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West Kent

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IN THIS ISSUE

Days Out and Whatâ€™s Ons NEW! Playgroups directory School open day listings

Issue 4 March/April 2019

email: editor@familieswestkent.co.uk

familiesonline.co.uk

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West Kent

Contents

Editor’s Welcome

Welcome to the March/April 2019 issue of Families West Kent Magazine. We did it! We made it through cold and snowy January and February and now it is Spring! Find lots of ideas for Mother’s Day and Easter activities, days out and trips, inside. This time we also have a bumper guide to playgroups across the area, recommended by mums for mums to get you out and about with tiny ones. With a schools open day directory, clubs and classes information, new book reviews and more, there is something for everyone. And come and meet the editor at the first Sevenoaks Parenting Show on April 6 at the Stag Theatre. We’d love to have your feedback on the magazine! See the details on page 14 in the What’s On section. Have a happy Spring in glorious West Kent!

Page 4 Joy of Reading Find out what’s hot in children’s books for World Book Day Page 5, 6 & 7 Education Independent Schools Open Day listings and preparing for SATS and the 11-Plus Page 8 & 9 Early Years Special Pull-out section A bumper listing of playgroups recommended by mums for mums

Helen

Pages 10 Early Years News Including birth plans and baby keepsakes

Editor: Helen Cook Advertising: Amanda Biggs and Helen Cook What’s Ons compiled by Kate Craggs Writers: Helen Cook & Claire Winter (unless otherwise stated) Designer: Sarah Harmer

Pages 11 Clubs & Classes Find inspiration for new classes here

NEXT ISSUE MAY/JUNE 2019. Booking deadline April 1, artwork deadline April 5. For advertising, editorial and What’s Ons contact editor@familieswestkent.co.uk 07980118626 Our magazine is published every two months with 18,000 distributed throughout Tunbridge Wells, Cranbrook, Sevenoaks, Westerham, Tonbridge, Maidstone, Malling and Kings Hill. Never miss an issue! You can download our magazine and our back catalogue at issuu www.issuu.com

Page 12 Out and About Events, festivals and fairs! Pages 13 - 15 What’s Ons Including Half-Term activities, Mother’s Day and Easter events, and theatre. Page 16 Directory Useful businesses from health and fitness to clubs and tutors

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We are not only a magazine! Our busy Facebook page is regularly updated with lively stories, competitions, recipes and ideas for activities and weekend events in the area. Find us at @FamiliesWestKentMag And follow us on Twitter @FamWestKentMag for regular updates and information for families.

Families West Kent 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 Kent are fully protected by copyright and none of the editorial or photographic matter may be reproduced in any form without prior consent of Families West Kent. Every care is taken in the preparation of this magazine, but the franchise company, Families Print Ltd, Families West Kent and Lifecycle Marketing cannot be held responsible for the claims of advertisers nor for the accuracy of the contents, or any consequence thereof.

at Weald of Kent

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email: editor@familieswestkent.co.uk

JOY OF READING

Celebrate World Book Day with new books for Spring We kick off with World Book Day on March 7 – a reminder to encourage our children to learn and develop through reading. Reading has so many benefits for children – not simply the enjoyment of discovering new, exciting worlds between the pages of books. National studies show that the longer

children keep a love of reading going, the greater the benefits are in the classroom. Children who relish reading are more likely to do better at reading than their peers who don’t enjoy it. And happy readers are also three times more likely to have good mental wellbeing than children who don’t like it. (National Literacy Trust surveys).

So here are some ideas for new books to nurture a love of reading in children in age ranges from preschool to age 12. For more ideas of how to celebrate World Book Day visit www.worldbookday.com Hotel Flamingo by Alex Milway Anna is a little girl who inherits the Hotel Flamingo from her Aunt Matilda. Since the arrival of The Glitz hotel and its nasty owner Mr Ruffian people have forgotten about Hotel Flamingo. It is crumbling, has no guests and only two tired staff, a sleepy lemur and an old bear. Can Anna bring the Hotel back to life? With a cast of otters, an angry chef pig, a perfectionist hippo, a handy giraffe, a family of cockroaches and even a troupe of flamboyant flamingos, if anyone can do it, they can! A fantastic read about determination, friendship and acceptance. A great book for any young readers aged 5-8yrs.

The Boy at the Back of the Class by Onjali Rauf A new boy has joined the class. He is very quiet, doesn’t smile and disappears at break times. Who is he? Where has he come from? Why doesn’t he like lemon sherbets? We soon find out that he is a refugee, he’s run away from a real war, with guns and consequences.Then we find out one more thing about him and we want to help… An excellent, heart-warming story about what it is like to welcome a refugee into the classroom, about friendship and a daring plan which just might make all the difference. For readers 9-12yrs.

Reviews supplied by:

Cannonball Coralie and the Lion by Grace Easton Coralie is funny and brave and silly and strange. She lives quietly in the woods until a circus arrives and she makes a new best friend, a lion! She’s desperate to join the circus and show off her tricks but the circus master says her tricks are not good enough. Will she be separated from her best friend, lion, and the other new friends she has made at the circus? A charming story about friendship and perseverance for 3-5yrs.

147 High Street Sevenoaks TN13 1XJ 01732 452055 www.sevenoaksbookshop.co.uk

EASTER FUN

Junk WITH THE

ORCHESTRA 19th to 22nd April Join the Junk Orchestra at Leeds Castle for daily musical ‘jamming sessions’. Children can make and play instruments constructed from bits of old rubbish. Add your litter to an incredible sculpture created by award winning eco-artist Sarah Turner. leeds-castle.com

29056 LC Easter 2019 130x180mm.indd 1 4 Families West Kent March/April 2019

LOOK OUT FOR THE EASTER TRAIL WITH A CHOCOLATE REWARD

08/02/2019 16:02 www.familiesonline.co.uk

EDUCATION

Independent School Open Days for March and April 2019 These are in date order for you to plan your visits. Please check with school before setting out and you are advised to check ahead if you need to register for a place. Marlborough House School Hawkhurst, Cranbrook, TN18 4PY (Co-ed Junior School to age 13) Open Morning Saturday 1 March: 9.30-11.30am www.marlboroughhouseschool. co.uk 01580 753555 The Schools at Somerhill Tonbridge, TN11 0NJ (3 schools: 1 Co-ed Pre-prep, 1 girls’ Prep, 1 boys’ Prep) Open morning Friday 1 March: 9am Saturday 2 March: 10am www.somerhill.org 01732 375951 Radnor House School Sevenoaks, TN14 6AE (Co-ed Senior School) Open day Saturday 2 March: 10am for Nursery & Prep School, Senior School and Sixth Form; 12pm for Senior School and Sixth Form tours only www.radnor-sevenoaks.org 01959 563720 Benenden School Cranbrook, TN17 4AA (Girls’ Senior School) Prospective Parents’ Mornings 2 March, 8 March (1.45pm), 12 March, 23 March: 9.45am unless noted www.benenden.kent.sch.uk 01580 240592 Dulwich Prep School Cranbrook, TN17 3NP (Co-ed Junior School to age 13) Open Morning Tuesday 5 March: Little Stream (5-9yrs) and Nash House (up to 5yrs) 9am. Upper School (9-13yrs) at 11am. www.dulwichprepcranbrook.org 01580 712179 Hilden Grange Prep School Tonbridge, TN10 3BX (Co-ed Junior School to age 13) Open Morning Tuesday 5 March: 9am-12pm www.hildengrange.co.uk 01732 352706

Kent College Pembury, Tunbridge Wells, TN2 4AX (Nursery, Prep & Senior School to age 18) Open Morning Tuesday 5 March: 9.30am-12pm www.kent-college.co.uk 01892 820218 Walthamstow Hall Sevenoaks, TN13 3UL (Girls’ Junior & Senior Day School) Senior School Open Day Thursday 7 March: 10am-12pm Junior school: parents are invited to book a tour. www.walthamstow-hall.co.uk 01732 451334 Sackville School Tonbridge, TN11 9HN (Co-ed Senior School) Open Morning Thursday 7 March: 11am www.sackvilleschool.co.uk 01732 838888 Holmewood House School Tunbridge Wells, TN3 0EB (Co-ed Junior School to age 13) Open Morning Friday 8 March www.holmewoodhouse.co.uk 01892 860006 Gad’s Hill School Higham, Rochester, ME3 7PA (Kindergarten, Junior & Senior School) Open Day Saturday 9 March: 10:30am-1pm www.gadshill.org 01474 822366 Tonbridge School Tonbridge, TN9 1JP (Boys’ Senior Day & Boarding School) Open Morning Saturday 9 March 2019: 10am www.tonbridge-school.co.uk 01732 365555 Fosse Bank Prep School Hildenborough, TN11 8ND (Co-ed Junior School) Open Day Sunday 10 March: 2pm-4pm Open Week Monday 11 MarchFriday 15 March: Visits can be booked. www.fossebankschool. co.uk 01732 834212 King’s Rochester

Get your family SATs Puzzle Packs today: Rochester, ME1 1TE

MathsClubByPost.co.uk/SATS

www.familiesonline.co.uk

(Co-ed pre-prep, prep and senior school)

11+ Open Morning Monday 11 March: 10am-12pm www.kings-rochester.co.uk 01634 888590 Hilden Oaks School Tonbridge, TN10 3BU (Co-ed Nursery & Junior School) Open Morning Tuesday 12 March & Thursday 21 March: 9am-11am www.hildenoaks.co.uk 01732 353941 Beechwood Sacred Heart School Tunbridge Wells, TN2 3QD (Co-ed Junior & Senior School) Whole School Open Day Wednesday 13 March: 9.30am-12pm www.beechwood.org.uk 01892 532747 Solefield School Sevenoaks, TN13 1PH (Boys’ Prep School to age 13) Open Day (and individual visits on request) Thursday 14 March: 9am-10.30am www.solefieldschool.org 01732 452142 Rose Hill School Tunbridge Wells, TN4 9SY (Co-ed Junior School to age 13) Open Morning Friday 15 March: 9.3011.30am www.rosehillschool.co.uk 01892 525591 Sutton Valence School Sutton Valence, ME17 3HL (Co-ed Pre-prep, Prep & Senior School) Open Mornings Friday 15 March Pre-prep & prep. Saturday 16 March Senior school www.svs.org.uk 01622 845200 Sevenoaks School Sevenoaks, TN13 1HU (Co-ed Day & Boarding Senior School) Group Visits Saturday 16 March & Saturday 23 March: 9.45am12.30pm www.sevenoaksschool.org 01732 455133 Bethany School Cranbrook, TN17 1LB (Co-ed Senior School) Open Morning Wednesday 20 March: 9am www.bethanyschool.org.uk 01580 211273

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The New Beacon School Sevenoaks, TN13 2PB (Boys’ Prep School to age 13) Open Mornings Friday 22 March & Friday 24 May www.newbeacon.org.uk 01732 452131 The following schools welcome visits by arrangement. Russell House School Otford, Sevenoaks TN14 5QU (Co-ed aged 2-11 years). Individual visits on request www.russellhouseschool.co.uk 01959 522352 The Granville School Sevenoaks, TN13 3LJ (Prep School, girls 3-11 & boys 3-4 yrs). No open days but visits on request www.granvilleschool.org 01732 453039 Sevenoaks Prep School Sevenoaks, TN15 0JU (Co-ed Junior School to age 13) Individual visits on request www.theprep.org.uk 01732 762336 St Ronan’s Hawhurst, TN18 5DJ (Co-ed Junior School to age 13) Individual visits on request www.saintronans.co.uk 01580 752271 Cranbrook School Cranbrook, TN17 3JD (Co-ed, selective, state-funded Day & Boarding Senior School) Check direct with school www.cranbrookschool.co.uk 01580 711800 The Mead School Tunbridge Wells, TN2 5SN (Co-ed Prep School) Individual visits on request www.meadschool.info 01892 525837 Shernold School Maidstone, ME16 0ER (Kindergarten & Prep School) Individual visits on request www.shernoldschool.co.uk 01622 752868 5

EDUCATION

Beechwood School unlock your child’s potential Beechwood School, set within 21 acres of idyllic grounds in the beautiful town of Tunbridge Wells, is a co-educational, day and boarding school for pupils aged three to eighteen. Beechwood has an excellent reputation for nurturing and developing the potential of every pupil. Every child is important and we aim to discover and develop each child’s individual skills and interests. At Beechwood we want to

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Woff supported by an extensive |504 07555 48470 / 01892 514 5Tcollect 04 –| iinfo@isegb.co.uk nfo@isegb.co.uk -‐ www.isegb.co.uk (same s current eaflet ut with students week foraArrive TOUCH Wt Can &S 07555 from 07555 548470 www.isegb.co.uk and dlepart bTOUCH TOUC | | | | 07555 548470 info@isegb.co.uk www.isegb.co.uk 07555 5 48470 / 0 1892 5 14 5 04 – i nfo@isegb.co.uk -‐ w ww.isegb.co.uk ( same a s c urrent l eaflet b ut w ith t he TOUCH TOUCH 07555 548470 info@isegb.co.uk www.isegb.co.uk | info@isegb.co.uk | 07555 548470 www.isegb.co.uk additional landline number) co-curricular programme in the info@isegb.co.uk | www.isegb.co.uk 3-4 nights? our central meeting PLEASE Gpoints? ET IN TOUCH WITH US TO FIND OUT MORE! mid-‐week additional landline number) arts, drama and sport. There are 07555 548470 / 01892 514 504 – info@isegb.co.uk -‐ www.isegb.co.uk (same as current leaflet but with the many opportunities available for ✔ ✔ additional landline number) adventures and trips abroad and PLEASE GET IN TOUCH WITH US! many pupils take full advantage of Beechwood’s unique links with “Having hosted for 2 years, I have been fortunate to meet some partner schools across the world. wonderful people and their families have hosted me in return. To find out more, or to visit our school, please contact ISE is well run, professional and friendly, ensuring their support Lucinda Coakley, Registrar registrar@beechwood.org.uk is always available.” Tess B, Tunbridge Wells or 01892 532 747. To register your place at the next Open Morning 07555 548470 01892 514 504 on 13th March 2019, please visit www.beechwood.org.uk Twitter: @schoolbsh Facebook: @BeechwoodSacredHeartSchool info@isegb.co.uk www.isegb.co.uk

Join us for our OPEN MORNING Wednesday 13 March : 9.30am-12pm

BEECHWOOD SCHOOL ... where everyone is unique 12 Pembury Road, Tunbridge Wells, Kent TN2 3QD T: 01892 532747 E: registrar@beechwood.org.uk www.beechwood.org.uk

6 Families West Kent March/April 2019

www.familiesonline.co.uk

EDUCATION

11+ courses to boost chances of success Give your child the best chance for success in the important 11-Plus with expert revision courses and mock tests. Windsor Tutoring 11+ offer: ● Experience of the exam situation ● Techniques and tips to use in the test ● Personal revision plan ● Small group work

Experienced 11 Plus tutors Course 1. Diagnostic mock test: Sunday 31 March, Revision Course: 8 - 11 April 9am - 12pm, Final mock test: 12 April Course 2. Diagnostic mock test: Sunday 21 July, Revision Course: 29 July - 1August

●

9am - 12pm, Final mock test: 2 August All sessions are held at Langton Green Village Hall, Speldhurst Road, Tunbridge Wells TN3 0JJ Visit www.windsortutoring.com or contact Louisa on 07517 861487 or at louisawindsor@outlook.com

Nurturing Maths Conf idence For Year 6 SATs SATs are knocking on the door for Year 6 Children. There’s never been a time when it’s more crucial to support their confidence and prepare for the next big leap – secondary school. A recent survey of parents showed that 41% of year 6 children are not getting weekly Maths homework; putting the pressure onto parents to find ways to practise key skills. Confidence in Maths can be nurtured at home if children are offered targeted, appropriate and engaging tasks. Finding such tasks can be a real problem for most parents. Maths Club by Post is offering an answer with 4

Love Opportunity Love Success

fantastic puzzle packs written by a specialist Maths teacher and covering all the arithmetic skills needed for year 6 SATs. If you would like to build your child’s confidence and help them to experience SATs success, visit MathsClubByPost.co.uk/SATS and order your SATs Skills Success Kit today.

Love Russell House 01959 522352 An independent prep school for boys and girls aged 2-11

www.russellhouseschool.co.uk Sutton Valence Preparatory School svs.org.uk

NEW 50-week Nursery

Professional tuition by fully qualified teachers Tailored work plans to address your child’s needs: • English • Maths • 11+ • SATs • GCSEs • CE •

We can help your child: • Build confidence • Move up a set

• Improve exam results • Develop and reach goals

Sutton Valence Prep School now offers high-quality nursery provision for 50 weeks a year

Call 01732 453657 to book your FREE Assessment. For more information visit: sevenoaks-tutoring.co.uk

FREE Assessm ent & Taste r Lesson

Sevenoaks Tutoring, 69c London Road, Sevenoaks, Kent TN13 1AX. Email: teaching@sevenoaks-tutoring.co.uk

www.familiesonline.co.uk

Please contact Abigail Betts for further information: T: 01622 842117 | E: bettsa@svs.org.uk

email: editor@familieswestkent.co.uk

PULL OUT AND KEEP!

EARLY YEARS’ SPECIAL

Playgroups in your area

Low cost, friendly, local and accessible – playgroups can be a life line when you are at home with small children. We asked mums via Facebook across the whole area to recommend groups they know and enjoy – and we were overwhelmed with the response! Thanks to their generous help we have compiled a comprehensive and up-to-date list of playgroups across the whole area. We have checked details but just in case of disappointment, please do your own checks before setting out.

SEVENOAKS Tuesday

Mothers & Others 10am-11.30am Vine Evangelical Church, Dartford Road, Sevenoaks, TN13 3AT www.vec.org.uk 01732 469833

Hope Church Cafe Parent & Toddler Group 9.30am-12pm Hope Church, The Mill Lane Centre, Mill Lane, Sevenoaks, TN14 5BX www.hopechurch7oaks.org 01732 464456

Parent & Toddler Group 10am-11.30am St Peter’s Church, The Rectory, Bates Hill, Ightham, Sevenoaks, TN15 9BG www.ightham.org/church 07972 376601

Wednesday

Rascals, Kiddies & Carers Playgroup 10am (term time only) The Vine Baptist Church, Park Lane, Sevenoaks, TN13 3UP www.vinebaptistchurch.org.uk 01732 740634

Top of the Tots 10.30-11.30am Bessels Green Baptist Church, Sevenoaks, TN13 2PS www.bgbc.co.uk/activities 01732 454921

Mum & Co Playgroup 10.45am-12pm and 1.45-3pm St Nicholas Church, Rectory Lane, Sevenoaks, TN13 1JA www.stnicholas-sevenoaks.org 01732 740340

St Mary’s Monkeys 10am-11.30am Kippington Centre, Kippington Road, Sevenoaks, TN13 2LL www.stmaryssevenoaks.org/stmarys-monkeys 01732 451117

Thursday

Jolly Tots 9.30-11.30am St John’s the Baptist Church, 62 Quakers Hall Lane, Sevenoaks, TN13 3TX

www.stjtb.com/children-and-families 01732 451 710

Tiddlers 9.30-11.30am Seal Church Hall

www.sealparishcouncil.org.uk/ clubs-and-associations 01732 763488

Baby Plus 9.30-11.30am Bessels Green Baptist Church, Sevenoaks, TN13 2PS www.bgbc.co.uk/activities 01732 454921

Babies Club 10am-11.30am St Nicholas Church, Rectory Lane, Sevenoaks, TN13 1JA

Little Stars 9.30-11.30am (term time only) Tonbridge Baptist Church, Darenth Avenue, Tonbridge, TN10 3HZ www.tonbridgebaptist.church/get-involved/kids 01732 352824

Tonbridge Mums Buggy Walk Meet every Monday at 10am for a couple of laps around Tonbridge Park and then go for a coffee and a chat. Everyone welcome and there is no fee to pay. Info at

www.facebook.com/groups/2393140 59756403/?ref=share

HILDENBOROUGH Monday

JellyTots 10.30am-12.30pm (term time only) Tonbridge Free Evangelical Church, 34 Douglas Road, Tonbridge, TN2

Wednesday

Monday

www.christchurchtonbridge.com/about 01732 770334

www.tonbridgeparishchurch.org.uk/ Groups 01732 770962

Friday

TONBRIDGE

Angel Cafe Thurs & Fri 10am-2pm (Play area with FREE entry) LifeSprings Cafe at Christ Church Centre, High Street, Tonbridge, TN9 1SG

Teddies 9.30am-11am (term time only) Church Centre at St Peter and St Paul, Tonbridge Parish Church, Church Lane, Tonbridge, TN9 1DA

www.stnicholas-sevenoaks.org 01732 740340

www.thedrivemethodistchurch.org. uk/toddler-group 01732 465071

01732 354338 www.tonbridgemethodistchurch.org.uk/ babes-in-the-church

Tuesday

www.facebook.com/pages/Tonbridge-Evangelical-Free-Church/ 437965349639249 01732 355987

Little Drivers Baby & Toddler Group 9.30-11.30am (term time only) The Cornwall Hall, behind The Drive Methodist Church, 6 The Drive, Sevenoaks, TN13 3AB

Babes in the Church Toddler Group 9am-11am (Term time only) Tonbridge Methodist Church, Higham Lane, Tonbridge, TN10 4JG

Sunbeams 2pm-4pm (term time only) St John’s Church, 194 Tonbridge Rd, Hildenborough, TN11 9HR www.stjohnshildenborough.co.uk/community 01732 833867

TUNBRIDGE WELLS Monday

Tiny Acorns 10.30am-12pm Church Centre at St Peter and St Paul, Tonbridge Parish Church, Church Lane, Tonbridge, TN9 1DA

Mummy & Me 9.30-11am (term time only) St Peter’s Church Tunbridge Wells, Bayhall Road, Tunbridge Wells, TN2 4UX

www.tonbridgeparishchurch.org.uk/ Groups 01732 770962

www.stpeterstw.com/groups 01892 327734

Stay and Play 9.15-10.30am and 10.45am-12pm (BOOKING REQUIRED) Little Forest Children’s Centre

Tots & Co 1.15-2.45pm (term time only) St Philip’s Church, Salisbury Rd, Tonbridge, TN10 4PB

www.kent.gov.uk/education-and-children/ childcare-and-pre-school 03000 420892

www.tonbridgeparishchurch.org.uk/ Groups 01732 770962

Tuesday

Sunbeams 10am-11.30 Tonbridge Christ Church, High Street, Tonbridge, TN9 1SG

www.christchurchtonbridge.com/about 01732 770334

Thursday

Toddlers 10am-11.30am (term time only) St Stephen’s Community Centre, Waterloo Road, Tonbridge, TN9 2SW www.ststephens.org.uk/get-involved/ kids 01732 771977

Little Saints Playgroup 9am -11am (term time only) All Saints Church, Langton Green, Tunbridge Wells, TN3 0JB Info at www.langtongreen.org.uk Parent & Toddler Mornings 9am-12pm (every Tues & Thurs morning) with rhythm-time taking place from 10-10.30am Salomons Estate, Broomhill Road, Southborough, Tunbridge Wells, TN3 0TG www.salomons-estate.com 01892 515152

Bishops Down Preschool and Nursery Bishops Down Nursery, Rydal Drive, Tunbridge Wells, TN4 9SU

We’ve Got you Covered Nursery Sessions: 8.45am to 3.30pm Breakfast Club from 7.30am After School Club until 6.00pm Holiday Play Schemes during all school holidays

● ● ● ●

From Age 3 30 hours Funding Available Cooked School Dinners Beautiful Outdoor Space

● Qualiﬁed Teacher led ● Forest School ● Extra Buy In

Sessions available

BISHOPS DOWN NURSERY SCHOOL

Call Jo Sheldon on 01892 520114 Open Sessions thoughout the year or private tours available. ofﬁce@bishops-down.kent.sch.uk www.bishopsdownprimary.org 8 Families West Kent March/April 2019

www.familiesonline.co.uk

EARLY YEARS’ SPECIAL

-brought to you by local mums! Little Fishes Baby & Toddler Group 10am-11.30am The Stables Village Hall, Church Lane, Frant, Tunbridge Wells, TN3 9DX Info at www.frantchurch.org

Wednesday

Little Stars 10am-11:30am (term time only) Christian Fellowship Church, Christian Centre, Hanover Road, Tunbridge Wells, TN1 1EY www.twcf.org/little-stars 01892 521320

Parent & Toddler Group 10am-12pm St Augustine’s church, Crescent Road, Tunbridge Wells, TN1 2LY www.st-augustine.co.uk 01892 522525

Stay & Play 1.30pm-3pm Southborough & High Brooms Children’s Centre, Broomhill Park Road, Tunbridge Wells, TN4 0JY www.kent.gov.uk/education-and-children/childcare-and-pre-school 03000 420891

Thursday

ABC Baby & Child Group 10.15-11.45am (term time only) St James Church Ferndale, Tunbridge Wells, TN2 3RL www.stjamestw.co.uk/abc 01892 521703

Pippins 10am-11.45am St Philip’s Church, Birken Road, Tunbridge Wells, TN2 3TE

www.stphilipstw.co.uk/about/whats-on 01892 531031

Wateringbury Pre-School & Clubs Call 01622 813120 for info.

PLATT

Thursday

Club Hub Toddler Group 9.30-11.30am Scout Hut, Stonehouse Field, St Mary’s Platt, TN15 8LH

www.clubhubuk.co.uk/clubs/toddler-group

LARKFIELD Wednesday

Little Larks Playgroup 1:30-3:30pm Larkfield Methodist Church, New Hythe Lane, Larkfield, Aylesford, ME20 6PN www.larkfieldchurch.co.uk 01732 220820

DITTON Tuesday

Cheeky Monkeys Toddlers 9.15am-12.45pm Ditton Community Centre, Kiln Barn Road, Maidstone, ME20 6AH

www.facebook.com/Cheekymonkeysdittontoddlers 07984 619292

KINGSHILL Thursday

The Hub Community Cafe 9am-12pm (1st and 3rd Thurs of the month) Kings Hill Cricket Pavilion, Tiffen Way, Kings Hill, West Malling, ME19 4GZ www.kingshillchurch.org.uk/thehub 01732 844194

LEYBOURNE CHASE

Saturday

Who Let the Dads Out? 9.30-11.30am (second Saturday of each month) Dads and male carers with babies and children under 6. www.stjamestw.co.uk 01892 521703

BOROUGH GREEN Monday

Sticky Fingers - Crafts with Sue 10am-11am (every 2nd and 4th Mon & Weds) Sweet Sensations Tea Room, 34 Western Road, Borough Green, TN15 8AG FB page: www.facebook.com/StickyFingersCrafts 01732 886068

Thursday

Leybourne Chase Playgroup 9.30-11.30am Leybourne Chase Community Centre, 82 Hawley Drive, Leybourne Chase, West Malling, ME19 5FL

www.facebook.com/NettlesteadandWateringbury

MAIDSTONE Tuesday

Stay & Play 9.30-11.30am The Meadow Children’s Centre, Christ Church Hall, Wallis Avenue, Maidstone, ME15 9JJ FB page: www.face-

book.com/maidstonechildrenscentres 03000 412700

Toddler Praise 9.15-11.15am (term time only) All Saints’, Church Street, Loose, Maidstone, ME15 0BU

Little Shoots 10am (at the Northumberland Road Centre) www.allsaintsloose.org.uk 01622 741265 The Vine, Maidstone, ME15 9QF Toy Box Mother & Toddler Group www.thevineuk.net 9.45am 01622 746839 United Reformed Church, Week Street, Maidstone, ME14 1QU Wednesday www.maidstoneurc.co.uk Parent & Toddler Group 01622 686053 10am-11.30am (term time only) Maidstone Family Church, Friday 94 Boxley Road, Maidstone, Little Lambs Playgroup ME14 2BQ 9.30-11.30am www.maidstonefamilychurch.co.uk/ The Vine, Boughton Lane, Loose, mfc_activities Maidstone, ME15 9QF 01622 695604 www.thevineuk.net Parent & Toddler Group 01622 746839 10am-11.45am Café n Tots St Paul’s Church, Boxley Road, 9.30-11.30am (Mon & Thurs) Maidstone, ME14 2AN 130-3.30pm (Mon) www.stpaulsmaidstone.org/groups/ St Luke’s Church, Foley Street, toddlers Maidstone, ME14 5AR 07973 142716 / 01622 762370 www.stlukes.org.uk/about-us/children Little Fishes Parent 01622 661169 & Toddler Group Mums & Babes 9.30-11.30am (Dads and grandparents too!) Maidstone Baptist Church, 10am-12pm (2nd Friday monthly) Knightrider Street, St Nicholas church, Poplar Grove, Maidstone, ME15 6LU Allington, Maidstone, ME16 0DE https://www.facebook.com/LittleFishes-

www.facebook.com/ groups/375599262913868/ 07826 874525

ParentcarersAndUnder5sGroup/ (01622) 743634

www.stnicholasallington.org.uk 01622 299715

Thursday

NETTLESTEAD

Downswood Under Fives 1pm-3pm Downswood Community Centre, Chiltern Close, Downswood, Maidstone, ME15 8XG

BEARSTED

Thursday

Baby & Toddler Group 9.30am-11.30am Nettlestead Village Hall, Maidstone Road, Nettlestead, Maidstone, ME18 5ER Organised by Nettlestead and

www.facebook.com/pages/category/ Community/Downswood-UnderFives-232050590141585/ 07958 315073

Tuesday & Thursday

Holy Cross Toddler Group 9.45-11.45am Church Room, Holy Cross Church, Bearsted ME14 4EE

www.holycrosschurch.co.uk/children.htm 01622 737135

Support your child with CREATIVITY FOR ALL AGES PARTIES, WORKSHOPS, DROP INS

✱ Keepsake Handprints ✱ Fun with Clay ✱ Pottery painting ✱ Mosaics & lots more ✱ Make a pot on the wheel ✱ Adult evenings and hen parties www.atouchofclay.co.uk O7796878371

essential skills for learning yoohoo, speech and language therapy practice, are running Chatty Magpie Classes within the Tonbridge area to support families with children 3 years and up. Classes are led by an experienced early years practitioner and use enjoyable, engaging activities from yoohoo’s Chatty Magpie. To find out more please visit the classes page on our website www.yoohoo.org.uk

www.familiesonline.co.uk

Please tell advertisers you saw them in Families West Kent Magazine.

EARLY YEARS’ NEWS

Writing a Birth Plan that works for you By Charlotte Edun of the Good Birth Practice Birth plans, eh? Write one, unpredicatable, and it isn’t helpful and you might be ridiculed to have a rigid plan you feel you for daring to hope you ‘should’ stick to. Ask me, and I’ll can control something so tell you that the point of the birth famously uncontrollable. plan is plan what you need to Don’t write one, and, well... this help you feel as comfortable and is going to be the biggest day of safe as you can be. You should your life, so do you really want definitely NOT be suffering. to just free-style it? Here’s my 3 point plan for birth The meanies who mock women plans that work; for writing plans are right 1 Think about the practicalities in some ways – birth can be What are the pros & cons of

where to have your baby, who to have there, and what help, relief or assistance you want? 2 Think about what you want it to feel like What makes you feel comfortable? Make a list; take it with you; make a nest on the day 3 Think about contingencies

When might you want help? Make sure you know your options, and what you can do to make that experience as positive as possible. Charlotte Edun is a doula, hypnobirthing practitioner & Positive Birth Movement facilitator.

For more information about writing your birth plan, classes, courses and workshops, visit www.thegoodbirthpractice.co.uk or email charlie@thegoodbirthpractice.co.uk

Create lasting memories with A Touch of Clay A Touch of Clay is a ceramics studio offering all sorts of creative activities, from pottery painting and holiday craft activities, to handprint mementoes and pottery parties. Easter holiday workshops are running at the studio in Sevenoaks, and also sessions to create unique and personalised Mother’s Day keepsakes. Artist Jackie Topping owns the studio and is always on hand to help and guide.

One very popular aspect for parents is the keepsake hand and footprints in clay and silver jewellery. These can be created, painted and personalised at the studio for special family occasions. Older children can also make their own mosaics and design their own jewellery. New craft activities include canvas painting and silk painting. Jackie also offers pottery and craft parties for children. Half

term and holiday workshops run each school holiday with dates on the website.

A Touch of Clay is at 61 St Johns Hill, Sevenoaks, TN13 3NY. Info at www.atouchofclay.co.uk or call O779687837

10 Families West Kent March/April 2019

www.familiesonline.co.uk

CLUBS & CLASSES

Join All Stars Cricket Today!

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. 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. 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. 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 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.

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 eight 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 sessions begin May 2019.

More tips from Anita can be found at www.anitacleare.co.uk To book a FREE confidence-building Perform drama class in Bidborough, Hempstead, Kings Hill, Langton Green, Maidstone, Riverhead, Tonbridge, Tunbridge Wells and Sevenoaks, visit www.perform.org.uk/try And see Page 16 for details of Perform’s exciting three-day Easter workshop in Sevenoaks.

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SWIMMING LESSONS MEMBERSHIP

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th Easter 8th - 18 April Summer 22

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£30 per month

rd th Easter 8th - 18th April Summer 29 July - 23 August

Weekly lesson taught by experienced and qualified instructors

rd nd Summer 22 July - 23 August

Find out more at sencio.org.uk/memberships

Join us for children’s activities this Easter!

Ts&Cs apply: please visit website or ask in centre

6-22 April

EDENBRIDGE LEISURE CENTRE

Stangrove Park, Edenbridge, Kent TN8 5LU | 01732 865665 | elc@sencio.org.uk

SEVENOAKS LEISURE CENTRE

Buckhurst Lane, Sevenoaks, Kent TN13 1LW | 01732 470700 | slc@sencio.org.uk

WHITE OAK LEISURE CENTRE

Hilda May Avenue, Swanley, Kent BR8 7BT | 01322 662188 | wolc@sencio.org.uk

www.familiesonline.co.uk Swimming Lessons March - Families Magazine Advert w87 x h130.indd 1

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Rated 5 Stars - Jan 2019

they can’t wait to come back!

OUT AND ABOUT

Easter at Hever Castle & Gardens 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 (trail free with Castle entrance).

Celebrate spring by making and decorating an Easter bonnet at daily craft workshops (small additional charge) with a parade in front of the Castle every day. Face painting is also available. Visitors 7-14 years can explore the Tudor Towers adventure playground with its own moat

and drawbridge. The under 7s can enjoy the natural play area, Acorn Dell, with its giant sandpit and climbing frame. Or challenge yourself in the Yew Maze before visiting the restaurant and shop for Easter goodies. Visit www.hevercastle.co.uk

Family day at craft show Join us for a fun-packed family day at The Weald of Kent Country Craft Show, set in the stunning grounds of Penshurst Place near Tonbridge, on 4-6 May. Shop ‘til you drop - discover unique products from 150+ stall holders. From jewellery to tableware, local artists to designer bags, there’s something for everyone! Take a break from shopping at our street food market, enjoy a tipple at our boutique prosecco bar, or stop and listen to some live music. If you’re feeling energetic, try one of our hands-on workshops or activities. Choose from laser

clay pigeon shooting, pop-up petting zoo, chocolate making and more. Special offer: £2 off when booked before Monday 29 April at 5pm.

Contact details: www.ichfevents.co.uk See advert on page 2.

WINNER : BEST NEW UK FESTIVAL 2018*

BAND OF HORSES

Ismini Phillips - Familys Magazine advert 3mm bleed DEC 2018_REPRO.pdf

15/12/2018

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John Butler trio THE STAVES

Kris Kristofferson & The Strangers THE MAVERICKS Neko Case The dead south

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08/02/2019 17:46

The Marcus King Band LARKIN POE Justin Townes earle

RYAN BINGHAM Lucero Brant Bjork THE WANDERING HEARTS FANTASTIC NEGRITO Jerron Blind Boy Paxton Hayseed Dixie

THE SHEEPDOGS LEFT LANE CRUISER JOHN SMITH RADIO MOSCOW

MARTIN HARLEY WATERMELON SLIM CHANCE Mccoy the vintage caravan worry dolls Steak Asteroid Ferris & Sylvester Yawning Man Child

Roxanne De Bastion GORDIE MACKEEMAN & HIS RHYTHM BOYS Groundhogs king buffalo THE Trials of Cato Irish Mythen THE Black wizards William Crighton Daniel AntopolSKy Paul Cauthen Morganway Duel Mountains Stubb Sonic Gypsy Redwood

a nd m a n y mor e ov er 6 stages

bluegrass FOLK blues country gospel

CAMPING ARTISANS & MAKERS ARTISANS KIDS ADVENTURES SMOKEHOUSECUSTOM COOKINGMOTORCYCLES CRAFT BEER custom motorcycles & MAKERS CREATIVE WORKSHOPS & TALKS SMOKEHOUSE COOKING & BBQ COMPETITION CREATIVE WORKSHOPS & TALKS KIDS’ OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES

CMY

ERIDGE PARK, KENT 21ST - 23rd JUNE 2019

TICKETS ON-SALE NOW AT BLACKDEERFESTIVAL.COM *AIF UK Independent Festival Awards 2018

12 Families West Kent March/April 2019

www.familiesonline.co.uk

WHAT’S ON MARCH APRIL

We aim for accuracy but do check with the venue before setting out in case details have changed after print... And don’t forget to tell them you saw them in Families West Kent.

March 2 MARCH 1.45pm (1.15 for NCT members) NCT Maidstone Nearly New Sale Invicta Grammar School, Huntsman Lane, Maidstone, ME14 5DS. Bag a bargain at this local event. For further info email Advertising. Maidstone@nct.org.uk TUES-SUN MARCH & APRIL 10am-4.30pm Rare Breeds Centre Highlands Farm, Woodchurch, Ashford, TN26 3RJ. Farm animals, falconry displays, indoor & outdoor play areas and more within 100 acres of beautiful Kent countryside. Info at www.rarebreeds.org.uk 4 MARCH 2.30pm-4.30pm Bee Bonanza Grosvenor & Hilbert Park, Upper Grosvenor Rd, Tunbridge Wells, TN2 3GG. Pop into the Hub to learn more about our friendliest pollinators, with crafts and a mini trail. Free drop-in event, suitable for all ages. Children must be accompanied by an adult. Info at www.fogh.org.uk/events 8 MARCH-5 APRIL Fridays 9.45am-11.45am Nature Tots Sevenoaks Wildlife Reserve, Bradbourne Vale Rd, Sevenoaks, TN13 3DH. Nature Tots is based on Forest School, specifically for pre-school age children. Paid activity. Info at www.kentwildlifetrust.org.uk/events 12 MARCH 2.30pm-4.30pm Spring Babies Grosvenor & Hilbert Park, Upper Grosvenor Rd, Tunbridge Wells, TN2 3GG. Free craft event themed around the new spring life in the park. Free event, drop into the Hub. Children must be accompanied by an adult. Info at www.fogh.org.uk/events 15 MARCH 7pm-9pm Astronomy Evening Bore Place, Bore Place Road, Chiddingstone, Edenbridge, TN8 7AR. Join the Edenbridge and District Astronomers for an evening looking at the night sky in the farmyard. The team will talk you through the

Make sweet music at Leeds Castle with junk! From 19-22 April, join the Junk Orchestra at Leeds Castle in Kent for daily musical ‘jamming sessions’. Create and play with instruments that have been cleverly constructed using bits of old rubbish. Founded by former STOMP member Saul Eisenberg, the Junk Orchestra uses a super-sonic recycled collection of objects to create fun and fabulous music for the whole family to enjoy. Also in April, Leeds Castle will be opening a brand new Adventure Golf modelled on the Castle, and a thrilling new children’s playground

named Knights’ Stronghold to celebrate its 900th anniversary! Admission tickets to Leeds Castle are valid for 12 months and include access to many family friendly events including Motors by the Moat, the Medieval Jousting Tournament in May, and the magnificent Carnival of History in July in partnership with the Arts Council.

For information visit www.leeds-castle.com observations and give hints and tips about other key astronomical objects or events you can look out for over the coming months. Paid event. Info at www.boreplace.org 16 & 17 MARCH Lambing Weekend Hadlow College, Hadlow, Tonbridge, TN11 0AL. Celebrate the arrival of spring at Hadlow College. A fun filled family day with something for everyone: newborn lambs, various animals and reptiles to view, tractor trailer rides and hovercraft rides (weather permitting), birds of prey display and more. Paid event. Info at www.hadlow.ac.uk 22 MARCH 2pm-5pm World Water Day Grosvenor & Hilbert Park, Upper Grosvenor Rd, Tunbridge Wells, TN2 3GG. Drop in and join the CEO in the Hub to try some experiments using water, and to create your own recycled boat to test in the stream – please bring along any materials you’d like to use. Suggested donation £1, suitable for all ages, children must be accompanied by an adult. Info at www.fogh.org.uk/events 22 MARCH 6pm-10pm Galaxy Explorers - Astronomy and Space Evening Sevenoaks Wildlife Reserve, Bradbourne Vale Rd, Sevenoaks, TN13 3DH. A fun filled evening for the whole family

exploring the wonders of the night sky and night time wildlife. Info at www.kentwildlifetrust.org.uk/events 24 MARCH 10am-2pm Penshurst Spring Fair Grove Road, Penshurst, TN11 8DU. The Spring Fair indoor market has a wide selection of gifts, jewellery, candles, art, craft, clothing and much more all from small businesses in Kent. Free entry. Info at www.supportlocalpopup.co.uk 24 MARCH 11am-12.30pm A World of Wildlife - Exotic Animal Show Tyland Barn Visitor Centre, Sandling, Maidstone, ME14 3BD. Join the Kent Owl Academy for a talk about wildlife and their conservation around the world, and meet a bunch of exotic animals. Info at www.kentwildlifetrust.org.uk/events 26 MARCH 2.30pm-4.30pm Print It! Grosvenor & Hilbert Park, Upper Grosvenor Rd, Tunbridge Wells, TN2 3GG. The chance to recycle and give your old clothing a new lease of life. Have a go at screen printing a natural design onto old T-shirts or cloth bags. Suitable for all ages, drop in. Children must be accompanied by an adult. Suggested donation of £2 towards materials. Info at www.fogh.org.uk/events

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WHAT’S ON MARCH& APRIL Acorns to Oaks - The Sevenoaks Parenting Show Meet the editor of Families West Kent Magazine at the first Sevenoaks Parenting Show on Saturday, April 6. The show is a one-stop shop for all things baby and small-child related in the Sevenoaks area with free demos and Q&A sessions. Exhibitors include toddler activity classes, breastfeeding experts, nanny agencies, paediatric first aid trainers, infant sleep experts, baby photographers and birthing coaches. The event is from 10am-3pm at the Plaza Suite at the Stag Theatre and is free entry.

MOTHER’S DAY

30 & 31 MARCH 11am-3.30pm Mother’s Day Weekend Hever Castle, Hever Rd, Hever, Edenbridge TN8 7NG. Celebrate with a Mother’s Day Weekend Afternoon Tea (pre-booking essential) in the elegant Guthrie Pavilion Restaurant. Children can take part in a free craft workshop or for a small additional charge there will be cupcake decorating, decorate your own bookmark and face painting. Info at www.hevercastle.co.uk 30 & 31 MARCH 10am-4pm A Weekend for Mum Penshurst Place, Penshurst, Tonbridge, TN11 8DG Visit on 30th March to create a card and a special craft or two for Mum ready for the next day! On 31st March you can enjoy a variety of cream teas in the Porcupine Pantry or head to the Garden Restaurant for a two-course carvery. Info at www.penshurstplace.com 30 & 31 MARCH 11am-4pm Mothering Sunday Weekend Riverhill Himalayan Gardens, Riverhill, Sevenoaks, TN15 0RR. Free cup of tea for mums in the café and drop-in kids crafts to create a special gift. Info at www.riverhillgardens.co.uk 31 MARCH Celebrate Mother’s Day by the Water Bewl Water, Bewlbridge Lane, Lamberhurst, TN3 8JH. Enjoy lunch at The Boat House Bistro this Mothering Sunday while admiring the views across the reservoir. Info at www.bewlwater.co.uk 31 MARCH 11am-3pm Make Mum’s Day Ightham Mote, Mote Road, Ivy Hatch, Sevenoaks, TN15 0NT. Children can pop into the Squire’s Room to make mum a present. Or enjoy a treat with lunch or a cream tea in the café. Mums can also enjoy a touch of luxury with a hand massage in the shop. Info at www.nationaltrust.org.uk

EVENTS

There will be free demos throughout the day from children’s activity providers such as Gymboree Play & Music, Jo Jingles and Hartbeeps. There will be presentations from Aqualife Swimming and Turtle Tots, life casting from Baby Prints, and Origami from The Paperdashery. Plus for parents in need of a bit of expert advice, there will be Q&A sessions from Infant

Sleep Consultants, The Good Birth Practice and Rear Facing Car Seats for Toddlers. All profits from the event are being donated to local organisation Friends For Families, set up to give practical help to families in need.

The Sevenoaks Parenting Show, The Plaza Suite, Stag Theatre, London Road, Sevenoaks, Kent TN13 1ZZ. For more information see the Facebook page www.facebook.com/a2osevenoaks

WHAT’S ON EASTER

3-14 APRIL (EXCEPT 8/9) 11am-4pm Stick Mania! Riverhill Himalayan Gardens, Riverhill, Sevenoaks, TN15 0RR. A creative family experience for the Easter holidays – make whatever you want out of sticks! Info at www.riverhillgardens.co.uk 6-22 APRIL 11am-3pm Cadbury Easter Egg Hunt Knole House, Sevenoaks, Kent, TN15 0RP (Sat Nav TN13 1HU) Follow the Cadbury trail through Knole Park. Find the wooden bird boxes, solve the clues and claim your chocolate Easter egg at the end. Paid event. Info on this and Easter Egg Hunts at other local properties at www.nationaltrust.org.uk 6-22 APRIL 10am-4pm Cadbury Easter Egg Hunt Ightham Mote, Mote Road, Ivy Hatch, Sevenoaks, TN15 0NT. Follow the trail around the garden to earn your Cadbury chocolate prize. Extra activities and adventures to be had along the way, including a natural play area. Paid event. Info on this and Easter Egg Hunts at other local properties at www.nationaltrust.org.uk 6-22 APRIL 10.30am-6pm (Crafts:11am-4pm) What Lurks Beneath the Inky Sea? Penshurst Place, Penshurst, Tonbridge, TN11 8DG.

Across the centuries tales of beastly sea creatures and fascinating fish have dominated sailing stories, and this Easter Penshurst invite you to walk the garden rooms and discover the mythical creatures for yourselves. Entry fee. Info at www.penshurstplace.com 6-22 APRIL Kent Life Easter Event Kent Life, Lock Lane, Sandling, Maidstone, ME14 3AU. Meet the lambs, goat kids and piglets and have a go at bottle feeding the lambs and kids in sessions throughout the day. You can also hop on a fun farm ride, enjoy indoor and outdoor play areas, bouncy castle, animal feeding sessions, owl flying demonstrations and more. Entry fee. Info at www.kentlife.org.uk/event 6-22 APRIL Easter at Hever Castle & Gardens Hever, Edenbridge TN8 7NG Have fun with an Easter trail, Easter activities, bonnet making and parade with prizes, face painting and more, adventure playground and maze, plus enjoy the display of spring bulbs. Entry fee. Info at www.hevercastle.co.uk 19-22 APRIL Junk orchestra & Easter trail Leeds Castle, Maidstone, Kent ME17 1PL Create musical instruments from junk, plus make Easter hats. New Adventure Golf modelled on the Castle, and a new children’s playground, opening in April. Entry fee. Info at www.leeds-castle.com

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WHAT’S ON EASTER THROUGHOUT EASTER HOLIDAYS: Workshops and crafts at A Touch of Clay ceramics studio 61 St Johns Hill, Sevenoaks, TN13 3NY. Fun with clay, pottery painting, crafts for Mother’s Day and Easter. Info at www.atouchofclay.co.uk or call Jackie on O779687837 9 APRIL 9am-11am Family Bird Walk Bedgebury National Pinetum and Forest, Lady Oak Lane, Goudhurst, TN17 2SJ. Join birding enthusiast and local bird-ringer, Christine George, on a family-friendly walk around the Pinetum. Christine will help you find and identify some of Bedgebury’s migrant visitors as well as the resident birds that make Bedgebury their home. Paid event. Info at www.bedgeburypinetum.org.uk 17-22 APRIL 10.30am-4pm The Bunny Hunt Riverhill Himalayan Gardens, Riverhill, Sevenoaks, TN15 0RR. Hunt for the hidden bunnies amongst the rhododendrons and earn some chocolate egg rewards. Info at www.riverhillgardens.co.uk 19 APRIL 6.30pm-8.30pm Bat Walk Grosvenor & Hilbert Park, Upper Grosvenor Rd, Tunbridge Wells, TN2 3GG. Join the CEO on a walk around Grosvenor and Hilbert to spot some bats and learn a little more about them too. Booking essential, please email emma.peters@tunbridgewells.gov.uk to book a place. Info at www.fogh.org.uk/events 20-22 APRIL 11am-5pm Easter Egg Quiz Lullingstone Castle, Eynsford, DA4 0JA. Lullingstone Castle and The World Garden kicks off its season with an Easter trail and quiz. Plant hunters will be able to scour two acres of The World Garden for Easter clues and then report on their discoveries to claim a prize, plus the chance to meet some Easter characters. Info at www.lullingstonecastle.co.uk 24 APRIL-6 MAY (EXCEPT 29 APRIL) 10.30am-5pm The Bluebell Festival Riverhill Himalayan Gardens, Riverhill, Sevenoaks, TN15 0RR. Bluebell walks and children’s trail, art exhibition and bluebell-inspired crafts. Info at www.riverhillgardens.co.uk

EVENTS www.familiesonline.co.uk

SHOWS

WHAT’S ON THEATRE & DANCE 9 MARCH 2pm & 6pm The Dance Studio The Stag Theatre, London Road, Sevenoaks, TN13 1ZZ. The Dance Studio brings together over 300 pupils to present Showtime 2019. A mixture of ballet, tap, modern, street dance and musical theatre with pupils from age 2 to adult. The Tunbridge Wells and Paddock Wood branches will perform at 2pm with the Otford and Kemsing branches performing at 6pm. Info at www.stagsevenoaks.co.uk

curriculum, or have after school dance clubs, are invited for a ‘chance to dance’. Info at www.stagsevenoaks.co.uk

10 MARCH 2.30pm AniMalcolm EM Forster Theatre, Tonbridge School, Tonbridge TN9 1JP. ANiMALCOLM combines physical theatre, puppetry and the company’s storytelling style to bring David Baddiel’s magical comic story to the stage. Age 5+ Info at www.emftheatre.com

11 APRIL 2pm Brainiac Live Assembly Hall Theatre, Crescent Road, Tunbridge Wells, TN1 2LU. Watch from the safety of your seat as the Brainiacs delve into the mysteries of science and do all of those things on stage that you’re too scared to do at home! Expect exploding dustbins, combusting microwaves and more. Info at www.assemblyhalltheatre.co.uk

12-16 MARCH AM & PM performances The Cat in the Hat Assembly Hall Theatre, Crescent Road, Tunbridge Wells, TN1 2LU. Based on the much-loved book by Dr Seuss that has captivated generations of readers, The Cat in the Hat features feline frivolity aplenty, with his acrobatic accomplices Thing 1 and Thing 2. Info at www.assemblyhalltheatre.co.uk 20-24 MARCH 2pm, 3pm, 5pm, 7.30pm Cirque Berserk The Orchard Theatre, Home Gardens, Dartford, DA1 1ED. Combining contemporary cirque style artistry with adrenaline fuelled stunt action, this international troupe includes over 30 jugglers, acrobats, aerialists, dancers, drummers and stuntmen who will showcase traditional circus thrills and skills. Info at www. orchardtheatre.co.uk

3 & 4 APRIL 4pm & 6.30pm Love 2 Dance 2019 The Stag Theatre, London road, Sevenoaks, TN13 1ZZ. The annual school dance show. Local primary and secondary school pupils come together for an evening of dance. Info at www.stagsevenoaks.co.uk

18-22 APRIL 10am, 1pm, 4pm In The Night Garden The Orchard Theatre, Home Gardens, Dartford, DA1 1ED. Join Igglepiggle and Upsy Daisy for In the Night Garden Live.You’ll see all your favourite characters brought to life with full-size costumes, magical puppets, and enchanting music. Info at www.orchardtheatre.co.uk 19-21 APRIL 1pm & 5pm The Jungle Book Assembly Hall Theatre, Crescent Road, Tunbridge Wells, TN1 2LU. With brand new songs, creative staging and bags full of fun, The Jungle Book swings into town at the Assembly Hall Theatre.

28 MARCH 7pm Chance to Dance School Special The Stag Theatre, London Road, Sevenoaks, TN13 1ZZ. Chance to Dance has staged performances annually at Stag Sevenoaks since 1995. The first ‘Schools Special’ performance was in 2011 and each Spring junior and senior schools which hold dance either as part of the

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