Families London Kent Borders May-June 2018 Issue 43 by Families Magazine

SUMMER HOLIDAY CAMPS AND COURSES GUIDE PLUS: Education Health Clubs and classes Out & about

T H E E S S E N T I A L M AG A Z I N E F O R PA R E N T S O F

2018 AGa EfD 0–T E E N S kIssue u.oc43 .enMay/June iClnH IoL sDeR EilNim

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CALLING ALL ADVENTURERS! The smash-hit production We’re Going on a Bear Hunt is returning to the West End this Summer! To celebrate, we’re giving away one family ticket (admits 4). There are a number of bear paw prints hidden throughout this magazine. To WIN, find them all and email your answer together with you name (subject heading BEAR HUNT Families London-Kent Borders COMPETITON) to info@Kennywax.com before midnight 30 June 2018). Join our intrepid family of adventurers for this fun-filled adaptation of Michael Rosen’s We’re Going on a Bear Hunt at the Lyric Theatre Shaftesbury Avenue from 4 July. Live music, original songs and lots of audience interaction make this the perfect summer treat!

T&Cs – Prize is for one family ticket (admits 4, mind 1 adult) to see We’re Going on a Bear Hunt at the Lyric Theatre, Shaftesbury Avenue from 4 July – 2 September 2018. The winner will be selected by random prize draw of entries with the correct answer. Tickets are subject to availability, hold no cash value, and a non-transferable. Answers will not be accepted after the closing date of midnight 30 June 2018 and all decisions will be final.

WIN an Annual Family Membership to Dreamland Margate for up to 5 People-worth £190! The oldest surviving amusement park in the UK, Dreamland Margate is a world-class visitor attraction that offers all the fun of the festival for everyone to enjoy. Located opposite the golden sands of Margate, Dreamland boasts: ✸ vintage, family and thrill rides ✸ pop-up entertainment ✸ live music and art installations ✸ a vintage arcade and street food An Annual Family Membership entitles you to visit as many times as you wish throughout the summer holidays and all year round! For more information and membership benefits, visit www.dreamland.co.uk/membership TO ENTER

Email your answers to the following questions to info@familiesmagazine.co.uk no later than 23 June 2018:

✸ Tell us in 50 words (or more) why you find Families magazine a useful tool for family life?

Terms & Conditions: • Please note that height restrictions apply on all rides and we cannot guarantee that all rides will be in operation on the date of your visit. • Events are subject to availability and operated on first come first served basis. • Under 14s must be accompanied by an adult aged 18 and over

MAY - JUNE 2018 www.familiesonline.co.uk

New for Summer 2018: daily aerial circus act + new, exciting family friendly rides

✸ How likely are you to respond to a piece of advertising you see in Families? a Very likely b Possibly c Unlikely

• All Dreamland terms and conditions of entry apply https://www.dreamland.co.uk/terms • Membership terms and conditions apply • In case of query, please contact Dreamland at office@dreamland.co.uk or 01843 295887

Runner-Up Best Family Theme Park 2017 Family Traveller Awards

In this issue...

Families London–Kent Borders Magazine or Twitter @familieslkb

ISSUE 43: MAY/JUNE 2018

6 Health

13 4 Family Hospice charity wins care charity of the year

13 Outdoor Adventures Getting everyone off their screens and into the great outdoors

6 Health An hour of moderate exercise every day for Children

14 Out & About The best of What’s On near Ismini Phillips - Familys Magazine advert AW 2710914_AW.pdf you this Summer

8 Education STEM: Helping children with the fundamentals of education 10 Clubs and Classes Summer holiday camps and courses guide

Outdoor A dventures

Front cover: © Image Studio theimagestudio-uk.com

Editor: Mima Walia 07792 006546

editor@familieslondonkent.co.uk Design: Kevin Smith Listings Editor: Anna Blackshaw

CMY

Families London-Kent Borders Magazine is part of Families Print Ltd, a franchise company. All franchised magazines in the group are independently owned and operated under licence. Families is a registered trademark of LCMB Ltd, Remenham House, Regatta Place, Marlow Road, Bourne End, Bucks SL8 5TD. The contents of Families London-Kent Borders are fully protected by copyright and none of the editorial or photographic matter may be reproduced in any form without prior consent of Families London-Kent Borders. Every care is taken in the preparation of this magazine, but the franchise company, Families Print Ltd and Lifecycle Marketing cannot be held responsible for the claims of advertisers nor for the accuracy of the contents, or any consequence thereof.

www.familiesonline.co.uk MAY - JUNE 2018

Family News

HOSPICE CHARITY WINS CARE CHARITY OF THE YEAR Leading provider in specialist palliative and end of life care, ellenor was named ‘Care Charity of the Year’ at the Kent Charity 2018 Awards, which recognises the outstanding contribution charities and voluntary groups undertake to make the lives of others better. The award recognises the Hospice’s commitment to its patients and their families in delivering high quality care and support when it is needed most. ellenor was shortlisted alongside the Kent Autistic Trust and Pilgrims Hospices. ellenor is the only charity in the county that provides hospice care for people of all ages, from the very young to the very old, in their place of choice, and Children’s Hospice at Home. This means that across Kent we can be there for adults, children and young people, ensuring they have access to the very best care and support. Each year demand for our services is increasing – last year they cared for over 2,500 families. Claire Cardy, ellenor’s Chief Executive said: “We are thrilled and deeply honoured to win ‘Care Charity of the Year’ and to be recognised that our personalised approach to care is making such a difference to people’s lives. I am incredibly proud of the whole team and I would like to thank the staff and volunteers for everything they do. They help us to deliver the highest quality care to our patients and their families and this award recognises their work tirelessly supporting others behind the scenes. My special thanks also goes to our faithful and committed supporters, who enable us to raise the necessary funds to provide our services free of charge to patients and their families”.

Foster Care Fortnight You Can Make a Difference Foster Care Fortnight™ runs from 14 to 27 May and is the UK’s biggest foster carer awareness raising campaign delivered by leading fostering charity, The Fostering Network. The campaign showcases the commitment, passion and dedication of foster carers. It demonsrates that ‘foster care transforms lives’ - not just the lives of the young people who are fostered, but also those of foster carers and their families and friends.

Now in their fifth year, the Kent Charity awards have become an unmissable date in the third sector diaries. The awards ceremony was held on Thursday 15 March at Priestfield Stadium in Gillingham.

Undoubtedly fostering is challenging but there are tremendous rewards including making a positive difference to a vulnerable child or young person, opportunities to expand skills through training courses, the chance to develop relationships that can last a lifetime and generous financial incentives. The satisfaction and pride in helping a young person with difficulties develop into a rounded individual is the ultimate reward for the majority of foster carers.

If you would like to find out more about ellenor and its services please visit www.ellenor.org or call 01474 320007.

For more information, visit www.thefosteringnetwork.org.uk/couldyoufoster

MENTAL HEALTH ISSUES STARTING EARLY One in 10 children aged five to 16 - or three in every classroom have a diagnosable mental health problem and 75% of mental illness starts before the age of 18 according to statistics. Place2Be, a national charity providing emotional support to children, advises that it’s never too early or too late to start thinking about your child’s mental health. Some simple actions you can take at any age to help promote positive mental health include: • Carving out time to be with your child one-to-one. Put other worries to one side and actively listen to them and their feelings. • E njoying a quiet activity together can make it easier to talk to your child and can encourage your child to open up naturally. • Taking a step back from today’s busy lives and enjoy some dedicated time listening and playing with your child. • Creative activities such as art and craft can encourage bonding with your child. • Providing a stable and consistent environment, with clear boundaries helps children feel secure and better able to learn about and cope with the world around them. • B e kind to yourself and look after your own mental health. This will have the most beneficial impact of all on the wellbeing of your child. For more information and advice, visit www.place2be.org.uk

MAY - JUNE 2018 www.familiesonline.co.uk

Family News

WIN TWO FAMILY TICKETS TO THE FESTIVAL THEATRE AT HEVER CASTLE! To enter simply answer the following question:

Which Castle can you go and see Red Riding Hood and Squash Box’s own The Sea Show? Please go to our facebook page www.facebook.com/FamiliesLKB and like our page, share and leave your answer. Competition closes 20th May 2018, terms and conditions apply. Come and join The Festival at Hever Castle this summer to see some wonderful family friendly performances such Little Red Riding Hood and Squash Box’s own The Sea Show. For a barrel of laughs that will tickle your funny bone, it’s definitely worth putting in your diary. Book your tickets today at www.heverfestival.co.uk Hever Festival Buy Tickets www.heverfestival-tickets.co.uk/event_listing.aspx

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Health

An Hour of Moderate Exercise Every Day for Children By Andrew Campbell

he number of children meeting the recommended amount of physical activity for healthy development and to maintain a healthy weight, which is 60 minutes a day, drops by 40% as they move through primary school. A new survey from Public Health England (PHE) and Disney looking at the effects of physical activity on children’s emotional wellbeing, found:

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• B eing active made the majority of 5 to 11 year olds feel happier, more confident and more sociable, according to their parents • Nearly all children said they liked being active • The main motivations for kids to be more active were having friends to join in and having more sports or activities they liked to choose from • Children’s overall happiness declines with age; 64% of 5 and 6 year olds said they always feel happy, compared to just 48% of 11 year olds Currently, just under a quarter of boys and fewer girls meet the national recommended level of activity. Furthermore, 1 in 5 children start primary school overweight or obese, rising to more than a third by the time they leave. The survey identified the main barriers to physical activity and reveals that the worry of ‘not being very good’ was one of the most common. This increases with age. AS SEEN ON

As part of its campaign to assist children to engage in enough physical activity, a national 10 Minute Shake Ups programme run by the PHE offers fun, 10-minute activities for kids, featuring their favourite Disney characters and shows as inspiration. For more information visit www.nhs.uk/10-minute-shake-up

MAY - JUNE 2018 www.familiesonline.co.uk

MAKE YOUR CHILD’S DEVELOPMENT MORE FUN!

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Parents are being urged to try new sports and physical activities locally, whether at their local park leisure centre or via a popular sport in an effort to help children get more of the 60 minutes of moderate to vigorous physical activity they need each day for healthy development and to maintain a healthy weight.

Our dynamic weekly play sessions enable boys and girls aged 2–7 to develop their social and physical skills in a fun, positive environment. For more details, just call or email:

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Health

'ME TIME’ FOR MUMS Local pilates teacher Ismini Phillips has something for everyone from postnatal pilates to her super-fun bootybarre

Most mums will do anything for their children, including giving up all their time, and often this appears to go unseen, which can leave them feeling deflated and wondering what happened to the woman they were before children. Mums of young children seem to be the worst at realising that they deserve at least an hour or two of pure ‘me time’ and pilates teacher Ismini Phillips often receives enquiries for both postnatal Pilates and how to get fit after childbirth. Her prospective clients are often reluctant to leave their child at home and as a mother of three daughters she understands how hard getting childcare can be and empathises. However, she feels it is important to take stock, re-evaluate and give yourself permission to take some ‘me time’, as doing something for yourself is equally important for brain and physical health as it allows you to fully concentrate on you and become more aware of yourself and your whole being. Dads and other family members also need bonding time, so what better time than when mum is at her fitness class? Ismini runs postnatal Pilates classes, in conjunction with her pregnancy class, on Sunday mornings at The Studio in Chislehurst where she helps you regain your alignment, strength and flexibility in a fun and gentle class. Pilates is great for rehabilitating the pelvic floor and abdominal muscles post partum, which is so important for the health of these muscles. Opening up the chest and reorganising the trunk to avoid shoulder, neck and back pain is also accessible via Pilates and exercises are performed safely and under supervision, enabling you to reconnect to your whole self. You’ll return home feeling fully relaxed and ready for the challenges of motherhood.

It is important to take stock, re-evaluate and give yourself permission to take some ‘me time’, as doing something for yourself is equally important for brain and physical health Other classes include HIP Pilates (high intensity power Pilates), which is suitable for men and women from beginners to more experienced clients and works on building strength of the muscular skeletal system by using hand weights and your own body weight, whilst encouraging cardiovascular health. In Arc Barrel Pilates, a class for more advanced students, she uses the arc barrel, a piece of equipment based on the original spine corrector developed by Joseph Pilates. This increases flexibility due to its shape and the way in which some exercises

become more accessible whilst others appear more challenging. Bootybarre is a super-fun class for all abilities, fusing Pilates, ballet, dance and yoga with cardio intervals encouraging cardiovascular fitness, weight loss and toning. Some of Ismini’s clients have dropped a dress size, while others have improved their personal running time just by doing one Pilates and one bootybarre class per week, without any other training! Ismini has a wide range of clients, both at the Studio in Chislehurst and in Eynsford, who report how much stronger they feel in their entire being by taking one or two classes per week, and how much more aware they are of themselves. Learning to reorganise ourselves so that we can lead healthy and happy lives is so important and exercise plays such an important role in this. www.isminiphillips.com

www.familiesonline.co.uk MAY - JUNE 2018

Education

STEM: Helping Children with the Fundamentals of Education I

t’s not easy being a parent. You want to do the best for your children, but sometimes it’s hard to work out what the best actually is. Education is one of those areas where advice is constantly changing. If you are interested in helping your kids with the fundamentals of education there is an acronym which you should become aware of: STEM. It stands for Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics and it is fast becoming the core of the British and global education system. There is hardly a career which does not involve some element of STEM, from farming to neurosurgery, and it also plays a part in a many everyday activities. This is why it’s important our children can understand its key tenets.

Every activity can be a learning opportunity without a child needing to identify it as such. Your job as a parent is to try to find ways to make the learning opportunity fun. Children were born to learn and their brains are busy absorbing information from the second they leave the womb. If you can make your lessons fun, informal and an integral part of everyday life, then your little ones will learn by osmosis and you can sit back in the happy glow of a good job, well done. Christopher Cederskog is MD of Wonder Workshop which teaches children coding through robotics and enables them to master critical thinking, problem solving, cause and effect, communication, and collaboration. For more information, visit www.makewonder.com

As a parent, then, what can you do to help form the STEM of your child’s tree of knowledge? I have always believed that learning should be fun and the popular perception is that the subjects of STEM are anything but. However, science, engineering and technology are particularly well-suited to play and mathematics can be applied to virtually any day-to-day situation. It’s just a matter of identifying the right opportunities. The next time you’re baking pastry together, let your child measure out the ingredients and ask them questions: what does ‘half fat to flour’ mean? Let them work out, according to that rule, how much flour is needed if you’re using 100 grams of fat. Get them to count out how many pastry cases were made from that ratio, then work out how much more pastry it would take to double the number of cases, or how many pies each family member will get based on the current number. Talk about the ingredients, what they are and where they’ve come from. The next time your child falls, take the chance to talk to them about gravity and discuss why they fell downwards rather than upwards! If they’ve grazed their knees, once the tears have stopped, chat a bit about biology – why is blood red, why do scabs form, how do cuts heal? If you don’t know the answers yourself, call on Doctor Google – he’s always there to help. When you’re out with your children, encourage scientific observations: when walking to the park, talk about why the leaves are green or why they fall in autumn. See if your children can spot any mini-beasts and set them the challenge of learning about them when they get home. And when at home, help bring out your child’s inner-engineer by encouraging them to put those endless MegaBlocks and LEGO bricks to work.

MAY - JUNE 2018 www.familiesonline.co.uk

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Wellbeing Clubs and Classes

n f H r o e l i m d a m Y u S MM

CAMPS AND COURSES GUIDE By Andrew Campbell

he long summer holiday break is a great opportunity for children to take part in organised activities, play schemes, workshops or day camps either within their local area on a daily or weekly basis or, increasingly, attend an American-style residential summer Camp. Here’s our guide to some of the options available, together with some advice on how to choose the right summer activity for your child. RESIDENTIAL CAMPS These are independent holidays for unaccompanied children aged from 7 years and above. Children are supervised round the clock in a secure residential environment such as a boarding school. Group leaders usually take care of children’s pastoral and welfare needs whilst Instructors provide a programme of activities. Camps can offer specialist courses or a multi-activity programme. Unlike American summer camps, which due to longer school breaks and less holiday leave for working parents often provide a home-from-home experience, residential camps in the UK usually involve just a 7 break. However, if your budget can be stretched there are a large number of residential camps operating throughout Europe and North America which can offer your child additional cultural and linguist experiences.

SPORTS/ACTIVITY COURSES OR WORKSHOPS Specialising in a specific sport or activity such as performing arts or art and craft, these courses are usually for children of 7 years and above. They generally operate for 2 to 3 hours per day, running for just one day or as a progressive course over 4 to 5 days. Sports courses are often led by qualified instructors/coaches or by local authority sports/leisure centres, specialist swim centres or riding schools. National governing body awards can sometimes be achieved. Performing arts workshops tend to be run by performing arts schools who also offer term time classes for children.

MULTI-ACTIVITY DAY CAMPS These are non-residential full-day camps running in your local area. They are for unaccompanied children from 3 years and above which usually run from Monday to Friday, offering a varied programme of sports or creative activities throughout the day. Typically multi-activity day camps involve 4 to 6 activities per day, with each activity session lasting between 1 and 1 ½ hours. Often the sessions focus on ‘tasters’ or introductions to a range of activities such as performing arts and outdoor adventure.

Generally, children can attend for as many days as they wish, with a price discount for a full week’s attendance. Day camp arrival and departure times vary but the day usually starts between 9am and 10am and ends between 4 and 5pm. Many camps offer early drop off and late pick up options.

MAY - JUNE 2018 www.familiesonline.co.uk

HOLIDAY PLAY SCHEMES These offer non-residential full or part-day supervised childcare for unaccompanied children from age 3 and above but are usually run by voluntary organisations or local authorities. Activities at play schemes may be specific, such as sports or art and craft, or involve a range of different activities. Many play schemes run off-site trips to attractions such as museums or parks. In the main, they are provided for children living in the catchment area of the venue. HOW SAFE WILL YOUR CHILD BE? Most summer camps and courses are regulated by various independent bodies, or in some instances by government inspectorates such as Ofsted which monitos safety standards. Levels of inspection vary according to the type of course or camp.

Clubs and Classes

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Day camps and play schemes offering full day care programmes for children under the age of 8 are legally required to register with their local authority. Registered providers are subject to inspection by government inspectorates such as Ofsted. Sports/activity Courses will not generally be registered with the local authority unless they provide tuition for under 8s. Horse riding centres are legally required to register with their local authority though. Adventure activities run by any commercial organisation providing specific adventure activities (certain watersports, climbing, trekking and caving activities) are legally required to obtain a licence from the Adventure Activities Licensing Authority (AALA). This body inspects and monitors safety standards. Information on these inspections is available to the public from the AALA. www.hse.gov.uk/aala Residential Camps are not subject to legal registration unless they operate specific adventure activities or provide courses for under 8’s. Providers who are members of the British Activity Providers Association (BAPA) are subject to an independent inspection scheme covering site safety, activity standards, staff qualifications and training, health and safety and emergency procedures. For more information, visit www.thebapa.org.uk POLICE CHECKS All registered day camps and plays schemes are required to get checks on specific staff. In England and Wales this is done via the Disclosure and Barring Service, and in Scotland via Disclosure Scotland. It is worth checking with the provider to see what their policy is in this area. STAFF QUALIFICATIONS You may also want to check on staff qualifications. Most sports governing bodies have an official coaching scheme for instructors or leaders at various levels. It is a good idea to ask for further information on staff qualifications if the organisation does not explain its policy in its promotional material or on its website.

The Benefits of Summer Camps and Workshops PHYSICAL ACTIVITY Much of a child’s time at school is spent sitting behind a desk so spending the day running around, swimming, hiking, or playing sport gives children a great chance to get moving. DEVELOP TALENTS AND SKILLS At some camps, children may be given the opportunity to learn skills and take part in activities they have not encountered before. Learning archery, painting or lacrosse may help children discover talents and interests they didn’t know they had. BUILDING CONFIDENCE Discovering these new talents and developing new skills will, in turn, help children to grow in confidence and self-esteem. LEARNING SOCIAL SKILLS Engaging with children from different schools, different areas and ultimately different backgrounds, is a great way to build social skills and to make new friends. DEVELOPING INDEPENDENCE Sometimes giving children the freedom to make decisions and plan their own time is a fantastic way for them to learn to be independent. LEAVING TECHNOLOGY BEHIND As fantastic as it is that we live in a world filled with TVs, mobile phones, lap tops and other devices, it is always great to encourage children to get outside for a good old-fashioned kick about and run around.

WILL I BE ABLE TO USE CHILDCARE VOUCHERS OR CLAIM TAX CREDITS? You may be able to claim tax credits to help pay for your child’s summer activities. If you pay for them to attend and if the activity provider is registered and regulated then you can claim as you would for an after-school club or childminder.

Parents enrolled in the Childcare Voucher scheme can also use their vouchers to subsidise the cost of summer childcare options including camps and courses. However, the provider must be registered and be prepared to accept vouchers. To check what help you could get with childcare costs, visit www.gov.uk/childcare-calculator

M M

ENJOYING THE OUTDOORS Climbing trees, changing a bike wheel, or building an outdoor camp can help ensure your child does not miss out on the learning benefits to be gained from the great outdoors and enjoy adventures they would not otherwise experience. OFFERING ROLE MODELS Often the instructors on summer camps provide a rare opportunity for a child to interact with an adult who is not part of the family unit or teacher. Their leader should be trained to care for them, offer them support and advice when needed, and always be there for them throughout their attendance. PLAYING! At summer camps children have the chance to just be children, away from the pressures of school, social media and the commercial world.

www.familiesonline.co.uk MAY - JUNE 2018

Clubs and Classes

REALISING THEIR TRUE POTENTIAL At PSSA they pride themself in offering first class performing arts training in a safe, supportive environment. All aspects are covered of screen and stage training, ensuring their students develop the range of skills required to be capable, versatile young performers. Classes in singing, acting, dancing and musical theatre are lead by a team of teachers who have a wealth of professional TV, film and theatre credits, and are passionate about

passing on their skills and first hand knowledge of the industry. Lessons are energised, fun and carefully designed to encourage and inspire young imaginations and nurture individual talent.

They know the best place for their students to grow is on the stage and the highlight of our school year is the Summer production in a local theatre when we love seeing our students shine.

They believe children realise their true potential and find the courage to take ‘safe risks’ in the rehearsal studio only when they feel comfortable and supported to be themselves, therefore our focus is on confidence building and participation in class.

Whether students are destined for a life on stage, in front of the camera, or simply need help coming out of their shells we aim to give every little star the confidence to jump up and enjoy their moment to shine. www.pssa.co.uk

FOR STRESS FREE SCHOOL HOLIDAYS

It can be hard to keep children entertained during the school holidays. With an unrivalled choice of activities and more ‘Outstanding’ Ofsted ratings than any other comparable provider, Barracudas is an excellent choice for both parents and children alike. For as little as £3.64 an hour, children have a choice of quality activities for every session, run by friendly, professional and enthusiastic staff in exceptional settings. They’re so confident that your child will have ‘such an amazing experience at Barracudas they can’t wait to come back’ that they offer a ‘money back guarantee’ for all new bookers! So, for a 100% stress free school holiday, choose Barracudas. www.barracudas.co.uk

PERFORM WEEKLY DRAMA, DANCE AND SINGING CLASSES FOR 4-12S Perform is a unique children’s drama school that has a special emphasis on child development. Perform uses a mix of drama, dance and singing to bring out every child’s full potential. Run by highly experienced actor-teachers, in small groups, Perform classes focus on developing the 4 Cs: Confidence, Communication, Coordination, and Concentration. The perform curriculum ensures plenty of fun, using a mix of energetic games, catchy songs and funky dances. All class materials are written by Perform, with apps, CDs and videos that the children can play at home to keep the magic alive. Perform offer no-obligation FREE trial sessions. Visit www.perform.org.uk/try to book a FREE class today. 020 7255 9120 / enquiries@perform.org.uk / www.perform.org.uk/try

MAY - JUNE 2018 www.familiesonline.co.uk

Activities

OUTDOOR ADVENTURES T

he weather is getting warmer and the summer holidays are looming. Families takes a look at some cool, outdoor adventure activities to get everyone off their screens and enjoying the great outdoors.

PARK RUN If you haven’t come across the phenomena that is Park Run you should check out your local options. Volunteers set up 5km races in parks across the UK and there are now 500 locations. They also do shorter runs for kids aged 4 to 14, which are 2km long. We go running as a family about once a month and then have a massive brunch afterward. It’s a great way to exercise together and best of all it’s free! More information at www.parkrun.org.uk.

AQUA PARKS Outdoor water play parks are popping up all over the UK, and they offer a great way to burn off some steam during the warmer months. You can wear wetsuits and can usually go to a park up until the end of September. Liquid Leisure (www.liquidleisure.com), Europe’s largest Aqua Park based in Datchet, near Windsor, has amazing inflatable play zones, including a floating trampoline and is suitable for children aged 6. There is also a park in Oxford (www.oxfordaquapark. com) and one in Rutland (www. aquaparkrutland. co.uk).

ZIPLINING

WILDERNESS SURVIVAL

Adrenaline junkies can experience Europe’s fastest zipline in Wales. The Zip World Penrhyn Quarry in North Wales is also the longest zip wire in the world. There are age and height restrictions, so please check on their website for details. For the velocity zip wire, children need to be aged 10+.

Embrace your inner Ray Mears by trying one of the many bush craft or wilderness survival courses on offer. You can take the whole family on a three-day course in Kent and learn how to make a basic shelter, light fire without matches and cook on an open fire.

More information at www.zipworld.co.uk

More information at www.natural-pathways.co.uk.

ROCK CLIMBING

CANOEING

Take yourself to new heights and learn new skills climbing on real rocks. Climbing courses are great for building confidence and inner resilience. There are lots of outdoor climbing courses that you can undertake in the Lake or Peak District.

A canoe is perfect for a family adventure afloat. You can canoe on lakes, rivers and the sea and it’s an accessible sport for the whole family. You can share kayaks and double canoes too. Suitable for children aged 8+, this activity is fabulous fun for the whole family. You can find canoeing activities all over the country at www.britishcanoeing.org.uk.

More information at www.pureoutdoor.co.uk

CAVING If you are feeling really brave, why not try a family caving trip? Not good if you don’t like enclosed spaces, but the kids will love the challenge of exploring underground. Caving specialist www.gocave.com offers a variety of caving trips for people aged 6 to 60 in a variety of locations around the UK.

WILD SWIMMING Swimming in hidden lakes, rivers and secret coves is all part of the wild swimming movement. You can check out places to visit via their website at www.wildswimming.co.uk. Please ensure that you and your family are strong swimmers and stay safe at all times. By Claire Winter www.familiesonline.co.uk MAY - JUNE 2018

Out & About

Out & About T H E B EST O F W H AT ’S O N N EA R YOU

40’S WEEKEND Visitors never forget their first breathtaking vision of Leeds Castle in Kent. With nine centuries of history, fun daily attractions and 500 acres of beautiful Kentish parkland, there’s always something for everyone to enjoy. Visit this summer to see the blossoming formal gardens, find your way through the yew-tree maze, enjoy free flying falconry displays, spectacular events and many more all-year-round attractions. Summer at the Castle kicks off with the fantastic Leeds Castle Triathlon from 23rd – 24th June, with further events continuing the fun throughout both July and August. Don’t miss the magnificent 40th Anniversary of the Leeds Castle Classical Concert on the 14th July; one of the most memorable summer evenings in the Kent events calendar. Bring a picnic and be entertained by field cannons, fireworks and much-loved music! From the Open-Air Theatre and Cinema shows, to the many more wonderful attractions, Leeds Castle has everything you need for a perfect summer’s day out. www.leeds-castle.com

A PERFECT

SUMMER’S DAY OUT

1 M AY

DEAR ZOO The Orchard Theatre, Home Gardens, Dartford, Kent, DA1 1ED.

This production will delight all those who have read the book (both young and old) as it unfolds with child-engaging puppets, music and lots of audience interaction. Until 2 May 10am & 1pm. From £14 01322 220000 www.orchardtheatre.co.uk

6 M AY

LATE SPRING BIRD WALK The Woodlands Farm Trust, 331 Shooters Hill, Welling, Kent, DA16 3RP.

Find out what birds have arrived at the farm for the summer. Wear sturdy footwear and suitable outdoor clothing. Bring binoculars to improve your birding experience. In the event of bad weather the walk will be cancelled. 10am - 11:30am. £2 per person, £1 children under 18 (not suitable for very young children). Members and volunteers: Free. www.thewoodlandsfarmtrust.org

7 M AY

MAY DAY CELEBRATIONS Kent Life, Lock Lane, Sandling, Maidstone, Kent, ME14 3AU.

Have a go at maypole dancing and join in Morris Dancing workshops at 11am, 1pm and 3pm. At midday, check out the

annual parade and crowning ceremony. There’s also a Grand Tug of War, fairground rides and much more. Adults £9.95, Children (3-15) £8.25, Concessions £8.95, Family (2+2) £32.95. www.kentlife.org.uk

1 2 M AY

BABY BROADWAY Churchill Theatre Bromley, High Street, Bromley, Kent, BR1 1HA.

The whole family can sing and dance along to songs from Mary Poppins, The Sound of Music, Dirty Dancing, Frozen and many more plus bubbles, marching, puppetry and dance moves in a family concert performed by West End singers.

1 8 M AY

ROOTS GATHERING 2018 Hole Park, Benenden Road, Rolvenden, Kent, TN17 4JA.

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 20 May therootsgathering.blogspot.co.uk

11am. £11.50, children free. 020 3285 6000 www.churchilltheatre.co.uk

1 9 M AY

MOTORS BY THE MOAT

Spa Valley Railway, West Station, Royal Tunbridge Wells, Kent TN2 5QY.

Leeds Castle, Maidstone, Kent, ME17 1PL.

The ultimate weekend for anyone with a passion for cars. Get up close to hundreds of vintage, high performance and classic cars from around the world. The cars will be displayed on the Castle lawns with plenty of other entertainment for the whole family to enjoy. Included with the price of admission. Until 13 May 01622 765400 www.leeds-castle.com

MAY - JUNE 2018 www.familiesonline.co.uk

SEE RUBBLE FROM PAW PATROL!

Travel by heritage train to see children’s favourite Rubble from PAW Patrol, who will be on hand to see his fans arriving on trains hauled by a steam or diesel locomotive from Tunbridge Wells West. Trains will depart from Tunbridge Wells West at: 10.20am, 12pm, 1.40pm & 3.20pm. Standard train fares apply to this event and there is no additional cost to see PAW Patrol’s Rubble. www.spavalleyrailway.co.uk

Kent & East Sussex Railway Tenterden Town Station, Station Road, Tenterden, Kent, TN30 6HE.

Take a step back in time with a visit to the annual 1940’s Weekend at the Kent & East Sussex Railway. Enjoy period music, dancers, vehicles, displays and entertainment. You can have a chat with Winston Churchill or get your hair done all curly and cool. You may even hear the sound of a Merlin engine and catch sight of a Spitfire. Until 20 May www.kesr.org.uk

2 1 M AY

BRING YOUR OWN BABY COMEDY Churchill Theatre Bromley, High Street, Bromley, Kent, BR1 1HA.

A funny, friendly afternoon of top comedy and... you can bring your baby! Bring Your Own Baby Comedy is the UK’s premier baby friendly comedy club! The shows feature the funniest comedy stars from the circuit and TV. 12pm, from £8.00. 020 3285 6000 www.churchilltheatre.co.uk

2 3 M AY

GANGSTA GRANNY The Orchard Theatre, Home Gardens, Dartford, Kent, DA1 1ED.

From the acclaimed producers of Horrible Histories comes the award-winning West End production of this amazing story by David Walliams, the UK’s best-selling author for children. Until 26 May From £19 01322 220000 www.orchardtheatre.co.uk

2 6 M AY

HALF-TERM FAMILY FUN Ightham Mote, Mote Road, Ivy Hatch, Sevenoaks, Kent, TN15 0NT.

Using a compass, follow the Billy Goat Gruff trail and tick off one of your 50 things. Booking not needed. Until 3 June 11am-4.30pm. www.nationaltrust.org.uk

Out & About

FAMILY FOREST SKILLS Hunstead Wood, Canterbury, Kent, CT4 7NT

Go along for a morning in beautiful ancient woodland at Denstead Wood, nr Chartham Hatch, learning exiting bushcraft activities. Discover ways to have fun outdoors as a family; learning fire lighting without matches; and practicing archery skills, after making your own bow and arrow from natural materials. Minimum age 4 years. £8 www.kentwildlifetrust.org.uk

HALF-TERM ACTIVITIES Maidstone Museum & Bentlif Art Gallery, St. Faith’s Street, Maidstone Kent, ME14 1LH

Enjoy a week of creative workshops with a cartoon/ comic theme this half term! Suggested age 4 – 11 years. Until 1 June Sessions at 10.30-11.30am, 11.30am-12.30pm and 1pm-2pm. www.museum.maidstone.gov.uk

10 JUNE

SUMMER SHOW The Woodlands Farm Trust, 331 Shooters Hill, Welling, Kent, DA16 3RP.

Part of Open Farm Sunday. Sheep Shearing Display, Farm Trailer Rides, Local Crafts and Produce Stalls, Children’s Activities, Biddenden Cider,Café and BBQ and Live Music.

MUM2MUM NEARLY NEW SALE

Admission: Free - Donations welcome. No parking, please use public transport. 11am - 4.30pm. www.thewoodlandsfarmtrust.org

16 JUNE

CARTOON WORKSHOPS Maidstone Museum & Bentlif Art Gallery, St. Faith’s Street, Maidstone Kent, ME14 1LH

The brilliant Gary Northfield, cartoonist and author, has worked with the Beano, Dandy, Phoenix and National Geographic kids magazines. These workshops are full of drawing tips for budding young cartoonists. Morning workshop from 10.30am – 12.30pm; Afternoon workshop from 1.30pm – 3.30pm. Suitable for ages 7 – 11 years. www.museum.maidstone.gov.uk

19 JUNE

WHAT THE LADYBIRD HEARD Churchill Theatre Bromley, High Street, Bromley, Kent, BR1 1HA.

Join the woolly sheep, the hairy hog, the fat red hen and the dainty dog in this hit musical adaptation of Julia Donaldson and Lydia Monks’ colourful farmyard adventure. Direct from the West End with live music, puppetry, plenty of audience participation, this is the perfect summer treat for children aged 3 and up and their families. Until 20 June £13.50 020 3285 6000 www.churchilltheatre.co.uk

‘Ingenious’ Daily Mail

From 4 JULY BOOK NOW

bearhuntlive.com

Christchurch Hall, Christchurch Road, Dartford, Kent, DA1 3DH.

Grab a bargain or sell your nearly new items. Refreshments, cake, face painter and kids activities at every event. Free car park. 10am-12noon. www.mum2mummarket.co.uk

2 9 M AY

Dog Show. Enter the classes for £1 and win a rosette for your canine friend! Why not have a go on our agility course and peruse the doggy related stalls between classes? There will be the opportunity to enjoy all of your other favourite Kent Life activities including cuddle corner, fun farm rides, indoor and outdoor play and so much more!

24 JUNE

Adults £9.95, Children (3-15) £8.25, Concessions £8.95, Family (2+2) £32.95. www.kentlife.org.uk

The Orchard Theatre, Home Gardens, Dartford, Kent, DA1 1ED.

28 JUNE

Join the babyballet characters Twinkle, Teddy, Flutterstar the Fairy, Grandad Jack and Chuck the Cowboy as they head off into dreamland meeting lots of babyballet Stars along the way!

Churchill Theatre Bromley, High Street, Bromley, Kent, BR1 1HA.

BABYBALLET: TWINKLE’S DREAM

10.45am, 1.45pm & 5pm. From £11.50. 01322 220000 www.orchardtheatre.co.uk

FAMILY DOG SHOW Kent Life, Lock Lane, Sandling, Maidstone, Kent, ME14 3AU.

LITTLE BABY BUM

Step into the magical and colourful world of Little Baby Bum. Join Mia, Jacus, Twinkle and their Nursery Rhyme friends at the world premiere of a brand new LIVE show. Until 30 June From £10 020 3285 6000 www.churchilltheatre.co.uk

Take along man’s best friend to take part in this Family Fun

MAY DAY FESTIVAL: 5-7 MAY Celebrate May Day at Hever Castle & Gardens over the early May Bank Holiday. Join the Lord and Lady of the May on the Castle Forecourt and see the crowning of the May Queen. Visitors are invited to dance around the Maypole with brightly coloured ribbons intertwined. This age old custom is followed by demonstrations of May Day Dancing accompanied by 16th century music and a playlet about the traditional story of the battle of the seasons. Meet the mythical Jack-in-the-Green and follow the Green Man from folklore in a traditonal May Day procession through the gardens as he wakes up the plants for summer with the help of children and their magical May bells. There’s also a Green Man trail through the Castle and children can have their face painted* (*additional charge).

DON’T FORGET DAD

Father’s Day Weekend: 16 and 17 June Say thank you to dad this Father’s Day with a memorable day out and meal. There will be classic cars on display and children can make a car themed keyring in a free craft workshop. www.hevercastle.co.uk

www.familiesonline.co.uk MAY - JUNE 2018

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05/04/2018 16:37

RUN RIOT THIS SUMMER

Discover a summer packed with events and the wonderful daily attractions of “the Loveliest Castle in the World”.

EXPERIENCE MORE leeds-castle.com

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28/03/2018 12:11