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In this issue... ISSUE 48: MARCH - APRIL 2019
4 Family News Lack of sleep damaging for children, children targeted by social media 6 Parenting Why children misbehave... and how to handle it 7 Health Should we reward our children with sugary food? 8 Crafts Build a Spring bird café
8
Make a
Spring b i
rd Café
10 Education Does homework work?
Front cover: Deposit Photos Editor: Mima Walia 07792 006546
13 Out & About The best of What’s On near you this Spring
editor@familieslondonkent.co.uk Design: Kevin Smith Listings Editor: Anna Blackshaw
Fundamental Movement Skills
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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.
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www.familiesonline.co.uk MARCH - APRIL 2019 www.yunimoves.com
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Family News
Lack of sleep damaging for children M
ore than a third of primary school children are failing to get sufficient sleep, according to research by the University of Leeds.
FAMILY SAFETY WEEK
The study has linked poor sleep with difficulties in paying attention in class, keeping up with school work, forgetfulness and absenteeism. The NHS recommendation is that children of that age should get 10 hours sleep per night but the study discovered that out of 1,100 children ages 6 to 11, 36% were getting only eight hours sleep or less on a weekday night. Just under a third of children reported that worrying about school work was keeping them awake, whilst around one in six children reported that they found it difficult to sleep because of concerns about bullying or friendship. The researchers identified that children who had access to technology in their bedroom were more likely to experience a shorter night’s sleep and recommended that parents consider removing technology from their children’s bedrooms. More info: www.leeds.ac.uk
Accidents are the biggest killer of children and young people with at least one child under 5 killed each week. Every year, over 2 million children under the age of 15 have an accident in and around the home which takes them to A&E and half of the under 5s visiting do so as a result of a preventable accident. Family Safety Week, which commences on 1 April, is run by the RoSPA (The Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents) to help raise awareness of the “simple things you can do to stop your child becoming an accident statistic.” RoSPA provides free resources and advice to help families keep children safe in their homes. Its free Keeping Kids Safe packs also enable schools, nurseries, playgroups and children’s centres to hold child safety session for parents. More info: www.rospa.com
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MARCH - APRIL 2019 www.familiesonline.co.uk
Family News
CHILDREN TARGETED BY ADULTS ON SOCIAL MEDIA ENJOY BRITISH SCIENCE WEEK Families can enjoy wonder-full time together during British Science Week 2019 which will take place from 8 to 17 March. Science Week is a celebration of science, technology, engineering and maths with fascinating, entertaining and engaging activities for all ages taking place across the UK. Last year there were over 2,100 events involving almost 1 million participants. You can also download a series of FREE activity packs at www.britishscienceweek.org filled with resources and ideas to try out at home or school, without the need for a science background or expensive equipment. To find an event close to you, visit www.sciencelive.net
R
esearch released by the NSPCC has revealed that one in four young people have been contacted via social media by an adult they didn’t know, and a third of these were children under 13. 2,059 children and 2,049 parents were surveyed for Net Aware, the essential guide to 40 of the most popular social media sites, apps and games that young people use. Children and parents were asked if they’d seen violent, bullying or adult content on the social networking sites and games they use – with Facebook and YouTube receiving high risk ratings across the board. Other sites found to be risky included Twitter and Reddit, with both rated high for inappropriate content, as well as lesser known names such as Sarahah, Episode: Choose Your Story, Omegle, ROBLOX and Yubo (formerly called Yellow). The NSPCC encourages parents to use Net Aware to learn about the various platforms their child may be using, together with the risk rating of each. More info at www.net-aware.org.uk
www.familiesonline.co.uk MARCH - APRIL 2019 ItNGL Kent Families print 87 x130mm.indd 1
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Parenting
Why children misbehave… and how to handle It By Kristina Bill, Joy Marchese and Jane Nelsen
H
uman beings are fundamentally social beings. Our primary goals are to belong (connection) and to have a sense of purpose and contribution (significance). In their pursuit of these goals, it is normal for children to test the waters by misbehaving. They do so when they are struggling to achieve these goals and feeling discouraged. When children misbehave and parents feel frazzled, we often resort to quick fixes such as punishment, reward and bribery, because yes, they deliver temporary results. However, many of these approaches do not empower children to find connection, belonging and a sense of purpose and contribution. This leads to a vicious cycle of discouragement and renewed misbehaviour. To see sustained behavioural change, we need to focus not just on the misbehaviour, but on the belief behind the behaviour – the discouragement our children are experiencing. Then we need to use parenting tools based on encouragement that help our children experience their deep need to belong and feel capable through contribution. Building Confidence and Resilience Here are some strategies that we can use to help our children develop the skills they need to pursue their goals. Connection before Correction Brain research has shown that children do better when they feel better. This does not mean feeling better because they get everything they want. They feel better because they feel connected (belonging) and responsible (significant). Thus it is very important to make a
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to have some chill time too. To ensure your child understands what you are doing, discuss as a family what happens when we’re stressed – our brains are flooded with stress hormones so we can’t think. Then explain that when one of you is stressed, you can ask for chill out time in a different place in the house that works for each individual. This Time Out should ALWAYS be a choice and NEVER a punishment.
connection with your child before you attempt correction. One of the easiest ways to do this is to validate their feelings. Validate Feelings “I know you’re upset because you can’t have that toy, but if you save your pocket money, I’m sure you can purchase one soon.” You are connecting by showing understanding and validating your child’s feelings AND you are giving them the opportunity to contribute (earn and save their money) instead of rescuing them and buying something for them. Positive Time Out When your child misbehaves, firstly you need to check in with yourself and make sure you are calm enough to deal compassionately with your child at that time. If you are not, chances are you will react with short-term strategies. Say to your child that you are upset and need some time by yourself. This models self-regulation, an essential life skill. Ask if it would help him
MARCH - APRIL 2019 www.familiesonline.co.uk
Focus on Solutions Reduce power struggles by focussing on solutions rather than consequences of bad behaviour. Learn to think in terms of problem = solution instead of problem = blame and punishment. It can be effective and empowering to help children explore the consequences of their choices by asking, “What do you think caused that to happen, and what ideas do you have to solve the problem?” This teaches them valuable life skills such as problemsolving, respectful communication, decision-making, conflict resolution and negotiating strategies. Effective parenting means constantly looking for win-win solutions, rather than winning at the expense of your child. Co-operation is the best way to avoid power struggles and feelings of inadequacy in children, reducing your stress in the process. Jane Nelsen is the founder of the Positive Discipline Methodology programme. Londonbased educators Joy Marchese and Kristina Bill worked with Jane to co-author the book Positive Discipline for Today’s Busy (and Overwhelmed) Parent: How to Balance Work, Parenting and Self for Lasting Well Being. Published by Harmony Books and available from Amazon at £12.99.
Health
SHOULD WE REWARD OUR CHILDREN WITH SUGARY FOOD? By Andrew Campbell
I
t's not unusual for parents to offer their children "special" - and often unhealthy - foods as a reward for good behaviour or achievement. Equally, if children are bored on a long car journey, or fed up with being in the buggy, it’s tempting to use snack foods to distract them for a little longer. We’ve all noticed that if children are upset because they have hurt themselves or want something they cannot have, the offer of something sweet helps 'make them feel better.' Withholding special food treats may also be a punishment. A parent might refuse to serve pudding, for example, if her children have talked back or neglected to tidy their rooms. But what is the result of using food as a tool to deal with emotions like boredom or sadness or as a punishment? Does it turn children into adults who cannot cope with being bored or upset without a sweet snack?
There certainly isn't any evidence to suggest that occasionally resorting to the biscuit tin will affect children in this way. But what if we do it on a regular basis? What happens when sweets and biscuits become the major reward in a child’s life? There is a growing body of evidence which suggests that regularly using food as an emotional distraction or as a reward or punishment for children may be associated with a greater risk of emotional eating. A recent study carried out by Aston, Loughborough and Birmingham universities found that parents who use controlling feeding practices with their children could be unintentionally teaching their children to rely on food to deal with their emotions later in life.
Using food as a reward can also undermine healthy eating habits. Giving sweets, crisps, or squash as a reward can lead to children overeating foods that are high in sugar, fat, and empty calories. Worse, it can interfere with the child’s natural ability to regulate their eating, encouraging them to eat when they're not hungry to reward themselves. Offering unhealthy food as a reward or treat is also confusing. Children hear that they're supposed to enjoy healthy foods and avoid foods with little nutritional value. Being told that they can indulge in foods that are bad for them as a reward or having these withheld as a punishment sends a very mixed message.
More information at www.nhs.uk/change4life
www.familiesonline.co.uk MARCH - APRIL 2019
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Crafts
Let’s Make a Spring Bird Café The Easter holidays will soon be here, and, this being the UK, the sun may not always shine. So why not use one of those rainy or chilly days to celebrate the arrival of spring and get creative making this fun craft project created by our friends at Wonderbly? You can help your children create a funky spring bird café. It’s great for small fans of nature and Babyccinos. I’ll have one Latte, to fly… You can make your own (really) small family business with an upcycled milk carton and get to feed the local bird population at the same time. Let’s get ready for the bird café opening day!
YOU WILL NEED: • A milk carton • A paper plate • A pencil • A ruler • Scissors or a Stanley knife (for adults only) • Paint (use acrylic paint if you want it to go outside but make sure you wear an overall or apron as it doesn't wash out!). • Bell and paper clip (optional) • Decorative tape (optional) • Bobbins and mini umbrellas • Dowel or BBQ sticks • Yummy seeds • Flappy customers
HERE’S HOW TO DO IT…. STEP 1 First things first, grab your (empty) milk carton. Take your ruler and get your child assistant to measure and trace two flaps for awnings and a hole for the birds. Your team’s builder can then cut the holes. STEP 2 Time to get creative. Paint the milk carton and paper plate to make your building and outdoor area. For sharper colour, give your milk carton two coats. STEP 3 It’s all in the details. Tile your roof by painting them on with the brush, and adorn your awnings. We used decorative tape, but you can paint or colour in with pens and pencils. STEP 4 Get your bird café customerready. Add a doorbell (obviously) by rolling a paper clip around a pencil,
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thread the bell into it and push it through the milk carton. Make some bunting using thread and decorative tape. You can even make a window plant box by folding up some paper and gluing it underneath one of the awnings. STEP 5 While you’re doing the fiddly bits, let your child one make their café’s sign with some cardboard and paint. Let them paint with their fingers for more sensory fun! Leave to dry, and then help the café owner write their name with a marker before you cut and glue it. STEP 6 Almost time for the grand opening. Get the kids to stock the café with seeds. Birds especially love sunflower seeds and peanuts. STEP 7 Nearly ready! Grown-ups, make a little ‘X’ with the Stanley knife below the seed hole and push a piece of dowel or a cocktail stick through. Finally, pop some tables and parasols outside for your first customers. Bobbins and mini umbrellas are perfect for this, or you could use corks and leaves if you want more plants. Take your bird cafe outside for the birds to enjoy or play inside with your own paper birds, you decide! Wonderbly creates beautiful, personalised children’s books that inspire courage, curiosity, and kindness in children all over the world. A treat for any curious little mind. Find out more at www.wonderbly.com
MARCH - APRIL 2019 www.familiesonline.co.uk
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Education
REMARKABLE RUSSELL HOUSE If you're looking for a school where your child will blossom as an individual, aim high and excel in a rich programme of academic and extra-curricular activities, you'll love Russell House. Nestled under the North Downs in Otford, within easy reach from Orpington and surrounding areas, Russell House is a happy, family school where everyone receives individual care and attention. It’s this genuine focus on the needs of each individual child within an atmosphere of high academic expectations that makes the difference. Children, staff and parents have a strong sense of being part of a large, supportive family, creating the ideal environment for children to grow in confidence and independence. The results speak for themselves. Children really do achieve the remarkable - for example, two academic and one music scholarship in this year’s independent school entry tests at 11. Also this year, a team of Year 6 children reached the regional finals of the Young Mathematicians Award. Furthermore, five members of the class (nearly a quarter of the children) reached the final of the prestigious Primary Maths Challenge. To put the achievement in context, consider the fact that nationally just 2% of those taking part in the first round make it into the final. It is by encouraging and nurturing each child to explore and develop their own skills and talents in pursuit of excellence
that Russell House maintains its reputation, not just in academic areas but across music, sport, drama, art, chess – and more! Come and discover the difference for yourself. To arrange a personal tour and meet the Headmaster Craig McCarthy, call Anne Irvine on 01959 522352. Russell House is a co-educational prep school in Otford for children aged 2-11. Wraparound care is available five days a week from 7.45am to 6pm. www.russellhouseschool.co.uk
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✔ Detailed report on your child’s strengths & weaknesses ✔ Access to mock test questions & answers ✔ Your child’s answer papers returned www.familiesonline.co.uk MARCH - APRIL 2019
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Wellbeing Education
Does Homework Work? D
oes the word ‘homework’ fill you with dread or do you think it is an important aspect of your child’s education? How much time do you spend supervising your child’s homework? What is it actually teaching your child? Is it really necessary or should schools just scrap it altogether? Here in the UK, the government says it's up to individual head teachers in primary schools to decide whether to set homework or not. Homework is generally set to be completed outside of school hours and when children are young, parents are often asked to help with it. In 1997, 6 out of 10 primary schools were setting homework. Just two years later, 90% of schools were setting it and it seems that the majority of schools have continued this trend. But are pupils and parents coping with the added pressure of homework on top of busy lives and after-school activities? A recent report by the BBC highlighted that only 11% of parents in Britain are spending an hour a day helping their children with homework. While in other countries, like India, 64% of parents are spending an hour a day on this activity.
Whilst many people think children at primary school are too young to do homework, education specialist Melanie Harwood (www.harwoodeducation.com) believes homework is vital for developing learning skills. It helps children: • Develop a sense of their own self-worth and individual learning styles. • Become confident working things out in their own space without the constraints of being “watched over” by a teacher, their parents or peers. • Develop critical thinking and puzzle solving skills, which will serve them well in life and further education. • Develop a deeper understanding of a particular point within a task or specific item of learning, by completing further work on it at home. Melanie adds: “Learning to work on one’s own and time management are important life skills. This is what will separate many learners from the rest of the pack. Being able to focus on a task and having the self-motivation to complete it is extremely important when working both in a team and on your own.” Ex-teacher Hannah Deane who now runs a social media marketing business from home (www.littleshout.org) says setting homework at a primary level has always been a contentious issue amongst many teachers.
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MARCH - APRIL 2019 www.familiesonline.co.uk
“In my experience, if you get a group of teachers in a room, (without the presence of an Ofsted inspector or anyone who has power over their career!), they usually agree that before senior school, homework is surplus to a child’s educational needs.” “Learning spellings and reading at home can be beneficial, but the constant flow of worksheets, practice SATs papers, and ‘homework’ seem to be little more than a box-ticking exercise. Homework at primary level has no proven track record of enhancing a child’s education. Let them play and learn through an unstructured activity. Once they reach senior school, their levels of concentration and capacity have increased to allow them to continue with formal learning outside the school day.” “Surely a child who turns up to school well rested and relaxed having had sufficient ‘downtime,’ will learn more in lessons than one who was made to do an extra half hour homework the night before?” A recent report about homework by the Teaching Schools Council says that homework set at primary school should have a clear purpose. The report states that schools should explain to pupils and parents why they are setting it, and the teachers should let pupils know how well they have done. While the jury is still out on whether homework is a good thing for primary school children. It is clear that schools need to do more to help parents and pupils understand exactly what the benefits of the homework they are setting are, as well as making it achievable for all involved including parents! By Claire Winter
Clubs & Classes
DEVELOPING FUNDAMENTAL MOVEMENT SKILLS
W
e all want our children to have as many opportunities to be happy healthy and confident. YuniMoves is a Bromley based, independent company set up by Cherylene McLean: a teacher, parent and gymnastics coach who wanted to create a new opportunity to give toddlers and pre-schoolers a great start to developing a healthy lifestyle and a love for learning. YuniMoves offers a gymnastic based program for 18-months to 5-year olds to discover, explore and learn
Fundamental Movement Skills in a fun and engaging way. The programs are intended to help children learn not only physical skills but to educate them in social, linguistic and problem-solving skills. It is designed on the British Gymnastics FUNdamental Program and uses themes, songs and props to develop body awareness whilst focussing on agility, balance and co-ordination.
JOIN ALL STARS CRICKET TODAY! All Stars Cricket is a programme aimed at children aged 5-8 years old to give them a great first experience in cricket. Sessions are accredited by the England & Wales Cricket Board and delivered nationwide at over 2,000 centres. All Stars Cricket will help your child develop key skills in a fun and safe environment where parents can join in too and help create #BigMoments you’ll both treasure! Following successful registration, All Stars Cricketers will receive a brand-new kit bag full of goodies to help them get their summer of cricket started and fully look the part when they attend their 8 weekly sessions. This year we have a brand-new Cricket World Cup themed activity book that is full of top tips, games and, it’s a great place to keep those weekly stickers to celebrate your All Star's achievements. Plus, it’s all delivered straight to your door. To find out more about how to get involved this summer, simply visit www.allstarscricket.co.uk and get your place booked as session begin May 2019.
A parent and child class is currently running in the Glades, Bromley and classes for children to work independently run during the holidays in Bickley. New classes are planned for 2019 in Orpington and other areas. Visit www.yunimoves.com for more info
COMPUTER CODING WORKSHOPS IN DULWICH E aster Holiday computer coding workshops. Spark4Kids are running all-day holiday workshops that introduce children to computer coding through the medium of games. Available are courses on Minecraft Modding, Roblox Coding, Robotics, Games Design, MicroBit & Arduino coding, Python, HTML/CSS, JavaScript and Unity/C# in a fun, engaging environment. Ages 5-7 years, 8-12 and 13-16. The Easter Holiday workshops are taking place in Dulwich from Monday 8th April to Friday 12th April 2019. Visit www.spark4kids.com or call 020 8090 1444 for more details.
www.familiesonline.co.uk MARCH - APRIL 2019
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Clubs & Classes
PERFORM’S FOUR WAYS TO BOOST YOUR CHILD’S SELF-ESTEEM
A child’s self-esteem is influenced by feeling loved, valued and believing good things about themselves. Perform have teamed up with positive parenting expert, Anita Cleare, to bring Families top tips for boosting self-esteem.
Listen to their Ideas Expressing ideas and being listened to help children feel valued. Involve them in practical family problem-solving by asking for their input. This helps them feel they are making a positive contribution.
Encourage Independence When children do things for themselves and are praised for this, they feel proud. Teach your child to dress themselves and wash their own hair.
Encourage Laughter and Show you Care Play, chat, share jokes and funny stories. Laughter helps children relax and feel good about themselves. Be affectionate. Snuggle and cuddle! Show your child they are utterly lovable exactly as they are.
Use believable praise. It’s not believable to tell your child he did something well when he clearly didn’t. Praise concrete achievements. Saying ‘Well done for keeping on running' (even when he lost the race) tells your child exactly what they have done well. Ismini Phillips - Familys Magazine advert AW 2710914_AW.pdf
TO BOOK A FREE CONFIDENCE-BUILDING PERFORM DRAMA CLASS, VISIT WWW.PERFORM.ORG.UK/TRY More tips from Anita can be found at www.anitacleare.co.uk 1
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Mini 3 day Intensive course 24 - 26 July 2019 Summer 5 day Intensive course 29 July - 2 August 2019
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Lessons at Bromley High, Bickley Park and Green Street Green Adult and Child Lessons at Green Street Green Swimming is an essential life skill - so make sure you get it right!
Visit our website: www.aquakids.co.uk Follow us on Twitter: @aquakidsuk, Instagram: @aquakids.uk or connect with us on Facebook: Aquakids
Swimming Lessons that last a lifetime
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MARCH - APRIL 2019 www.familiesonline.co.uk
Out & About
Out & About T H E B EST O F W H AT ’S O N N EA R YOU
BRAND NEW In the Night Garden Live show coming to Dartford and Bromley in 2019! Igglepiggle, Upsy Daisy, Makka Pakka and friends are back in their brand new live show Igglepiggle’s Busy Day showing at Dartford’s Orchard Theatre from Thursday 18 - Monday 22 April and Bromley’s Churchill Theatre from Tuesday 20 - Saturday 24th August! Join Igglepiggle as he looks for his friends in the Night Garden by following their funny sounds until he finds them all! You’ll see all your favourite characters beautifully brought to life with full-size costumes, magical puppets, and enchanting music. There are other shows for young children, but as The Independent wrote,“there’s nothing quite like In the Night Garden Live." Visit nightgardenlive.com to book tickets today!
2 MARCH
BROMLEY PARKRUN Norman Park, Hayes Lane, Bromley, BR2 9EF
Weekly free 5km timed run. Go along and join in whatever your pace! Please register before your first run.
month you can buy the best local produce at Hall Place. Meet the farmers and producers, try food samples and buy everything from homegrown fruit and vegetables, through to delicious cakes, breads and cheese.
9am 0300 303 8658 www.parkrun.org.uk/bromley
Also 7 April 10am – 2pm, Free entry. 01322 526 574 www.hallplace.org.uk
3 MARCH
5 MARCH
Hall Place & Gardens, Bourne Road , Bexley, Kent, DA5 1PQ
Gravesend Town Centre, DA11
MONTHLY FARMERS MARKET
On the first Sunday of every
PANCAKE FLIPPING A fun Pancake Day activity!
Keep an eye on the website for more information.
11 MARCH
www.gravesham.gov.uk
BRING YOUR OWN BABY COMEDY
9 MARCH
The Orchard Theatre, Home Gardens, Dartford, DA1 1ED
Christchurch Hall, Christchurch Road, Dartford, Kent, DA1 3DH.
Bring Your Own Baby Comedy is the UK’s premier baby friendly comedy club! Their shows feature the funniest comedy stars from the circuit and TV.
MUM2MUM NEARLY NEW SALE
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
12-2pm 01322 220000 www.orchardtheatre.co.uk
16 MARCH
DR BIKE CYCLE MAINTENANCE SESSION Norman Park, Hook Farm Road, BR2 9SX
CALLING ALL SAILORS! Bring the family to Cutty Sark in Greenwich for an action-packed day out on the fastest ship of its time. Meet characters from the ship’s past such as Captain Woodget and the ship’s cook and listen to their epic stories about life on board.Try and outwit the crew in our Sailors’ Challenge game, find your sea legs by taking the helm at the ship's wheel, follow a family trail or take part in fun workshops.
BOOK NOW TO SAVE 10% rmg.co.uk/cuttysark
A fully qualified Dr Bike cycle mechanic will check your bike and fix minor faults such as brakes, chain, cables, gears and tyre pressure. Simply take your bicycle along to the Cow Shed in Norman Park. 8.30-10.30am, free. road.safety@bromley.gov.uk www.bromley.gov.uk/DrBike
20 MARCH
DAZZLING DAFFODILS Hever Road, Edenbridge, TN8 7NG
Feel uplifted this spring during Hever Castle’s Dazzling Daffodils event. With 14,000 new daffodil bulbs set to
www.familiesonline.co.uk MARCH - APRIL 2019
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Out & About
bloom across the gardens, there will be a wide range of varieties to enjoy. There will be children’s daffodil themed craft workshops on 23rd and 24th March.
loved Zog comes to life in Mike Shepherd’s magical adaptation with Johnny Flynn’s sumptuous folk score featuring live musicians. From the team behind Tiddler and Other Terrific Tales and Tabby McTat, Zog promises to be roaring fun for all ages.
Until 24 March 01732 865224 www.hevercastle.co.uk
Until 24 March 020 3285 6000 www.churchilltheatre.co.uk
CIRQUE BERSERK The Orchard Theatre, Home Gardens, Dartford, DA1 1ED
23 MARCH
Direct from the West End, Britain’s biggest theatre circus spectacular is back by popular demand - featuring all your favourite Cirque Berserk! acts plus some thrilling new ones!
CHEEKI MONKEYS NEARLY NEW BABY SALE St. Mark’s Church Hall, 10 Church Road, Biggin Hill, Westerham, TN16 3LB
Until 24 March 2pm, 3pm, 5pm, 7:30pm 01322 220000 www.orchardtheatre.co.uk
A great opportunity to buy and sell pre-loved children’s items, whilst entertaining the kids along the way! Want to grab a bargain for your little ones? Go along and see what steals are on offer!
22 MARCH ZOG
Churchill Theatre, High Street, Bromley, BR1 1HA
12-2pm £1.50 adult entry, kids go free www.cheekimonkeys.co.uk
Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler’s much-
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URBAN ATTACK - FAMILY OBSTACLE COURSE Orpington Golf Centre, Cray Ruxley, Sandy Lane, Orpington BR5 3HY
Mytime Active have teamed up with Urban Attack to put on a fun obstacle race for the whole family in the heart of Orpington. Whether you’re seriously competitive, have kids with energy to burn or just after some fun, this family obstacle event is sure to be something special. www.mytimeactive.co.uk
FAMILY FOREST FUN CLUB SESSIONS Pickhurst Infant Academy, Eastry Avenue, Hayes, Kent BR2 7PQ
These sessions are for any child age 0-10 years old accompanied by an adult. During a session children will be playing and exploring the site, mud painting, den building, and much more, as well as collecting wood for the camp fire. There will always be a craft on offer such as making a bird feeder or planting a seed.
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Also 13 April 10-11.30am www.forestfunclub.co.uk
25 MARCH
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26 MARCH
BACH TO BABY FAMILY CONCERT
Join Bach to Baby as they celebrate the sweet and delicate timbre of the classical oboe. Explore the beautiful baroque instrument with Barthre, Boni, and Baston, and dip into its romantic past with Bizet’s colourful Carmen!
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Giving every child such an
Also 26 March 10:30am, 1:30pm, 4.30pm 01322 220000 www.orchardtheatre.co.uk
Bromley United Reformed Church, 20 Widmore Road, Bromley BR1 1RY
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Join the Witch and her cat on their mission to defeat the dragon in Tall Stories’ magical, musical adaptation of the classic picture book by Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler.
Rated 5 Stars - Jan 2019
they can’t wait to come back!
MARCH - APRIL 2019 www.familiesonline.co.uk
10.30-11.30am Adults £8 - £12, Children FREE bachtobaby.com/bromley-musicconcerts-for-baby-and-family
30 MARCH
CELEBRATE WILLIAM SHAKESPEARE DAY Gravesham Arts, St Andrews Art Centre, Royal Pier Road DA12 2BD
Everybody is welcome to help create a sculpture to celebrate William Shakespeare Day. Drop in, have fun and get creative! Only £3 with free refreshments. 2pm - 4pm www.graveshamarts.co.uk
MOTHER’S DAY WEEKEND: POTS AND PICNICS Red House, Red House Lane, Bexleyheath, London, DA6 8JF
Enjoy Mother’s Day weekend at Red House. Have a family picnic in the gardens, while children can have fun with the craft activity, making a potted plant present for Mum. Booking essential. Also 31 March Adult £5 (Picnic only); Child £7.50 (Craft + picnic) nationaltrust.org.uk/red-house
6 APRIL
EASTER FAMILY FUN Hever Road, Edenbridge, TN8 7NG
Make some special family memories this Easter, hop through the beautiful grounds following the trail of colourful carrots to claim your delicious chocolate treat. Celebrate spring by making and decorating an Easter bonnet at daily craft workshops. Then show off your creation in a parade in front of the Castle with prizes for the best bonnets. Until 22 April 01732 865224 www.hevercastle.co.uk
SPRING ACTIVITY TRAIL Lullingstone Country Park, Castle Road, Eynsford, Kent, DA4 0JF
Explore the woods following the self-led activity trail and see what you can discover about the park. All completed trails will receive a small prize. Until 22 April 10am-3pm £3 03000 41 18 11 www.kent.gov.uk
CADBURY EASTER EGG HUNT - TREE TRUMPS TRAIL National Trust Emmetts Garden, Ide Hill, Sevenoaks, Kent, TN14 6BA.
Take part in the Easter fun this spring with this Cadbury
Out & About
Easter Egg hunt. Take a stroll through the garden in the tree trump themed hunt to earn your chocolate prize. Booking not needed. Until 22 April 10am-4pm £3 per trail 01732 868381 www.nationaltrust.org.uk/ emmetts-garden
EASTER GARDEN TRAIL Hall Place & Gardens, Bourne Road , Bexley, Kent, DA5 1PQ
Find out which bunnies are competing in the Egg-Olympics and the sports they’re playing! Hoppingly good fun around the gardens finding the posters with a small prize at the end. Pick up your trail sheet from the Visitor Centre. Until 28 April 10am-4.30pm £2.50 01322 526 574 www.hallplace.org.uk
8 APRIL
RUXLEY’S EASTER TRAIL Ruxley Manor Garden Centre, Maidstone Road, Sidcup, Kent, DA14 5BQ
Go along this Easter Break and partake in the Easter Trail! You’ll be on the hunt for 10 bunnies hidden around Ruxley Manor. Pop into Customer Services to pick up your Easter Trail leaflet! Free event, no ticket required. Until 21 April 020 8300 0084 www.ruxley-manor.co.uk
9 APRIL
THE ADVENTURES OF BO PEEP Churchill Theatre, High Street, Bromley, BR1 1HA
Counting her sheep always sends Bo Peep off to sleep by bedtime but she’ll be up all night with them missing. Bo Peep needs you and your family’s help to save her little lambkins from danger and her bedtime! Until 18 April 020 3285 6000 www.churchilltheatre.co.uk
10 APRIL
CADBURY’S EASTER EGG HUNT Red House, Red House Lane, Bexleyheath, London, DA6 8JF
The natural inspirations behind some famous art and designs
are hiding in the garden with a message. Find them all, discover what the message is and win your chocolatey prize. Until 22 April nationaltrust.org.uk/red-house
13 APRIL
VAISAKHI PARADE Gravesend Town Centre, DA11
Join the Gravesend Gurdwara as they hold its annual Sikh Festival Parade – Vaisakhi. Watch as a sea of colour winds its way through the streets of Gravesend. 11:30am - 2:30pm www.gravesham.gov.uk
BING LIVE Churchill Theatre, High Street, Bromley, BR1 1HA
Calling all Bingsters! Bing and his friends are coming to Bromley in the first ever Bing stage show! Full of fun, laughter and music, Bing Live! is the perfect first theatre trip for pre-schoolers and their families. Until 14 April 020 3285 6000 www.churchilltheatre.co.uk
16 APRIL
SING-A-LONG-A THE GREATEST SHOWMAN The Orchard Theatre, Home Gardens, Dartford, DA1 1ED
Singalonga Productions brings you their newest show, the smash hit film musical that everyone can’t stop singing The Greatest Showman! Fancy dress is strongly encouraged and full audience participation essential. YOU the audience will rewrite the stars! 3pm & 7pm 01322 220000 www.orchardtheatre.co.uk
17 APRIL
FOREST FUN CLUB DROP OFF SESSION Pickhurst Infant Academy, Eastry Avenue, Hayes, Kent BR2 7PQ
Forest Fun Club is about having fun outdoors. Sessions include den building, mud painting and outdoor crafts. For children aged 4-10 years.
Road, Eynsford, Kent, DA4 0JF
Take a short self-led walk around the park following the Easter Bunny Trail Clues. Solve the riddle and receive an Easter Egg from the Easter Bunny. £7 03000 41 18 11 www.kent.gov.uk
22 APRIL
Direct from their hit ITV series, Sooty, Sweep and Soo and TV’s Richard Cadell will amaze you with impossible tricks and sidesplitting jokes! A spectacular treat for the whole family – including a chance to meet Richard and Sooty after the show! 020 3285 6000 www.churchilltheatre.co.uk
SOOTY’S MAGIC SHOW Churchill Theatre, High Street, Bromley, BR1 1HA
FAMILY FUN AT HEVER CASTLE & GARDENS Throughout the Easter holidays promises to put a spring in your step (6-22 April). Hunt for the colourful carrots around the grounds in our fun free Easter trail or spot the bunnies in the Castle*. Celebrate spring by making and decorating an Easter bonnet at daily craft workshops** with a chance to show off your creations in a parade in front of the Castle every day with prizes for the best bonnets. Children can also have their faces painted** As well as the Easter themed activities a visit to Hever Castle in spring offers a great chance to explore the stunning gardens. Visitors can enjoy a dazzling display of spring blooms from daffodils to hyacinths, camellias and early tulips. Visitors aged 7-14 can explore the Tudor Towers adventure playground with its own moat, drawbridge and three turrets. It features three slides and two poles and lots of interactive elements including musical instruments, a maze and hidden boxes to find. Or the under 7s can enjoy the natural play area, Acorn Dell with its 2 metre high living willow structure, a giant sandpit, a mound with tunnels to clamber in and a climbing frame.
10am-1pm www.forestfunclub.co.uk
Or challenge yourself in the Yew Maze and see how long it takes you to find the way out. Then round off the day with seasonal home cooked food and mouthwatering cakes in the restaurant followed by a visit to the Gift Shop stocked with Easter goodies.
21 APRIL
More info at www.hevercastle.co.uk
EASTER BUNNY HUNT
(*Free with castle entrance. **small additional charge).
Lullingstone Country Park, Castle
www.familiesonline.co.uk MARCH - APRIL 2019
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