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Over 130 activities and events for your summer!

IN THIS ISSUE

Holiday activities Holiday childcare What do babies think? What’s on this summer Issue 318 July/August 2022

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Our kids. Our community. Become a foster parent. To ﬁnd out more: Call (020) 8871 6666 wandsworth.gov.uk/fostering fosteringrecruitment@wandsworth.gov.uk Produced by Richmond and Wandsworth Design & Print • wdp@richmondandwandsworth.gov.uk • CS2001(4.22) Image: fstop123

MJul-Aug22.indd 13

In this issue 4-5

Top Ten free activities this summer

Preparing your child for school

Shocking levels of pollution

12-22

Home working in the school holidays

Holiday activities listing

How to have an educational holiday

26-31

What are babies thinking?

Holiday childcare

What’s On

Events, days out, museums, baby activities

Free magazines for your school, nursery, after school class, shop, ante natal group or for the school gates. Just ask. 25/05/2022 09:46

Just email editor@familiessw.co.uk with the number of magazines you can distribute (min 20) and we’ll drop them to you.

South West

To advertise: 020 8696 9680 | Editorial: editor@FamiliesSW.co.uk | Adverts/Artwork: adverts@FamiliesSW.co.uk Events/DiaryDates/What’sOn: whatson@FamiliesSW.co.uk | Next Issue: September 2022 | ISSN1354-9553. | All contents ©FamiliesSW 2022. FAMJul-Aug22.indd 12 25/05/2022 09:46

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25/05/2022 09:46

FamiliesSWLondon

July/August 2022 • Families South West 3

TOP

FREE activities to enjoy this summer

The summer holidays can be very long indeed with little ones to occupy for a whole day—but London has a lot to offer and it can be totally free! We asked our team of Roving mums to share their Top Summer Activities.

1 Negin Malik never misses the Reading Challenge Our all time favourite free summer activity to visit our local library. To start with we never miss the Reading Challenge. This year the theme is ‘Gadgeteers’, featuring amazing books, awesome rewards, and plenty of ideas for cool science experiments and activities. The weekends are also ﬁlled with a variety of free workshops and clubs. We rotate and alternate on location because my son loves the Wild Weekend arts & crafts session at Wandsworth Town library, free every Saturday 3pm and also the Lego Club at Balham library, free every Saturdays 10am. Northcote Road library has a cosy children’s area where my son enjoys logging into the computers and playing educational games, which are age appropriate games. Why we like it? British weather is typically unpredictable so for rainy days the library is always perfect!

1. Endless fun at your local library

2 Anna Stevenson enjoys going to her local One O-clock club We LOVE going to the one o’clock club at the Hut, (the green building) in Streatham Vale Park on a Saturday. You can use the facilities of Sprig Ludens Forest Nursery, including various outdoor activities like mud kitchens and water play for 2 hours from 1-3pm. Suitable for parents and babies aged 1-5yrs. For older children there is the opportunity to leave your child for 4 hours between 12-4pm under the supervision of the wonderful manager Tanika and her team. Why we like it? With fantastic facilities, a lovely team running it and a nice opportunity to meet other local kids and their families, we highly recommend this completely free service for the community!

3 Nadia Ramzan recommends Tots at the Docks Tots at the Docks is a free monthly play session at the Museum of London Docklands. Each month you can bring your little ones down to the museum and play to your heart's content. Each month they have a theme inspired by the history of the Docklands, dive deep in the river, mix stack and sort cargo or build the tallest tower. This is an unticketed drop-in session from 11am-1pm & 2-4pm. Why we like it? We also use their website for ideas of activities to do at home that don’t require a screen. www.museumoﬂondon.org.uk/families/fun-home

2. Most One O-clock clubs have wonderful facilities!

4 Adelyne De Bryas loves going to Greenwich A day trip to Greenwich is guaranteed success! We can walk around with bike & scooter, there are big parks with live music in the summer and the playgrounds are great. Stand on the historic Meridian Line, not free but don’t miss the Observatory, enjoy a planetarium show (you must book ahead); there are also Young Astronomers workshops, family trails and all maritime buildings to walk around/visit, plus the Cutty Sark and the City farm. Beautiful views of London at top of hill; you can take the boat to get there for additional fun. See our What’s On column for more info. Why we like it? It’s a fab/easy day out with kids (and I love the food market!)

3. Tots at the Docks

5 Adelyne De Bryas loves King’s Cross urban beach We’ve discovered a park with a terriﬁc fountain with 1,080 jets! On a hot day, it's totally great! On a sunny day, the square morphs into an urban beach, with kids of all ages dashing through the jets. The fountains are open daily and are on during daylight hours, so more time for fun during the summer months. The jets squirt and splash in patterns, providing hours of fun for kids of all ages. Even a bit of cloud and a chill in the air usually isn’t enough to stop a kid’s urge to take their socks off and get wet. www.kingscross.co.uk/fountains-granary-square Why we like it? Kids can spend hours there, they come back exhausted and happy. 4 Families South West • July/August 2022

4. Greenwich Planetarium (note it’s not free) familiesonline.co.uk

6 Samantha Davison enjoys her local parks One of our favourite summer activities has to be picnicking in the park with friends. I ﬁnd that it’s one of the easiest summer activities to do with children and we often make a day of it. My children love to help pack the food (generally lots of treats!) and we have borrowed a cargo bike to pack that with scooters, picnic blankets and ball games. At the moment we love heading out to Bushy or Richmond Park to watch the deer. We usually situate ourselves near a playground so we have all day entertainment and food.

Why we like it?

The children are entertained all day and it’s a fantastic way to catch up with friends.

6. Picnic in the park

7 Daniela Tulip enjoys the stream at Morden Hall One of our favourite free activities in SW London has to be going paddling in the stream at Morden Hall Park. It’s such a lovely way to cool off on a hot summer’s day. The water is clean enough to see right to the bottom and it’s very shallow, so safe for the little ones too. There is also a sweet little foot bridge which is perfect for a game of Pooh sticks. Children love watching the old water mill as well. The rose garden is beautiful and a great spot for a picnic. You can park at the Garden Centre next to the park but bear in mind that the gates close at 5pm. Entry is free and there are two cafes plus a little bookshop on site. www.nationaltrust.org.uk/morden-hall-park

Why we like it? Morden hall feels like we are in the country and the lovely free Deen City farm is nearby.

8 Daniela Tulip enjoys cycling along the river Another one of our favourite summer pastimes is cycling down to the river and along the towpath to the helipad in Battersea. The helicopter taking off and landing over the river never fails to impress little ones, and there are plenty of nice pubs and cafés along the way in case you get thirsty or peckish. A wonderful and inexpensive day out for the whole family!

Why we like it? If you’re feeling energetic you can combine it with a trip to Battersea Park where there is a fantastic adventure playground and boating lake.

7. Paddling in Morden Hall park stream FREE

10.

Get involved at the Paradise Community garden

SUMMER HOLIDAY CY C CLING COURSES

“

9 Lucy spends hours at Deen City Farm

Delighted I booked my son and daug ghter on the holiday cy c cle skills course! Theirr diﬀerent abilities weree catered for on diﬀereent courses and both of tthem gained confidence an nd knowledge while having a great time

I have grown up on a farm so I like my children to enjoy as much contact with animals and nature as possible. This little farm is like a little heaven to us: you can see chickens, ducks, donkeys, goats, ferrets, pigs, rabbits, all child friendly and safe. You can book affordable riding lessons, holiday activities and of course there is a café. www.deencityfarm.co.uk

”

Why we like it? We tend to cycle there via the Wandle Trail, which connects with The National Trust’s Morden Hall Park and the Arts and Crafts Village at Merton Abbey Mills.

10 Sara mucks up in a Community Garden We love our Sundays! We volunteer at the Paradise Co-operative from 10am-12pm, it is open every Sunday. There is no need to sign up, we just go along and get stuck in! There are a wide range of gardening activities to take part in and we start sessions with a mini-workshop linked to organic, sustainable gardening methods and biodiversity. We grow food for the community, supporting other local charities. paradisecooperative.org

Check out these Community gardens:

Lambeth parent

FREE Complete beginner courses, intermediate offf-road courses and o on-road courses are all running from Brockwell Park and Clapham Com mmon. available to borrow at Clapham Common only - numbers are lim mited so please book early.

BOOK NOW For more information and to book places, visit

www.cycleconﬁdent.com/lambeth

Streatham Common Community Garden in the Rookery Transition Town Tooting Community Garden

CYCLE CONFIDENT

Wimbledon Guild Community Garden Eden Nature Garden, Clapham Bramford Community Gardens, SW18

familiesonline.co.uk

FamiliesSWLon

July/August 2022 • Families South West 5

S T E A M

science technology engineering arts maths

A STEAM school in the heart of London Our parents rate us 5/5 on

We looked at numerous local private schools and felt that this hidden gem was ideal for our sons.

PGP is an exceptional school, with excellent teaching and facilities (did I mention the outdoor space?! In London!) full of conﬁdent, happy children, reaching their potential.

If you’re looking for a school that will help produce a well-rounded, happy child who achieves to the best of their ability without undue stress, this is the school for you.

The remote learning programme from PGP was outstanding.

She and we loved PGP and she left full of conﬁdence and with great results.

PGP is a wonderful school with strong academics and a lovely, caring ethos.

Prepare for the future; enjoy the journey! |

There are not enough superlatives to describe how happy we are at PGP.

www.parsonsgreenprep.co.uk

• 020 7610 8085

Celebrating 135 years of empowering girls to forge their own path. Visit us this autumn to disco over more:

sydenhamhighschool.gdst.net

6 Families South West • July/August 2022

familiesonline.co.uk

EDUCATION

Preparing for school By Emma Lewry No sooner has summer arrived than we are starting to talk about ‘starting school’ or ‘back to school’ preparation. Uniforms line the shop rails tempting us to think about being organised and ready for school. If you’re already thinking ahead, here are some top tips for preparation. If your child is starting school this year it can feel like a huge event with lots of pressure. You may be aware of parents swapping notes about how ready their children are to start school. Try not to compare your child with others; each child is unique and individual in their strengths and in the areas with which they need support. Teachers are ready for this and they know how to support lots of di erent children in a class. In fact, the uniqueness of each child is often what they love best about the job! When you start to think about preparing your child to begin school there are some key skills which are beneficial to practise and develop. I’m not talking about academic things; your child doesn’t need to be able to read the alphabet or do the two times table. The three skills I recommend are building CONFIDENCE, COMMUNICATION and INDEPENDENCE. These skills can be developed through play and fun at home, giving lots of opportunities for your little ones to try new things and o ering plenty of praise and encouragement. Talking to your child and reading books about school opens up lots of valuable communication too. If your child is heading back to school and moving up a year group, many of the starting school ideas apply. At all ages,

Independence

schools want children to be working on developing those confidence, communication and independence skills. It can be helpful to o er additional emotional support in the lead up to going back to school, especially if your child is moving to a new school. Talk about what will be di erent but also what will be the same. These constants support many children’s need for things to feel safe and familiar. What if your child isn’t keen on talking? Looking at pictures, reading stories and role-playing school are all great ways to initiate conversation over the summer. Good luck with starting and going back to school! Emma Lewry is an Early Years teacher, headteacher and mother of two. Emma co-owns Every Day’s a School Day (www.edasd.co.uk) which guides families through starting school with courses, groups and a school starters planner.

Building independence is important for children of all ages. Children who are independently motivated to play, complete tasks and try new things will often excel at school across the age ranges.

complex dinner. Any activity like this means they are getting a feel for completing a task and the pride they feel will boost their desire to try other independent tasks.

Thy this simply idea before school starts. Give your child ownership over one meal that they can plan and prepare

Don’t rush in to help them when they are struggling. Sit on your hands, count to ﬁfty or do something to distract yourself while

for the family, with appropriate support for their age. This could be a simple breakfast that they get to choose and make or a more

giving them the opportunity to struggle a little with a task. This ‘holding back’ goes for anything and for children of any age - from simply joining a child who is playing alone or stepping in to help with a new craft. Children who are more exposed to the need to persevere are more likely to have the ability to be independent.

Applying for a place at St Gabriel’s?

Attainment and progress in

For in year admissions and for Sep 2023 Reception class, call our office to arrange a personal tour with our Headteacher. For more information visit: www.stgabrielsprimary.co.uk

key stage 2 is consistently well above average. A calm and nurturing environment Pupils develop well academically and personally A curriculum tailored to the needs and interests of our pupils An abundance of space Wrap around care service providing before and after school care

Churchill Gardens Road, Pimlico, SW1V 3AG Tel: 0207 186 0080 Email: office@stgabrielsprimary.co.uk

familiesonline.co.uk FAMJul-Aug22.indd 13

FamiliesSWLon

July/August 2022 • Families South West 7 25/05/2022 09:46

EDUCATION

Shocking news: 65% of UK schools exceed safe air pollution levels In 2021 the UK #LetSchoolsBreathe campaign measured pollution levels around 36 schools in 9 cities. Their recent report found St Anselm’s in Tooting had the highest levels of air pollution of 19.85 PM2.5 and 63% of days where the Norm was exceeded. The campaign was started to help school children understand more about air pollution such as particulate matter (PM) and dangerous pollutant gases (like NO2, which is particularly harmful for children). Sensors monitored air 24 hours a day in the immediate vicinity of the school and they were able to view this data for free on the Airly app or map (airly.org/map/en). They found that a staggering 35 out of 36 schools experience levels of PM2.5 pollution that exceed the safe norms set out by the World Health Organisation.

“Pupils are exposed to high concentrations of NO2 and PM2.5 mainly during travel to school and in school playgrounds. … The ﬁrst step towards pollution-free schools has been made. This step is to make air pollution a topic for discussion among school communities, having the necessary knowledge and understanding of the causes of pollution and its impact on health, we give hope to the young generation into a world with cleaner and healthy air” commented Marcin Gnat, spokesman at Airly.

Why children like School Streets

School Streets for cleaner air In this context, Schools Streets are a no brainer—they help improve air quality and make it safer and easier for children to walk, scoot, and cycle to school. School Streets restrict traffic on roads outside of school at pick-up and drop-off times during term time. Oliver Lord, UK Head of Clean Cities Campaign said: “Temporary road closures during pick-up and drop-off—known as school streets—are one of the best ways to reduce children’s exposure to air pollution and road danger, as well as helping them walk, scoot and cycle to school. Fewer cars around schools in the morning also means more reliable bus journeys and more space for businesses that need to use the roads.”

School Streets are a small but achievable measure that parents can lobby for, and can be rolled out quickly. There are around 500 school streets in London, could your school join in too? More info http://schoolstreets.org.uk https://wandsworth.gov.uk search for School Streets Scheme www.mumsforlungs.org cleancitiescampaign.org/streets forkids/

Applying for a Year 7 place in a Wandsworth Secondary School for September 2023? The Wandsworth Year 6 Test will be held in September/October 2022 for children starting secondary school in September 2023.

To register and for further information about the Wandsworth Year 6 Test visit: www.wandsworth.gov.uk/y6test If you have questions about this information email: year6test@richmondandwandsworth.gov.uk or call 020 8871 7316.

8 Families South West • July/August 2022

will be open from 1st June until 11 September 2022

AD1212(6.22) credit:DGLimages

ALL children applying for a place at any of these schools: Ashcroft Technology Academy, Burntwood School, Chestnut Grove Academy and Graveney School. MUST register to be invited to take Registration the Wandsworth Year 6 Test.

familiesonline.co.uk

EDUCATION NEWS

Sydenham High School announces new Head Queensberry Nursery

The Girls’ Day School Trust are delighted to announce Antonia Geldeard as Head of Sydenham High School from September 2022.

Where BIG Hearts Shape Little Minds

Antonia grew up in Surrey and Sussex. She read English Literature at Trinity College, Cambridge University, graduating with an MA, and later a PGCE in English and Drama. After early years spent working as a television journalist, in factual programmes, she joined Alleyn’s School, in Dulwich, as an English and Drama teacher and was appointed to the role of Head of House, and Head of Film/Media Studies before being promoted to Head of English. In 2017, Antonia moved to Trinity School, Croydon, to take up the role of Head of Sixth Form and then in 2019, she was promoted to Deputy Head. She has extensive academic and pastoral experience, holding responsibility for Sixth Form, enrichment, EPQ, school admissions and marketing, university admissions and careers as well as holding the position of Deputy Safeguarding Lead for many years. sydenhamhighschool.gdst.net

Children from 7 months to 5 years 24 Queensberry Place SW7 2DR 0207 581 0200 queensberrynurs@gmail.com

www.queensberrynursery.com

Great year at The Montessori School The children have been learning all about birds, the history of telephones, origami, the origin of the species, architecture, osmosis, oxidation, mummiﬁcation and sacred animals, along with lots of wonderful art and sewing projects and a favourite activity – reciting poetry! They told Families: “We marvel at the enthusiasm and curiosity the children show and how much they learn along the way. Come to visit us and see what we are doing next! “ 102 Chestnut Grove SW12 8JJ themontessorischool.co.uk

Sinclair House Montessori Nursery School Sinclair House has been a long-standing nursery for children between 8 months and 4 years, based in the heart of Munster Village since 1989. They have had a very busy academic year since launching their new day-care provision in September 2021 and now they’re getting ready to introduce Forest School from next Autumn. Sinclair House Montessori Nursery School is a jewel in the heart of Fulham, if you haven’t been do arrange a visit! 159 Munster Road, Fulham SW6 6DA www.nursery.sinclairhouseschool.co.uk

The Kensington Ballet School Founded by Karen in 2002, The Kensington Ballet School provides fun but structured ballet classes in the demanding environment of West London. Catering for children aged from 15 months to 10 years, there is a strong emphasis on theatrical performance from Karen’s team of classically trained ballerinas, many of whom have performed in the West End. They actively dance and demonstrate with the children, gently encouraging them and ensuring that each class is taught in a stimulating but instructive manor. Classes in Kensington, Chelsea, Knightsbridge, Mayfair, Putney, Fulham, Holland Park, Notting Hill, Pimlico and Islington. Summer and half term holiday camps. For more info please contact dance@kensingtonballet.com familiesonline.co.uk

FamiliesSWLondon

The Zebedee Nursery School has been running in London for nearly 40 years. We are based on Parsons Green.

We are a traditional nursery school open for 3 and 4 year olds from 8.55am-12.10pm Monday to Friday and in the last academic year children can do afternoon session until 3.15pm. The 2 year olds come from 1.30pm-3.30pm. Introducing them to the routine and Nursery school in a small caring little group. In both sessions we have a mix of adult led learning and child initiated play. We are located on Parsons Green in a bright spacious hall. Zebedee has wonderful parent participation and a varied and stimulating curriculum. We also run a wonderful friendly toddler group on a Thursday 3.45pm -5pm We have spaces for September. Come and meet us, we can answer any questions you may have about the Nursery school. We would be very pleased to see you. Please contact us at: Zebedee.nurseryschool@gmail.com

July/August 2022 • Families South West 9

Sponsored feature

Meet THE head

A new school year, a new Headmaster! Richard Lock joins The Hampshire School, Chelsea in September 2022 from Wetherby Prep School where he was Director of Studies

Q: How would the students describe you? As a kind, dedicated teacher who helps them to be the best they can be. Also known to have a catchphrase or two. Q: What was your first day as a qualified teacher like? Exhilarating! Teachers will tell you that they rarely get much sleep on the 31st August. My first day as a qualified teacher with my Year 4 class started with a 9am swimming lesson at Brixton Rec. Thankfully, Bill O’Doherty (my first Head from St Helen’s School, Brixton), was on hand to navigate the walk, change and safe return to school. Once I had got through that first day, nothing was as daunting (or exhausting). Q: What was it about the school that made you want to apply for the position? I know a special school when I see one and THS, Chelsea is special. Housed in the old Chelsea library, the school seamlessly blends tradition and innovation and the library is rightly its centre-piece. On my first visit there, the joy, excitement and friendliness of the children was clear. I saw inspiring, caring and dedicated teachers in the classroom. Q: What inspired you to become a teacher and later, a headteacher? Being a teacher was something I always wanted to do. When I was a Sixth-former, I worked with intervention groups in mathematics lessons and I spent my summers volunteering for holiday camps. I enjoy being part of a school’s tight knit community and the collegiate nature of the teaching staff. As I have progressed in my career, I realise how important it is for a school leader to provide a future direction for children. I know the value of strong and positive relationships between parents and the school and this is something I feel that I am good at.

10 Families South West • July/August 2022

Q: What will you bring to THS, Chelsea? This falls into two categories: community and futures. When your child joins a school, it is not just they who gain friends, it is also you, the parents, who become part of the school community. Some of my closest friends are other parents whose children have gone to school with my own. I have always nurtured strong and genuine relationships and I value those links as they add so much to what a school offers. As Head, honest and straightforward conversations with parents are essential. This leads into the idea of futures. I want to make sure that every child leaves THS, Chelsea with a clear and exciting path in front of them. I bring a wealth of experience of senior school admissions which means I can help with choices and decisions to maximise the chances of getting into those schools. Q: What advice would you give to parents visiting schools on open days? Open days are the chance for schools to show off and in the days before we are a hive of activity: ﬁnishing touches to displays; science

experiments planned and prepped; ﬁnal rehearsals by the choir... I advise parents that the best thing to do is talk to the children (as many as you can) because they are brutally honest about what school life is really like. If the children in a school are happy, courteous and engaging then that gives a good indication of the sort of values the school holds and what your child might be like if they enrolled there.

Join Mr Lock, the staff and boys at The Hampshire School Chelsea for their open mornings: Thursday 3rd October, 9.30–11.30, and Thursday 21st November, 9.30–11.30. Booking is encouraged via www.thehampshireschoolchelsea.co.uk You can also ﬁnd out more via their social media pages, @thehampshireschoolchelsea on Instagram and The Hampshire School Chelsea on Facebook.

familiesonline.co.uk

WORK

Home working in the school holidays By Louise Goss School holidays can be one of the most challenging times for a working parent. Even with organised childcare, holiday clubs and generous o ers from grandparents, there are often days when you are trying to meet deadlines while acting as a snack vending machine or being constantly pestered by demands to ‘look at me.’ Here are a few tips to help you cope with the stressors and be as productive as possible. Prepare in advance Realistically, you probably won’t get as much done on the days your children are home. Knowing and accepting this can immediately lessen the stress and frustration. Ahead of the holidays, if you have time to prepare in advance, you’ll also ease the anxiety over how you’ll manage your workload. If you have any big projects or deadlines looming, try to get the bulk of the work out of the way so that you’re left with the smaller tasks to complete during the holidays. Of course, it’s not just managing your own expectations but also those of your customers, colleagues and clients. A good way to prevent misunderstandings about availability is to let clients know you won’t be available for a big order or that deadlines will need to be extended to allow for shorter working days. You can help emphasise these boundaries for others and keep them firm for yourself by highlighting reduced o ice hours when you speak to colleagues and in your emails and utilising automated out-of-o ice email responses. Fill their cup It can be hard to focus with a child clamouring for your attention. But by giving your child the right kind of quality time, they are often more accepting when you need to step away to work. I often find when I am very present and engaged with my children for a short time, they are satisfied and happy to then play alone for a while, freeing me up to work in peace. Getting them set up with a game or started with some Lego building are great ways to give them your time and then allow you to step away.

familiesonline.co.uk FAMJul-Aug22.indd 15

FamiliesSWLondon

Communication is key Communicate with your team. Be transparent about your situation and capacity. Explore flexible working options. Setting boundaries is important when you are trying to work with other family members around. Communicating to children and partners when you are and are not available can prevent any misunderstandings or resentment. Younger children hear the word ‘no’ a lot, so a more positive way of asking them to be patient is to give them something to look forward to after you’ve finished your work, whether it is the collage you’ll make together or a den you’ll build. Ask for help Don’t forget or be afraid to ask for help. We can often feel guilty or that we have failed in some way if we don’t manage everything. However, asking for help is a sensible way to relieve stress and maintain some balance. Older children and other family members may be able to help with housework or babysitting. You could even organise a swap with a fellow working parent to look after each other’s children a couple of times a week, allowing you each to work on your childfree days. Louise Goss is a journalist and the Founder of The Homeworker magazine (www.thehomeworker.com) which supports people who work from home and remotely.

July/August 2022 • Families South West 11 25/05/2022 09:46

Join the this sum mmer at WWT Lo ondon and help... for aboutt and our

beautiful wetlands FIND OUR

SUMMER AC TIVITIES

ONLINE

Search WWT London Wildfowl & Wetlands Trust registered charity in England & Wales, no. 1030884 and Scotland, no. SC039410

HOLIDAY ACTIVITIES

Camps and workshops School’s out and the holidays are the perfect time to make a song and dance, play sports or learn new skills. Book now for a summer of fun (and childcare).

SUMMER SPORTS FREE cycle training www.cycleconfident.com/lambeth Get the kids cycle ready! Lambeth council with Cycle Confident are providing FREE cycle training for children during the summer holidays. Complete beginner courses, intermediate off-road courses and on-road courses are all running from Clapham Common. Training is in small groups with 2 fully qualified instructors. Bikes are available to borrow but numbers are limited so please book early.

Go Ape Battersea Park goape.co.uk There's more to this stacked course than meets the eye with people above, below and all around you. A head for heights is a must as Battersea’s Treetop Challenge crossings are twice the height of most Go Ape locations. Over on the Treetop Adventure course, the Fisherman’s Net and thrilling zip wires keep this one ﬁrmly top of the Go Ape fan list. The Treetop Adventure Plus is an extension to the Treetop Adventure experience for older children over 1.2m with challenging obstacles, high platforms and a longer zip.

Zebra Skate Camp Kensington and Clapham venues www.zebraskate.co.uk 11 July - 29 August Get rolling and learn to rollerblade or skateboard in a safe and fun environment. Equipment hire available if required. Ages 4-12.

www.swimway.co.uk 18 July - 2 September Bookings are open to children of all abilities from 2 years and up, running at the same time every day for a week-long course. Children improve by leaps and bounds due to the intense attention and focus on their needs throughout the week. Combining fun with the obvious health beneﬁts, these courses are an excellent boost to swimming development!

25 July - 26 August Set sail to Neverland on an unforgettable adventure with Peter Pan and friends (and villains!). Packed with drama, dance, singing activities and costumes, Perform’s three and ﬁve full day courses inspire the imagination and give shy children the chance to shine as they work towards a ﬁnal performance for family and friends. Ages 4-10.

Youngstars Holiday Camps Various SW London venues www.young-stars.co.uk Summer holidays An introduction to a wide range of sports in a way that is centred around enjoyment rather than winning or losing! Full and half days available. Ages 4-10.

Get-Set-Go Swimming Putney SW15 www.get-set-go.com Summer holidays Five-day intensive swimming courses give a huge boost to progress and are a brilliant school holiday activity. Ages 0-3 and 3+.

* Putney SW15 www.stagecoach.co.uk/putney 25-29 July and 1-5 August Discover the joys of drama, dance and singing with friends old and new, working towards a performance at the end of the week to show parents, friends and family. No experience necessary just bags of enthusiasm! Ages 4-6+. * Battersea SW11 www.stagecoach.co.uk/battersea 25-29 July Five brilliant days/ mornings of dance, drama and singing for children and teenagers. Enjoy a different musical theme each day with amazing theatre practitioners. Ages 4-16.

South West Swimming School Various SW London pools www.swswimschool.co.uk 25 July - 12 August Safe, inclusive and effective swimming lessons run to the Swim England Learn to Swim Programme.

Book individual days or for the whole week. Ages 4-16.

Little Voices

Kensington Ballet

Fulham SW6, various dates 020 8088 0113 www.littlevoices.org.uk Encanto: 25-Thursday 28 July SING 2 : 1-Thursday 4 August Frozen: 15-Thursday 18 August Four-day singing and dancing workshops inspired by children’s most loved movies and musicals. Complete with props and costumes, the final performance will be professionally filmed and sent out, ready to watch again and again with family and friends. Ages 5-11. Learn an entire script in 4 days, build confidence, make new friends, Childcare vouchers accepted, Sibling discount. Full Days: 9am-3.30pm. Half Days: 9am-1pm.

dance@kensingtonballet.com kensingtonballet.com Check website for dates and to book Ballet, drama, make-up, costume and mime. Workshops are open to all children, regardless whether they are enrolled in the regular term classes. Provide a varied and stimulating experience for the children who are encouraged to express their artistic and creative ﬂair. Show for parents at the end of the week.

PERFORMING ARTS

British Youth Theatre Various London venues www.britishyouththeatre.org 25 July - 20 August Acting, singing, movement, writing and instrumental playing with world-class theatre professionals. All participants will receive a Grade 6 Certiﬁcate in Musical Theatre accredited by Trinity College London. Ages 11-17+.

ART & MUSIC Paint Pots Montessori Summer Fun Stagecoach Performing Arts

SwimWay crash courses Balham/Tooting Bec, East Sheen, Kensington/Holland Park, Kew Gardens, Putney and Wimbledon/Southﬁelds. 020 8871 3972 familiesonline.co.uk

Perform Various SW London venues and dates

www.perform.org.uk FamiliesSWLondon

* Wimbledon SW19 www.stagecoach.co.uk/wimbledon 25-29 July and 1-5 August Put on a musical show in ﬁve days! From the moment students arrive at the workshop they will be caught up in the excitement and creativity of rehearsals whilst having fun and making new friends.

St Mary The Boltons, Chelsea creativeclasses@paint-pots.co.uk 0207 223 0123 www.paint-pots.co.uk 11–29 July Fun arts, crafts and music led by fully qualiﬁed nursery school and creative classes teachers.�For 1218 months, 18 months–3 years & 3-6 year olds. Morning, afternoon & all-day sessions.

July/August 2022 • Families South West 13

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Participation and supervision ratios apply — please see our website.

Helping children believe they can do anything Singing, dancing and acting classes for 4 - 18 year-olds

BATTERSEA 07956 288928 battersea@stagecoach.co.uk stagecoach.co.uk/battersea

PUTNEY 020 8099 9861 putney@stagecoach.co.uk stagecoach.co.uk/putney

FULHAM 07498 213142 fulham@stagecoach.co.uk stagecoach.co.uk/fulham

WIMBLEDON 020 8946 3400 wimbledon@stagecoach.co.uk stagecoach.co.uk/wimbledon

Stagecoach Performing Arts is the trading name of Stagecoach Theatre Arts Limited. Stagecoach Theatre Arts schools are operated under franchise and are independently owned by their Principals. Stagecoach and Creative Courage For Life are registered trademarks of Stagecoach Theatre Arts Limited.

14 Families South West • July/August 2022

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HOLIDAY ACTIVITIES A programme where nothing is more important than playing, exploring and having fun! Activities include playing with sand and water, clay, play dough, Lego building, dressing up, playing house, reading, dancing and painting. Ages 3-7.

Upbeat Holiday Camps Parsons Green SW6 upbeatmusiccourses@gmail.com 07816 901396 www.upbeatmusiccourses.co.uk Book online at bookwhen.com/upbeatmusic 25-29 July and 1-5 August Join Upbeat’s brand new ‘Music Festival’ camps this summer. A full week of singing, dance, bands, songwriting, arts & crafts and recording, culminating in the Friday afternoon outdoor festival-style performance, complete with bunting, face-painting, refreshments and of course awesome musical performances (wet weather plans in place). £295, 10% sibling discount. 4-12yrs. Teen band camp also available.

how to write and play notes C-G and try some famous tunes using electronic keyboards. With games, quizzes and art activities all based around music, all equipment and take home workbook provided. One day and ﬁve day courses available. Ages 4-9.

Barnes Adventure Camp

Rock and Roll Recruits

Village Nursery SW13 0LF www.barnessummerplayschool.co.uk

Putney SW15 www.rockandrollrecruits.co.uk 25-28 July and 8-11 August A multi-instrument week where children join together to play in a band, rehearsing for an end of week concert. No formal qualiﬁcations necessary. Ages 7-18.

MULTI-ACTIVITIES

25 July - 26 August An excursion-based activity camp where the emphasis is on stimulating and educating children without losing their attention. Every day is a journey of discovery to somewhere different in and around London. The small groups set off on adventures by minibus or on public transport including the riverboats. Ages 8-14.

Barracudas Day Camps Streatham & Clapham SW16 1AW www.barracudas.co.uk 25 July - 26 August Multi-activity daycamps where children get active, try new things and make new friends while developing key life skills and building conﬁdence. Sports, games and crafts all included. Ages 4 -14.

Flipout Earlsﬁeld Book online: www.ﬂipout.co.uk Flip Out Wandsworth is OPEN this summer! London’s largest adventure trampoline park has a stack of fun activities for all ages. With some awesome offers including Summer 30-day pass, Early Sunday morning toddler time at 8.30am, family bundle, 2hr After Dark sessions, Flip n Kart … to name a few.

Activ Camps Venues across SW London www.activcamps.com 11 July - 12 August Innovative and inclusive variations of traditional games and sports, including experiences children might not normally encounter, including Body Zorbing, Archery Tag, rock climbing and giant inﬂatables. Ages 4-14.

The Strings Club Various venues including Tooting SW17 www.thestringsclub.org Every school holiday Multi award-winning holiday camps offering professionally led instrumental play, interactive workshops and a Grand Concert at the end. Free instrument hire included. Ages 4-11.

Funky Monkey Keyboard Classes Venues across SW and SE London www.funkymonkey.info 26 July - 12 August Make music the fun way in a beginner workshop. Children learn

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Take the family on a riverside cruise this summer Take in London’s breath-taking riverside landmarks whilst sailing along the Thames on a fun-ﬁlled day out with friends and family.

Camp Beaumont Wimbledon and Putney www.campbeaumont.co.uk 18 July - 26 August Multi activity weeks with treats such as hand and ball sports, waterplay, yoga, spy school, magic coding, crafts, movie making, music and more. Ages 3-16.

Head up to the open-air upper deck to marvel at panoramic views of London’s iconic sights such as the Tower of London, The Shard and Big Ben. The informative and amusing commentary will shed new light on both history and modern life in the capital. Book single, return or 24h unlimited river pass tickets and cruise from piers at Westminster, Tower, London Eye and Greenwich.

Barnes Summer Play School Village Nursery SW13 0LF www.barnessummerplayschool.co.uk

Book your tickets online at www.citycruises.com/london or call on 020 77 400 400.

25 July - 26 August

FamiliesSWLondon

July/August 2022 • Families South West 15

OPEN ALL

YE A DECEM PART FROM AR BER 2 5TH & 26TH

teaching your baby to love the water

BE AMAZED BY WILDLIFE Meet our amazing animals at this family friendly zoo in the heart of Batterrsea Park. After listening to our many keepe er talks and watching the feeding session ns, why not have fun on our adventure play areas.

FREE TRIAL SESSIONS New baby and toddler swim classes at the Aqua-Hub a lovely new warm water aqua sensory private pool.

www.littledippers.co.uk

16 Families South West • July/August 2022

01273 229390

life sized helicopter, and d tractor along with a sandpit, swings, woo oden fort, climbing ropes and much more. Battersea Park Children’s Zoo Battersea Park, London SW11 4NJ

T: 020 7924 5826

www.batterseaparkzooo.co.uk

familiesonline.co.uk

HOLIDAY ACTIVITIES Ultimate Activity Camps Fulham SW6 5BD www.ultimateactivity.co.uk 25 July - 26 August Ofsted-registered holiday daycamps offering a fantastic range of sports, games and art activities every week. Ages 4-14.

language skills, their memory, their attention and creativity, the discovery and control of their body, and also their social skills. 4-12yrs.

11 July - 26 August Fun science-based camps with a different theme each week. Book by day or full week. Ages 4-12.

complete with a sushi rolling mat, bandana, branded apron and recipe book to take home. Ages 8-12. 23 July in King’s Road Chelsea 20 August in Greenwich

Mother Nature Science Various SW London venues www.mnature.co.uk 11 July - 26 August Every day is a science expedition into the unknown. Each week children take part in over 30 in and outdoor science activities, see exciting demonstrations, work on hands-on experiments, play team games and fun quizzes. Ages 5-12.

Seven Seals Clapham Common SW4 E: Manager7seals@gmail.com Summer holidays Enriching creative camps offering themed arts and crafts, forest school trips, baking, French and Spanish songs, and phonics and maths games. Ages 3-7.

Kids En Cuisine SuperCamps Various venues across London and beyond www.supercamps.co.uk 25 July - 26 August From sports to drama, music and team games to arts and crafts, SuperCamps keep children busy, entertained and safe through the school holidays. Ages 4+. Bookable by day or week.

LANGUAGES

Ecclestone Square SW1V1 www.kidsencuisine.com Various dates Learn how to make a main dish and dessert from scratch with high quality ingredients, run by certiﬁed chefs in a professional kitchen. Bookable by day or week. Ages 6+.

Et Patati et Patata Hurlingham Academy, Fulham. caroline@etpatatipatata.com 079 66 893674 www.etpatatipatata.com Fun French summer day camp. A French immersion programme based on a wide range of fun and creative activities in French. The award-winning camp Gold Quality Mark will be running two weeks with a French twist in London from 4 years old and a teen programme: Week 1, 25-29 July: ta semaine Parisienne. Week 2, 1-5 August: ta semaine verte d’été. 30 hours of French immersion with your French certiﬁcate. French lessons, French drama, French art, French sport with native French teachers. Réserve ton été, on va tellement s'amuser!

Sticks’n’Sushi Masterclasses Various dates and venues www.sticksnsushi.com Friendly guidance from brilliant sushi masters at Sticks’n’Sushi, who share their passion and knowledge in a series of hands-on classes,

Creative Hare www.creativehare.co.uk Various dates Fun and supportive story writing classes, imagination-stretching English tuition and 11+ preparation.

DEVELOPING SKILLS

Club Petit Pierrot Chelsea SW3 and Fulham SW6 www.clubpetitpierrot.co.uk 18 - 29 July An immersive week of creative and educational activities including worksheets, arts and crafts, sporty games, stories, yoga (indoor and outdoor weather permitting), singing and dancing—all in French! Beginners to advanced, ages 3-8.

Douce France Fulham doucefrancelondon.com 11–29 July French summer holiday camp. The holiday period is a special time for children to continue their learning and development outside of school. Through play and physical activities, they will strengthen their familiesonline.co.uk

Yellowbird Education Fulham and Wandsworth www.yellowbirdeducation.com 18-22 July, 25-29 July, 22-26 August (5 days) and 30 August -1 September (3 days) Fun and engaging holiday workshop weeks where children develop skills in creative writing, English exam prep, maths, intensive handwriting, reasoning, like skills and arts and crafts. Pick the topic and times you prefer. Prices vary. Ages 2-11 in small groups.

Little House of Science Kensington W8 www.littlehouseofscience.com FamiliesSWLon

July/August 2022 • Families South West 17

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18 Families South West • July/August 2022

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HOLIDAY ACTIVITIES Playmakers London St Lukes Church, SW12 www.playmakerslondon.com 25-29 July Creative workshops filled with arts and crafts, fun activities like making bunting and weaving. Children will be sculpting figurines and creating 3D mountain scapes. Also improvised drama games, brush up on improvisation skills, boost confidence and play drama games. Ages 5-11. Book via the website.

including coding, touch-typing and games design, from beginners upwards. Learning is encouraged through exploration, creativity and fun as children naturally develop their computational skills while coding. These workshops are perfect for both beginners and those children who are looking to expand their coding skills. 6-teens.

Code Ninjas

Spark4Kids Various venues, in person and online. hello@spark4kids.com, 020 8090 1444 www.spark4kids.com 25 July-26 August. For children who love computers, Spark4Kids offer the ultimate holiday activities

Venues include Putney SW15 and Wimbledon SW19 www.codeninjas.co.uk Summer holidays From coding and game building, to STEM and robotics - it's an unforgettable experience. Sign up for an immersive environment where children explore and develop new skills with friends. Ages 5-15.

We have THREE copies to give away

Junior Wetland Rangers Do you think you have what it takes to care for our beautiful wetlands and super wildlife, and help WWT with their daily mission to save wetland nature? Why not become a Junior Wetland Ranger this summer and put your skills to the test!

interactive family session, taking place throughout the summer holiday.

Come rain or shine, WWT team is responsible for keeping all of their feathered and furred animals safe and healthy —caring every day for all the different species of birds and mammals that call London Wetland Centre their home.

Daily from Saturday 23 July to Friday 2 September. 11: 30, 12:30, 13:30 and 15:00 (30 min duration)

Simply email “Wild swims’ to

editor@familiessw.co.uk for your chance to win a copy. (Closing date: 22 July)

As a Junior Wetland Ranger your animal knowledge, mess cleaning and more will be tested to see if you’re up to the task. Join Top Trainer Sam Feather and Rookie Ranger Charlie Beak in this fun

It’s free to take part. Capacity is limited to 30 attendees. First come, First-served. Suitable for children age 5-11. Junior Wetland Rangers is produced in association with Story Spinner www.wwt.org.uk/wetlandcentres/london/whats-on/juniorwetland-rangers-2025

Outdoor Swimming London 140 best wild swims and lidos within easy reach of the capital By John Weller and Lola Culsán. £18.99 Take the kids swimming this summer! This brilliant new guide reveals hidden rivers, wooded lakes

and Art Deco lidos, all within an hour of the capital on public transport. Discover secret islands and beaches on the Thames, ﬁnd the most beautiful bohemian Art Deco lidos, swim in a turquoise blue lagoon hidden in woods and more.

Please tell advertisers you found them in Families familiesonline.co.uk

FamiliesSWLon

19July/August 2022 • Families South West 19

EDUCATION

How to have an educational holiday By Jemma Z Smith Holidays are all about swimming, having fun and playing games, all past bedtime, aren’t they? Living in the UK, our ‘big annual holiday’ often takes place in the summer and whether you are jetting o abroad or staying in a tent at home, this break is generally considered to be a time that is free from the demands of school and everything that comes along with it. What does it mean then to have an educational holiday? Do you have to stay inside and read books all day? Well, no. Holidays can be fun AND educational. You can use these tips to make sure that your child comes back from their summer break knowing a little bit more than they did before. Get kids involved with planning Whether you are choosing to go to Spain or Salcombe, get your child to look up the location on a map or on Google Earth. They can find out how many kilometres you will travel to get there, how long it will take to drive, walk or fly. This will help them contextualise the place they are visiting, hopefully avoiding the ‘are we nearly there yet?’ questions as well. Learn a bit of the local language Regardless of where you are travelling to, the locals will have a specific vernacular. Learning hello, goodbye and thank you is not just a way to introduce a new language to your child, it is also a great way to get along with the locals. Discuss any similarities between English and the local language, for example, in French the word for ‘dance’ is ‘danse.’

Take an immersive class If you are travelling to Italy, how about learning how to make pizza or pasta? If you’re on holiday in France, learn how to play boules; in Spain, try a bit of flamenco! It is a great way to celebrate a local culture and learn a new skill; after all, not all learning happens in the classroom. If you’re holidaying by the beach and your child likes being in the water, consider scuba diving, fishing or surfing tuition. Waiting games Instead of handing your child your phone when you’re in a queue for an attraction, try some simple word games. See how many words you can think of that are … a type of hat? Trilby, sombrero, cap, bowler! You could even bring along a pocket quiz game to keep you all occupied. Jemma Zoe Smith is Director of The Education Hotel (www.educationhotel.co.uk).

THE MONTESSORI SCHOOL

Educational travel activities THE MONTESSORI CHILDREN

HOLIDAY AND AFTER SCHOOL CLUBS

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.

Local children up to the age of 8yrs are welcome to join in with our fun and creative activity days during school breaks. School pick-ups and homework clubs are also available during term time.

CALL US TO BOOK A VISIT TO THE NURSERY

0208 673 8037

102 Chestnut Grove Balham, London, SW12 8JJ

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

www.themontessorischool.co.uk 20 Families South West • July/August 2022 FAMJul-Aug22.indd FAMJul-Aug22.indd 12 12

Here are some ideas to keep your kids’ ticking over whilst on holiday. Using currency and converting between pounds and local currency; Using a map and scales; Writing letters/postcards home; Writing a scrapbook/keeping a journal. There are also some longer projects that older kids can embark on and many of these relate to the school curriculum. I use these when I accompany students on their trips as a full-time tutor. Creating a vlog or website for friends and family; Getting involved with local conservation e orts; Learning about volcanoes or Egyptians by visiting key places and then creating a poster or presentation; Putting together a talk or a short video which will teach the class about the place you’re visiting; Writing a story for kids about the area that you are visiting.

familiesonline.co.uk 25/05/2022 25/05/2022 09:46 09:46

The Kensington Ballet School

KENSINGTON * CHELSEA * KNIGHTSBRIDGE MAYFAIR * PUTNEY * FULHAM * HOLLAND PARK NOTTING HILL * PIMLICO * ISLINGTON Pre-school toddler and RAD ballet | Ages 15 months - 10 years

Summer and half term holiday camps. Office: 07957 650 042 dance@kensingtonballet.com www.kensingtonballet.com

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FamiliesSWLondon

July/August 2022 • Families South West 21

Now booking ahead

Summer Performing Arts Camp Fulham Build your child’s conﬁdence and life skills through singing, drama and dance.

Filmed performance on ﬁnal day.

Encanto: SING 2: Frozen:

25-28 July 1-4 August 15-18 August

F 3-16 year olds

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littlevoices.org.uk/school-page/holiday-camps-in-fulham-richmond/ 3.30PM

020 8088 0113 swl@littlevoices.org.uk St Johns Walham Green Primary School, Fulham, SW6 6AS

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Daycare SOS is on a mission to help parents and their nursery For parents who need backup care With Daycare SOS you can now instantaneously book last-minute care at your local Ofsted registered nursery when your regular childcare falls through. Highly trained professionals in a safe and secure environment—whilst you dash to that urgent office meeting or last-minute commitment. They are free to use and you only pay for the care you book. For parents at a nursery Daycare SOS enable you to make your space available at your nursery for another local parent who may need it when you aren’t there.

Are you going abroad or know you will be leaving an empty space for a few days? Make your space available and in return you will receive cash into your bank account if your space is taken up. This helps the local community, the nursery and you. A win-win-win! When your nursery has joined the service you can start making your spaces available or even book additional days at your existing location.

As they expand their footprint across the UK, do contact founder Sam at Hello@DaycareSOS.com and let them know if there is a nursery near you you’d like to sign up. Follow news, nursery partners, and testimonials on Instagram and LinkedIn.

Simply go to www.daycaresos.com and click ‘Register as a Parent’. The process is super-simple and can be completed in a matter of minutes.

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FamiliesSWLondon

July/August 2022 • Families South West 23

EARLY YEARS

What are babies and toddlers thinking? Babies can’t tell you what they’re thinking and toddlers may not have all the words necessary to explain themselves. But sophisticated advances in technology are making it possible to get an understanding of their behavioural and cognitive development. This is the work of the Birkbeck Babylab & Toddlerlab (www.cbcd.bbk.ac.uk), a specialist university research centre in the heart of London, which has spent decades perfecting the art of running non-invasive studies of babies and toddlers, with the aim of uncovering how they develop and learn. Elena Throm is part of a new study at Birbeck which looks at babies’ social interactions and development. As part of the study, she is seeking to understand what environmental cues facilitate the development of brain regions involved in social interaction in that first year of life.

oxygen levels of blood in the brain) to investigate whether toddlers brains are interested in a specific task. Toddlers brains are studied via a novel child-friendly ‘helmet.’ Currently, Lisanne is running a behavioural study with 3-yearolds investigating whether children use both hands when constructing a toy house.

This pioneering study combines an artificial intelligence algorithm with babies’ responses to a range of visual, auditory, or live stimuli, analysed in real time. The algorithm uses the information about individual brain responses to the presented stimuli to identify the set of characteristics that leads to stronger responses in the baby’s social brain network.

The ability to co-ordinate the use of both hands at once is thought to develop in the second year of life. However, when the task is hard, 3-year-olds tend to rely on just one hand. Lisanne’s new toy house task will use easy goals to monitor whether or not these enable 3-year-olds to use both hands.

Elena is recruiting babies ages 5 to 12 months to help her with this exciting study.

Lisanne is also conducting studies with older children up to age 6, including one which involves children doing tasks with parents.

Although babies are happy to sit through Elena’s study, busy toddlers are not! Developments in mobile technology have allowed Birbeck to create studies that work for toddlers and children who are too busy to stay still. These take place in a ground-breaking and custom designed lab called the CAVE (cave automatic virtual environment). In this immersive virtual reality environment, projectors direct images at the walls and floor of a room size cube. The CAVE allows researchers to recreate any environment or scenario of interest, from playgrounds and school classrooms to meadows and mountains. The hope is that by conducting research in more naturalistic settings, the findings will be more relevant to life in the real world.

Using Birbeck’s new virtual reality lab, Chiara Bulgarelli is researching the role of empathy in toddlers’ daily social interactions. Her project will use virtual reality and fNIRS to investigate the social situations and behaviours that trigger empathic reactions in toddlers. She aims to map the behaviours through which toddlers express empathy and understand which brain regions are responsible for it. Birbeck also has researchers studying a variety of other areas, including the development of curiosity as a tool for learning and the impact of socioeconomic status and the home environment on school readiness. If you have a baby, toddler or older child, and would like to help Birbeck with any of its research, you can find out more at www.cbcd.bbk.ac.uk/toddlerlab

In her current research, Lisanne Schröer is using a combination of motion capture and fNIRS (a child-friendly method to measure

Calling all young Scientists! Help us discover how babies & kids learn! We’re recruiting infants from birth to school age to take part in fun studies at Birkbeck’s Babylab & ToddlerLab in central London. Our prime locations are easy to reach and we refund travel expenses. We also have online studies you can do from the comfort of home www.cbcd.bbk.ac.uk/online-studies

020 3926 1207 babylab@bbk.ac.uk www.cbcd.bbk.ac.uk

To advertise in

FREE copy of Help your Child Cope with Change Families has teamed up with Summersdale to o er readers this accessible guide to supporting your child through di icult experiences and life changes, including divorce, new siblings or the loss of a loved one. Change is part of life but for a child, events such as starting school, dealing with changes in the family or unsettled times in the wider world can feel destabilising and frightening. As parents and carers, it can sometimes be hard to know what to do for the best. This book, written by Liat Joshi Hughes, o ers actionable tips that will give you and your child the tools to navigate di icult times.

Call: 0208 696 9680 24 Families South West • July/August 2022 FAMJul-Aug22.indd 11

To apply for your free copy, visit www.familiesmag.co.uk/go Closing date: 19 August. T&Cs at https://bit.ly/Famhelpyourchild

familiesonline.co.uk 25/05/2022 09:46

CHILDCARE

The summer holiday childcare jigsaw By Andrew Campbell For many parents, the long summer holidays can cause a massive childcare headache requiring an enormous amount of juggling and ‘piecing it together’ and involving substantial cost. If you’re facing the school holiday childcare puzzle right now, then here are some of the pieces you might be able to fit together in your jigsaw. Family care Family members, typically grandparents, are often more than happy to share the childcare burden and with this comes with the advantage of knowing your children are with someone you all trust. Your kids will benefit by learning they don’t need you all the time and will build long-lasting bonds. Other parents Teaming up with other parents by taking turns to care for each other’s children is a great way to spread the load. But this will require forward planning and organisation - so get in now. Try setting up a summer childcare WhatsApp group with the parents of your child’s friends. Private nursery Many nurseries continue as normal throughout the summer but those adjoined to schools and pre-schools usually follow school term dates. Some private nurseries will take on some younger children just for the summer holidays. Contact them to enquire. Childminders Childminders care for small groups of children of di erent ages in the childminder’s home. The children usually come from di erent families and sometimes include the childminder’s own children. If you currently use a childminder, ask about availability

for summer childcare as they take holidays too. Nanny share A nanny share or ‘home childcarer’ is when you and another family share the costs and responsibilities of employing a nanny to look after your children in your home. Nannies can often work for two or more families, by caring for the children all at the same time or by splitting the week between them. Holiday camps and workshops Run by private providers, these can be multi-activity day camps focussing on a variety of sport and/or creative activities or single activity camps focussed on a specific sport/creative activity. Holiday workshops tend to take place for shorter more intense periods and, often organised by providers that also o er weekly term time classes, they o er a valuable opportunity to receive elite coaching and tuition. Holiday play schemes Playschemes are usually for children of primary school age. Run by schools, councils, youth clubs and community groups, they provide a range of activities and typically cost around £30 a day although this can vary widely, with subsidised prices o ered for low-income households.

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Where to find childcare?

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Finding someone you trust to look after your children can be a formidable undertaking. There are three main ways of finding the best person for the job. Using an agency Whilst there will be additional agency fees payable, using an agency means you don’t have to check references/backgrounds and do Disclosure Barring Service (DBS) checks. Look out for agencies registered with ANA (Association of Nanny Agencies) or the British Au Pair Agencies Association (Bapaa). Searching and advertising Parents who wish to employ someone directly can search or advertise on websites such as www.searchchildcare.org.uk, www.childcare.co.uk, www.nannyjob.co.uk or even www.gumtree.com. Check https://bit.ly/FamChildmind for local registered childminders and look up a childminder’s latest Ofsted report at www.ofsted.gov.uk/inspection-reports Word of mouth Ask friends, neighbours and parents you know in the local area. Personal experience is likely to give you the best insight into the quality of childcare care o ered by a provider.

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July/August 2022 • Families South West 25 25/05/2022 09:46

What’s On July/August 2022

Compiled by Robina Cowan

All details are as provided when going to press, however in case of changes, do double-check before setting out

If you only do one thing this month... Small is Beautiful Old Brompton Road SW7 3LD www.smallisbeautiful.com One of the largest exhibitions entirely devoted to mini art has come to London, featuring extraordinary works and photographic pieces created by artists from across the world. The unique and poetic world of miniature art includes behind-the-scenes videos and popup shops, and creative workshops for children on Sundays.

DIARY DATES Summer Science Exhibition Royal Society, SW1Y 5AG www.royalsociety.org/summerscience 6-10 July Science comes to life over ﬁve inspiring days featuring real-life scientists, robots, interactive exhibits, mind-boggling artefacts and more. The Royal Society’s annual showcase has science activities for all ages, with a weekend family events programme including craft workshops and nature adventures into St James Park. Open to all, and FREE.

River Stage Festival National Theatre, South Bank SE1 9PX

www.nationaltheatre.org.uk 15 July - 14 August Five weekends of outdoor fun celebrating the best of British culture. Choose from live streamed theatre, dance performances, DJ sets, drag queen displays, workshops and plenty of activities for the whole family to enjoy. All outdoors, and all FREE.

Pawfect Street Party Embassy Gardens, Nine Elms SW11 7AY www.embassygardens.com 3 September Join a party that’s open to all Londoners and their four-legged friends! Partnering with renowned global dog rescue foundation, Wild at Heart, the day will offer a jam packed schedule of activities including a dogstacle course competition, relay race, poochie pose photo experience and human Crufts. A unique market will also be installed exclusively for the day, offering all the doggy delights. Free, book ﬁrst. Noon-6pm.

En ngineering g Open Ho ouse Day 2022 Now in its seven nth year, Engineering g Open House Day is all about showing children an nd their paren just how excitin ng a career in enginee ering can be On Friday,, 29 July, companie es across the country will be opening their doors to give exclusive behind the scenes access to the wonderful world of eng gineering and technolo Plus, we’ll be holding our verry own event in London with lots of inter i active exhibitss and d ttwo very exciting iti liv li e sh h ws hosted ho h t d by b Gr G eg Foot, t with ith spe ecial i l guests t iincludin l ding Dangerous Dan! Yo ou don’t want w to miss it.

Visit our website to ﬁnd out what’s happening near you or registter for our London event

theiet.org/ /O OpenHouse TheInstitutionofEngineeringandT Te echnology #IETOpenHouse @TheIET The Institution of Engineering and T Te echno ology is registered as a Charity in England and Walles (No. 211014) and Scotland (No. SC038698). Futures Place, Kings Wayy,, Steven nage, Hertfordshire, SG1 2UA, United Kingdom.

26 Families South West • July/August 2022

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What’s On July/August 2022 World Food Festival

Underbelly Festival

Norbury Park, Green Lane SW16 3LX https://bit.ly/3a5lPvY 3 & 4 September See out the tail end of summer at a huge outdoor celebration of food from around the world, featuring over 20 of the UK’s best restaurants, street food vendors and dessert traders. There will be live music, cooking demos and activities for the whole family. Children’s fun will include workshops, funfair rides, bouncy castles and facepainting. Book ﬁrst.

Cavendish Square W1G 0PU and Earl’s Court SW6 www.underbellyfestival.com Until 30 July Catch the ‘tail end’ of this summer’s two-venue festival featuring the iconic Upside Down Purple Cow, top-quality live entertainment, amazing outdoor bars and street food. Performances include comedy for children, acrobatics, art, magic, bubbles and a ﬁnal day Baby Disco with Monski Mouse.

Cadogan Hall

SHOWS & CONCERTS Dopamine Land Old Brompton Road SW7 3LD www.dopaminelandexperience.com

Sloane Terrace SW1X 9DQ www.tiddlerlive.com 29 July - 21 August Tiddler and Other Terriﬁc Tales Prepare to go under the sea, out on the farm and into the jungle, as four

terriﬁc tales are bought to life on stage with live music, puppetry and a whole host of colourful characters from the much-loved titles by Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler.

Lyric Hammersmith Theatre

wonderfully colourful world of Carle’s illustrations.

Take a trip into an imaginary realm, ﬁlled with optical illusions, sound effects and themed rooms for the ultimate sensory experience. Visitors navigate around multiple colour-ﬁlled themed rooms with activities that recall nostalgic childhood games. All ages.

Polka Theatre

Arts Depot

The Broadway SW19 1SB www.polkatheatre.com Until 7 August The Paper Dolls Adapted from the acclaimed picture book created by former Children’s Laureate Julia Donaldson with award-winning illustration by Rebecca Cobb, the story comes to life with stunning puppetry and original music. Ages 3-7. Until 20 August The Pirate, the Princess and the Platypus A brand new comic fairy-tale adventure about choosing your destiny, discovering your identity, and ﬁnding your friends. Enter a magical musical world of pirate kings, queens, frogs, tall towers and shipwrecks; of French fancies and barrels of grog! Ages 5+.

Nether Street N12 0GA www.pirateshowlive.co.uk 21-31 July Pirate Show Live Dive into the thrilling world of pirates. Audiences will see some of the best acrobatic performances from around the world, weaving an engaging, magical and original story. Tickets include a meal and a complimentary gift for children. Ages 3+.

Colourhouse Theatre Merton Abbey Mills SW19 2RD www.colourhousetheatre.co.uk 3 September - 6 November The Little Mermaid Hans Christian Andersen’s enchanting tale is adapted in this innovative musical that will leave the entire family swishing their tails all the way home! familiesonline.co.uk

Terrible Thames From Tower Bridge Quay www.terriblethames.com Daily tours Provided by the Horrible Histories team, this is a boat tour all about the history of the Thames with the nasty bits left in! There’s no better way to learn about the country's most famous river and the incredible history of the nation's capital. Departing from Tower Bridge Quay, the fantastic journey incorporates immersive theatre to surprise and shock in equal measure as it delivers its unique take on London, thrilling both children and adults alike.

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King Street W6 0QL www.lyric.co.uk 16 August - 4 September The Very Hungry Caterpillar Show Four master puppeteers weave their way through four of Eric Carle’s stories, bringing to life a menagerie of 75 enchanting puppets in a magical show that faithfully recreates the

Leicester Square Theatre Leicester Place WC2H 7BX www.leicestersquaretheatre.com 10-14 August Twirlywoos Live! Featuring all the favourite characters from the hit TV show, expect mischief, music and plenty of surprises as Toodloo, Great BigHoo, Chickedy, Chick and Peekaboo embark on a new adventure onboard their Big Red Boat.

their garden. Told through a fantastic blend of inventive puppetry, charming storytelling and toe-tapping music, the show features all the familiar voices from the CBeebies series.

18-21 August Sarah & Duck’s Big Top Birthday follows Sarah and Duck as they plan a circus-themed birthday party for Scarf Lady in

July/August 2022 • Families South West 27

What’s On July/August 2022 SHOWS & CONCERTS continued The Questors Theatre

Prince Edward Theatre

Mattock Lane W5 5BQ www.questors.org.uk 27-31 July Shrek the Musical Take an imprisoned princess, a wisecracking donkey, a short tempered bad guy and a gang of fairy-tale misﬁts and you have a situation that calls for a real hero. The perfect must-see family musical, heart-warming, fun and packed with laughs. Until 6 August Teach Rex Get up close and personal with life-like dinosaurs, learning all about them in an interactive show teamed with music and special effects. Ages 3+.

Old Compton Street W1D 4HS www.princeedwardtheatre.co.uk Mary Poppins Disney and Cameron Mackintosh’s iconic stage adventure is ﬁlled with music, lyric, dancing, incredible effects and of course - the world’s favourite nanny. Supercalifragilisticexpialidocious!

Ciné Lumière Institut Français, Queensbury Place SW7 2DT www.institut-francais.org.uk/cinelumiere Join CinéFamilies for a mix of English and subtitled French language ﬁlms and events for all ages from babies to teens.

The Exchange London Road, Twickenham TW1 1BE www.exchangetwickenham.co.uk

7 August Teach Rex Get up

close and personal with life-like dinosaurs, learning all about them in an interactive show teamed with music and special effects. Ages 3+.

Cambridge Theatre Earlham Street WC2H 9HU www.lwtheatres.co.uk/theatres/ca mbridge Matilda the Musical This is the story of an extraordinary little girl who, armed with a vivid imagination and a sharp mind, dares to take a stand and change her own destiny. Don’t miss the multi-award winning musical from the Royal Shakespeare Company. Ages 6+.

Little Angel Theatre Dagmar Passage N1 2DN www.littleangeltheatre.com Until 31 July I Want My Hat Back Featuring all the favourites including Bear, Little Fish and Turtle, Jon Klassen’s beloved ‘hat’ characters have a brand new life of their own, live onstage in a one-of-a-kind trilogy. Ages 3-6.

London Coliseum

Shakespeare’s Globe New Globe Walk SE1 9DT www.shakespearesglobe.com

Compiled by Robina Cowan

28 July - 21 August Midsummer Mechanicals Your eyes will pop, your mouth will gape and your sides will split as the Mechanicals present a theatrical dream like no other. Suitable for the young and young at heart.

St Martin’s Lane WC2N 4ES www.peppapiglive.com 24+31 July Peppa Pig: My First Concert Peppa Pig, along with Mummy Pig, Daddy Pig and George, are coming to you in a fun, interactive introduction to a

live orchestra. Little piggies in the audience will be introduced to the different instruments that make up an orchestra and inspired to sing along to their favourite songs from the recordbreaking TV series.

Regents Park Open Air Theatre

Regents Park NW1 4NU www.openairtheatre.com 12 July - 28 August 101 Dalmatians Join Pongo, Perdi and their adorable litter of puppies as they try to escape the clutches of everyone’s favourite villain, Cruella de Vil. Packed with puppetry and brilliant songs, this brand new musical adaptation of the classic story is perfect for a summer’s day. BSL interpreted, audio described, captioned and relaxed performances also available.

9+10 August As You Like It with CBeebies Featuring favourite CBeebies stars, this special live adaptation of Shakespeare’s comedy is guaranteed to include plenty of songs, dancing and joining in. Ages 3+.

Gillian Lynne Theatre Drury Lane WC2B 5PW www.lionwitchonstage.com 18 July - January The Lion, The Witch and The Wardrobe Join Lucy, Edmund, Susan and Peter as they wave goodbye to wartime Britain and embark on the most magical of adventures. In a frozen, faraway land they meet Mr Tumnus the faun, talking beavers and Aslan (the noble king of Narnia). Samantha Womack stars as the coldest, most evil White Witch.

28 Families South West • July/August 2022

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What’s On July/August 2022 Wyndham’s Theatre Charing Cross Road WC2H 0DA www.wyndhamstheatre.co.uk Until 30 October Life of Pi

After a cargo ship sinks in the middle of the vast Paciﬁc Ocean, there are ﬁve survivors stranded on a lifeboat - a hyena, a zebra, an orangutan, a Royal Bengal tiger, and a sixteen year-old boy named Pi. Time is against them, nature is harsh, who will survive? Featuring breath-taking puppetry and state-of-the-art visuals, Life of Pi tells of an epic journey of endurance and hope. Ages 8+.

Lyric Theatre Shaftsbury Avenue W1D 7ES www.roomonthebroomlive.com 21 July - 4 September Room on the Broom Julia Donaldson and Axel Shleffler’s acclaimed book comes to life on stage with enchanting puppetry, sing-alongs and hilarious fun. Ages 3+.

BABY & TODDLER ACTIVITIES Bach to Baby Various venues www.bachtobaby.com Critically-acclaimed classical concerts for babies and their grownups. Outstanding musicians put on exhilarating performances where babies can ‘join in’ with as much noise as they like! 11 July in Notting Hill 16 July and 20 August in Pimlico 6 August in Balham & Streatham 11 August in Putney 19 August in Clapham & Battersea

Adventure Babies Natural History Museum SW7 5BD www.nhm.ac.uk Every other Tuesday Sensory storytelling classes brought to you by award-winning Adventure Babies, ﬁlled with sensory props, magical stories, singing and messy play. Ages 0-4.

MUSEUMS

Bring Your Own Baby Comedy Various venues www.byobcomedy.com A funny, friendly afternoon of top comedy, where baby can come too and join in with the rumpus. Shows feature a new line up of comedians each month with two acts plus a compere. Ages: grownups plus under 12 months. 13 July in Clapham

Mini Masterpieces Dulwich Picture Gallery SE21 7AD www.dulwichpicturegallery.org.uk Last Thursday of every month Take your little one on a journey through the Gallery to discover people, places and animals in paintings, followed by a ‘messy play’ art-making activity. Ages under 5.

Natural History Museum Cromwell Road SW7 5BD www.nhm.ac.uk Until December Dippy the Dinosaur The nation's favourite diplodocus is back for a short visit. Discover Dippy’s many stories, from early stardom to more recent adventures, and ﬁnd out which other dinosaurs lived 155-145 million years ago during the Jurassic Period. Once a month Dino Snores for Kids Spend a night amongst the museum’s incredible collections, exploring world class galleries after hours and sleeping beneath Hope, the breathtaking blue whale skeleton in

The Garden Museum Lambeth Palace Road SE1 7LB www.gardenmuseum.org.uk 6 July - 4 September The Secret Garden An exhibition of illustrations created for Frances Hodgson Burnett’s classic children’s book by artists including E.H. Shepherd, Lauren Child, Inga Moore and MinaLima. Look out for summer holiday workshops, talks and learning activities suitable for children and families.

SEN DAYS OUT A number of major London venues offer quieter sessions for visitors with SEN including those with an Autism Spectrum Condition, where they can enjoy everything on offer, free from the hustle and bustle of the general public. Venues include the Natural History Museum, London Transport Museum, The Science Museum, Tower Bridge,

the Postal Museum and British Library - check their websites for dates and details. Once a month on Saturdays SENsory Sailors at the National Maritime Museum 30 July and 20 August SEND Explorers at London Transport Museum

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Hintze Hall. After setting up camp in one of the amazing galleries, there’s an evening of awesome learning activities before bedtime, and breakfast in the morning. Ages 7-11.

Tower of London Tower of London EC3N 4AB www.hrp.org.uk/tower-of-london Until 18 September Superbloom at the Tower Over 20 million mixed seeds have been sown in the Tower’s moat, to create a spectacular, colourful field of flowers to mark the HM The Queen’s Platinum Jubilee. Grab a mat and slide down the Superbloom slide and follow the visitor route through the display. Wander along weaving paths among the flowers enjoying a specially commissioned soundscape, with sculptural elements to

make you feel at home amidst the bees and butterﬂies. Don’t forget to take your camera for a memorable and truly photogenic opportunity.

July/August 2022 • Families South West 29

What’s On July/August 2022 MUSEUMS continued

Horniman Museum London Road SE23 3PQ www.horniman.ac.uk Until 30 October Cats and Dogs Discover more about our fascinating furry friends in this interactive, family-friendly exhibition. Go on an exciting, sensory journey, exploring what it’s like to be a cat or a dog.

150 London Wall EC2Y 5HN www.museumoﬂondon.org.uk Until December I Want To Play Football World-leading striker and England team captain Harry Kane is celebrated in a rarely seen display

V&A Museum

The Foundling Museum Brunswick Square WC1N 1AZ www.foundlingmuseum.org.uk Until 28 August Superheroes, Orphans and Origins Enter into the world of superheroes in this ﬁrst major exhibition to explore the representation of foundlings, orphans, adoptees, and foster children in comics, graphic novels and sequential art from around the globe.

Kensington Gardens W8 4PX www.hrp.org.uk/kensington-palace Until 4 October Life Through a Royal Lens The British Royal Family has had a long relationship with the camera. Dating from Queen Victoria and Prince Albert’s early patronage of photography, this exhibition features formal portraits and lesser known intimate family portraits spanning many decades.

London Transport Museum Covent Garden Piazza WC2E 7BB www.ltmuseum.co.uk Explore the heritage of London and its transport system, and the stories of the people who have travelled and worked in the city over the last 200 years. Legacies: London Transport’s Caribbean Workforce Many people know about the history of Windrush, but are less familiar with London Transport’s advertising recruitment campaign to attract employees directly from the Caribbean to London from 1956 to 1970. Uncover stories and memories from ﬁrst, second and third generation Caribbean people who worked for LT in the past and now work for its successor, Transport for London (TfL).

The Postal Museum Phoenix Place WC1X 0DA www.postalmuseum.org Ride through hidden tunnels and discover stories of Britain’s postal heritage through incredible objects, exciting stories and fun-ﬁlled interactive displays. A Postal Play Space has sackloads of indoor play fun for under 8s. Until 1 January Sorting Britain From wartime tech pioneers to Poco the Postcode Elephant, this is the surprising story of the postcode. The Post Office innovation revolutionised how post was processed, sorted, and delivered.

The British Museum Great Russell Street WC1B 3GD www.britishmuseum.org Until 17 July The World of Stonehenge The story and secrets of Stonehenge are brought into focus, revealing that prehistoric Britain was a place of big ideas, commerce and travel, rather than a shadowy land of mystery. Until 25 September Feminine Power: The Divine to the Demonic Explore how femininity has been perceived across the globe, from the ancient world to today. The exhibition brings together ancient sculpture, sacred artefacts and contemporary art from six

Cromwell Road SW7 2RL www.vam.ac.uk/families Beatrix Potter: Drawn to Nature This family friendly exhibition takes visitors on a journey to discover Potter’s life as a scientist and conservationist, exploring the places and animals that inspired her most beloved characters. In collaboration with the National Trust, featuring original paintings, letters and photographs.

Kensington Palace

Compiled by Robina Cowan

Museum of London

continents, revealing feminine power through deities, goddesses, demons, saints and other spiritual beings.

of personal items, family photos and iconic objects documenting his career so far. The free display aims to inspire the next generation and encourage visitors of all ages to be their best and never give up on their dreams.

National Maritime Museum Romney Road, Greenwich SE10 9NF www.rmg.co.uk Monthly dates SENsory Sailors Families with children with special educational needs and disabilities are invited to explore the collection, enjoy the opportunity to be creative together as a family, and meet other local families. Sessions are led by a SEND specialist and respond to the needs of the participating families. Ages 13 and under. Free, book ﬁrst. Until 25 September Canaletto’s Venice Revisited A major exhibition displaying the complete set of 24 Venetian views painted by Canaletto in the 1730s.The works, from the world-famous collection at Woburn Abbey, form the largest single commission the Italian artist ever received. Sundays Discover Sundays Each week a different artist takes families on a journey into the museum’s collection, featuring stories and creative activities. All ages, free.

Royal Observatory Greenwich Blackheath Avenue SE10 8XJ www.rmg.co.uk/royal-observatory Various dates The Sky Tonight A live show taking visitors on a tour of what can be seen in the night sky. See the stars, constellations, planets and moons, including a ﬂy-out to the edge of the visible universe. Ages 7+. Various Ted’s Space Adventure Explore the solar system with a bear named Ted, learning about the things we ﬁnd there and how they affect us. Ages 3-7.

30 Families South West • July/August 2022

The Design Museum

Kensington High Street W8 6AG www.designmuseum.org Until 29 August Football: Designing the Beautiful Game Whether you are a fanatical supporter, part-time punter or sporting sceptic, visitors to this exhibition will enjoy discovering the remarkable design stories behind the world's beautiful game, from stadium designs to team badges and innovations in kit creation.

Cutty Sark

guides bring to life on-board stories, from the perspective of the most senior captains to the vital supporting workers. Ages 3+.

King William Walk SE10 9HT www.rmg.co.uk/cuttysark Various dates Rig Climb Experience Climb the famous masts and enjoy views of the Thames and London like no other. Visitors can traverse one of the ship’s lower yardarms before reaching the top platform, taking in the view from the rigging of a true London icon. Ages 12+. Weekends and school holidays Cutty Sark Characters Costumed

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What’s On July/August 2022 Museum of London Docklands West India Quay E14 4AL www.museumoﬂondon.org.uk/doc klands Once upon a time, London was the hub of the world’s largest empire, and this museum tells its tales of trade, slavery, life in Victorian times and through the wars. Mudlarks is a free interactive space where under 8s can discover, explore and play. Admission free. Until 17 July Feeding Black: Community, Power & Place This

free display at the Museum of London Docklands spotlights four southeast London African and Caribbean businesses and their owners, exploring how they are much more than the services and goods they provide.

THE GREAT OUTDOORS

ART GALLERIES Tate Modern Bankside SE1 9TG www.tate.org.uk/visit/tatemodern 23 July - 29 August Tate Play Help transform a blank white apartment into a sea of colourful dots, in Yayoi Kusama’s ‘The Obliteration Room.’ As well as having a chance to cover every available surface of the installation with bright circular stickers, families will also be able

Dulwich Picture Gallery Kew Royal Botanic Gardens Kew TW9 3AE. www.kew.org 31 August - 4 September Kew the Movies Pack a picnic and enjoy a ﬁlm presented in full high deﬁnition

on a giant screen in the magical Kew Gardens. The programme features an epic line-up of new and classic ﬁlms, including family favourites Moana, Sing 2, Aladdin and Encanto Sing-Along. Until 18 September Food Forever A summer programme looking at the future of food and the impact our day-to-day eating habits have on the world around us. Large scale art installations bring information to life in an engaging way.

Gallery Road SE21 7AD www.dulwichpicturegallery.org.uk Until 4 September Reframed: The Woman in the Window Featuring artworks from ancient civilisations to present day, the exhibition brings together over 50 works by artists including Rembrandt Harmensz van Rijn, Dante Gabriel Rossetti, David Hockney, Louise Bourgeois, Cindy Sherman. The enigmatic motif of the ‘woman in the window’ is portrayed through

to create their own work of art to add to an ever-growing garden in the Turbine Hall.

painting, sculpture, print, photography and ﬁlm.

FRE E

TAKE

Hever Castle & Gardens Edenbridge, Kent TN8 7NG www.hevercastle.co.uk 23 July - 31 August Spellbound Summer Enter the magic of Hever during medieval times. Resident sorcerers will be on hand to share spell-casting tricks, talk about magical creatures and call on your help to defend the castle from a dragon. Dress as your favourite fairy-tale character for the chance to win a certiﬁcate. July and August weekends Jousting Tournaments Join Henry VIII, Anne Boleyn and the Knights of Royal England in the procession to the Jousting arena. Take a blanket to watch the tournament from the two acre ﬁeld or watch the joust in style from the medieval spectator stands (£2 per seat).

Eltham Palace and Gardens Court Yard SE9 5QE www.english-heritage.org.uk/eltham 23 July - 4 September Medieval Season From jester workshops, have-a-go archery, storytelling and squire training to lessons in courtly etiquette, there will be a different activity each week for children to take part in. familiesonline.co.uk

Then choose which knights you support and cheer them to glory. Until 22 November Becoming Anne: Connections, Culture, Court Visit the childhood home of Anne Boleyn for an exhibition depicting her early life and learn how she became the woman who so caught Henry VIII’s eye.

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13+14 August Legendary Joust Experience the exhilarating spectacle of speed and skill as four legendary knights compete for honour and glory in the Grand Medieval Joust. See lances shatter, feel the thunder of hooves and hear the roar of the crowd as reputations are won and lost.

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