge, Kent, TN8 7NG. 01732 865224. www.hevercastle.co.uk

Say thank you to dad this Father’s Day with a memorable Super Car themed day out. Presented in partnership with the Henry Surtees Foundation there will be classic cars on display as well as fun activities for the kids. Until 18 June

18 JUNE

Father’s Day Fun ‘Pantastic’ Steel Band Riverhill Gardens, Sevenoaks, Kent, TN15 0RR. www.riverhillgardens.co.uk

Calling all Funky Fathers! Soak up the music and have a go at Hula skirts, steel drums & limbo - How low can your Dad go? 11am - 4pm. Included in normal admission.

Lyric Theatre, Shaftesbury Avenue WED 5 JULY TO SUN 10 SEPTEMBER 2017

Based on the best-selling picture book by Julia Donaldson and Lydia Monks

3 JUNE

WIN! To celebrate the premiere of WHAT THE LADYBIRD HEARD in the West End, Families London-Kent borders Magazine has one family ticket (admits 4) to give away.

LADYBIRD, LADYBIRD WHERE ARE YOU?

There are a number of LADYBIRDS hidden throughout this magazine (don’t count any included on promotional images), find them all and email your answer together with your name and the subject heading LADYBIRD FAMILIES LONDON KENT BORDERS competition to info@kennywax.com before 31 May 2017.

Book Now 0330 333 4812 www.whattheladybirdheardlive.co.uk T&C’s – Prize is for one family ticket (admits 4, min 1 adult) to see the West End production of What the Ladybird Heard at the Lyric Theatre, Shaftesbury Avenue from 5 July to 10 September 2017. The winner will be selected by random prize draw of all entries with the correct answer. Tickets are subject to availability, nontransferable and hold no cash value. Answers will not be accepted after the closing date of 31 May 2017. T he draw will take place on 1 June 2017. The decisions will be final.

Fun Dog Show

25 JUNE Colour Run

Danson Park, Danson Road, Welling, Bexleyheath, DA6 8HL. www.communityhospice.org.uk

Open to anyone over 12 years of age, you can crawl, walk, jog or if you have a burst of energy even run or dance your way round the 5km course to get covered in colour while raising money for your local hospice. Registration includes sunglasses, a bag of powder paint for you to celebrate with at the finish line and a medal. Places are limited, please book early to avoid disappointment. 11am. £15 in advance, or £25 on the day.

Welcome to Summer Bewl Water, Bewlbridge Lane, Lamberhurst, Kent, TN3 8JH. 01892 890 000. www.bewlwater.co.uk

Celebrate the arrival of summer with a big outdoor party! There will be something for the whole family so make sure you don’t miss out! Car parking costs £2 and activities and food will be priced individually.

Hawley Garden Centre & Nursery, Hawley Road, Dartford, Kent, DA2 7RB, 01322 224108 www.hawleygardencentre.co.uk/ Events-U41

Hawley Garden Centre will be holding their fifth Fun Dog Show and with ten different classes to enter, there is something for every dog! BBQ and Free parking. Registration will start at 9am and Judging will commence at 10.30am. Classes are £2 each to enter.

1 J U LY

Ben & Holly’s Little Kingdom The Orchard Theatre, Dartford 01322 220000 www.orchardtheatre.co.uk

From the makers of Peppa Pig comes this BAFTA awardwinning television animation live on stage! Join Ben and Holly, and their friends on this exciting, enchanting and magical musical adventure packed full of games, songs and laughter. This beautiful story of elves, princesses and childhood innocence will delight all the family! Until 2 July