Families West London March-April 2018 issue 120

IN THIS ISSUE

• Successful

early learning ideas

• Are we over testing

our kids? • Alternative Easter gifts • What’s on for families in west London

Issue 120 March-April 2018

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In this issue...

Spring has sprung - and for us this year it can’t come soon enough. I’m yearning for the longer, lighter days with much more chance to go outside. Our Spring issue is such a delight to put together - our pages are packed full of promise of lovely family days out. Sugar free seems to be on everyone’s lips at the moment and so it seems a good time to suggest alternatives to chocolate eggs as part of our Easter feature. Plus lots, lots more to read and think about. Enjoy! 2 5 6 8 9

News & Views

Successful Early Learning

Over Testing our children

A child with SEN

Pilates for children

10 Finding space for YOU!! 11 Easter gifts and craft ideas 14 What’s On in west London this half term Activities, 20 Clubs & Classes

All Stars Cricket

All Stars Cricket was launched in March 2017. The programme has had an incredible first year with over 1,500 All Stars Cricket centres delivering the programme to over 37,000 kids. In addition, the end of year parent survey yielded very positive results with key headlines of 70% of families new to their local cricket club, 85% of parents want their child to return in 2018 and bring a friend! All Stars Cricket provides boys and girls from 5 to 8 years old with an opportunity to become a star. The national curriculum of fun, cricket activities and games provides children with the basic movement skills to begin a lifelong love of physical activity. The programme is a paid for product that has a RRP of £40, although this can vary across the country. The cost includes the 8 week All Stars Cricket programme (1 x hour session per week for 8 weeks) and the pack; including a bat, ball, rucksack, cap and t shirt (personalised with their name) - all delivered to your door. The pack also includes an Activity book that allows children and parents to engage with the programme using several weekly challenges to earn ‘star awards’ like bowling, catching, running, and teamwork. The programme is delivered by trained volunteers who deliver game based activities that teaches basic cricket skills like catching, throwing, hitting a moving ball and social skills like team work and communication. Held at accredited cricket clubs these courses are a perfect way for children to learn about cricket and make friends in safe, and most importantly, fun environment. The Centres will be encouraged to deliver their programmes from May 11th through to July but some Centres may start slightly later than the 11th May. For more information or to register for a summer of #BigMoments visit allstarscricket.co.uk

Laws on smacking changing

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Families West London 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 West London are fully protected by copyright and none of the editoria or photographic matter may be reproduced in any form without prior consent of Families West London. 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. Designed by Martin Driscoll. Email: martindriscoll@yahoo.com Printed by The MANSON Group Ltd, 8 Porters Wood, Valley Road Industrial Estate, St Albans AL3 6PZ. www.mansongroup.co.uk

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New laws are coming into force in the UK relating to smacking children. Currently, it is legal for a parent or carer to smack their own child but only when it amounts to ‘reasonable punishment’, as laid down in the Children Act 2004. What is defined as ‘reasonable punishment’ is a grey area as it is not set out in the law and depends on each individual case. However, changes are planned in the Scottish and Welsh legal systems which will ban the smacking of children under any circumstances. This means England will be the only country in Britain where parents will still be able to legally smack their children. In England it will remain illegal for teachers, nursery staff or care workers to smack a child. Privately hired carers such as nannies and babysitters may smack, but only if permission has been given by the child’s parents. For more information visit: www.childlawadvice.org.uk

March-April 2018

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News & Views A “Haven of Harmony”

St. Helen’s College is a truly outstanding school for boys and girls aged 2-11 in Hillingdon. Inspectors described this family-run school as a “Haven of Harmony.” Pupils are polite, confident communicators who gain excellent results at 11+ transfer and delight in showing visitors around their beautiful, green, home-from-home environment. There is a huge programme of co-curricular sports, arts, music, drama and more and the school’s focus on the values of love, harmony and growth, along with its family ethos, set it apart. The school believes that children learn best when they feel happy, secure and loved and staff work closely with families to ensure that every child reaches their potential. Wraparound care is available from 7.30 a.m. to 6.00 p.m. not only during term time but during school holiday times too. The next Open Morning is on Wednesday 25th April 2018. Telephone 01895 234371 to make an appointment. www.sthelenscollege.com

The perfect start to Performing Arts

A new term lies just around the corner and with more children attending Jigsaw Performing Arts Schools than ever before, there has never been a better time to take to the stage than now. Performing arts classes are hugely enjoyable for children of all ages and they are an excellent way to build confidence and social skills. With classes in Ealing and across London and the Home Counties, why not book a two-week trial today? Visit: www.jigsaw-arts.co.uk Or call: 020 8447 4530.

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March-April 2018

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News & Views More risky play for kids

The Chief Inspector of Schools recently announced new training for School Inspectors to ensure they are properly focusing on child safety but not at the expense of opportunities to broaden and enrich young minds. Amanda Spielman, the Head of Ofsted, expressed concern that children are being deprived of rewarding experiences and the ability to cope with normal everyday risk because of an overzealous approach to health and safety. Ms Spielman said “Making sure children are safe at school is, of course, an important part of our work, but I want to be sure we look at the right things in the right way, without going overboard.” Statistics from A& E Departments have shown that injuries from tree falls are down amongst under-15s and that children are more likely to injure themselves in a tumble out of bed! Recent research has also shown that in today’s society only 21% of children play outside today compared to 71% of their parents when they were children. For more information visit: www.gov.uk/government/speeches

New research confirms new dads mental health concerns

A new poll reveals almost 40% of men experience anxieties after having children. The research released by the Priory Group of Harley Street, London also claims to show that thousands of men experience anxiety - and in some cases depression - as they enter fatherhood. One in five men believed they were actually suffering from Paternal Post Natal Depression, although only 2% were officially diagnosed. This accords with earlier research by the parenting charity the NCT, which showed around 1 in 3 new fathers are concerned about their mental health. The increased pressures of fatherhood, more financial responsibility, changes in relationships and lifestyle, combined with a lack of sleep and an increased workload at home, may all affect a new dad’s mental wellbeing. Concern about their partner is another worry for new fathers. The NCT found that almost three quarters (73%) of dads were worried about their partner’s mental health. For more information visit: www.nct.org.uk/dads-PND or: www.priorygroup.com

It’s Showtime!

27th - 31st March, evening shows at 7.30pm. Matinee at 2.30pm on Sat 31st March. At Questors Theatre, Ealing W5 5BQ. A musical theatre extravaganza presented by Dance Gallery, Ealing’s leading dance school. Featuring a cast of 280+ talented girls and boys, It’s Showtime! features fabulous song and dance routines from a wide range of era’s as well as sequences from School of Rock and Dreamgirls. Come along and see for yourself what Ealing and Dance Gallery has to offer! Great fun for all the family. Tickets priced from £10 - £19 available from Questors Theatre box office at www.questors.org.uk or on 020 8567 5184. Dance Gallery offers weekly classes in many different styles of dance including street dance, contemporary, modern and tap, for all ages between 4 -18 plus an adult jazz class. For further information on classes, please contact the principal, Jill Wellman on 020 8566 9672 or email: jill@dancegallery.co.uk www.dancegallery.co.uk

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March-April 2018

Technology IS good for kids learning...

Recent research indicates that a staggering 96% of teachers believe technology has had a positive impact on the way children participate and learn in a lesson, whilst 56% believe that pupils are more engaged when technology is used, according to a survey conducted by Smoothwall, a web filtering provider for schools. An impressive 86% of teachers also say that technology has made them perform better and prepare more varied and exciting lessons. And parents are on board too. A survey conducted by The Knowledge Academy shows that 91% of parents believe technology is making it easier for them to be involved with their child’s education and 68% say that technology has increased their ability to help children with school work. However, there are some concerns. At least a third of teachers are worried about using technology in class because they cannot control what each child is doing whist it is being used. A similar number of parents also think that children already have too much access to technology and don’t need it at school. Visit: www.smoothwall.com and: www.theknowledgeacademy.com

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How Early Learning can predict a child’s success You may be surprised to learn that the long term effects of children learning language and maths skills at an early age is one of the greatest predictors of their financial success as adults. How can this be possible you may ask? With the many confounding variables such as a child’s IQ, formal education and sociodemographic background, it’s hard to believe that early reading or maths skills can be one of the most important factors associated with doing well as an adult. However, a 2013 study from the University of Edinburgh1 shows that early maths and reading abilities have major long-term benefits. Children who performed better in reading and maths tests at age 7 were shown to be more likely to earn higher wages later in life according to researchers. Children who had advanced by just one grade level in reading by age 7 earned an average of £5,000 per year more at age 42 than their classmates. The study also concluded that “Mathematical and reading ability at age 7 are substantially and positively correlated with financial success at age 42, independently of relevant confounding variables.” In other words, it was the actual reading and maths abilities at age 7, not just the child’s socioeconomic status, the child’s IQ, or other factors - that had a lasting impact on the person’s life chances. Understanding Words Research consistently indicates that the earlier a child learns language skills, the better the long term outcome. A well-known study in 19952 found that the number of words spoken to a child by age 3 was a better predictor of a child’s vocabulary at age 11 than the parents’ IQs, parents’ socio-

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economic status, or which school the child attended. A more recent study on the topic found that babies who learned more words by 18 months of age had greater vocabularies at age 3. In addition, the researchers found that 18-month-old babies who knew more words had faster brain processing speed. The study also concluded that the ‘language gap’ that exists by 18 months of age would be hard to overcome, meaning that babies who had been taught fewer words in the first 18 months of life could have later delays in learning language skills.3 Early Reading and Maths Skills Reading problems at an early age are hard to counter-act later

on in life. Very few children who cannot read at the appropriate level at the end of first grade ever catch up. There are also significant advantages in learning to read early. Studies back in the 1960s concluded that children who were taught to read at ages 3 or 4 read better than children of the same IQ who were taught at ages 5 or 6. Those with the same IQs who were taught at ages 7 or 8 were even farther behind. Six years later, the children who were taught to read earlier were still ahead of the same IQ children who were taught later. In addition, the earlier the child was taught to read, the more likely the child enjoyed reading. Parental involvement in teaching children about reading

By Dr Robert Titzer

and writing words is also related to the development of early literacy skills. In turn, early literacy skills directly predict word reading at the end of first grade (age 6-7 years) and indirectly predict reading in third grade (age 8-9 years). Word reading at the end of first grade predicts reading comprehension in third grade. So, if you are wondering how to give your infant a head start in life, it’s worth investigating the resources available to help you teach little ones language and maths skills as early as possible. You can read my tips at: www.yourbabycanlearn.com

Dr Robert Titzer is an Infant Researcher and expert speaker at The Baby Show returning to London ExCeL 2nd - 4th March 2018. www.thebabyshow.co.uk 1

Ritchie, S. J. & Bates, T. C., (2013). Enduring Links From Childhood Mathematics and Reading Achievement to Adult Socioeconomic Status. Psychological Science.

2

Hart, B. & Risley, T., (1995). Meaningful Differences in Everyday Parenting and Intellectual Development in Young American Children. Baltimore: Brookes.

3

Fernald, A., Marchman, V. A. & Weisleder, A., (2012). SES differences in language processing skill and vocabulary are evident at 18 months. Developmental Science.

On Friday 13th April 2018 · 3.30pm until 6.30pm

Bright Eyes Montessori Nursery

Studios 1-4, 13 Acton Hill Mews Business Centre, 308 Uxbridge Road, London W3 9QN. (updated website under construction) Please Call Estelle, Margherita or Aga on: 02089 932 009.

Large and spacious nursery rooms in excess of 750 sq feet each room, following the Montessori Method. Owner and Manager run. Yoga and Meditation, Music and dance are practiced once a week as part of our extra curricula activities. Registration on the day will entitle you to 20% discount on your first month’s fees. If you register before September 2018 you will be entitled to a 10% discount.

March-April 2018

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Are we Over-Testing our children? There is a feeling among many that the tests children are required to take at primary school in England are overly complex and a source of “unnecessary” pressure on children at too young an age. On the contrary, the Government says testing is an important part of ensuring that children master the basics of reading, writing and mathematics early on.

So what exactly are some of these tests that our children are taking? The Reception Baseline Test It is proposed by the Government that reception pupils will face a ‘baseline assessment’ when entering school from the year 2020. The test is intended to take place during the first six weeks of school and to provide a baseline measure to track your child’s progress during the primary school years. It probably won't be a formal ‘test,’ rather an assessment done over a period of time. The Government has said that if the Reception baseline is introduced, then key stage 1 tests will be scrapped.

The Year 1 Phonics Screening Check Taken by all children in Year 1 in June, this test is meant to demonstrate how well your child can use

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the phonics skills they’ve learned up to the end of Year 1 and to identify children who need extra phonics help. The check consists of 20 real words and 20 pseudowords that a pupil reads aloud to the teacher. The assessment usually takes between four and nine minutes per child. Children should not realise that they are being formally assessed and the exercise should be perceived by the child to be part of their everyday phonics activities.

The Year 2 Key Stage 1 SAT Key Stage 1 SAT take place at the end of Year 2 in May. They consist of six tests in total, four of which are compulsory for your school to administer and two of which were optional in 2017. You should check with your school as to whether it will be running the optional tests in 2018. The tests will be in your child's usual classroom, with their usual teacher. Children will be grouped in small groups or sometimes as a whole class and they will not be seated in an exam style arrangement so it’s quite possible your child will not even realise they are being tested. The tests are not strictly timed, as they are not intended to assess your child’s ability to work at speed but each usually lasts around 30 minutes. Although the tests are set

externally, they are marked by teachers within the school.

The tests are: Maths Test 1 Arithmetic (compulsory) consists of 25 questions involving calculations. Maths Test 2 Reasoning (compulsory) requires children to use maths to solve simple problems which are usually described with pictures. Reading Test 1 (compulsory) requires children to answer questions about written information of about 400 to 700 words long. Reading Test 2 (compulsory) requires children to answer questions about a more traditional comprehension exercise with a longer passage of text. Spelling Test (optional) consists of a 20 word spelling test involving the teacher reading 20 sentences which use the word in context.

March-April 2018

Grammar & Punctuation Test (optional) consists of a grammar, punctuation and vocabulary test, in two sections of around 10 minutes each involving a mixture of multiple choice and shortwritten answers.

The Year 6 Key Stage 2 SAT At the end of Year 6, children sit tests in reading, maths, spelling, punctuation and grammar. These tests are both set and marked externally and the results are used to measure the school’s performance via Ofsted reporting and published league tables. Reading Test requires your child to answer questions on passages of text. The test lasts one hour. Grammar, Punctuation and Spelling Test consists of two parts: a grammar and punctuation paper requiring short answers, lasting 45 minutes, and an aural spelling test of 20 words, lasting around 15 minutes.

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Maths Test 1 Arithmetic takes 30 minutes and children have to give the correct answer to calculations, including long multiplication and division. Maths Tests 2 and 3 Reasoning requires children to answer questions in two separate tests designed to measure problem solving and reasoning skills with number, measures, geometry and statistics. Children have 40 minutes to complete each paper.

Marking of Key Stage 1 and 2 SATs: Children are given a score that is ‘scaled’ across the whole country so the average score nationally is fixed at 100. This means if your child has a "scaled score" higher than 100 they are doing better than average and if it is below 100 it

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means they need more support. For KS1 SATs you won't receive your child's actual SATs scores unless you ask for them, but you will be told whether your child is working at the ‘expected standard.’

CATs: Children aren’’t required to take any formal tests between the end of Year 2 (KS1 SAT) and the end of Year 6 (KS2 SAT) but schools still have to assess achievement and attainment. In many schools, this takes the form of ongoing teacher assessments or internal tests, but some primary schools opt to use formal tests called CATs (cognitive abilities tests) instead. CATs are used to give a snapshot of a child's potential, what they could achieve and how they learn best. CATs focus on a child’s

natural cognitive ability by assessing verbal reasoning processes using words, quantitative tests looking at the same processes but using numbers and symbols and non-verbal tests looking again at reasoning processes but using shapes and figures. CATs are not statutory tests set by the

March-April 2018

Government and have no bearing on school league tables. For more information please visit: www.gov.uk and: www.theschoolrun.com

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Life with a child with Special Educational Needs

Parents are often faced with additional challenges when they have a child with special needs. Claire Winter talks to a parent about life with a child who has SEN. Caroline is mum to seven-yearold Alfie, who has autism. She says life with autism is like being on a constant rollercoaster, as no two days are the same. “Some days we’re on a level, and then the following day we might be hurtling down an enormous drop! Alfie is autistic, which as a spectrum disorder, affects people in completely different ways. Alfie’s main challenges include social and communication issues, anxiety, dyspraxia (problems with co- ordination and motorfunctions), sensory issues, emotional under-development and short-term memory problems. This means that even basic things, like asking him to put his shoes on or find his water bottle can be fraught with difficulties. Frankly, it’s exhausting at times! Some days are better than others. My measure is if we manage to get through the day without any major tantrums or without him hitting out at anyone, and he goes to sleep feeling loved and

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protected, then we’ve had a good day.” Caroline’s son is in a mainstream school, and she says that getting education and support for your child at school is a huge sticking point for many SEN parents. “The problem with the current mainstream school system is that it is a ‘one size fits all’ approach, but schooling a child with SEN is like trying to stick a square peg into a round hole. In our experience, because Alfie keeps up academically with his peers and appears to ‘cope’ in school, he only gets a basic level of support with things like social skills and confidence building. I think Alfie could thrive at school if he had access to further support and if the school could fund a helper to sit with him. He is a bright and intelligent boy, but because they don’t address his specific needs, he will only perform at a mediocre level. Because Alfie just gets on with it out of sheer determination and a huge amount of self-control, he continually slips through the net. He is exhausted when he comes home from school from trying to ‘fit in,’ and that is when he is most likely to meltdown. But unfortunately, the school doesn’t get to see this behaviour. This is a major issue for many SEN parents, and a lot of us feel very let down by the system.” Caroline says Autism is often referred to as a ‘hidden disability, but it

does depend on the child and their specific needs. “The nature of the condition being a spectrum disorder means that everyone experiences it differently. People often don’t realise Alfie has a condition, and then if we explain, we get comments like “well, he doesn’t look autistic.” For some reason, people feel qualified to comment on your child’s condition after only meeting them for five minutes! I have to continually explain to people that because he is classed as ‘high-functioning,’ ie: he keeps up with his peers academically and has average verbal skills, it doesn’t mean that his life is any easier. In fact, in some ways it’s harder, because society expects him to be a certain way because he doesn’t have the indicators of what people perceive to be ‘disabled,’ such as a wheelchair or a full-time carer. I am always happy to talk about Alfie’s condition as part of a positive conversation around disability.” What should you do if you suspect your child may have SEN or additional needs? Caroline says if your child is school age, your first port of call should always be their school, particularly if they haven’t flagged anything up to you already. If your child is younger talk to your health visitor or doctor. “Be able to give clear examples of how the issue is affecting your child and their ability to learn or

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function in a classroom setting, and how it may be affecting them at home. Keep notes if necessary. Issues at school can often manifest themselves at home through bad behaviour, withdrawing, general grumpiness, and not wanting to talk about school. Obviously, it depends on the challenges involved and the individual child, but if you suspect the issue is related to mental health, then they ought to be seen by a GP who can refer them on to the relevant services, although access to this varies depending on area and hospital trust. “Last of all - don’t give up! If we all keep shouting about it, eventually we will get heard!”

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Pilates for children in the electronic age...

Are you worried about your children’s fixation with their electronic devices? Are you concerned about their hunched posture and the possibility of them developing lower back or neck pain? These questions are pressing on many concerned parents’ minds these days. It’s simple: neither us nor our children can do entirely without the devices anymore so we have to find a solution to deal with it! Let’s have a closer look first at what really happens to the body when our children are hunched over their tablet or phone. First of all, the head comes forward and the neck starts feeling tensed, possibly causing headaches. Then, going down the spine, we see the shoulders rolling in and an arch in the upper back will

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occur, leading to a “closed” chest, making it harder to breathe optimally. On top of that, in a seated position, the lower back will be flexed more than in a standing position and the core muscles don’t have to work really. Lower back pain could kick in. All in all, muscle imbalances can be the result and might on the long run even lead to aches and pains. That’s not the way it should be at such a young age! Luckily Pilates for children and younger adults can help fight the muscle imbalances by focusing on opening the chest, strengthening the upper back and bringing back the natural spinal curves. Most importantly it focuses on strengthening the core muscles, playing a vital role in supporting the whole body. Pilates for children is like regular adult Pilates,but more

FUN! Children are fascinated by all the fantastic props: weighted small Pilates balls looking like apples, wobbly stability discs, elastic bands and specifically the big Swiss Balls! They appeal to their imagination which I use a lot; going on a trip, doing specific animal exercises like the Seal, the Swan, the Cat Stretch etc. I finish every class with a relaxation by reading them a story so they can open the doors to their imagination. As long as we start teaching our children at a young age, they will be able to incorporate Pilates into later life. “First educate the child” as Joseph Pilates used to say… I started a pilot project at a big international school in London last year for 7 to 11 year olds. It was interesting to see that specifically the parents who are Pilates enthusiasts,

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By: Petra Bekkerin

physiotherapists or chiropractors themselves convinced their children to try it. Most of them have become big Pilates fans and have enrolled again! When I asked my group last Christmas to write their favourite exercise on a note for the Christmas stocking, they all instantly wrote down “The Relaxation” and the “Swiss Balls” They don’t need an electronic device for that! Petra Bekkerin is a Level 3 Pilates and STOTT PILATES ® instructor and is qualified to teach Kids and Teens Pilates. More info: www.pthealthfitness.com

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HEALTH: Finding Space for YOU! So, you imagined that when your children went to school, you’d have an extra 6 hours a day to play with, right? Wrong! The school routine kicks in and so do the demands of homework, sport, music and after school clubs. Not to mention worries about whether they will make friends. Are the other children being kind to them? Are they being kind to the other children? In reality, those 6 hours a day get eaten up in a different way - there may be a few more minutes, but there’s no less stress. It’s easy to commit those valuable spare minutes too, almost without realising it. Of course, you’ll be class representative, join the PTA and ferry your children back and forward to lots of extra-curricular activities. Before you do this though, take a moment to ask yourself: would you be better to dedicate this time to yourself? Will that help you feel less stressed and overwhelmed? Will your family be better off with a happy and well balanced you, or with one that is over-extending themselves? ‘Me time’ is not just nice to have. So slow down and reconnect with what brings you joy. You can do this at any time just as soon as you decide you’ve have had enough of being busy.

Here’s how: Create a safe haven When you feel you have no time, you may feel you have no space too. Create a space where you have room to think - a sofa that is clear of homework, a dining table that is clear of the remains of the last meal or a room that is out of bounds for the children. Clear physical space helps generate clear mental space. Creating it and keeping it that way means you won’t constantly have to tidy it up for it to become what you need.

Have fun with your the kids too It is easy to become resentful about all the time we dedicate to our children when we don’t have enough for ourselves. Having more fun time together can drastically increase your own levels of joy, and bring you a step closer to having time for you. So create a list (in your safe haven) of all the things your child wants to do that you enjoy too. That could be going for a walk around a stately home with an amazing playground or visiting a museum with a great café. If you love games make sure you have the ones YOU like in the house… use these times as a chance to connect with the child in you as well as the one(s) in front of you.

Lemon Tree and St Matthew’s Montessori schools based in Ealing Broadway offering both full day care (8.00am-6.00pm) and term time (9.15am-3.15am) for children aged from 1.5 years to 5 years old. We offer French, Ballet, Yoga, Drama and PE inclusive of fees. Full and part time sessions available. Qualified and experienced teachers offer a high standard of learning, nurturing and care.

Delegate Your Top 3 If we don’t know how to spend our time we end up ‘full’ but not fulfilled. We do chores that someone else could do, like tidying and cleaning. Yes, these things have to be done but you can perhaps do less of them and there is definitely room to delegate IF you are willing to let go and choose instead to spend time doing something that gives you joy. List the top 10 things you are juggling, pick three that you don’t like and delegate them; that might mean finding someone else at home to take responsibility. Don’t rule out your child as a possible candidate - help them to take responsibility for their own things (and the mess they create) early in life. Their future partners will thank you for the times you resisted doing everything for them! Try a Kids Swap I often observe that some parents won’t ask for help for fear of criticism, whilst others won’t offer for fear of interfering. The truth is we all have family and friends who want to support us if we allow them to do so. Find a person whose kids you could tolerate looking afte regularly and agree a swap. You look after their kids one month and they do it for you the next month. Quid pro quo is a great way to overcome guilt and begin to be supported.

Focus on 15 When we are overwhelmed with our schedules we desperately crave space for ourselves and it seems impossible to get. Don’t target Nirvana. Just 15 mins a day can make a massive difference to how you feel. Start small and build these short amounts of time into your schedule, even if this is initially just an extended shower or starting your day 15 minutes earlier.. Rather than focusing on your need for an hour or two of spare time, experience the joy you can extract from 15 minutes of the same activity. Are three favourite songs enough to bring you joy? Or a single chapter of a book? Both of these things are better than no time for you. And once you recognise the joy you can get from 15 minutes, you will be motivated to find more time. When you are happy, your children will be happy. When you take time for you, you will be reenergised for your family. So in their interests, take care of yourself. Find that space today using the steps above, no matter where your starting point is. Susie Ramroop is a mum and a Transformational Coach. For more information, visit: www.susieramroop.com

* Cooking , P.E. · Arts & Crafts Messy Play · Local Trips · Language Sessions · Storytelling and many more activities... Staff are professional Early Year Educators.

We believe that care and education are equally important for children and the routines and activities are provided in ways that help each child feel they are a much valued member of the pre-school.

Lemon Tree Montessori: 07495 898 760 (Full Day Care) St Matthew’s Montessori: 07856 364153 (Term Time) Website: www.lemontreemontessori.com

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Term Time Only Monday - Thursday: 8.15am - 5.15pm Friday: 8.15am - 3.15pm Breakfast Sessions: £2 per day Morning/Afternoon Sessions: £12 per day Lunchtime Sessions: £2.50 per day

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An ALTERNATIVE Easter Gift Guide

Compiled by Claire Winter

Bored of chocolate? Do you want to give your loved ones a special Easter gift this year that isn’t edible? Well, you’ve come to the right place! Here’s our alternative guide for 2018.

Row of Speckled Eggs cushion, £26.99 welovecushions.com

Oskar & Ellen Doll’s House with Bunnies £24.99 borngifted.com

This range of fabulous cushions has a variety of stylish designs featuring eggs, bunnies, hares and cockerels. They would make a lovely addition to any sofa.

Colour-In Easter Top, £14 selfieclothing.co.uk

Personalised Egg And Soldier Board, £25 hugosworkshop.co.uk

This fun personalised Egg And Soldier board is made from upcycled oak kitchen worktops and is personalised with the name of your choice. It is a beautiful, unusual gift that will last for years.

This really cool company does a range of colour-in clothes. You can get a colour-in Easter top, in different sizes for children aged two to ten. Each top is printed with a design ready for your child to colour in with Selfie pens to make it their own. Once they have been coloured in and ironed, the designs will stay permanently, so your child has a unique piece of clothing they can keep. The company offers a huge variety of designs, including capes and PJs too!

This gorgeous, handmade Swedish designed toy looks lovely and is great fun to play with too. It’s a cloth house that has a cute bunny family inside. It also has a carry handle so it’s easy to transport too. Suitable for three and over.

Greatest Egg Hunt Ever Jumper, £23 ellieellie.co.uk

Perfect to wear on an Easter hunt and an ideal gift for the little adventurers and the all- round mini-sleuths in your life. Made from a cotton blend these unisex sweatshirts have a soft feel with a fleecy lining and are designed for a ‘relaxed’ fit. Available in fuchsia and pastel blue.

Snazaroo, Mini Theme Pack, £2.99 snazaroo.com Personalised Bunny Dining Set, £39 ellieellie.co.uk

This cute, personalised bunny plate set is a great way to add a touch of fun to any table this Easter. Each set includes a dinner plate, side plate and mug and every item includes a bunny silhouette with your chosen name. familiesonline.co.uk

Kooshi Backpack, £34.99 kooshi.co.uk

We love this Kooshi Bunny backpack. It was designed by a mum who was fed up of using valuable space in her kids’ bags transporting things for them to nap on during journeys. The pillow can be detached and used on a plane, car or bus, so your child can sleep in peace. The perfect bag to take on holiday! March-April 2018

Snazaroo has launched great pocketfriendly face paint packs. They’re just £2.99 per pack, with instructions and face paints included. They have ten designs to choose from including an Easter bunny and chick. It’s a really fun, budget friendly present for boys and girls.

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Great Easter crafty ideas... Easter Egg and Basket: For Older Kids 7+ What you’ll need:

• 0.8mm craft wire • 0.4mm craft wire • 1 wooden egg • Craft paint – various colours • Lengths of ribbon • Cylindrical shape (2 different sizes) • Round nosed pliers • Wire cutters What to do: Cut 2 lengths (approx. 15cm) of the 0.8mm wire. Create two different sized circles of wire, using your cylindrical shapes leaving a long tail at one end of each piece. On each piece, wrap one end of the wire around the circular shape to secure. Bend the long tail, 90 degrees. Secure the circular frames, one above the other, using the long tail wires to secure around the top of one and the base of the other. RAD LIFE MEMBER Affiliated member of the ISTD 0208 740 0727 · 07848 967 935 Inspiring young dancers since 1973 Royal Academy of Dance Ballet classes from 3 years Imperial Society of Teachers of Dance & Tap classes from 4 years Small classes giving your children the individual encouragement they deserve Facebook: MARGARETDANCEACADEMY Email: margaretdanceacademy@sky.com Web: www.margaretdanceacademy.co.uk Call or email to arrange your child’s FREE trial Pitshanger Methodist Church Hall Ealing W5 1QP

Cut another 6 straight lengths of 0.8mm wire, long enough to secure at the top and base of the circles, to stabilize the basket structure. Cut a 90cm length of 0.4mm wire and wrap this up and around the top and base of the basket shell, until it is totally wrapped around all sides. Once you have covered the side surfaces, weave more 0.4mm wire to create a base for the bottom of the basket. Cut approximately, 20cm of 0.8mm wire and fold in half. Hold the double end in your round nosed pliers and with your hand, twist the 2 extending wires together. Shape the twisted cable around a circular shape to form a curve, to the same size as the diameter of the top of your basket. Secure the ends around the basket to make a handle. Using your ribbons, tie around the secured areas of the handle creating a bow. Paint the wooden egg with a coloured design. Your egg in basket is ready to treasure or give to someone special as an Easter present. This project was created by Blooming Crafts, Redhill.

For more info on their courses, drop in craft sessions

and art supplies visit:

facebook.com/bloomingcraftsredhill/

Easter Chicks in a Basket: For Younger Kids (3-6yrs)

What you’ll need: • A polystyrene egg/s • Different shades of yellow paper/tissue paper cut into small squares • Small piece of brown or black card for beak • Gloopy glue & spreader • Googly eyes • Match sticks for legs • Feathers for plumage What to do: Spread glue all over your egg and layer with your different colour yellow squares to create “fluffy feathers” Tip - pop the egg onto a matchstick to make it easier to hold whilst adding the feathers Add your googly eyes & beak Pop in your match sticks for legs Finish off with your real feather plumage and your new friend is complete! Why not give your chicks a home and decorate with some lovely Easter stickers too? You can do this using the base on a small box (cereal box would be ideal) and creating an easy handle from a strip of light card. This project was created by Creation Station.

For more info on their babies & toddler and

pre-school courses, holiday sessions and parties.

Contact Lisa on: 01737 731169

And: Old Oak Centre 76 Braybrook Street · East Acton W12 0AP

Or visit: thecreationstation.co.uk

From Baby to Ballerina

Classes for Boys and Girls aged 21/2 to 16 years old Ballet, Pointe Work, Jazz, Tap, Annual Performances

Classes held in: Bayswater, Notting Hill Gate, Oxford Street, Shepherds Bush and South Kensington

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Marbled Easter Bunting (age 2+) What you’ll need:

• Paper or card/Shaving foam/ Poster paint (a few colours)/Tray or baking tin/Brush or clean stick

What to do: • Spray foam onto the tray and then add the paint. • Use a brush to make patterns in the foam before laying the paper carefully on top and pushing down gently. • Lift off the paper and use an old piece of card to scrape off the excess foam. • Leave to dry and then cut the paper into egg shapes. • Thread with string and you’ve got some beautiful Easter bunting.

Dinky Doodlers run classes at the Colman Redland Centre in Reigate every Friday during term time. Call: 07984 757613 or visit:

dinkydoodlers.co.uk to book.

to create a concertina effect. • Let your child draw and cut out two feet from the orange card and stick these to the legs. • Stick on the googly eyes and cut out and stick on a beak. Monkey Bean runs drop-in classes at he Caterham Arms, Caterham on Wednesday and Thursdays during term time. Visit: monkey-bean.com for more info and ideas.

Bouncy Bunny (age 1+) Create this great Easter character and have fun decorating your home with lots of bunnies or putting on puppet shows! What you’ll need: • Craft foam/Googly eyes/ Pompoms/PVA glue/Scissors/ Felt tip pen/Glitter/Card or paper • An adult to help you

Easy Easter Chick (age 1+) This cheep cheep(!) activity is great for little ones as they are able to do it mainly independently and express their creativity. What you’ll need: • Paper Plate/Yellow tissue paper (cut into squares 2cm x 2cm)/ Glue Stick/Orange Card/Googly eyes (or paint/drawn on) • Scissors

What to do: • Stick and cover the paper plate with the yellow tissue paper squares (don’t worry about it all sticking down it looks great feathery) • Grown ups we need your help here! Draw round your child’s hand on the orange card and cut out • Stick the hands on the side of the plate to create the chicks wings • Cut two strips of the orange card about 15cm x 3cm for your wiggly legs. Fold both strips back and forth

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Cock-A-Doodle-Doo Easter Brekkie (age 4+)

Make these special eggcups to decorate your festive breakfast table. Requires some cooking, so get an adult to help you.

What you’ll need: • Empty eggbox/Scissors/Red and yellow card or felt/Glue/Googly eyes /Feathers Eggs/Pan • Carefully cut out a cup from an egg box keeping the central egg divider. • Using red card or felt cut out a mini cocks comb, and glue it onto the head. • Using a little scrap of red paper cut out a mini heart shape to form the wattle. • A mini folded over yellow

triangle will make the beak. • If you have googly eyes to hand use these otherwise draw on your eyes. Feathers added to the sides using tape give your cockerel the finishing touch. • Boil your egg for 3.5 mins-4 mins for soft boiled or between 7-10 for hard boiled • Pop the toast in and start your Easter weekend with your very own handmade eggcups. Dinky Doodlers run classes at the

Colman Redland Centre in Reigate every

Friday during term time.

Call: 07984 757613 or visit:

dinkydoodlers.co.uk to book.

What to do: • Start by making your Bunny head, draw the shape outline including your ears and cut out your craft foam. Cut out two smaller ear shapes from different coloured paper to be the inside of Bunny’s ears. Add your googly eyes, two large pompoms for his cheeks and two small rectangles of paper for his teeth • Bunny body, arms and feet - cut out oval shapes of coloured paper for the belly and feet, and long shapes for arms. Cut two long strips of paper and fold into a concertina to create his long bouncy legs. • Decorate his body as you like with pens, glitter, sparkles - whatever you fancy! • Pop him on a piece of string or gift ribbon to make him hop about

The Creation Station run classes at the Colman Redland Centre in Reigate and Nutfield Memorial Hall in Nutfield every Tuesday & Wednesday during term time. Call: 01737 731169 or visit:

thecreationstation.co.uk to book.

March-April 2018

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What’s On · Easter Half Term Workshops & Listings WORKSHOPS FOR CHILDREN PERFORMING ARTS IN W3 3-13 Apr ArtsEd EXTRA

DIARY DATES

11 Mar MOTHER'S DAY Time for mums to be thoroughly spoilt! 17 Mar MUM2MUM MARKET IN EALING

A pop up market where you can buy or sell nearly new baby, children's and maternity goods in good condition at fraction of high street prices. Takes place at St Barnabas Church, Pitshanger Lane, Ealing W5 1QG 2-4pm. http://www.mum2mummarket.co.uk/northand-west-london-nearly-new-sales.html 30 Mar-2 Apr EASTER WEEKEND Check out our What's on pages for all the Easter egg hunts taking place locally. 22 Apr LONDON MARATHON Cheer on the runners and watch out for the wacky costumes! 28 Apr MUM2MUM MARKET IN CHISWICK A pop up market where you can buy or sell nearly new baby, children's and maternity goods in good condition at fraction of high street prices. Takes place at Southfield Primary School, Southfield Road, Bedford Park W4 1BD from 1.30-3.30pm http://www.mum2mummarket.co.uk/northand-west-london-nearly-new-sales.html

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ArtsEd's fantastic range of Easter courses offers fun and creative performing arts activities for children as well as professional training for aspiring young performers. Children can have great fun learning songs from their favourite films and shows, creating a new play or musical, learning to act for film or making a comedy sketch show. Courses are taught by experienced ArtsEd tutors and industry professionals, encouraging confidence, creativity and performance skills. For ages 4-16. e: ptc@artsed.co.uk t: 020 8987 6692. www.artsed.co.uk DRAMA, DANCE AND SINGING WORKSHOP in W4, W8, W10 and SW7 WIND IN THE WILLOWS Your child could join Ratty, Mole, Badger and the inimitable Mr Toad as they whizz down country roads on a colourful adventure packed with songs, dances and games. Perform’s friendly team of actors, singers and dancers will be with your child every step of the way as they enjoy a thrilling singing, dancing and drama adventure, The course ends with a minimusical, complete with costumes, for family and friends to enjoy. Ages 4-7, 10am-3pm. 4-6 Apr at St Michael’s Hall, W4 and Kensington Baden Powell House, SW7 5JS, 9-11 Apr at Pangbourne House, W10 6BT and Kensington URC, W8 6Bl. Call 020 7255 9120 e:enquiries@perform.org.uk www.perform.org.uk/wonderland WONDERFUL ANIMALS in SW3 3 Apr CHOCOLATE TUESDAY Create your own unique blend and taste unusual flavours- plus learn about the history, geography and science of chocolate. 10.30am-3pm, 6 Apr THE WIGGLY WILD SHOW Discover the wonderful world of animals - such as a pygmy hedgehog, giant snails, millipedes and much more. Ages 4+, 10.30am-12pm or 1pm-2.30pm. 10 Apr STORM IN A TEACUP Lift the lid on the world’s most popular beverage, explore the history, science and art of all things chai plus dynamic story-telling, dramatic adventure and brilliant botany. Workshops at Chelsea Physic Garden, SW3 4HS, www.chelseaphysicgarden.co.uk NATURE WORKSHOPS IN W2 3 Apr NATURE EXPLORERS: SPRING TO LIFE A fun, outdoor day of discovery with nature inspired activities for ages 8-11, 10am-3pm. 4, 5 Apr DISCOVERY DAY: HEDGEHOG HEROES Try out some of the scientific equipment to survey hedgehogs, craft a paper hedgehog, become a hedgehog architect and design a friendly habitat and a clay creature to live inside it while learning all about our spiny friends.

11, 12 Apr DISCOVERY DAY-SPRING SURPRISES Pond dipping, create a clay bird and eggs, explore the wildlife garden while doing the spring nature trail and get creative with nature based arts and crats. Drop-in, 11am-3pm. At ISIS Education Centre, Hyde Park W2. 020 7036 8040. www.supportthe royalparks.org/events MUSIC WORKSHOPS IN W12 9 Apr 4 DAY MUSIC CAMP: SCHOOL OF ROCK Get in touch with your inner rock ’n’ roll animal! Learn and play instruments, compose your own music and create your own artwork. No experience necessary. 10am-3pm, for 5 - 11 years old. 13 Apr INTERACTIVE MUSICAL SHOW: TALES OF BEATRIX POTTER For 0 - 6 years old, 11-12pm. 13 Apr INSTRUMENTAL EXTRAVAGANZA Try a range of instruments and enjoy a truly wonderul musical adventure. Available instruments include Trumpet, Violin, Piano, Keyboards, Percussion, Guitar, Ukulele, Flute, Clarinet. 2-3pm for ages 4-11. The Music House for Children www.musichouseforchildren.co.uk COOKERY WORKSHOPS IN W3 Date TBC Cookery classes and workshops for children aged 3-14+ in specially designed children friendly kitchens. The Kids Cookery School. 020 8992 8882. www.thekidscookeryschool.co.uk ENVIRONMENTAL WORKSHOPS IN W8 3-13 Apr Outdoor and creative activities in Holland Park and the Ecology Centre wooded Wildlife Area. A fun-packed programme for five to ten year olds includes sessions on dragonflies, mammals, spiders, animal homes, trees, and animal-themed craft sessions on animal tracks and birds. 10am-12 noon and 2-4pm, booking essential. 5 Apr EASTER EGG-STRAVAGANZA Learn about animal eggs and nests and decorate your own, and take part in the Easter Nature Trail. Drop-in, 10am-4pm. 12 Apr SEEDS OF SPRING: ECOLOGY CENTRE OPEN AFTERNOON An opportunity for you to enjoy and learn more about the Wildlife Garden and the Edible Teaching Garden. Sow some seeds and help us prepare the garden for the coming season. Drop-in 12 noon to 4pm. 28 Apr FAMILY BIRD SONG WALK Can you tell a robin from a blackbird from just their songs? Join David Darrell-Lambert, a bird expert, on a walk through Holland Park for a beginner’s introduction to birds and their calls. Booking essential. All at Holland Park Ecology Centre, Holland Park, Ilchester Place W8. 020 7938 8186. www.rbkc.gov.uk/ecology FRENCH IMMERSION HOLIDAY CLUB IN NW8 AND SW3 3-6 Apr Creative activities and projects such as arts and crafts, cooking, singing, dancing, sporty games (indoor & outdoor according to venue and weather), theatre & language games all help to develop your child’s communication skills in French as well as developing their creativity, critical thinking and imagination. 9am-3pm with half day sessions available, for ages 3-5 and 6-8. http://clubpetitpierrot.co.uk

March-April 2018

MUSEUMS AND GALLERIES BRITISH MUSEUM

WC1B 3DG www.britishmuseum.org DIGITAL WORKSHOPS Takes place at weekends and school holidays on a variety of themes. Free, 11am-4pm, for ages 7+ (unless stated). Special events include: 10 Mar, 14 Apr LITTLE FEET: ANIMAL EXPLORERS Explore the ancient Greek galleries with your little ones and use digital devices to make new discoveries. For under 5s and their parents and carers. Sessions last approximately 30 minutes. For under 5s,11am-3.30pm.

FOUNDLING MUSEUM

WC1N 1AZ www.foundlingmuseum.org.uk 15 Mar, 19 Apr BACH TO BABY Discover the award-winning classical concert series for babies, toddlers and parents. Themed concerts are performed by pianist Miaomiao Yu along with other internationally renowned musicians. 11 Apr ANIMAL SCULPTURES Join artist Lydia Hardwick for this sculpture workshop. Using mixed media, build a 3D model of the animals featured in the exhibition The Lost Words. Drop-in sessions at 11am and 2pm,suitable for age 5+. 13 Apr INK STAMPED POEMS In this creative writing workshop, imagine animals featured in The Lost Words. Make rubber letter stamps then write your own acrostic poem using stamped, printed and written words and pictures. Sessions with artist Isobel Manning at 10.30am, 1 and 3pm, suitable for age 5+

IMPERIAL WAR MUSEUM

SE1 6HZ www.iwm.org.uk EXHIBITIONS: HOLOCAUST Film, photographs and a large number of rare artefacts document the history of the Nazi persecution of the Jews and other groups before and during the Second World War. For ages 14+ A FAMILY IN WARTIME Explores the lives of William and Alice Allpress and their ten children and what life in London was like during the war. SECRET WAR The clandestine world of espionage, covert operations and the work of Britain’s Special Forces. FIRST WORLD WAR Discover the story of the war - Over 1,300 objects including weapons, uniforms, diaries, letters and souvenirs, will be on display as well as a recreated trench with periscopes and a dugout, along with a soundscape and projection will evoke what daily life was like for the troops. Every Sat and Sun OBJECT CONVERSATIONS New immersive object handling sessions where families can explore objects from the collections- feel the

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weight of a shrapnel piece from the First World War and come to grips with real objects. Drop-in, free, for all ages. 11am - 12.30pm and 2 - 4pm.

NATIONAL GALLERY

WC2N 5DN www.nationalgallery.org.uk Every Sun FAMILY SUNDAYS Activities designed for families to enjoy and learn together, 11am and 3pm. MAGIC CARPET STORYTELLING For children aged 2-5. Sundays 10.30 -11am and 11.30am-12pm. Fly away on the magic carpet, coming to land in front of a different painting each day. DRAWING SUNDAY Explore gallery paintings as inspiration for your art. For ages 5 -11. Sundays 11am and 2pm. Drop-in. 4 Mar OVER THE HILLS AND FAR AWAY Explore Bernardo Bellotto's landscape and create your own pop-up drawing of the world beyond the fortress of Königstein. 18 Mar A BIRD IN THE HAND Discover brilliant birds and make your own feathery creations. STUDIO SUNDAYS Take inspiration from the collection with studio sessions. These hands-

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Please make sure you tell them you saw them in Families west London magazine! on workshops start in the Gallery and are followed by a studio session. Sessions are two hours long and start at 11am and 2pm. 11 Mar STILLED MOTION Transform painted dancers into 3D by exploring the body and drapery in motion and constructing wire sculptures. Every Weds WELCOME WEDNESDAYS Bring paintings to life through interactive music, storytelling, art and messy play activities. Every Wednesday, 10.30 and 11.30am for walkers under age five, 1pm for sitting babies to walkers. 12 Feb MESSY MONDAYS: EXPLORING THE STUDIO Drop-in session for children under 5 years. Become a mini artist by exploring materials and mark making in a tactile environment inspired by a painting. 10.30am-1pm and 1.30-3pm. 12-15 Feb POP UP PORTRAITS Discover characters from the collection and try out some top tips for drawing faces, then make your own pop-up portrait. 11am and 2pm, drop-in, for age 2+ 13 Feb TALKING TUESDAYS: INVESTIGATING PAINTINGS Bringing a painting to life through singing, talking and

HAMPTON COURT Bunny Hunt playing. For under 5s. 10.30am-1pm and 1.30-3pm. HOLIDAY WORKSHOPS 28 Mar BABYJAZZ EASTER: CELEBRATION Swing and sing your way into Easter in this tailored jazz workshop. This session is for children aged 3-18 months. 11.45am and 1.30pm.

NATURAL HISTORY MUSEUM

SW7 5BD www.nhm.ac.uk Up to 13 May VENOM: KILLER AND CURE Encounter some of the world's most

March-April 2018

venomous creatures and discover their surprising connection to human health. Exhibition highlights include a live venomous creature, the head of a gaboon viper, the species with the biggest known venomous fangs, the insects with some of the most painful venoms known to science, and the enchanting flower urchin, whose venom can cause temporary paralysis in humans!

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What’s On Every weekend INVESTIGATE FOR FAMILIES Get a feel for how scientists work by having a go yourself. Come and explore hundreds of real nature specimens that form the evidence Museum scientists use in their daily work. Drop-in, 11am-5pm. 10 Mar DAWNOSAURS A free event that lets children on the autism spectrum enjoy the Museum with their families and siblings, free from the hustle and bustle of the general public. Visitors have access to a wide-ranging programme of activities, including a chance to see, meet and even touch live animals. All activities are supported by experienced, autism-aware facilitators. A dedicated Sensory Room will also be available for those children needing a quieter and calmer space. This event is best for children aged five to 15, and siblings are welcome. 17, 24 Mar, 13 Apr DINO SNORES Ever wondered what goes on at the Natural History Museum at night? 7 - 11 years. 7pm till morning, torchlit trails through the museum, live animal shows and more.

SCIENCE MUSEUM

SW7 2DD www.sciencemuseum.org.uk WONDERLAB: THE STATOIL GALLERY The UK's biggest interactive science gallery is filled with specially-commissioned exhibits and artworks, live science shows, explosive demonstrations and immersive experiences from the museum's team of scientists

OUR LIVES IN DATA Information about our lives is increasingly being captured, analysed and used, transforming the world around us. From toys that can understand a child's personality and smarter public transport planning to new genomic technology that is helping uncover the causes of rare diseases and cancer, big data's invisible revolution has begun. Ages 8 to adult, free. 9 Mar, 13 Apr SCIENCE NIGHT A special overnight event for 7-13 year olds featuring exciting hands-on workshops, science shows, and a sleepover at the museum.

VICTORIA AND ALBERT MUSEUM

SW7 2RL www.vam.ac.uk Every Sat in Mar POP UP PERFORMANCES: WINNIE THE POOH Interactive storytelling for all ages at 11am, 1 and 3pm. Free, drop in. Every Sun in Mar DROP-IN DESIGN Create your own mobile inspired by the Winnie the Pooh exhibition and see your tale come to life on the page. Make words bounce and climb around your favourite scenes. 10.30am-5pm, for age 5+ 10 Mar MICHAEL MORPURGO AND A LIFETIME IN STORIES Join author Michael Morpurgo for a discussion of his career, spanning beloved classics including War Horse, to his most recent work, Flamingo Boy.

30 Mar- 3 Apr POP-UP PERFORMANCE: EASTER HOLIDAYS Adventures at sea around the world in an interactive and playful performance, with original music and songs by Jo Girdlestone at 11am, 1 and 3pm. 30 Mar-3 Apr DIGITAL KIDS: EASTER HOLIDAYS Get creative with technology and transport yourself across the globe. Drop-in, 10.30am-5pm. 30 Mar-3 Apr IMAGINATION STATION: EASTER HOLIDAYS Voyage across the oceans of the world to discover treasures from countries near and far.

WALLACE COLLECTION

W1U 3BN www.wallacecollection.org 4 Mar, 8 Apr THE LITTLE DRAW Free drop-in drawing workshop for all ages and abilities with artist Georgia Mallin. Georgia is a figurative artist and portrait painter with an interest in how we tell stories about ourselves, others and the world around us. 1:30 - 4:30pm, all ages. 5 Apr DROP-IN ART WORKSHOP: TERRIFIC TOP HATS Come and make your very own Victorian inspired top-hat and help us celebrate the bi-centenary of the birth of Sir Richard Wallace in style! Free, drop-in. 10.30am and 2pm for ages 5+

9 Apr CANALETTO CITYSCAPES Work with illustrator Millie Nice to explore and draw from the paintings of Canaletto and others. You will then use your collected drawings to paint and create an imagined cityscape and finally turn it into a pop-up picture. For children aged 9 - 12 years old only, 10.30am-3.30pm. FAMILY ACTIVITIES: 11 Apr ARMOUR HANDLING FOR FAMILIES Meet Curator of Arms and Armour (and real life knight!) Tobias Capwell as he introduces you to the remarkable arms and armour collected by Sir Richard Wallace. Learn all about medieval knights, battles and tournaments and get to handle and try on some real and replica pieces of armour. 11am. 12 Apr FAMILY FILM SCREENING: BEAUTY AND THE BEAST A very special screening of Disney’s Beauty and the Beast (2017) for all the family to enjoy. Before or after the film make sure to pick up our Beauty and the Beast trail and search the museum for some of the candlesticks, clocks, wardrobes, teapots, cups and saucers which are remarkably similar to the talking variety found in the film! 11am.

WILLIAM MORRIS SOCIETY

W6 9TA www.williammorrissociety.org.uk 14 Feb VALENTINE’S DAY FAMILY WORKSHOP: “LOVE IS ENOUGH” Be inspired by William Morris’s work to create your own designs: Create your own Valentine’s Day Hearts using fabric or felt. All materials are supplied, and you will take home your Valentine creations. 10.30am-1pm.

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DAYS OUT BRITISH LIBRARY

NW1 2DB www.bl.uk 24 Mar WONDROUS LIBRARIES! A creative workshop for families. Explore different materials to design your own extraordinary library map. Be inspired by the architecture of the British Library, their wonderful collection of maps and tales of unusual libraries. Free, suitable for age 5-11, 10.30am and 1pm.

CUTTY SARK

SE10 9NF www.rmg.co.uk/cuttysark Every weekend CUTTY SARK CHARACTERS: Come aboard to hear Cutty Sark’s incredible stories brought to life by characters from the ship’s past. Suitable for ages 3+ TODDLER TIME Bring your little sailors along for songs, stories and playtime on board. 10-11.30am for ages 4 and under. SPECIAL EVENTS 3, 4 Mar CATHARINE THE CAMPAIGNER A special Women’s History Month postermaking workshop inspired by the art of Catharine Dowman. Catharine saved Cutty Sark for the nation as well as being a renowned poster artist for the Women's Suffrage movement. Design a poster in an art workshop beneath the ship and talk about what would inspire you to be a campaigner like Catharine. 11.30am and 2pm.

FULHAM PALACE

SW6 6EA www.fulhampalace.org every Mon and Tues THE PALACE EXPLORERS A weekly parent/carer and toddler sessions for children aged 2-4. £3 per child, which includes a drink and healthy snack. 18 Mar HANDS-ON ARCHAEOLOGY A rare opportunity to examine archaeological finds and learn more about the rich and varied history of this ancient site. Free, no booking necessary. All ages, 1-3pm. 1 Apr SPRINGTIME AT THE PALACE Celebrate all things Springtime, activities include whimsical storytelling, an Easter trail, Georgian chocolate making workshops and a whole host of fun art and craft activities. Two chocolate making workshops will be held at 11.30am and 1.30pm- book in advance for these. 11am-3pm for all ages.

Please check before you head out to make sure that your Days Out event has not changed after publication of your Families West London magazine...

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What’s On

CONTINUED

2 Apr EASTER TRAIL The Museum and garden are full of clues, find them all and win a chocolate egg! Begin your trail in the Bishop Terrick Drawing Room, located within the Palace. £3 per child, no booking necessary. 12-3pm 21 Apr LITTLE GREEN FINGERS GARDENING SESSION Sow seeds in the specially prepared Little Green Fingers bed and explore how vegetables and flowers grow during this hands-on gardening workshop. 10.30am-12pm for age 3+ Booking essential.

HAMPTON COURT PALACE

KT8 9AU www.hrp.org.uk selected Thurs and Sats: TINY EXPLORERS Discover the fascinating stories of Hampton Court Palace in a multisensory workshop which includes music, movement and messy play for 0-4yrs. Booking essential. 26 Mar-15 Apr THE LINDT GOLD BUNNY HUNT Take the family back in time and join the Lindt Gold Bunny Hunt around the home and gardens of Henry VIII. Once you’ve found all the Bunnies, pick up your delicious Lindt chocolate treat, lovingly created by the Lindt Master Chocolatiers. As you explore the palace join the King’s cooks in the Kitchens and discover the truth behind Henry VIII and his food. Then let the kids run wild in the Magic Garden and get lost in the maze.

A wonderful day out at THE LONDON WETLANDS CENTRE HOLLAND PARK ECOLOGY CENTRE

W8 6LU www.rbkc.gov.uk/ecologyevents 12 Apr SEEDS OF SPRING: ECOLOGY CENTRE OPEN DAY Learn more about the Edible Forest Teaching Garden and the Wildlife Garden. Sow some seeds and take part in craft activities. Drop-in 12-4pm, free, all ages.

KENSINGTON PALACE

W8 4PX www.hrp.org.uk/kensingtonpalace Weds and Sats TINY EXPLORERS Discover fascinating stories about Kensington Palace in these multi-sensory workshops. Music, movement, messy play and more for 0-4yrs. To book, call 020 3166 6646. 25 Mar FUNTASTIC SUNDAY Perfect for children aged between 0-13 years, the last Sunday of each month sees Funtastic Sundays taking place at Kensington Palace. These fun-filled activity days for families include the chance to try out the palace’s activity bags and trails, enjoy Story Time or take part in special creative workshops. 30 Mar - 6 Apr EASTER FAMILY ACTIVITIES Meet Queen Mary II at Kensington Palace this Easter, with drop-in sessions and family activities exploring her story and offering visitors the opportunity to create paper Chinese vases to add to her precious collection.

ODDS FARM PARK

HP10 0LX www.oddsfarm.co.uk A FABULOUS DAY OUT AT THE FARM! Meet the farmers and get close to the animals in the hands-on area and in the large undercover animal barns. There is a massive adventure play area with a four lane astra slide, two drop slides, a netted area with zig zag chicanes and tunnels, swinging ropes and much more. Also a special Toddler and Under 5’s areas. 17-19 Mar ODDS FARM PARK ‘25TH YEAR!’ Celebrate our 25th Birthday, stepping back in time with historical facts and stories along with some special surprises too! 30 Mar-15 Apr SPRING INTO EASTER Join in the Easter Eggs-Scavenger Hunt taking you throughout the Farm Park, enjoy daily shows with the Oddsocks Family and Spring-themed arts, crafts and games. Plus, the opening of the new Water Play Attraction!

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March-April 2018

OSTERLEY PARK

TW7 4RB www.nationaltrust.org.uk/osterley-parkand-house 11 Mar MOTHER’S DAY Treat the most important person this Mother’s Day. Enjoy a visit to the House and Gardens and there’s free entry for all mums. 11am-5pm. 30 Mar-15 Apr CADBURY EGG HUNT See if you can find the Easter Bunny's friends in the house, and search in the gardens to find the hidden eggs and unscramble the secret party password, with activities along the way. At the party there will be lots of fun games, like egg and spoon races, and you'll be able to collect your chocolate prize. 10am-4pm.

THE LONDON WETLANDS CENTRE

SW13 9WT www.wwt.org.uk 3 Mar MEET THE COWS The cows often stand out from the crowd of feathered animals on the reserve and although they aren’t wild, they play a crucial role in managing the wetlands. On this talk the warden will tell you more about the importance of the cows and what they do to look after our furry friends. 10am and 1.30pm. 10 -11 Mar BIRDS OF PREY Meet a range of magnificent birds of prey such as owls, peregrines, and kestrels and learn more about them. This is a rare chance to see their talons, bills, and stunning plumage close up. Expert falconer Ben Long from the Falconry School will be on hand to answer any questions you may have about these wonderful raptors. 10am, 11.30am, 1.30pm and 3.30pm. 30 Mar- 15 Apr EASTER GIANT DUCK HUNT There’s a group of giant rubber ducks on the loose at London Wetland Centre this Easter and they need your help to find them. Use your detective skills to follow the Easter Giant Duck Hunt Trail - find them all and receive a yummy treat. Plus join in Easter arts and crafts sessions.

familiesonline.co.uk

FAMILY THEATRE BECK THEATRE

UB3 2UE www.becktheatre.org.uk 25 Mar THE JUNGLE BOOK A musical adaptation with catchy music and audience interaction for all the family. 10 Apr MILKSHAKE! LIVE A singing, dancing musical with all the Milkshake favourites including Bob the Builder, Little Princess, Noddy, Fireman Sam, Shimmer and Shine, and many more. For all ages. 12 Apr SWAN LAKE Lavish costumes, stunning scenery, international stars and glorious music for the world’s most popular ballet! 13 Apr ALICE IN WONDERLAND An Easter panto ride through Wonderland, starring BGT’s winner Ashleigh Butler and her dog Sully.

CAMBRIDGE THEATRE

WC2H 9HU www.matildathemusical.com Booking until May 18: MATILDA THE MUSICAL The Royal Shakespeare Company’s production of Roald Dahl’s magical story about a girl with extraordinary powers.

LYRIC HAMMERSMITH

W6 0QL www.lyric.co.uk 3 Mar CHRISTOPHER’S CATERPILLARS A bright and beautiful tale of minibeasts and mystery. For ages 2-7. 10 Mar RED RIDING HOOD AND THE WOLF What if the Big Bad Wolf wasn’t big or bad at all? What if they got it wrong? Find out what really happened! For ages 5-7. 17 Mar GRANDAD’S ISLAND A heartwarming adventure filled with songs, laughter and jungles for ages 5-8. 24 Mar A TIGER’S TALE Based on the true story of a family of acrobats and their adopted tiger cub, this is a high-spirited balancing act of circus, puppetry, live music and song for ages 4-10. 14 Apr PERFECT The touching story of a boy meeting his disabled sister for the first time. A remarkable story of anticipation, disappointment, acceptance and love. For ages 5-10. 21 Apr TO THE MOON A magical, playful and entertaining circus theatre show using aerial ropes, hoops and bags of imagination. For ages 2-5. 28 Apr ME AND MY BEE Saving the world, one bee at a time. For ages 5-11.

MUSIC HOUSE FOR CHILDREN W12 7LJ www.musichouseforchildren.co.uk

PEACOCK THEATRE

WC2A 2HT www.sadlerswells.com 29 Mar-7 Apr ENGLISH NATIONAL BALLET: MY FIRST BALLET: SWAN LAKE A beautifully adapted version of Swan Lake, featuring a shortened version of Tchaikovsky’s music, and a narrator to guide the young audience through the story of the beautiful princess Odette, who was turned into a swan by the evil magician Rothbart.

familiesonline.co.uk

20-22 Apr LONDON CHILDREN’S BALLET - THE CANTERVILLE GHOST A ballet based on Oscar Wilde’s witty novella. Sir Simon Canterville has haunted his ancestral home successfully for centuries. That is until an American family moves in. While the youngest family members gleefully torment the indignant ghost, their older sister bravely decides to set him free forever. Set in the roaring 20s, The Canterville Ghost is performed by an all-child cast and set to the music of a live orchestra.

PUPPET THEATRE BARGE

W9 2PF www.puppetbarge.com Until 18 Mar JOEY'S CIRCUS A fun adventure for all the family in which Joey the Clown brings a circus to town. The Beadle wants to close the circus down but luckily Dog Toby comes to the rescue and saves the day! 24 Mar-13 May THE BIRDMAN PLUS MONKEY BUSINESS A wonderfully contrasting double bill. The first half is a moving story about a little bird who falls from its nest and is saved by a passerby. The second half is a fun-filled series of circus tricks.

SHAFTSBURY THEATRE

WC2H 8DP www.bearhuntlive.com BOOK NOW! 4 Jul-2 Sept: WE'RE GOING ON A BEAR HUNT The smash-hit production of We're Going on a Bear Hunt returns vividly and noisily to the West End in director Sally Cookson's funfilled adaptation set to Benji Bower's versatile lively score. Join the intrepid family of adventurers and their musical dog on a quest to find a bear; as they wade through the gigantic swishy swashy grass, the splishy splashy river and the thick, oozy, squelchy mud! Expect catchy songs, interactive scenes and plenty of hands-on adventure. The production is adapted for the stage from the modern classic written by Michael Rosen and illustrated by Helen Oxenbury. For ages 3+

SOUTHBANK CENTRE

and mesmerising chimes of the gamelan while meeting other new parents. 14 Apr FAMILY GAMELAN TASTER SESSION Bring your family and friends to play the Javanese gamelan percussion orchestra.

UNICORN THEATRE

SE1 2HZ www.unicorntheatre.com Until 11 Mar SEESAW There are holes to dig, sand castles to make, treasures to find, adventures to be had. It's much easier when you have a friend to help. But what if making friends is hard work too? Seesaw explores the push and pull of friendship, and the ups and downs of being very young. For ages 3-6. 20 Mar-15 Apr BEGINNERS The story of three families trapped in a waterlogged holiday cottage over the summer... a funny and moving story about the adult we’ll become and the child we were. For ages 9-adult. 25 Apr-1 Jul SENSACIONAL Bring your toddler along to a sound and light show in which they are the participants. Watch as your child puts on a white suit and becomes part of a digital world of ladybirds, shapes, squiggles and squarks that won’t keep still, no matter how hard you try to catch them! For ages 18 months to 3 years.

CONCERTS BACH TO BABY

www.bachtobaby.com/londonnorth All concerts at 10.30am. 21 Mar, 25 Apr in Kensington (Christ Church, Victoria Road, W8) 13 Mar, 17 Apr in Notting Hill (St. John's Church, Lansdowne Crescent, W11) 23 Mar, 20 Apr in Chiswick (St. Michael and All Angels, Bath Rd, W4) 31 Mar in Ealing (Haven Green Baptist Church, W5 2DP)

ROYAL ALBERT HALL SW7 2AP www.royalalberthall.com

LYRIC HAMMERSMITH Red Riding Hood Photography: Ellie Kurtz 31 Mar JAZZ FOR KIDS - WOMEN OF JAZZ Join the jazziest members of Albert’s Band as they explore songs performed by some amazing female jazz vocalists such as Ella Fitzgerald, Nina Simone and Diana Krall. Buggies, babies and budding musicians are all welcome!

WIGMORE HALL

W1U 2PB www.wigmore-hall.org.uk 1, 14 Mar CHAMBER TOTS: MINIBEASTS Music-making workshop for children aged 1 - 2. 10.15 and 11.45am. 3 Mar FAMILY CONCERT: TROUPE: THE EMPTY CHAIR A mischievous musical adventure that explores the ways in which people and friendships grow and change. Interactive concert for age 6+ 9 Mar CHAMBER TOTS: ON THE FARM Music-making workshop for children aged 1 - 2. 10.15 and 11.45am. 24 Mar FAMILY DAY: CHAMBER CHALLENGE Interactive workshop day for families with children aged 5+, 10:30am - 3:30pm 15 Apr FAMILY WORKSHOP Interactive concert for families with children aged 5+, 2-5pm. 26 Apr FOR CRYING OUT LOUD! Relaxed concerts for parents or carers and their babies up to 1 year old. 11am and 12.30pm.

SE1 8PX www.southbankcentre.co.uk 10, 11 Mar UNDER 10’S FEMINIST CORNER Feminism isn’t just for grown-ups and teenagers. If you think girls should have the same opportunities in life as boys, we’ve got the perfect session for you. In an interactive workshop with other young feminists, you can explore what being a girl means and get tips on how to start a campaign from your bedroom. Separate sessions for boys and girls and different ages. 2, 9, 16, 23 Mar, 20, 27 Apr RUG RHYMES FOR THE UNDER FIVES A short session of nursery rhymes, poems and rhyming stories, and the opportunity to look at and borrow books. Free but booking essential. 5, 12, 19, 26 Mar DRAGON BABIES Bring your little ones to shake, rattle and gong. Gamelan for ages 3-5. 5 Mar GONG BABIES A relaxing music workshop aimed at new parents, carers and non-crawling babies-an opportunity to immerse yourself and baby in the meditative

March-April 2018

Families west London 19

Activities, Clubs & Classes MUSIC AND MOVEMENT

HARTBEEPS Award-winning, original, multi-sensory musical baby and toddler classes with original music, bubbles, costumes, twinkles, sparkly parachutes, puppets and more. Classes in West Kensington, North Kensington, Notting Hill, Shepherds Bush and Maida Vale. Contact Louise. e: loulou@hartbeeps.com · t: 07738 522856 Classes in Ealing, Fulham, Putney, Kew, Chiswick, Hammersmith, Wandsworth, Barnes and Acton. Contact Kimmy. e: kimmy@hartbeeps.com

CIRCUS

ALBERT & FRIENDS INSTANT CIRCUS Mondays at The Hub, St Alban’s Church W6 8HJ Wednesdays at Melcombe Primary School W6 9ER Thursdays at Melcombe Primary School W6 9ER Saturdays at The Hub, St Alban’s Church W6 8HJ Email or visit the website for all the classes. e: Info@albertandfriendsinstantcircus.co.uk www.albertandfriendsinstantcircus.co.uk

DANCE

BALLET4LIFE Since 2004. Ballet4life offers top quality. Welcoming daily ballet, dance and fitness classes taught by professionals. All classes are held in large dance studios and our programme includes creative dance classes for kids, beginner ballet and barre courses, and dance fitness. Mums and babies welcome. www.ballet4life.com Follow us: @ballet4lifeuk Like us: www.facebook.com/ballet4life.uk/ DANCE GALLERY Dance Gallery is Ealing’s leading dance school and specialises in modern, jazz, tap and musical theatre productions for children aged 4-18 years.

e: jill@dancegallery.co.uk t: 0208 566 9672 · www.dancegallery.co.uk

KENSINGTON BALLET 18 months - 2 years. Kensington, Chelsea, Knightsbridge, Notting Hill and Fulham. t: 07957 650 042 www.kensingtonballet.com

STAGECOACH PERFROMING ARTS Provide fun and engaging weekly classes in dance, drama and singing in a safe and happy environment. Students aged 4 to 18 years are taught by a professional and experienced team of teachers. They offer two-week trials for all new students so that your child can try the class out. To enrol go to: www.stagecoach.co.uk info@stagecoach.co.uk Chiswick - 020 8398 4709 Hammersmith & Kensington: 020 8398 8106 Ealing: 01494 260249 WEST LONDON DANCE ACADEMY Ballet classes in Chiswick & Ealing. Free Trial Lesson. e: natalieparnell.wlda@gmail.com t: 07795 578781 www.westlondondanceacademy.com

WEST LONDON SCHOOL OF DANCE 21/2 - 16 years. 020 8743 3856 westlondondance@aol.com www.westlondonschoolofdance.co.uk

DRAMA

ARTSED EXTRA Fun and engaging weekly Musical Theatre, Drama and Dance classes in Chiswick. Develop skills and grow in confidence! Available to children 4-16yrs of all abilities. e: ptc@artsed.co.uk · t: 020 8987 6692 www.artsed.co.uk

PERFORM Drama, Dance and Singing in term time and holidays for ages 4 -12 years. A unique mix of drama, dance and singing specially formulated to bring out every child's true potential. Small classes and lots of individual attention. No-obligation FREE trial for newcomers. Venues: Acton, Brook Green, Chiswick, Ealing, Hammersmith, Kensington W8, Ladbroke Grove, Maida Vale, Marylebone, Nottinghill, Shepherds Bush, Turnham Green, and West Kensington. e: enquiries@perform.org.uk t: 020 7255 9120 www.perform.org.uk/try

STAGECOACH PERFORMING ARTS Provide fun and engaging weekly classes in dance, drama and singing in a safe and happy environment. Students aged 4 to 18 years are taught by a professional and experienced team of teachers. They offer two-week trials for all new students so that your child can try the class out. To enrol go to: www.stagecoach.co.uk e: info@stagecoach.co.uk Chiswick: 020 8398 4709 Hammersmith & Kensington: 020 8398 8016 Ealing: 01494 260249

FOOTBALL/SPORTS

KIDDIKICKS Football (W2,W4,W8,W10,W11,TW8). For boys and girls from 18 months to age 7. e: info@kiddikicks.co.uk · t: 020 7937 7965 www.kiddikicks.co.uk

JUMP LDN Empowers people through Double Dutch Skipping! Double Dutch is a socially fun sport and street game which promotes teamwork, communication and unity. Harrow Club, 187 Freston Rd, London W10 6TH (2mins from Latimer Road Station) JUMP YOUTH: 6pm-7pm (16yrs and under) JUMP FITNESS: 7pm-8pm (16yrs and over) e: info@jumpldn.com www.facebook.com/jumpldn1 www.jumpldn.com

CLASSIFIED ADS PARTIES

SWIMMING

Swimming Lessons. From 3 years. Crowne Plaza Heathrow. t: 01753 364 366 www.seriouslyfun.com

TUITION SUPPORT

EXPLORE LEARNING Maths & English Tuition Centres. 5 -14 years. Free Trial session. Ealing 020 8090 8710 Hayes 020 8561 8530 Westfield London 020 809 01216 www.explorelearning.co.uk VICTORIA PAGE Private tuition 21/2 - 11 years. t: 07050 246 810

VIVIEN BORNEMANN Home tuition. Art, Craft and design. All ages. t: 020 8932 1010.

BABY YOGA & MASSAGE

WEST LONDON BABIES Chiswick Sling Library, Family First Aid session, Breastfeeding Buddy sessions and Pregnant Parents Social Club. Also The Bub Hub which runs every fortnight and is a collective of professionals working together to support parents during the first year of their baby's life. Subjects covered include baby massage and babywearing, sleep, feeding, managing expectations, returning to work, Mums of More than One, 6-12 month old focus and lots more. Ealing. t: 020 8090 8710

LANGUAGES

ARABIC For Women and Children. Female teacher. t: 07956 845 053

HOME TUITION Private English Tuition One to one private tuition, literature and language at any level from 11+ to A2. All sessions tailored to the student’s needs, £25 per hour. Experienced tutor and current MA literature student with a passion for the subject. For more information please email:

danwatters13@hotmail.co.uk or call: 07879 358 009

PARTY PLUS

For all your party needs, Balloons Partyware · Banners · Decorations and much more. 9:30am - 5pm Monday - Saturday.

020 8987 8404 4 Acton Lane Chiswick Park W4 5NB www.partyplus.co.uk www.partiesbypost.co.uk