Families London Surrey Borders May/June 2014

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www.Families-LSB.co.uk

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For loads of local information for families in Epsom and Ewell, Sutton, Croydon and nearby areas.

Issue 56: May-June 2014

local What's On listing

London-Surrey Borders

Party Planner

Baby and Toddler Play Classes From birth to 2 years +

Make the most of play time together with musical, physical and sensory fun - for your little one and you! Classes on Wednesdays in Caterham Classes on Thursdays in Coulsdon Classes on Tuesdays in Redhill

Surviving SATS

Call or book online to reserve your place Call Doreen on

07530 541986

www.TotsPlay.co.uk

Tots Play East Surrey is now on Facebook

Get off to the best possible start and

Lead the Race

OPEN MORNINGS Friday 2 May 9.30 - 11.00 a.m Friday 6 June 9.30 - 11.00 a.m ISI Early Years Inspection - December 2013

‘OUTSTANDING‛

Includes Boys’ Reception and Treetops Nursery ‘Boys’ education at its best.’ ‘The clever choice for Croydon daughters.’ ‘Excellent nursery provision. To read articles in full please see links on our website - www.cumnorhouse.com

For more information please contact the registrar Tel: 020 8660 3445 or email: registrar@cumnorhouse.com

S

h c a o c e tag Theatre Arts

“Inspiring and enriching young people through the performing arts” For 4-18 year olds, after school, at weekends and holiday workshops

Book now - limited places!

Cheam . . . . . . . . 020 8773 4242

Mitcham . . . . . . 020 8942 3502

Coulsdon . . . . . 0845 078 0805

Shirley . . . . . . . . 020 8949 1116

Croydon . . . . . . 0845 265 7083

Sutton . . . . . . . . 01737 270060

Epsom . . . . . . . . 020 8642 3500

Worcester Park 020 8773 4242

Merton Park . . . 020 8942 3502

SING!

T DANCE! AC

www .stagecoach .co .uk

NOW!

News & Views For a

Ple

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For loads of local information for families in Epsom and Ewell, Sutton, Croydon and nearby areas.

Issue 56: May-June 2014

Huge

www.Families-LSB.co.uk

local What's On listing

London-Surrey Borders

Party Planner

Baby and Toddler Play Classes From birth to 2 years +

Make the most of play time together with musical, physical and sensory fun - for your little one and you! Classes on Wednesdays in Caterham Classes on Thursdays in Coulsdon Classes on Tuesdays in Redhill

Surviving SATS

Call or book online to reserve your place Call Doreen on

07530 541986

www.TotsPlay.co.uk

Tots Play East Surrey is now on Facebook

Get off to the best possible start and

Lead the Race

OPEN MORNINGS Friday 2 May 9.30 - 11.00 a.m Friday 6 June 9.30 - 11.00 a.m ISI Early Years Inspection - December 2013

‘OUTSTANDING‛

Includes Boys’ Reception and Treetops Nursery ‘Boys’ education at its best.’ ‘The clever choice for Croydon daughters.’ ‘Excellent nursery provision. To read articles in full please see links on our website - www.cumnorhouse.com

For more information please contact the registrar Tel: 020 8660 3445 or email: registrar@cumnorhouse.com

Stag

ecThoeaatrce h Arts

“Inspiring and enriching young people through the performing arts” For 4-18 year olds, after school, at weekends and holiday workshops

Book now - limited places!

Cheam . . . . . . . . 020 8773 4242

Mitcham . . . . . . 020 8942 3502

Coulsdon . . . . . 0845 078 0805

Shirley . . . . . . . . 020 8949 1116

Croydon . . . . . . 0845 265 7083

Sutton . . . . . . . . 01737 270060

Epsom . . . . . . . . 020 8642 3500

Worcester Park 020 8773 4242

Merton Park . . . 020 8942 3502

SING!

T DANCE! AC

NOW!

Editor: Izabella Shaw 0208 669 5187 editor@Families-LSB.co.uk www.Families-LSB.co.uk Cover photo: from Room Seven

www.roomseven.com

www .stagecoach .co .uk

‘Families London-Surrey Borders’ is part of a group of magazines

headed by ‘Families South West’ established in 1990. All franchised magazines in the group are independently owned and operated under licence. We take every care preparing this magazine, but

the publishers and its agents cannot be held responsible for loss

or damage, or for the claims of advertisers nor for the accuracy of

the contents nor for any consequence. Colour transparencies and

any other original materials submitted are sent at owners risk and, whilst every care is taken, neither Families nor its agents accept liability for any loss or damage.

IN THIS ISSUE News and views . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2 – 3 Clubs, classes and activities . . . . . . 4 – 6 Starting at school – prepare now . . . . . 7 Admission to Sutton’s selective schools . 8 School open days . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8 Surviving SATs – a parent’s guide . . . . . 9 Education news . . . . . . . . . . . 10 – 11 Pregnancy, Baby & Toddler news . 12 – 13 Fabulous Parties for all ages . . . . . . . 14 Everything you need for a party . . 15 – 17 Hundreds of things for families to do locally What’s On for families . . . . . . . 18 – 21 What’s on – Holiday clubs & classes . . 21 What’s On – Theatres . . . . . . . . . . . 22 What’s On – for Father’s Day . . . . . . . 23 Classified advertisers . . . . . . . . . . . 24

How good is your driving instructor

Learner drivers and their parents will be able to make a more informed decision when choosing a driving instructor thanks to changes being introduced by the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA). A simpler and clearer grading structure for instructors will help learners and their parents to identify the best instructors and allow them to understand what level of tuition they will get. All qualified driving instructors are checked at least once every four years to ensure that they continue to meet the required standards. Learners can check that their instructor is qualified to teach by

Join us on Twitter and Facebook Families Magazine is now Tweeting. We’re at @FamiliesLSB. Why not follow us? Our tweets can tell you whenever we update our site with competitions, news items, and when we update the What’s On section of our site with new venues and things to do. We also post updates and stories at Facebook. com/FamiliesLSB. Again, whenever we get late-breaking news or web-only competitions, we can let you know about them. But only if you ‘Like’ our page.

@FamiliesLSB

Printed by Russell Press Ltd, Basford, Nottingham NG6 0BT Tel: (0115) 9784505 www.russellpress.com © 2014 Families London-Surrey Borders.

looking for the green DVSA certificate that should be displayed in the instructor’s windscreen. From 7 April 2014, when instructors are assessed they will be given one of the following grades: A grade (85% or over) – an overall high standard of instruction B grade (60% or over) – a sufficient level of competence Fail (less than 60%) – an unsatisfactory performance.

Are you struggling with a child who has speech, language or communication difficulties? Fun based communication, social and life skill activities for children with delayed Speech & Language.

School Cookery atering Event C Supper

Club

Classes in Croydon, Banstead and surrounding areas

Looking to improve your skills? Sign up for a fun informative cookery course

0203 0868132 www.artofgrowthcentre.co.uk Email: enquiries@artofgrowthcentre.co.uk

Throwing a party and want to wow with amazing food? Let us cater for you

Giving birth should be a straightforward, wonderful and magical experience.

Can’t think what to cook tonight? Order your freshly made meal today

This book is a complete Inner Power Hypnobirthing package with a free CD/MP3 download. It tells you how you can achieve just this.

Whatever your need, we can cater for you Visit our website: www.jacecatering.co.uk Telephone us on 020 3657 3917 JACE The Catering Company

Ages 3-11 years old

Available from www.birthmadeeasy.co.uk and Amazon, Kindle and iBooks

@JACECatering

For information about Paola’s workshops, see www.innerpowerhypnobirthing.co.uk or call 020 8660 6022 mention Families magazine if you contact these companies 2 Please Families London-Surrey Borders 020 8669 5187

www.Families-LSB.co.uk

May-June 2014

News & Views

One change is the uniform, which is now bright blue. Every child receives a free T-shirt on signing up. Another exciting change is that the new MultiSports classes will be accepting the Government childcare vouchers as a form of payment.

Huge

www.Families-LSB.co.uk

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e

Most importantly, children at MultiSports schools develop greater confidence, respect and team-work skills. They want every child to find at least one activity they can succeed in and enjoy. The range of 18 different sports taught throughout the year includes Archery, Netball, Tag Rugby, Badminton, Cricket and more. Your child is sure to find an activity to succeed in.

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They continue to operate 2 main schools for girls and boys aged 6 – 16 at weekends from 9:30am - 12:30pm and 2 – 5pm. For 4- and 5-year-olds, the Little Sporties classes at 9am and 10:45am also continue. Fees, coaching staff and facilities have all stayed the same.

Issue 56: May-June 2014

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Formerly SportsCoach Cheam, the newly franchised and branded MultiSports Sutton and Cheam kicks off its new summer term this month. The established Saturday coaching school is now part of the successful MultiSports Group which has schools across the South East.

For loads of local information for families in Epsom and Ewell, Sutton, Croydon and nearby areas.

Sportscoach adopts the MultiSports brand

Party Planner

Baby and Toddler Play Classes From birth to 2 years +

Make the most of play time together with musical, physical and sensory fun - for your little one and you! Classes on Wednesdays in Caterham Classes on Thursdays in Coulsdon Classes on Tuesdays in Redhill

Surviving SATS

Call or book online to reserve your place Call Doreen on

07530 541986

www.TotsPlay.co.uk

Tots Play East Surrey is now on Facebook

Get off to the best possible start and

Lead the Race

OPEN MORNINGS Friday 2 May 9.30 - 11.00 a.m Friday 6 June 9.30 - 11.00 a.m ISI Early Years Inspection - December 2013

r o F

‘OUTSTANDING‛

Includes Boys’ Reception and Treetops Nursery

le a S

‘Boys’ education at its best.’ ‘The clever choice for Croydon daughters.’ ‘Excellent nursery provision. To read articles in full please see links on our website - www.cumnorhouse.com

For more information please contact the registrar Tel: 020 8660 3445 or email: registrar@cumnorhouse.com

Stag

ecThoeaatrce h Arts

“Inspiring and enriching young people through the performing arts” For 4-18 year olds, after school, at weekends and holiday workshops

Book now - limited places!

Cheam . . . . . . . . 020 8773 4242

Mitcham . . . . . . 020 8942 3502

Coulsdon . . . . . 0845 078 0805

Shirley . . . . . . . . 020 8949 1116

Croydon . . . . . . 0845 265 7083

Sutton . . . . . . . . 01737 270060

Epsom . . . . . . . . 020 8642 3500

Worcester Park 020 8773 4242

Merton Park . . . 020 8942 3502

SING!

T DANCE! AC

NOW!

www .stagecoach .co .uk

The best way to find out more is to join in for a trial session, which can be booked by calling them on 01293 774051.

Visit www.multisportssutton.co.uk/ or www.themultisportsgroup.co.uk and click on the Sutton and Cheam school link or find them on Facebook at www.facebook.com/MultiSportsSutton.

New nature reserve opens at Priest HIll in Ewell

Over the past 9 months Priest Hill, on the Reigate Road near Epsom, has been transformed from abandoned playing fields to a new nature reserve with three new ponds. Introduced cattle will improve the grassland habitat by clearing out dead grass which should allow wild flowers to return.

Many of the existing access paths and tracks have been retained. Large mobility kissing gates have been installed at all pedestrian access points that allow buggy and wheelchair access but prevent motorbikes. The kissing gates form part of new boundary fencing that has ensured the reserve is now secure. Access to reserve is on foot from Banstead Rd and Reigate Rd. There is no parking on site, but parking is available in side streets. www.surreywildlifetrust.org/reserves/show/97

Art studio to open in Whitgift Centre

Hale Man, a professional visual artist and artist-in-residence at the Whitgift Centre, will be opening her Art Studio to the public for two weeks from 21 June to 3 July as part of 2014 Croydon Heritage Festival.

Are you ✔ well organised? ✔ hard working? ✔ well motivated? Are you looking for an opportunity to ✔ provide your community with a valuable service? ✔ develop a profitable business further? ✔ be part of a wider group behind a successful brand? Would you like to • work from home? • organise your working life around your family? • be part of a national group of magazines providing information about local events, activities and services?

Alongside an exhibition of her work, she will be offering art workshops and collating some of the designs participants create to produce a collaborative large scale artwork which will be displayed at the Whitgift Centre in February 2015. All ages and ability are welcome. The cost of each workshop is £5.00 per person on the day, with discounts available for families and groups booking ahead. Contact Hale for further details and to book. Hale Man Art Studio, Unit 50/51 Whitgift Centre, Croydon 07740 165 987

WW1 Centenary wood planned for Epsom Downs

The Woodland Trust has revealed plans to create the English Centenary Wood in Langley Vale near Epsom. This will be one of four flagship woods created to commemorate the Centenary of the First World War. Karl Mitchell, Woodland Trust Project Director said, “We hope this site will be the home to more than 200,000 trees.” At 640 acres, the new site is bigger than the Olympic Park in East London. Members of the public are being invited to donate cash to help buy trees, which can be dedicated to ancestors who were involved in the Great War. The Trust aims to raise £9 million by the end of the year. By mid-April the fund stood at £3 million. www.woodlandtrust.org.uk/donate/appeals/langley-vale/

mention Families magazine if you contact these companies 3 Please Families London-Surrey Borders 020 8669 5187

business for sale

Could you do a job which involves ✔ selling advertising to local family-friendly businesses? ✔ compiling editorial of interest to local parents and carers? ✔ some admin and the need to stick to deadlines for reporting and completing work? Families London Surrey Borders magazine is a franchise of Families magazine and covers Epsom, Sutton, Croydon and surrounding areas. The magazine was re-launched in 2009 and is now for sale to the right person. Could it be you? Call 0208 669 5187 or email: editor@families-LSB.co.uk for more details

www.Families-LSB.co.uk

May-June 2014

Clubs, Classes & Activities New owner at diddi dance Surrey Danielle Greetham is taking over diddi dance Mid and East Surrey. Danielle has been teaching for diddi for the past 3 years. “Watching many little diddi dancers grow in confidence week by week is so rewarding,” she told Families.

Danielle added, “I began dancing at the age of 3 in Devon. Later on I attended Laine Theatre Arts full time for 3 years before graduating and working professionally as a dancer and performer. I then decided to complete my dance teaching qualifications with the ISTD and have taught children of all ages full time since.” Working as a diddi dance teacher is a joy, she said. Diddi dance classes are designed to help your diddi ones enhance their co-ordination and rhythm in a structured yet relaxed 45 minute class. As well as classes diddi dance also offers parties at your choice of location. All their sessions are totally interactive, there’s no sitting watching a show it gets all the children up dancing, grooving and boogying to loads of funky tunes. To book a free trial call Danielle on 0772 9848419 alternatively email on danielle.greetham@diddidance.com

Go Wild with Dramabuds this Summer Dramabuds are bringing the story ’Where the Wild Things Are’ to life this summer in a week-long drama adventure open to children aged 4 to 8 years. The children will explore the story, create the drama, become the characters and learn and perform songs written especially for this week-long course.

The course will run from Mon 28 July to Friday 1 August, from 10.00am to 12 noon in Carshalton Beeches and culminate in a performance to family and friends on the final day. The cost to attend the course is £70. Dramabuds Holiday courses are limited to 18 children and are led by two Dramabuds professionals to ensure every child receives individual attention and has an opportunity to be creative and grow in confidence In a supportive, fun environment. Dramabuds 020 8669 2355 www.dramabuds.co.uk

Splash! 4 – 8 year olds are going Under the Sea with Perform This April to July, Perform children will be diving down to a magical world full of watery adventures. They’ll meet Dolly Dolphin, Septamus the Octopus and SmellyFish-Jelly-Fish, learn to dance The Fishy Funk and by the end of term rescue the Lost Pearl from the scary Deep Sea Creature. And best of all, the children won’t notice how much they are improving their social skills along the way. With classes in Caterham, Dulwich, Ewell, Purley and Wimbledon, any interested 4 – 8 year old can try out the classes by attending a Free Trial Session. To book a session, call 0845 400 1273 or go to www.perform.org.uk

Georgina takes over at Stagecoach Worcester Park Georgina Davies is the new Principal of Stagecoach Cheam and Worcester Park. Georgina told Families she wants to pass on all her knowledge to the next generation of stars. After training in prestigious performing arts schools and starring in roles such as ‘Leading Player’ in Pippin she has plenty of knowledge to pass on. She has created a fair and fun environment, fit for children who want to pursue the performing arts and for children to gain confidence in a fun and inspiring environment. Georgina‘s contacts are endless and Stagecoach Cheam and Worcester park will reap the benefits. She will have West End performers in regularly to give workshops. Already next term there is a Shrek workshop with the actor who plays ‘Donkey’ and a ‘pop singer’ coming to teach everything from pop trills to microphone techniques. To join in the fun, don’t hesitate to call Georgina directly on 0208 773 4242.

Protègèm Dance School & Company

Established 2003

COME & JOIN OUR FRIENDLY CLASSES The MultiSports Group

Ballet, Tap, Street Dance, Boys Street/Break, Cheer, Musical Theatre

Change your game

professional theatres

MultiSports Sutton&Cheam

New for 2014!

Tel: 01293 774051 www.themultisportsgroup.co.uk

• Classes held in Epsom & Ewell • Full school shows in • Ages 2+ to Adult • IDTA Dance exams

Wednesday classes @ Ruxley Church

01737 211 109 info@protegem.co.uk www.protegem.co.uk mention Families magazine if you contact these companies 4 Please Families London-Surrey Borders 020 8669 5187

Weekend sports for boys and girls aged 4 -16 of all abilities

Sign up NOW for our Summer Term Cricket, Athletics, Tag Rugby, Netball, Archery, Football and many more! www.Families-LSB.co.uk

May-June 2014

Running Head NCE! A D ! SING T NOW!

AC

EN

RO L NO LING W!

Building confidence through performing arts.

Stagecoach Croydon Summer School Monday 28th July - Friday 1st August 6-18 years (split into 3 age groups) Musical Mayhem 10am-4pm £150 (Siblings £100) Show to parents on Friday 1st at 3pm 4-6 years Under the Sea 9.30am-12.30pm £100 (Siblings £70) Show to parents on Friday 1st at 12pm A week of fun - singing, acting, dancing towards a show for family and friends! No experience necessary! Children can arrive from 9AM to help parents who work!

Stagecoach Croydon Call: 0845 265 7083 / 07986 781 380

The UK’s No.1 school holiday day camps

Fun and affordable childcare in the school holidays

www.stagecoach.co.uk/croydon croydon@stagecoach.co.uk

Book online at www.supercamps.co.uk or call 01235 467300

BANSTEAD, CLAYGATE, EWELL AND ESHER AREAS E: banstead.claygate@monkeymusic.co.uk T: 01932 223 309 EPSOM, OXSHOTT, BOCKETTS FARM PARK AND LEATHERHEAD AREAS E: leatherhead.dorking@monkeymusic.co.uk T: 01483 841 303 SOUTH CROYDON, CATERHAM AND PURLEY AREAS E: southcroydon.caterham@monkeymusic.co.uk T: 0203 251 1061

Group discounts for NCT members when 3+ people join together at the same time.

mention Families magazine if you contact these companies 5 Please Families London-Surrey Borders 020 8669 5187

www.Families-LSB.co.uk

May-June 2014

ARTS & CRAFTS Weekly Classes for Children aged 6–14

!FREE Trial Class! Epsom & Area - 07800 638 959

www.michaelasuleman.com

Meet Bill Oddie at Hobbledown in May half term Be part of Love Your Zoo week and enjoy a variety of fun activities for you and your family at Hobbledown.

The nationwide celebration is being run by BIAZA, the British and Irish Association of Zoos and Aquariums, and aims to promote the good work done by member organisations such as Hobbledown. It takes place throughout May Half Term (Monday May 26th to Friday May 30th) and culminates with a special appearance by broadcaster Bill Oddie. Bill is best known as a birdwatcher, author, actor and naturalist and will join the Hobblers between 11:30am and 3:30pm on Fri. May 30th.

Singing and Fun for the under 5s

• Just turn up and join in • No need to book W E Mondays - Banstead • No joining or N Tuesdays - Coulsdon registration fee Wednesdays - Wallington Thursdays - Caterham • Pay As You Go Fridays - Purley • £5 per family (adult with up to 3 children) 10.00 am - 11.10 am

www.singalong.org.uk Call Britt on 07941 532558

During his visit he will host a question and answer session, wildlife walk and teach youngsters about the important conservational role zoos play and how beneficial they are when it comes to introducing humans to wildlife. There will be plenty of other animal-related activities at Hobbledown throughout the week. Hobbledown can be found at Horton Lane, Epsom, Surrey, KT19 8PT. Tel 0843 289 4979. Visit www.hobbledown.com

Stagecoach Croydon plans for Summer Workshops The week-long annual Summer Workshops at Stagecoach Croydon have become so popular that they now take bookings all year round.

Students take part in drama, singing and dance classes and perform on stage at the end of the week for an audience of family and friends. The team at Stagecoach Croydon want each age group to feel inspired and encouraged and they tailor the material appropriately so that it is vibrant and fun. There is a good mix of girls and boys attending and children are split into age appropriate groups. All costumes are provided and there is no extra charge for tickets. The Summer workshops are open to all — no experience is necessary — and they are a great way to try Stagecoach before committing to a regular class at the weekend during term time.

- Inspiration and discipline Thursdays and Fridays at - Strength and grace Coulsdon Community Centre - Great Posture for life Starting at £4.50 per class - Musicality FREE TRIAL CLASS - Confidence - Friendship, focus and much more!

Principal Emma Northmore Ex-English National Ballet Co. 07958 725862 emmanorthmore@yahoo.com

Stagecoach appreciate childcare can be difficult in the Summer and therefore allow students to be dropped off at 9am before the workshop begins at 10am. If you have any questions please do get in touch. The Stagecoach team is there to answer any questions and tell you more about what they do. Contact Rachel on 0845 265 7083 / 07986 781 380 or visit www.stagecoach.co.uk/Croydon

Artist helps children get creative Run by a professional artist, Michaela’s Art Classes help children maximise their full creative potential through the use of a variety of materials and art techniques. The art classes focus on improving children’s drawing and painting skills, and their work with clay or jewellery. Children achieve rapid improvements in their art techniques whilst having fun being creative.

Portrait Painting of Julia Roberts by Danielle (13 years)

In addition to the weekly after-school classes, Michaela‘s Art Classes are now offering holiday classes during the May Half Term and Summer holidays. The classes are aimed at children aged 5+ and will include portrait drawing and painting, watercolour landscapes and work with clay. See page 21 for details of Michaela’s half-term classes. For further information or to book a place please contact Michaela on: 07800 638 959 or art@michaelasuleman.com or visit www.michaelasuleman.com http://www.atlantisswimschool.co.uk/

Michaela’s Art Classes, 16 Longdown Lane North, Epsom, KT17 3JQ.

mention Families magazine if you contact these companies 6 Please Families London-Surrey Borders 020 8669 5187

www.Families-LSB.co.uk

May-June 2014

Education The best possible start at a new school How do you prepare your child for his or first day at a new school? It’s all about finding the fun, says Joanna Moorhead

children in school, I’m feeling a bit worried about my youngest daughter’s move to secondary school in September.

The summer before my eldest daughter started at primary school, a rather wonderful thing happened. We were having work done on our house, and by chance a friend mentioned that a friend of hers was looking for a housesitter. It suited us perfectly to move out of our home for a few months, to escape the builders’ dust, so we did just that. And our temporary home, as it happened, was next door to the primary school at which Rosie would start in September.

Talk about what it’s like

The fact that I’ve done school starts many, many times before doesn’t alter the fact that this is a first for Catriona, and because it’s a first for Catriona it’s a first for me too. But what I now know is how important it is for me to be confident, and to be positive, about the move.

© Copyright Dunnesstores

We moved in May, so from then until the end of July she and I would watch, each morning, as the children walked and ran and scootered past our door, in their grey and purple uniforms. They looked happy and excited; they were meeting their friends, having fun. The street would then go quiet until about 10.30am when we’d hear them again in the playground; and then again after lunch, until at 3.30pm they’d all stream out again, and head back home with their mums and the occasional dad.

First time for everything

I’m sure I talked to Rosie about what it would be like in reception class, and I’m sure I taught her to open her lunchbox and get her own shoes on and off and all the other things you’re advised to do before your child’s first day at school; but the truth is that nothing prepared her for school as much as those weeks of simply living next door to it. The experience normalised what was going to be a huge change in her life: it showed her, better than any words from me could, that school was where children went when they were old enough. Watching those happy-looking kids skipping past our door, hearing them calling to their friends and generally picking up a sense that school was fun and exciting, was the best possible way of introducing her to her new life. In time my three younger daughters followed their big sister to that same school, and they – like Rosie – all took it in their stride. They, of course, were well-used to the primary by then: unlike Rosie, they would be there every morning and every afternoon, dropping off or collecting a big sister or sisters. They would pick up on the excitement and happiness of school by osmosis, seeing their sisters and their friends as they bounced up alongside their buggy – and they’d be drinking it all in.

Showing is better than telling

This, it seems to me, is the number one best way to get your child ready for primary school: as much as you can, show rather than tell. Try to be around the school sometimes as the children arrive or as they’re leaving for home; if you have friends with children already there, ask to go along with them sometimes for the drop-off or the pick-up. Give your child every opportunity you can to imbibe the sense that school is an exciting and interesting place to be. Every child, and every parent, gets a bit nervous before their child starts at a new school. Even after 17 years of being a parent with mention Families magazine if you contact these companies 7 Please Families London-Surrey Borders 020 8669 5187

Worries and confidence

Of course I have mixed feelings: of course I’m a bit worried about how she’ll cope in new surroundings, about whether she’ll find it easy to make new friends, about whether she’ll like the school food and about whether she’ll settle down to the work. And when she wants to talk about those fears – because, of course, she has them too and it’s important not to deny our children’s feelings – I do. But I always remember to talk to her as well about how exciting this new start is going to be: because every beginning is a bit scary and involves risks – but our lives move on and grow and become whole because we embrace them and we’re brave about them.

Children worry when we worry, and they’re confident when we’re confident. So if you’ve got a child starting school this Autumn, the number one thing to do is find the confidence in yourself: empathise with your child, but empathise with the fact that her world is opening up and becoming more exciting as well as with the fact that there will be wobbles. Try not to worry too much about the problems: believe in your own, and believe in your child’s, ability to deal with these as they come along. Don’t even, for a minute, bother about things like maths and English and reading: no, honestly, I mean it. Those things are for further down the line: all you have to think about, this September, is delivering a child to school with a song in his or her heart. Do that, and everything else will be easy.

Walk to School week happens in May This year’s Walk To School Week runs from 19-23 May, bringing together nearly one million schoolchildren.

Walk to School Week reinforces five benefits of walking: safety, discovery, health, eco-friendly and social time. One of our favourite ideas is to team up with neighbouring schools and organise a walking relay between schools, with refreshment stops at each one. Tweet the team at @livingstreets using #walktoschool, or post on their Facebook page www.facebook.com/livingstreetsuk. Download puzzles, pledges and challenges at www.livingstreets.org.uk/walk-with-us/walk-to-school/walk-to-school-week-2014. www.Families-LSB.co.uk

May-June 2014

Education New admissions procedure for Sutton’s selective schools

invited to sit the Selective Eligibility Test at one of these. Children will take the SET test at the nearest school according to post code. The test centre has no relevance to the child’s preferred school.

Sutton‘s admission procedure for year 7 selective school places is changing. Pupils who seek entry in September 2015 will have to use the new procedures which are now in place. Register with the school of your choice on the relevant website (see box below), but keep Wednesday 17 September 2014 in your diary.

The new procedure is a two-step process. The first step is common across all the schools listed in the box (right). The second stage is specific to each school. The first step is a Selective Eligibility Test (SET). All children who want to be considered for a selective place at any of the schools listed must sit and pass this pre-selection test to show they are eligible for the second stage of the process. Each participating school will run a test centre and registered candidates will be

All the centres will run the same test at the same time on the same day. For 2015 entry, the key date for this preselection test is Wednesday 17 September 2014. The new procedures cover the following schools: • Greenshaw High School (ability places), • Nonsuch High School for Girls, • Sutton Grammar School,

• Wallington County Grammar School,

• Wallington High School for Girls; and • Wilson’s School

This pre-selection test consists of two multiple choice style papers; a maths paper and an English paper. If the child achieves the pass mark in the Selective Eligibility Test they will be eligible to sit the second stage Entrance Examinations at their preferred school. These second stage tests will be individually set by each of the participating schools. To register your child online and for further details, visit the websites of the participating schools (see box immediately below this story).

SELECTIVE SCHOOL OPEN DAYS Greenshaw High School Sutton SM1 020 8715 1001 Thu 25 Sep 6.15 — 9.15pm www.greenshaw.co.uk Nonsuch High School for Girls Cheam SM3 020 8394 3400 Thu 10 Jul 4.00 — 8.00pm www.nonsuch.co.uk Sutton Grammar School Sutton SM1 020 8642 3821 Thu 11 Sep 4.00 — 9.00pm www.suttongrammar.sutton.sch.uk

Wallington County Grammar School Wallington SM6 020 8647 2235 Thu 3 Jul 3.30 — 8.00pm (last entry 7.30pm www.wcgs.org.uk Wallington High School for Girls Wallington SM6 020 8647 2380 Mon 30 Jun 4.00 — 8.30pm www.wallingtongirls.sutton.sch.uk Wilson’s School Wallington SM6 020 8773 2931 Thu 26 Jun 4.00 — 9.00pm (last entry 8.30pm) www.wilsonsschool.sutton.sch.uk

INDEPENDENT SCHOOL OPEN DAYS Chinthurst School Tadworth KT20 01737 812011 Sat 17 May 9.30 – 12.00pm www.chinthurstschool.co.uk Croydon High S. Croydon CR2 020 8260 7508 Mon 12 — Fri 16 May: Open Doors Week; Thu 15 May: 6.00 — 8.30pm Open Evening (Senior School); Thu 22 May 9.00 — 3.00pm: Year 1 — 5 Taster Day www.croydonhigh.gdst.net Cumnor House Boys & Tree Tops Nursery (Pampisford Rd) S. Croydon CR2 020 8660 3445 Fri 2 May & Fri 6 Jun: 9.30 — 11.00 for main school & nursery www.cumnorhouse.com Cumnor House Girls & Tree Tops Nursery Purley CR8 020 8660 3445 Fri 2 May & Fri 6 Jun: 9.30 — 11.00 for main school & nursery www.cumnorhouse.com Downsend Preparatory Leatherhead KT22 01372 372311 Fri 9 May: From 9.15am with Headmaster’s Talk at 9.30am www.downsend.co.uk Downsend Pre-Preps Ashtead, Epsom & Leatherhead KT17,21,22 01372 372311 Sat 10 May: 2.00pm (all three locations); Thu 13 Mar: 9.30 — 11.30am Drop in Morning (Epsom & Leatherhead only) www.downsend.co.uk Ewell Castle Junior and Senior Ewell KT17 020 8393 1413 Tue 6 May & Wed 18 Jun: 9.00 — 10.30am (Nursery & Early Years); 10.30 — 12.00pm (Junior school); Tue 6 May 9.00 — 10.30am & Wed 18 Jun from 6.00pm (senior school) www.ewellcastle.co.uk Greenacre School Banstead SM7 01737 352114 Wed 7 May: Prospective parents morning 10.45 – 12.15pm (by appointment only) www.greenacre.surrey.sch.uk

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Homefield Sutton SM1 020 8642 0965 Tue 17 Jun: 9.30 — 11.30am www.homefield.sutton.sch.uk Kingswood House Epsom KT19 01372 723590 Wed 7 & Sat 10 May: 9.30 — 12.00pm www.kingswoodhouse.org Manor House School & Nursery Bookham near. Leatherhead KT23 4EN 01372 457077 Wed 7 May: 9.30 am—call Mrs. M. Fowell or email: admissions@manorhouseschool.org www.manorhouseschool.org Old Palace School of John Whitgift Preparatory Melville Avenue Site, S. Croydon CR2 020 8688 2027 Sat 10 May & Sat 14 Jun: 2.00 — 4.00pm (book place online) www.oldpalaceofjohnwhitgift.org Old Palace School of John Whitgift Senior Old Palace Road site, S. Croydon CR0 020 8688 2027 Sat 21 Jun: 2.00 — 4.00pm (book place online) www.oldpalaceofjohnwhitgift.org Priory Preparatory Banstead SM7 01737 366920 Sat 10 May: 10.00 — 12.00pm, Open morning; Wed 18 Jun: Pop—in morning, 9.00 — 11.00 www.prioryprep.co.uk Royal Russell Croydon CR0 020 8651 5884 Contact school for details www.royalrussell.co.uk Sutton High Sutton SM1 020 8225 3001 Wed 21 May: 10.00am with Headteacher’s talk at 10.00am (Junior school); Thu 26 Jun 6.00pm & Wed 2 Jul 10.00am (senior school) www.suttonhigh.gdst.net Thames Christian College Battersea SW11 020 7228 3933 Contact school for details www.thameschristiancollege.org.uk

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May-June 2014

Education

Surviving SATs – a guide for parents The pressure is on with SATs tests around the corner, but the best thing you can do for your child is keep things in perspective. confident child can get thrown if they get stuck on an unfamiliar problem. Remind them there is no rule that says they have to answer any question. Moving on to questions they can do will stop the panic setting in, and they won’t waste time and forfeit easy marks elsewhere.

More than likely, your child is coping with lots of extra revision homework and inevitably their year 6 classroom focus is on SATs, SATs and more SATs. But parents — fingers off the panic buttons, please. Yes, we know you want to get your child off to a good start in secondary school—and we understand that many schools take SATs results into account when putting year 7 pupils into sets—but, and it is a big BUT:

Reinforce the fact that they should show all workings out in Maths because they can pick up marks for method even if a calculation error means they get the wrong answer.

Your child will perform better if they are relaxed, and they will only relax if you do.

Secondary schools nearly always retest children in September and many retest again at the end of year 7, so SATS are not the be-all-and-end-all of their education. If your child copes well with SATs, they will find it easier to stay calm when the pressure ratchets up for GCSEs and A-levels. So in the run up to SATs, what can you do? Bear in mind there is only a short time left and it is best to avoid overload. Don’t try to cover two years’ work in two weeks. Just focus on one or two areas at most where you

know your child could use some practice. Run through exam techniques with your child as sometimes lack of technique trips up a child, however well-prepared they are on the subject and content. Remind them to read the whole question. Many pupils get caught out by not reading a question in full. A good way of doing this is to underline the key words. Advise them to skip difficult questions and go back later if they have time. Even a

In reading comprehension, remind them that they should give fuller answers to 3-mark questions than to one-mark questions. This seems obvious to an adult who might be used to sitting exams, but is not always obvious to a child. Tell them if time allows when they have finished the paper, they should check their work. It gives them a chance to correct any silly mistakes and can mean additional marks. Finally, but most importantly of all, reassure them that you don’t mind what result they get as long as they have tried their best.

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May-June 2014

Education EYFS at Priory Prep rated ‘Outstanding’ Priory Preparatory School has a new building for nursery and Early Years provision in Banstead.

Meanwhile the Independent Schools Inspectorate (ISI) in a 2014 inspection has rated the school’s Early Years provision as ‘Outstanding’ in all areas. It complements the 2010 ISI report which rated the nursery education as ‘Outstanding’. ISI inspectors were impressed with the children’s well-being and personal development. The report said, “…the children are demonstrably happy…the personal development and behaviour of all the children are excellent.” As a further boost to the Early Years Provision, The Mayor of Reigate and Banstead, Councillor Dr Lynne Hack, officially opened the new ‘Glenys Clark Building’, named in honour of Priory Prep’s previous Head of Pre-Prep who retired last year. During a tour of the new building, parents expressed delight at the large airy classrooms, fully equipped with interactive whiteboards. Ashley Head, Chair of Governors, said, “We are very excited about the new development. The excellent facilities will enable us to maintain our position as a leading boys’ school.” Priory Preparatory School, Bolters Lane, Banstead, SM7 2AJ. School Office Tel: 01737 366920 Email: office@prioryprep.co.uk Web: www.prioryprep.co.uk

EYFS building now open at Ewell Castle Ewell Castle school has a new building for nursery and Early Years provision in Ewell. Although the building has been in use since September, an official opening in April set the seal on this high-specification building. Ewell Castle provides co-educational nursery and early years care for ages 3 – 7 through its Chessington Lodge, a Georgian house located in Spring Street, opposite Bourne Hall Library. This is where the new building is located. From Key Stage 2 (7 – 11 years), children move to Glyn House in Church Street, Ewell. From age 11, the students move across the road to the senior school, which is aimed at boys only up to age 16, when girls are once more admitted for the sixth form. Altogether, the school caters for around 550 students, of whom 200 are in Chessington Lodge. At time of writing, the Lodge still had a few places left for entry in September 2014. Ewell Castle School, Church Street, Ewell, Surrey KT17 2AW, 020 8393 1413 www.ewellcastle.co.uk

Gaining Independence and Positive Self-Esteem in the Early Years Sonal Chatrath, Head of Early Years and Preps at Manor House School tells Families, “A child’s early years at school form the most exciting and challenging phase of their learning and development. It is therefore vital that the Early Years learning environment offers the highest quality provision with a range of stimulating opportunities and activities for young children. She adds, the Early Years is a time when the key goals for children’s learning are: • Gaining independence • Developing a positive self-image • Developing new skills • Understanding the world

Give your daughter the very best start Greenacre School delivers an excellent education for girls aged 3 to 18 years. Our small class sizes, expert teaching, outstanding pastoral care and extensive extra-curricular programme ensure that every girl has the opportunity to realise her full potential. If you would like to visit the School, please telephone for an appointment or join us at one of our half termly Prospective Parents’ Mornings. For further information, please contact our Admissions Registrar on 01737 352114. Sutton Lane, Banstead, Surrey SM7 3RA admin@greenacre.surrey.sch.uk | www.greenacre.surrey.sch.uk

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Sonal said “Research has shown that the children who enjoy the most academic success later in their education are the ones who have high self-esteem, are able to work independently and have developed enthusiasm for learning. “To develop these qualities, they require an Early Years environment that offers a combination of teacher-led and child-led activities, so that they have the opportunity to extend structured learning opportunities by testing out and discovering things for themselves.” Sonal believes that Early Years students particularly benefit from access to secure outdoor spaces which encourage a range of different learning opportunities, including access to nature, as well as play equipment and space to really run around. She adds that an holistic approach to teaching which looks at each child as an individual with different academic, social and emotional needs is also important in the Early Years for children to achieve their full potential. Manor House School is an independent day school for girls aged 2 — 16 set in large grounds in Little Bookham, near Cobham, in Surrey. For further information, visit www.manorhouseschool.org admin@manorhouseschool.org 01372 458538 (main switchboard) 01372 457077 (admissions) www.Families-LSB.co.uk

May-June 2014

Education Cumnor House rated ‘Outstanding’ Following a two-day inspection by the Independent Schools’ Inspectorate (ISI), Cumnor House School’s Early Years provision has been rated as ‘Outstanding” throughout.

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The ISI inspectors looked at EYFS provision at Cumnor House, which comprises boys’ Reception and Treetops Nursery (South Croydon and Purley). Parents and prospective parents are invited to come and see how the Cumnor House team achieved this accolade. The school is holding open days on Friday 2 May and Friday 6 June. Visits can be made any time between 9.30 and 11.30 am

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Olympic athlete inspires students Olympic medallist Jamie Baulch inspired pupils at Thames Christian College, Battersea during a series of assemblies. Jamie spoke about how he started as a runner as an 11-year-old; his passion for his sport; how he pursued his dream of being world champion and the pitfalls along the way. Pupils especially enjoyed seeing and handling the silver medal he won for the 4 x 400m relay at the Atlanta Olympics in 1996. Jamie’s mission is to create that spark in every young person to give each one the chance to feel part of something great. His message? Go confidently in the direction of your dreams to live the life you have imagined. Stephen Holsgrove PhD, Executive Head, Thames Christian College, comments: “Jamie’s entertaining and at times hilarious story-telling style, complete with actions, caught the imagination of our pupils who hugely enjoyed what he had to say and asked some penetrating questions.”

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Banstead Bookstore aims to match Amazon’s prices with better service

Linda Jones, the owner of the IBIS bookshop in Banstead which recently had to close, has launched a new service to compete with Amazon. Bookjuice, her online bookstore, has access to all the same titles and offers free next day delivery within a five-mile radius of Banstead.

Linda described how it works: “It is simple. Find it on Amazon, go to our order page and tell us the book title and the cost and we will deliver to free next day - your order must be with us by 5pm to receive next day.” Linda notes that Bookjuice cares about books and customers. What’s more, Linda pays UK taxes. Customers can either pay on delivery, or in advance. Visit the website where it states ‘Search on Amazon; check their price and when you order from Bookjuice we will match it.*’.. *Where they cannot price-match it will only ever cost you £1.00 more. Bookjuice 07517 869 338 www.bookjuice.co.uk Please mention Families magazine if you contact these companies 11May-June Families London-Surrey Borders 020 8669 8669 5187 5187 2014 020

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May-June 2014 Families London-Surrey Borders

11

Pregnancy discrimination By Nicky Chau of Prolegal Ltd

a female employee can change once she announces her pregnancy. Some make the assumption that she is no longer committed to her work; won’t return after her maternity leave or will only want to work part time. Performance concerns are brought up or the role is said to be redundant.

Prolegal is a new breed of law firm that looks to challenge the conventional methods by which legal services are delivered. Their approach to legal services revolves around their belief that advice and assistance should be provided in an entrepreneurial, empowering and forthright manner. Prolegal Ltd 020 7743 6719 www.prolegal.co.uk

The Equality Act 2010 protects women from unfavourable treatment because of pregnancy, pregnancy-related illness or maternity leave but, according to campaigning organisation www.maternityaction.org.uk, 60,000 women lose their jobs because of pregnancy or maternity discrimination every year. Employers sometimes object to the number or timing of ante-natal appointments; but there is a right to paid leave. You should not be asked to make up the time or to rearrange appointments outside office hours.

Women also experience problems when they try to return to work after maternity leave. They find their position has been filled and their services are no longer needed. Maternity leave must not play a part in any decision that a role is redundant. Selection processes should not take account of absences for maternity, ante-natal appointments or pregnancy-related illness. If a woman has been replaced during maternity leave, the role is not redundant and it is unlawful to dismiss her. If the role is genuinely redundant, she has priority for any suitable alternative vacancies.

Health to consider whether any adjustments might enable her to return to work. This has not stopped women in the real world being disciplined or even dismissed because they have taken time off with pregnancy-related illness. Even outright pregnancy discrimination is still common. An employers’ attitude towards

If you can’t reach a solution, it’s imperative to get legal advice as soon as possible. There is a 3-month time limit to bring Employment Tribunal claims for discrimination. If you wait, you may lose your right to bring a claim.

Book guides parents toward an easy birth

Giving birth should be a straightforward, wonderful and magical experience. Practicing hypnotherapist Paola Bagnall has written a book guiding you to a complete Inner Power Hypnobirthing package with a free CD/ MP3 download and tells you how you can achieve just this.

Absence policies should not be applied to women a with pregnancy-related illness unless this is to assist her. For example, an employer might refer her to Occupational

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This book focuses on taking control of the mind and body for an enjoyable pregnancy and natural childbirth, using self-hypnosis, special breathing techniques, and colours for healing and deep relaxation so you work with your body, and intuition, through the birth process.

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It also helps with breast-feeding, bonding with baby, being confident as a mother, healing up after the birth and getting one’s figure back to pre-pregnancy weight, shape and dimensions.

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I advise anyone experiencing discrimination to send an email setting out the problem so that there is written evidence of the first complaint. Get in touch with HR as well as speaking to your line manager, or your manager’s manager if they are the problem. If that doesn’t work, raise a formal grievance.

This book is for the mum-to-be and her birth partner as he/she plays a very important role in maintaining the self-hypnosis and relaxation. The techniques learnt are not just for the pregnancy and birth, you can use them throughout your life to be calm and in control and to help yourself reach your full potential in anything you do. Paola is a biologist and a hypnotherapist and the book is very easy to follow and understand. Using her skills in both these areas she created the unique Inner Power Hypnobirthing method. The book is available from www.birthmadeeasy.co.uk as well as on Amazon, Kindle and iBooks.

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May-June 2014

Parenting – Baby & Toddler Does a relaxed pregnancy help baby?

Epsom Hospital Birthing centre opens Epsom Hospital has opened a dedicated birthing centre, with care led by midwives. The unit follows the success of the midwife-led birthing centre at St Helier Hospital.

The Epsom unit opened in March and represents an investment of £318,000. It contains three separate rooms, two birthing pools, a communal kitchen, specially-made beanbag sofas and reclining chairs. Recent research suggests that what happens in the womb can shape and affect the development of a baby’s brain. By keeping stress to a minimum, and by taking time out to relax and enjoy life, pregnant women could be doing themselves and their babies a big favour. With so much research and advice centred around the physical wellbeing of a pregnant woman, and her diet, new research hopes to further explore what impact the emotional state has on a developing child. In this latest research, Goldsmith’s and Imperial College will be asking pregnant women to take regular time out to relax and nurture their own sense of emotional wellbeing throughout their pregnancies, and looking at any positive effects which may, in turn, benefit the growing baby. Lauren Stewart, one of the lead researchers from the Department of Psychology at Goldsmith’s, said, “Life is stressful and pregnancy — far from being a heavenly, blissful time — can often feel more fraught than usual. “It could turn out that a little extra TLC for pregnant women might go a long way towards helping babies to develop in the best womb environment possible, giving them a healthy start in life. It is important for us to understand this, in order to better improve the advice given to pregnant women.” http://relaxinpregnancy.com/

RoSPA renews child car seat website

The Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents (RoSPA) has revamped its Child Car Seats website to advise parents and carers on the safest way for children to travel in cars. The site has become a trusted source of safety information for anyone needing advice about child car restraints in the UK. The revamped website provides up-to-date information on the types of child car seats available, including seats that are fitted with the car’s seatbelts, Isofix seats, which have fitting points built into the car, and i-Size seats, which meet a new child car seat regulation.

The website also provides advice on which seat to choose for your child and car and how to use them, the law and things drivers ought to know if they carry other people’s children in the car. It is mobilefriendly and easy to navigate, especially for busy parents, who will now be able to access the website on the go via their mobile phone (but not while driving, of course), which could come in handy when out shopping for a child car seat. Child car seats are designed and tested for children in different weight ranges and that’s what parents should be checking when they are selecting an “appropriate” seat. www.childcarseats.org.uk mention Families magazine if you contact these companies 13 Please Families London-Surrey Borders 020 8669 5187

The facility is aimed at women whose pregnancies have been problem-free and who are not expected to experience problems during childbirth. On the first day of opening, mum Phillipa Edwards gave birth to baby Olive Ruddy in one of the brand new pools at 4.23pm, helped by lead midwife Katie Hamilton and birth centre manager and lead midwife Denise Dinsdale. Phillipa, who lives in Epsom with partner Stephen and older daughter Mabel, said: “The birth centre is a very welcoming and reassuring place to be, and I loved the non-interfering but wellsupported care I received in my labour and birth. I would definitely recommend others to come and deliver their baby here.” Epsom & St Helier Healthcare trust www.epsom-sthelier.nhs.uk/our-services/a-to-z-of-services/women-andchildren/maternity/delivery/

Baby Björn Travel cot is lightweight

The award-winning Baby Björn Travel Cot Light (£199.99) has been re-launched in the UK. Mesh fabric all the way down the side means you can keep an eye on your sleeping tot. The cot opens in one simple motion and weighs just 6kg. It even comes with a handy travel case, and super comfortable and spacious interior. Available at Kiddicare, John Lewis, Bentalls and www.Amazon.co.uk

Buggy Buddy fits buggies and prams

Keep all your essentials organised and within reach when you’re out and about, with the compact Diono Buggy Buddy. There will be no rummaging around at the bottom of a bag as it attaches simply to the back of your buggy or pram. With its zipped pocket for valuables, insulated drink holders and insulated cargo bin, it’s the perfect way to carry snacks, drinks and other bits and pieces that you need close to hand. RRP £10, available from www.kiddicare.com/ www.Families-LSB.co.uk

May-June 2014

All You Need for A Great Party

Fabulous parties at every age A birthday party is a ritual of childhood and an event that’s remembered forever. So the pressure is on – how do you ensure success and survival (both your own and your home’s)? Joanna Moorhead guides you through what’s best, age by age

0-3

There’s just one word that matters here: simplicity. Birthday parties for tinies can be marvellous, memorable affairs, but they don’t need to be elaborate or to involve much expense or entertainment or special props. In essence, you’re catering for the grown-ups as much as for the children – because at this stage, the adults will definitely stay (and you’re more than likely to have a few grandparents in the mix as well). Concentrate on creating a fun, easy, safe space for the children – a soft play space with plenty of toys strewn around is ideal – and make sure the adults are well catered-for: if they stay calm, the children will as well. If you want something with a bit of a theme, how about a teddy bears’ picnic? Make sure everyone remembers to take their favourite cuddlies home at the end though, or there will be tears at bedtime.

4-6

At this stage parties can be a bit more ambitious and a time when it is well worth investing in a great entertainer: they are experts, know how to control a crowd while simultaneously producing shrieks and honest laughs. However don’t assume that to put on a great bash you need to spend lots of money. At this age children can have loads of fun without a big outlay; later on, when they’re tweens and teens, you’ll be under pressure to shell out big-time, so don’t pre-empt that now. A party at home or in the local park can be huge fun; traditional party games will be popular, and if you want to push the boat out a bit consider investing in a bouncy castle; or if home really isn’t a possibility, a soft play centre will be hassle-free, if more expensive. Themed

parties are great for this age group, and they actually make life simpler for the party organiser: a pirate theme is always popular, or sea creatures, or pick up on your child’s favourite book or TV programme. Dressing up is a big hit for this age group too.

7-9

Activities work a treat at this stage, whether you’re at home or in a church hall or at a park. For a popular and lowbudget option, think about a baking party at home – weigh out all the ingredients before the children arrive, get them to mix and decorate them and then pop them in the oven to bake while you play a few party games (shortbread biscuits are easy peasy; have a range of cutters for exciting shapes).

The golden rules Never have a party that lasts more than two hours The younger the child, the fewer the guests Party bags can be cheap as chips, thanks to charity and pound shops – but don’t think you can get away without them. They’re hugely popular Have a plan mapped out for what should happen when

10-12

Older children like going out to party. To keep the costs down, encourage a smaller number of guests – think about a trip to the seaside or to an exciting adventure playground they’ve not visited before, and remember that the journey can be as much fun as the activity at the end of it. If you don’t mind spending a bit more, a trip to a climbing wall, an ice rink, a bowling rink or a go-karting centre can be wonderful fun too.

Party food tips

• Food doesn’t need to be complicated. • It does need to include options – many children won’t eat ham/cheese/ eggs/grapes/pizza. • Don’t overfeed guests with too much food. • Putting cup cakes rather than slices of cake into party bags makes life easier.

ready steady kids Throw an exciting party for your child with a choice of sports, lots of fun activities and get everyone talking about it! The kids had such a great time, all were exhausted at the end which was great for parents!

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May-June 2014

All You Need for A Great Party ENTERTAINERS

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DIDDI DANCE 07939 520 638 (For Addiscombe, Mitcham, Croydon & Purley) 07729 848 419 (For Ewell, Carshalton, Cheam, Coulsdon, Sutton, Banstead, Stoneleigh & Reigate) www.diddidance.com

FLOSSIE CHILDREN'S ENTERTAINER 020 8647 9967 / 07954 564 372 Flossie@funshineproductions.com www.flossiechildrensentertainer.co.uk 1 or 2 hour fun filled parties, packed with magic, music, ballooning, hilarious puppets, games, competitions and dancing. Shows vary according to age group. For ages 3 – 8 years.

Parties are all about music, singing and dancing and that’s what they do best. They bring their MAD enthusiasm, energy and expertise to your party to ensure it is one everyone will remember. Let MAD Academy make your party sparkle. For 3 months – 5 years

MOTHER NATURE SCIENCE

Birthday packages are run by experienced staff and include a choice of any 2 sports from the standard Ready Steady Go Kids program; a minimum 1 hour session of sport, fun activities and games; Ready Steady Go Kids birthday invitations; A Ready Steady Go Kids T-shirt and cap or beanie for the birthday boy or girl. For ages 2 – 7 years.

020 8940 0289 info@mnature.co.uk www.mnature.co.uk

THEATREBUGS

PERFORM PARTIES

01483 882244 / 07971 004 134 www.theatrebugs.co.uk/surrey.html

0845 400 1273 www.performparties.org.uk

LEARN TO COOK GOOD FOOD laura.cooksetc@gmail.com www.learntocookgoodfood.com

Parties at your choice of location. An hour of great activities including dancing games, action songs, hoops, dance ribbons, balloons, bells & bubbles. Diddi Dance offer fantastic, fun & affordable entertainment. For ages 2 – 5 years

DRAMABUDS ADVENTURE PARTIES 020 8669 2355 info@dramabuds.co.uk www.dramabuds.co.uk

Laura set up Learn to Cook Good Food in the hope of encouraging and educating children and adults about the benefits of eating home cooked food. Parties are arranged around a cooking theme of the birthday child’s choice. For ages 7 years +. £20.00 per child.

MAD ACADEMY

Dramabuds transport your child’s party to the land of make believe and captivate imaginations. With over 14 themes to choose from including Jungle Adventure, Pirates, Fairy-tale Land, Superheroes and Magical Toys there’s sure to be one your child will love. Each party includes lively songs, drama, dancing, games, parachute fun and bubbles. For 2 – 7 years.

Croydon area: Debbie 01689 844 848 debbie.mason@madacademy.com www.madacademy.com/croydon Epsom area: Karen 01372 210 378 karen.morgan@madacademy.com www.madacademy.com/epsom Sutton area: Pauline 01372 372 942 pauline.llewellyn@madacademy.com www.madacademy.com/sutton

High energy, fun and totally infectious parties. Based around one of their colourful themes and involving lots of lively games, songs and improvisations, they use the power of children’s imaginations to get everyone involved. For 8 — 12 years.

Parties that are an interactive fun-filled journey crammed with tasks, characters and different worlds to explore. Full of storytelling, imaginative play, drama games and fun – perfect for 2 — 8 year olds. BabyBug parties for under 2 now available – magical sensory adventures for babies, walkers and their grown-ups.

READY STEADY GO KIDS

THE DETECTIVE PROJECT

0800 690 6591 info@rsgk.co.uk www.rsgk.co.uk

Their party package involves the setting up of a crime scene in a home or party venue for the children to solve who it is, how did they die and if he was killed, by whom? Children learn about basic forensic skills and look at their fingerprints all dressed as investigators in white suits. For 7 years +

EINSTEIN’S ENTERTAINERS 020 8123 8697 info@e-entertainers.co.uk www.e-entertainers.co.uk Science parties with fun science shows and crazy experiment. Suitable for ages 6 – 12 years.

Try something different! Solve the crime!

01737 219375 / 07757 997 359 steve@thedetectiveproject.co.uk www.thedetectiveproject.co.uk

Free party bags

Crime Investigation Parties Dress up in crime scene suits, follow the clues and use a variety of techniques to solve the crime… just in time for tea and cake!

☛ Suitable for girls and

Soft Play

Parties

Monday to Friday 9.30am to 2.45pm

Exclusive parties on Saturdays and Sundays

Soft play for children aged 5 and under. www.gigglessoftplay.co.uk 07717 862577

boys age 7+

☛ For home or party venues www.thedetectiveproject.co.uk Call Steve on 01737 219375 / 07757 997359 steve@thedetectiveproject.co.uk

The Harrier Centre, Poole Road, West Ewell KT19 9RY info@gigglessoftplay.co.uk

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Giggles Advert 87mm w x 60mm h v4.indd 1

Like us on

parties@gigglessoftplay.co.uk

May-June 2014

24/04/2014 20:27

All You Need for A Great Party THEO THE MAGICIAN

CROYDON LEISURE CENTRE PARTIES

07711 724 129 theo@magictheo.com www.magictheo.com

Monks Hill Sports Centre Farnborough Avenue, South Croydon, CR2 8HD 020 8651 0984

New Addington Leisure Centre Central Parade, New Addington CR0 0JB 01689 842553

learn to cook good food

Purley Leisure Centre

Cookery classes and courses for all

50 High Street, Purley CR8 2AA 020 8668 7251

LearnToCook offers a wide range of courses taught by Laura Scott, Ex chef, and now a successful food writer and cookery tutor.

South Norwood Leisure Centre 164 Portland Road, South Norwood SE25 4PT 020 8662 9464

You can learn in your own home with your friends or at Laura’s house in Epsom, Surrey. Bake clubs, Masterclasses, themed cookery workshops are perfect for both children and adults alike.

BOOK NOW FOR 2014 COURSES 07960 265825

Book your FREE trial today! Funky pre-school dance classes for girls & boys For classes in Addiscombe, Mitcham, Croydon & Purley,

call Melissa on 07939 520 638

Diddi Dance parties also available

For Classes in Ewell, Carshalton, Cheam, Coulsdon, Sutton, Banstead, Stoneleigh & Reigate

Danielle on 07729 848 419 Diddi Dance parties also available

An interactive fun magician for both children and adults. For ages 1 – 101 years.

THE LITTLE PINK KITCHEN

Thornton Heath Leisure Centre 100 The High Street, Thornton Heath, London CR7 8LF 020 8689 5300

Waddon Leisure Centre

07952 699 422 info@thelittlepinkkitchen.co.uk www.thelittlepinkkitchen.co.uk Cupcake parties for children. For 7 years +.

Purley Way, Waddon, Croydon CR0 4RG 020 8760 0657 www.fusion-lifestyle.com/contracts/Croydon_Council Multi-sport, Princess & Pirate, Bounce & softplay, Trampolining and Inflatable pool parties. Call the individual centres for further information and to check which parties they offer.

TOP HAT PARTIES 01737 831184 surrey@tophatstageschool.co.uk www.tophatstageschool.co.uk VENUES

GIGGLES SOFTPLAY PARTIES The Harrier Centre, West Ewell 07717 862 577 www.gigglessoftplay.co.uk

BEANIES, CROYDON 020 8680 2088 www.beaniescafe.co.uk

BOCKETTS FARM PARK Young Street, Leatherhead KT22 9BS 01372 363764 info@bockettsfarm.co.uk www.bockettsfarm.co.uk

www.diddidance.com Giggles Soft Play offer exclusive 2 hour Soft Play parties either catered or self catered on Saturdays and Sundays. The Soft Play is open Monday to Friday 9.30am – 2.45pm. Suitable for ages 5 and under.

Imaginative Drama Classes

Growing Buds 2 - 4 years Full Blooms 4 - 7 years Budding Actors 7 - 10 years Classes in Carshalton, Cheam, dramabuds Croydon & Worcester Park adventure 020 8669 2355 parties too

GLAZED ALL OVER, WALLINGTON 020 8647 6463 www.glazedallover.co.uk

HOBBLEDOWN CHILDREN’S FARM

www.dramabuds.co.uk

Parties

www.magictheo.com

Voted One Of The UK’s Favourite Entertainers Free Magic Wand & Certificate for Birthday Child

07711 724129 (Magic Circle & Equity)

FLOSSIE 07954 564372 1 or 2 hour Fun Filled Parties with Magic, Music and Games. www.flossiechildrensentertainer.co.uk

Party activities include animals galore, exciting play areas, tractor rides and animal handling sessions, plus the menu of your choice in one of the decorated party rooms. £14.25 per child (1 adult free per 2 children). Party bags and birthday cake available. Early booking advised. For 0 – 8 years.

Horton Lane, Epsom, Surrey, KT19 8PT 0843 289 4979 partyparty@hobbledown.com www.hobbledown.com

BOUNCING BUNNIES SOFT PLAY CAFE, NORK 07800 953 068 www.bouncingbunniesplay.co.uk

CRAGGY ISLAND CLIMBING CENTRE, CARSHALTON 0844 880 8866 www.craggy-island.com

CROYDON HIGH SPORTS CLUB, SELSDON 020 8657 9313 croydonhighsportsclub@cry.gdst.net www.croydonhighsportsclub.co.uk

mention Families magazine if you contact these companies 16 Please Families London-Surrey Borders 020 8669 5187

Hobblers know a thing or two about what makes a good birthday party and how much time and stress they take to organise. So let the Hobblers take the strain and host your next party at their mysterical park. Packages include full day entry for guests, invitations, a party feast, host, party bags and free gift for the birthday child. The parties can cater for tots to 13 year olds. High Ropes Parties are available but are only suitable for the older guests.

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May-June 2014

All You Need for A Great Party HONEYWOOD MUSEUM, CARSHALTON

SLNB MUSIC ‘STAR FOR A DAY’, SUTTON

020 8770 4297 www.friendsofhoneywood.co.uk Traditional Games or Crafty parties.

020 8395 3045 / 07958 039 484 www.slnbmusic.co.uk/starforaday

JUNGLE ISLAND ADVENTURE GOLF Horton Park Golf Club, Hook Road, Epsom KT19 8QG info@hortonparkgolf.com www.hortonparkgolf.com/jungle-adventure-golf/ 020 8393 8400 Join them for the adventure of a lifetime. Find the secret cave behind the waterfall and pull yourself to safety over the crocodile infested lagoon. All this, invitations, goody bags and an hour in the themed party room from just £14.95 per child. Call them today to book. Suitable for all ages.

KIDPLAY CAFE, CROYDON 020 8655 1583 louise@onceuponatimesoftplay.co.uk www.onceuponatimesoftplay.co.uk

SURBITON RACEWAY, WORCESTER PARK 020 8337 5550 www.surbiton-raceway.co.uk

SUTTON LEISURE CENTRE PARTIES David Weir Leisure Centre Middleton Road, Carshalton SM5 1SL 020 8641 9480

Westcroft Leisure Centre Westcroft Road, Carshalton SM5 2TG 020 8669 8666 www.everyoneactive.com Parties ranging from pool parties, Active Antz and trampolining parties. Call the individual centres for further information and to check which parties they offer.

SUTTON SOFT PLAY 020 8641 6611 www.suttonsoftplay.com

KIDSPACE CROYDON

VILLAGE CERAMICS, CHEAM

The Colonnades, 619 Purley Way, Croydon CRO 4RQ www.kidspaceadventures.com 0208 686 0040 (enquiries) / 01708 385096 (bookings)

WHITEHALL, CHEAM

020 8661 7837 www.villageceramics.co.uk

020 8643 1236 whitehallcheam@btconnect.com www.friendsofwhitehallcheam.co.uk Parties giving a taste of what life was like during the time of Henry VIII.

Parties range from Classic, Deluxe, Laser Tag and Teddy Bear Workshop. Wow the party child with the funky party zones, Pod Pizzeria restaurant and, of course, one of the largest indoor play structures in the UK.​Suitable for tots to 12 year olds.

LITTLE LAMBS SOFTPLAY, BANSTEAD 07768 264 268 faye.gavin@btinternet.com www.facebook.com/littlelambssoftplay

MAKE & BAKE Held at Pistachios on the Park, Banstead 07792 663 126 amber@vivid-events.com Children love to bake and really enjoy these creative, messy fun parties. Each child makes their own cakes from scratch, which they also ice and decorate to take home in their personalised cake box. For ages 5+

PARTY SUPPLIES

4 UR PARTY, WALLINGTON 020 8669 8822 / 07940 086 426 www.foururparty.co.uk

ASOFTPLAY 07852 123 659 www.asoftplayhiresutton.co.uk

FANTASTIC CAKETASTIC, CARSHALTON 0203 612 4785 caketastic@btinternet.com www.fantastic-caketastic.com

PARTICA, SUTTON

07933 292 464 www.onceuponatimesoftplay.co.uk

020 8647 2964 contact@partyplus-sm5.co.uk www.partyplus-sm5.co.uk

PARTYPLUS-SM5, CARSHALTON

THE SWEET CAKE FAIRY 0800 756 5545 www.thesweetcakefairy.co.uk

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11:54

Page 1

07735 389 804 info@wildwoodactivities.co.uk www.wildwoodactivities.co.uk

020 8770 7767 www.partica.co.uk

07702 035 173 pinklemonhoneypot@hotmail.co.uk pinklemonhoneypot.webs.com

16/3/12

WILD WOOD ACTIVITIES, CROYDON

ONCE UPON A TIME SOFT PLAY, EPSOM

THE PINK LEMON HONEYPOT, EWELL VILLAGE

87x130_multiple3:Layout 10

020 8669 5187

For classes of pure MADness, join MAD Academy

Birthday parties too!

Classes in the Sutton Area Contact Pauline on 01372 372 942 email: pauline.llewellyn@madacademy.com Classes in the Croydon Area Contact Debbie on 01689 844 848 email: debbie.mason@madacademy.com Classes in Ashtead, Epsom, Tadworth & Effingham Contact Karen on 01372 210 378 email: karen.morgan@madacademy.com

madacademy.com Music And Dance and a whole lot of fun!

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May-June 2014

17

What’s On

Please always phone before setting out in case details have changed since press deadline... Visit www.Families-LSB.co.uk/what-s-on for an updated list of local events

DIARY DATES FOR SPRING

Visit www.families-LSB.co.uk/what-s-on for an updated list of local events Before setting out please check details with the venue in case they have changed since we have gone to print ...and don’t forget to tell them you saw them in Families London-Surrey Borders.

Sat 3 – Mon 5 May 10.00 – 6.00pm May Fayre Morden Hall Park, Morden Hall Road, Morden SM4 5JD 020 8545 6850 (enquiries) mordenhallparkevents@nationaltrust.org.uk www.nationaltrust.org.uk/morden-hall-park Family Country Show with all day entertainment Sat 3 May 12.00 – 5.00pm (weather permitting) Banstead Village May Fayre www.bansteadmayqueen.co.uk Procession starts at 11.30am from United Reformed Church, Woodmansterne Lane, Banstead with crowning of the May Queen at approximately midday. Sun 4 & Mon 5 May The Blindley Heath Country Show Osney Lodge Farm, Byers Lane, Surrey RH9 8JH 01342 892216 www.blindleyheathcountryshow.co.uk Mon 5 May 11.00 – 4.00pm Open Day at The Surrey Society of Model Engineers Mill Lane, Leatherhead KT22 9AA enquiries@ssme.co.uk www.ssme.co.uk All Rides £1.50 (multi ride discount tickets 4 rides for £5.00 or 9 rides for £10). (There is no advanced booking). Snacks, teas, coffee & soft drinks can be

© Kidspace Croydon

May

enjoyed at picnic tables. Toilets are available in the amenity block. Well behaved dogs are permitted but must be kept on a lead at all times. Mon 5 May 9.30 – 11.00am Whitehall Whippets Whitehall, 1, Malden Road, Cheam SM3 8QD 020 8643 1236 whitehallmuseum@sutton. gov.uk www.friendsofwhitehallcheam.co.uk Session devised particularly for under 3s with a range of activities, crafts and sensory experiences focusing on a nursery rhyme. Free activity. Sat 10 May 9.00 – 1.00pm Wallington Farmers’ Market Old Town Hall and Library Gardens, Wallington, SM6 0NB www. wallingtonfarmersmarket.org.uk

Animal Encounters Saturday 24 May – Sunday 1 June

Café, indoor and outdoor play areas, free parking 10 minutes by bus from Hammersmith tube W: wwt.org.uk/london

T: 020 8409 4400

Queen Elizabeth’s Walk, Barnes SW13 9WT

Photo: S Morris

Different animals each day, from pink elephants to mini-dragons

mention Families magazine if you contact these companies 18Please Families London-Surrey Borders 020 8669 5187

Wetlands 2014 Half Term ad 85mmx130mm.indd 1

Sat 10 May 10.30 – 4.30pm Family Farm Day Claremont Landscape Garden, Portsmouth Road, Esher KT10 9JG 01372 467806 claremont@nationaltrust.org.uk www.nationaltrust.org.uk/claremontlandscape-garden A fun day for all the family with a wide variety of farm animals. Children will be able to learn about the animals and have an opportunity to stroke and groom them. More information available from the Property Office. Free event but normal admission charges apply. Sat 10 & Sun 11 May Pond dipping WWT London Wetland Centre, Queen Elizabeth’s Walk, Barnes, London SW13 9WT 020 8409 4400 info.london@wwt.org.uk www.wwt.org.uk/wetland-centres/london See what creatures live under the water or take part in the nature craft activities. For ages 2 years+. Free activities, normal admission fees apply. Sun 11 May 11.00 – 3.00pm Industrial Revolutions Morden Hall Park, Morden Hall Road, Morden SM4 5JD 020 8545 6850 mordenhallparkevents@nationaltrust.org.uk www.nationaltrust.org.uk/morden-hall-park The mills were the heart of the park during the industrial era. Take part in the water power challenge and discover more about the wheels that turned in the past and the modern wheel. Free event. Mon 12 – Sun 18 May Cheam Charter Fair Week www. cheamcharterfair.org.uk/cheam-charterweek/ Lots of activities and events planned. Check their website for up-todate information. Fri 16 May 5.30 – 9.00pm Museums at Night event Whitehall, 1, Malden Road, Cheam SM3 8QD 020 8643 1236 whitehallmuseum@sutton.gov.uk www.friendsofwhitehallcheam.co.uk Drop in during the special late night opening at Whitehall, which will be lit by candlelight. There will be crafts activities and group storytelling sessions plus a tour of the house at 6.00pm. Sat 17 May 10.00 – 5.00pm Soldiers of Surrey Day In Bourne Hall Park, on behalf of SSAFA. The country’s oldest military charity. 020 8394 1734 dbrooks@epsom-ewell.gov.uk Living history re-enactors tell the history of the soldiers that came from the local area who fought in the Napoleonic wars, Queen Victoria’s Wars, the First and Second World Wars along with members of the Princess of Wales Royal Regiment. For more details contact David Brooks.

10/04/2014 16:31

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Sat 17 May 10.30 – 11.15am (approx) Little Folk with Albo – Children’s Concert Colour House Theatre, Merton Abbey Mills, Watermill Way, London SW19 2RD 020 8542 5511 www.littlefolkwithalbo.com An ideal first concert experience. Audience participation is actively encouraged and song sheets are provided. This is a great introduction to non-processed music, just Albo and his guitar. Recommended for children from babies to 6 years. All Tickets £4.00. Book online or by calling. Sat 17 May Cheam Charter Fair www.cheamcharterfair.org.uk The procession will start at 09.00 from the Lych Gate of St Dunstan’s Church and will process to Park Road to open the fair which comprises over 60 stalls relating to local charities, societies, businesses and other organisations. Check their website for up-to-date information. Sat 17 & Sun 18 May 10.30 – 4.30pm Jacobite Re-Enactment Weekend Claremont Landscape Garden, Portsmouth Road, Esher KT10 9JG 01372 467806 claremont@nationaltrust.org.uk www.nationaltrust.org.uk/claremontlandscape-garden An entertaining insight into the 1745 Jacobite uprising against the Duke of Newcastle. With an 18th century camp, demonstrations of army drills, life and skirmishes. More information available from the Kiosk. Free event, but normal admission charges apply. Sat 17 & Sun 18 May Pond dipping WWT London Wetland Centre, Queen Elizabeth’s Walk, Barnes, London SW13 9WT 020 8409 4400 info.london@wwt.org.uk www.wwt.org.uk/wetland-centres/london See what creatures live under the water or take part in the nature craft activities. For ages 2 years+. Free activities, normal admission fees apply. Sun 18 May 2.00 – 4.00pm Decorate your own Whitehall Whitehall, Malden Road, Cheam SM3 8QD 020 8643 1236 whitehallmuseum@sutton.gov.uk www.friendsofwhitehallcheam.co.uk Inspired by the yarn bombing of Whitehall and their temporary exhibition, children are invited to use colourful wool, crayons, sequins and ribbons to decorate their own small models of Whitehall. All resources provided. For ages 4 years +. £2.00/ child. Booking in advance is advised. A responsible adult must accompany at all times.

Half Term

Sat 24 May – Sun 1 Jun 10.00 – 5.30pm Spring Spectacular Bocketts Farm, Young Street, Leatherhead, Surrey, KT22 9BS www.bockettsfarm.co.uk A full programme of activities available to include grooming the miniature Shetland ponies at ‘The Pony Parlour’, twice daily Birds of Prey displays (Tuesday to Friday only), meeting the new born goat kids, pony rides, tractor rides, goat milking, pig racing, gold panning and – new for 2014 – the Pedal Go Kart track. Suitable for children age 0 – 10 years

May-June 2014

What’s On

Please always phone before setting out in case details have changed since press deadline... Visit www.Families-LSB.co.uk/what-s-on for an updated list of local events

DIARY DATES FOR SPRING Sat 24 May – Sun 1 Jun 10.30 – 4.30pm Children’s Trail Claremont Landscape Garden, Portsmouth Road, Esher KT10 9JG 01372 467806 claremont@nationaltrust.org.uk www.nationaltrust.org.uk/claremontlandscape-garden Enjoy a children’s trail around the garden. More information available from the Kiosk. 50p per child in addition to normal admission fees. Sat 24 May – Sun 1 Jun 11.00 – 3.30pm 50 things May-hem Polesden Lacey, Great Bookham, near Dorking, RH5 6BD 01372 452048 or 01372 458203 (infoline) www.nationaltrust.org.uk/polesden-lacey Kick start your 2014 outdoor adventure at the 50 Things Camp where you can have a go at hunting for bugs, orienteering and more. Sat 24 May – Sun 1 Jun Animal Encounters WWT London Wetland Centre, Queen Elizabeth’s Walk, Barnes, London SW13 9WT 020 8409 4400 info.london@wwt.org.uk www.wwt.org.uk/wetland-centres/london Come and see some of the hidden creatures of the wildlife reserve, such as the moths and dragonflies, up close with a different animal to be shown each day. For ages 2 years+. Free activity, normal admission fees apply. Sun 25 May 11.00 – 5.00pm Addiscombe Carnival Ashburton Park, Croydon CR0 6RX www.addiscombecarnival.org.uk The parade will leave Woodside Green at 10.00am to join the fair in the park where there will be a funfair, stalls, music and arena displays. Mon 26 - Fri 30 May Love Your Zoo week at Hobbledown Hobbledown Children’s Farm, Epsom www.Hobbledown.com For details of events planned and the chance to meet Bill Oddie, see story on p.6 of this issue. Mon 26 May 11.00 – 4.00pm Open Day at The Surrey Society of Model Engineers Mill Lane, Leatherhead KT22 9AA enquiries@ssme.co.uk www.ssme.co.uk All Rides £1.50 (multi ride discount tickets 4 rides for £5.00 or 9 rides for £10). (There is no advanced booking). Snacks, teas, coffee & soft drinks can be enjoyed at

isabel.nancarrow@nationaltrust.org.uk www.nationaltrust.org.uk/morden-hall-park Celebrate Be Nice to Nettles Week. Join in hands-on activities exploring how nettles are useful for people and great for wildlife. £5 per family (up to 4 people); £2.00 per person. For further details contact Isabel Nancarrow. Fri 30 May 11.00am Classical Babies Concert Waterhouse Café, Waterhouse Lane, Kingswood KT20 6EB www.classicalbabies.com Live classical concerts for mums and babies. Performer details tbc. picnic tables. Toilets are available in the amenity block. Well behaved dogs are permitted but must be kept on a lead at all times. Tue 27 – Thu 29 May Children’s Craft Workshops Claremont Landscape Garden, Portsmouth Road, Esher KT10 9JG 01372 467806 claremont@ nationaltrust.org.uk www.nationaltrust.org.uk/claremontlandscape-garden Half term fun for children. Tickets £1.50 each in addition to normal admission fees. More information available from the Property Office. Tue 27 May 11.00am Classical Babies Concert St Martin of Tours Church Hall, Epsom KT17 4PX www.classicalbabies.com Live classical concerts for mums and babies. Performer details tbc. Tue 27 May 11.00 – 3.00pm Tweet Tweet – Family Ranger Club Morden Hall Park, Morden Hall Road, Morden SM4 5JD 020 8545 6850 mordenhallparkevents@nationaltrust.org.uk www.nationaltrust.org.uk/morden-hall-park Spot our feathered friends in the park and build your very own bird box to take home. £4.00 per person. Wed 28 May 2 .00 – 4.00pm Make Your Own Mask Whitehall, 1, Malden Road, Cheam SM3 8QD 020 8643 1236 whitehallmuseum@sutton.gov.uk www.friendsofwhitehallcheam.co.uk Choose from a range of templates to create a personalised mask; will you be

a tiger, dinosaur or a butterfly? All materials provided and dressing up encouraged . For ages 4 years +. £3.00/ child. Booking in advance is essential. Thu 29 May 11.00 – 3.00pm Be Nice to Nettles – Family Holiday Activity Morden Hall Park, Morden Hall Road, Morden SM4 5JD 020 8545 6852

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For a wealth of information on what to do with families locally, scan the code into your smartphone

Mid-Hants Railway ‘Watercress Line’ The Railway Station, Alresford, Hampshire, SO24 9JG 01962 733810 www.watercressline.co.uk 26 May – 1 Jun Peppa Pig: Peppa Pig will be making appearances at intervals throughout each day at Alresford station. Do some of Peppa’s colouring, watch her DVD show and have your face painted*. After seeing the cheeky little piggy visit the petting farm at Ropley station to tickle the piglets tummies and enjoy the piggy washing, then you can do some piggy crafts and find out who is riding on the model train. It’s excellent value too. Ride the BIG steam trains as many times as you like on the day of your visit. 21 – 22 Jun Dene Rally The 3rd annual vintage and steam rally with a fantastic lineup of over 150 vintage steam and traction engines, vintage tractors, cars, motorbikes and much more. Great fun for all the family with lots to do for the children, including rides*, facepainting* and a free Wild West show twice daily. Visit the rally and enjoy a ride on the Watercress Line with a free vintage bus service between the two. Rally open 10.00 – 4.00pm. *Additional fees apply. Visit their website for more details of both events and to book tickets in advance or simply pay on the day. May-June 2014

020 8669 5187

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19

What’s On

Please always phone before setting out in case details have changed since press deadline... Visit www.Families-LSB.co.uk/what-s-on for an updated list of local events

DIARY DATES FOR SPRING London Wetland Centre

Fri 30 May French Market The Market Place, Epsom Fri 30 May 2.00 – 4.00pm Shiver Me Timbers Whitehall, 1, Malden Road, Cheam SM3 8QD 020 8643 1236 whitehallmuseum@sutton.gov.uk www.friendsofwhitehallcheam.co.uk Inspired by Captain James Killick, who was born at Whitehall, children can make their own pirate boats. All materials provided and dressing up encouraged. For ages 4 years +. £3.00/ child. Booking in advance is essential. Sat 31 May Town Centre Parade, Epsom and Ewell The parade will travel through the Town Centre in Epsom and in Ewell Village with a signing of the Community Covenant followed by an Open Day at the Army Reserve Centre in Ewell Sat 31 May 10.00 – 5.00pm Echoes of the Past: The Romans are coming. Rosebery Park, Epsom 020 8394 1734 dbrooks@epsom-ewell.gov.uk Organised by the Bourne Hall Museum. The story of the Romans in Epsom and Ewell with over 40 re-enactors including the Roman Army, cooks, a jewellery maker, armourer, mosaic maker and doctor. Contact David Brooks for more details. Adults: £4.00; children (under 12): Free. Sat 31 May 10.30 – 2.30pm Float Your Boat Day Claremont Landscape Garden, Portsmouth Road, Esher KT10 9JG claremont@nationaltrust.org.uk www.nationaltrust.org.uk/claremontlandscape-garden Watch Guildford Model

Yacht Club sail their boats on the lake at Claremont. If you are good they may let you have a go. More details available from the Kiosk. Free event but normal admission fees apply. Sat 31 May 10.00 – 4.00pm Sutton Local Produce and Craft Market Town Square, Sutton High Street, SM1 1DU www.ecolocalmarkets.org.uk/sutton Sat 31 May 9.00pm – 11.00pm* Local Bat Walk Whitehall, 1, Malden Road, Cheam SM3 8QD 020 8643 1236 whitehallmuseum@sutton.gov.uk www.friendsofwhitehallcheam.co.uk Bats are out of their winter hibernation and are busy feeding to make up for losing body reserves over the winter months. Using bat detectors, explore the world of these fascinating nocturnal creatures.

www.watercressline.co.uk

26th May - 1st June

Meet Peppa Pig here at the Watercress Line!

It’s going to be a really exciting day out! Come and meet Peppa Pig who will be making personal appearances at various intervals on each day. And there will be lots of piggy activities to do, including a piggy petting farm, piggy crafts and face painting too*! *small fee applies

www.peppapig.com Peppa Pig © Astley Baker Davies Ltd/Entertainment One UK Ltd 2003.

mention Families magazine if you contact these companies 20Please Families London-Surrey Borders 020 8669 5187

June

£4.00/person. *Note late start time. Sun 1 Jun 11.00 – 4.00pm 50 things to do before you’re 11¾ launch event Morden Hall Park, Morden Hall Road, Morden SM4 5JD 020 8545 6850 mordenhallparkevents@nationaltrust.org.uk www.nationaltrust.org.uk/morden-hall-park Celebrate the launch of 50 things to do before you turn 11 3/4. Have a go at bug hunting, wild art, den building and lots more. £4.00 per child. Sun 1 Jun 2.00 – 4.00pm Lazy Jazz Sundays Polesden Lacey, Great Bookham, near Dorking, RH5 6BD 01372 452048 or 01372 458203 (info) www.nationaltrust.org.uk/polesden-lacey While away the hours listening to live music every Sunday through the summer Mon 2 Jun 9.30 – 11.00am Whitehall Whippets – The Hungry Caterpillar Whitehall, 1, Malden Road, Cheam SM3 8QD 020 8643 1236 whitehallmuseum@sutton.gov.uk www.friendsofwhitehallcheam.co.uk Session devised particularly for under 3s with a range of activities, crafts and sensory experiences focusing on a nursery rhyme. Free activity. Thu 5 Jun 1.00 – 2.00pm Teddy Bears’ Picnic and Storytelling Claremont Landscape Garden, Portsmouth Road, Esher KT10 9JG 01372 467806 claremont@nationaltrust.org.uk www.nationaltrust.org.uk/claremontlandscape-garden Bring along Teddy and a picnic, followed by storytelling at 1.30pm. More details are available from the Kiosk. Additional charge of £1.00 per child for storytelling. Sun 8 Jun 12.00 – 4.00pm NCT – Teddy Bears’ Picnic Nonsuch Park, Cheam, Dog Free Area (Ewell Road entrance) Organised by the NCT Sutton, Epsom & District branch. Bring along a picnic and enjoy the fun to include Storytime, Fire Engine, Face painting and activities by Baby Sensory, Gymboree, Tumbling All Stars and Dandelion Theatre Arts. Refreshments and stalls will also be available. Bring your teddies to enter the Best Dressed Teddy and Best Named Teddy competitions. Adults: £2.00; children: free. Sun 8 Jun 2.00 – 4.00pm Lazy Jazz Sundays Polesden Lacey, Great Bookham, near Dorking, RH5 6BD 01372 452048 or 01372 458203 (info) www.nationaltrust.org.uk/polesden-lacey

www.Families-LSB.co.uk

While away the hours listening to live music every Sunday through the summer Sun 8 Jun 2.00 – 4.00pm Make your own: Father’s Day Card Whitehall, Malden Road, Cheam SM3 8QD 020 8643 1236 whitehallmuseum@sutton.gov.uk www.friendsofwhitehallcheam.co.uk A drop-in session to design and create a personalised card for your loved one using a range of materials and templates. £3.00 each. Sun 8 Jun Open Farm Sunday Old Lodge Farm, Little Woodcote near Carshalton www.downlandsproject.org.uk www.farmsunday.org Check the Downlands Project or Open Farm Sunday websites for more details. Thu 12 Jun 1.00 – 2.00pm Teddy Bears’ Picnic and Storytelling Claremont Landscape Garden, Portsmouth Road, Esher KT10 9JG 01372 467806 claremont@nationaltrust.org.uk www.nationaltrust.org.uk/claremontlandscape-garden Bring along Teddy and a picnic, followed by storytelling at 1.30pm. More details are available from the Kiosk. Additional charge of £1.00 per child for storytelling. Fri 13 Jun 11.00am Classical Babies Concert Waterhouse Café, Waterhouse Lane, Kingswood KT20 6EB www.classicalbabies.com Live classical concerts for mums and babies. Performer details tbc. Sat 14 Jun 10.00 – 4.00pm Croydon Green Fair North End, Croydon CR0 1TY greencroydon@hotmail.co.uk Find inspiration to start living a greener lifestyle and reducing your carbon footprint. Meet the groups from Croydon who campaign on behalf of all of us to make the environment better. Sat 14 Jun 10.30 – 11.15am (approx) Little Folk with Albo – Children’s Concert Colour House Theatre, Merton Abbey Mills, Watermill Way, London SW19 2RD 020 8542 5511 www.littlefolkwithalbo.com See 17 May entry for more details. Sat 14 Jun 12.00 – 5.00pm St Helier Festival Open space next to David Weir Leisure Centre, Carshalton www.sftra.org Entertainment for all the family. Visit their website for more details. Sat 14 Jun 9.00 – 1.00pm Wallington Farmers’ Market Old Town Hall and Library Gardens, Wallington, SM6 0NB www. wallingtonfarmersmarket.org.uk Thu 19 Jun 1.00 – 2.00pm Teddy Bears’ Picnic and Storytelling Claremont Landscape Garden, Portsmouth Road, Esher KT10 9JG 01372 467806 claremont@nationaltrust.org.uk www.nationaltrust.org.uk/claremontlandscape-garden Bring along Teddy and a picnic, followed by storytelling at 1.30pm. More details are available from the Kiosk. Additional charge of £1.00 per child for storytelling.

Scan the code For a wealth of information on what to do with families locally, scan the code into your smartphone May-June 2014

What’s On

Please always phone before setting out in case details have changed since press deadline... Visit www.Families-LSB.co.uk/what-s-on for an updated list of local events

DIARY DATES FOR SPRING Sat 21 Jun – Fri 4 Jul Croydon Heritage Festival www.croydonheritagefestival.co.uk A two week-long calendar of events and activities across the Borough of Croydon suitable for all age groups showcasing what Croydon has achieved and experienced throughout its rich history. Sat 21 Jun From 2.00pm Pop up Shakespeare Polesden Lacey, Great Bookham, near Dorking, RH5 6BD 01372 452048 or 01372 458203 (infoline) www.nationaltrust.org.uk/polesden-lacey Memorable scenes from Shakespeare, performed in various settings around the grounds. Free event, normal admission fees apply. Sat 21 Jun Wimbledon Village Fair Sun 22 Jun 2.00 – 4.00pm Lazy Jazz Sundays Polesden Lacey, Great Bookham, near Dorking, RH5 6BD 01372 452048 or 01372 458203 (info) www.nationaltrust.org.uk/polesden-lacey While away the hours listening to live music every Sunday through the summer Tue 24 Jun 11.00am Classical Babies Concert St Martin of Tours Church Hall, Epsom KT17 4PX www.classicalbabies.com Live classical concerts for mums and babies. Performer details tbc. Thu 26 Jun 1.00 – 2.00pm Teddy Bears’ Picnic and Storytelling Claremont Landscape Garden, Portsmouth Road, Esher KT10 9JG 01372 467806 claremont@nationaltrust.org.uk www.nationaltrust.org.uk/claremontlandscape-garden Bring along Teddy and a picnic, followed by storytelling at 1.30pm. More details are available from the Kiosk. Additional charge of £1.00 per child for storytelling. Sat 28 Jun From 2.00pm Pop up Shakespeare Polesden Lacey, Great Bookham, near Dorking, RH5 6BD 01372 452048 or 01372 458203 (infoline) www.nationaltrust.org.uk/polesden-lacey Memorable scenes from Shakespeare,

National Trust

CROYDON HIGH SPORTS CLUB

Croydon High School, Old Farleigh Road, Selsdon, South Croydon CR2 8YB 020 8657 9313 croydonhighsportsclub@cry.gdst.net www.croydonhighsportsclub.co.uk 27 – 30 May 9.30 – 4.30pm (extended stay if required 8.30 – 9.30am & 4.30 – 5.30pm at no extra charge) Morning sessions also available until 1.00pm. Multi-activity camps for ages 5 – 11 years.

MICHAELA’S ART CLASSES

performed in various settings around the grounds. Free event, normal admission fees apply. Sun 29 Jun 2.00 – 4.00pm Lazy Jazz Sundays Polesden Lacey, Great Bookham, near Dorking, RH5 6BD 01372 452048 or 01372 458203 (info) www.nationaltrust.org.uk/polesden-lacey While away the hours listening to live music every Sunday through the summer Sat 28 & Sun 29 Jun Purley Festival Rotary Fields, Brighton Road opposite Christ Church www.purleyfestival.co.uk The culmination of a week of events being held from Monday 23 June – to include activities for all the family.

July

Sun 6 Jul 12.00 – 5.00pm Gatton Country Fair Gatton Park, Rocky Lane, Reigate RH2 0TD www.gattonpark.com A great day out for all the family. Country crafts and demonstrations, children’s activities, gardens and grounds open. Adults: £5.00; children: Free activity

London Transport Museum re-visits 1914-18 39 Wellington Street, Covent Garden WC2E 7BB 020 7379 6433 www.ltmuseum.co.uk © Copyright Credit Diane Auckland Fotohaus 16 May 2014 - 8 March 2015 Exhibition: Goodbye Piccadilly – from Home Front to Western Front A major exhibition exploring the contribution of London’s motor buses and their drivers in the First World War and the lives of people living and working on the Home Front in London. 16 May 2014 6.45 – 10.00pm

Sun 6 Jul 11.00 – 4.00pm Green Day Out Morden Hall Park, Morden Hall Road, Morden SM4 5JD 020 8545 6850 mordenhallparkevents@nationaltrust.org.uk www.nationaltrust.org.uk/morden-hall-park A day of local food, green crafts and gardening tips and discover more about protecting our fragile planet. Live music & entertainment for all the family. Free event. Sun 6 Jul 10.00 – 6.00pm South Norwood Community Festival South Norwood Recreation Ground, SE25 www.southnorwood.net/festival Over 50 Arts & Crafts stands, food stalls, drinks tent, live music, funfair, rides, bouncy castles, party tent and much more. Sun 6 Jul 2.00 – 4.00pm Lazy Jazz Sundays Polesden Lacey, Great Bookham, near Dorking, RH5 6BD 01372 452048 or 01372 458203 (info) www.nationaltrust.org.uk/polesden-lacey While away the hours listening to live music every Sunday through the summer Mon 7 Jul 9.30 – 11.00am Whitehall Whippets – Twinkle, Twinkle, Little Star Whitehall, 1, Malden Road, Cheam SM3 8QD 020 8643 1236 whitehallmuseum@sutton.gov.uk www.friendsofwhitehallcheam.co.uk Session devised particularly for under 3s with a range of activities, crafts and sensory experiences focusing on a nursery rhyme. Free activity.

16 Longdown Lane North, Epsom KT17 3JQ 07800 638 959 art@michaelasuleman.com www.michaelasuleman.com 27, 28 May 1.00 — 4.00pm (for 5 — 8 years) 29, 30 May 1.00 — 4.00pm (for 9 — 14 years) Art & Craft classes. £18 per child/session (including a snack, glass of milk or water).

SOUTHERN TUTORS

Courses held at Rosebery School, Epsom 01372 72 1119/07986 564 651 info@southerntutors.co.uk www.southerntutors.co.uk 27 & 28 May

Intensive 11 Plus courses

Verbal and non-verbal reasoning, Maths and English classes for 9 & 10 year olds. Fees vary according to number of days attended. Contact the tutors (not the school) for further details.

SUPERCAMPS: MULTI-ACTIVITY CAMPS

01235 832222 www.supercamps.co.uk Homefield Prep School, Sutton 27 – 30 May Royal Russell School, Croydon 27 – 30 May Whitgift School, S. Croydon 27 – 30 May 9.00 – 5.00pm with extended hours (8.00 – 6.00pm) available, contact them for details. Action packed camps with over 40 activities on offer (sports, arts & crafts). You can book individual days or full weeks. For children aged 4 — 14 (only 4 – 11 at Wimbledon). See their website for details of costs.

SPRING SPECTACULAR Bocketts Farm Park 24th May - 1st June 2014

Public evening launch of Goodbye Piccadilly – from Home Front to Western Front with bar, music, talks and tours, make-and-take sessions and a quiz. Part of Museums at Night. Routemaster bus tours: A Busman’s Holiday June 2014 times to be confirmed

FANTASTIC FAMILY FUN THIS HALF TERM! › Birds of Prey Flying demonstrations (Tues - Fri only) › Visit the Pony Parlour › Full programme of farm activites › Indoor & outdoor play › Panning for Gold

Join Joe Kerr, Head of Critical and Historical Studies at the Royal College of Art and Oliver Green, Research Fellow at London Transport Museum on one of the Museum’s own Routemaster buses for a tour of selected iconic London bus garages and stations. May Half Term Family Fun. Mon 26 –Fri 30 May Come along for storytelling and make-and-take sessions that all the family can enjoy. 11.00am and 2.00pm: Meet Ole’ Bill, the bus that helped Britain in the First World War. Learn about his adventures with his best friend Driver Bob. Suitable for 3 – 7 years.

11.30am and 2.30pm: Design a bus badge with your own cartoon driver. Suitable for 5 – 12 years.

Children and young people aged 17 and under go free at London Transport Museum. Adult admission is £15.00 (£11.50 concessions) and tickets allow unlimited entry for a whole year. May-June 2014

HOLIDAY CLUBS & CLASSES

020 8669 5187

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Please always phone before setting out in case details have changed since press deadline... Visit www.Families-LSB.co.uk/what-s-on for an updated list of local events

WHAT’S ON AT THE THEATRE

Charles Cryer Studio Theatre

39 High Street, Carshalton, SM5 3BB 020 8770 6990 www.suttontheatres.co.uk

New Wimbledon Theatre

©Moomin Characters™

Please always phone in advance to check, in case details of shows or times have changed since our printing deadline.

The Broadway, Wimbledon, London SW19 1QG 0870 060 6646 www.newwimbledontheatre.co.uk

Tue 27 – Thu 29 May (various times)

Scooby-Doo: The Mystery of the Pyramid

Scooby-Doo and the gang are back live on stage in a hilarious comedy with popular tunes and special effects. A great show for the whole family.

Tue 13 – Sat 17 May

Eve 7.30pm Sat Mat 2.30pm

Polka Theatre

Goodnight Mister Tom

A musical production by Avalon Theatre Company of the story of William Beech, an artistically gifted but troubled boy who escapes to the countryside during WWII. He is taken into the care of Mr Tom and both their lives change dramatically. An uplifting show that will appeal to young and old alike.

240 The Broadway, Wimbledon SW19 1SB 020 8543 4888 www.polkatheatre.com

Epsom Playhouse

Ashley Avenue, Epsom, Surrey KT18 5AL 01372 742 555 www.epsomplayhouse.co.uk

Thu 8 May 7.30pm

Tap Factory

To Sun 29 Jun (Sats & Suns only)

A dance spectacular. Performed by internationally acclaimed dancers and musicians, Tap Factory includes many genres of dance such as urban, tap dance, hip hop, comedy and aerial acrobatics producing a visually exciting show.

Beauty and the Beast

Fri 23 May 7.00pm

The Colour House Children’s Theatre Merton Abbey Mills, Watermill Way, London SW19 2RD 020 8542 5511 www.colourhousetheatre.co.uk 2.00pm & 4.00pm

Poor Prince David has been turned into a beast by an evil witch. Will Beauty be kind and fall in love with him to break the spell?

Kidnapped

Robert Louis Stevenson’s classic story perfect for young and old audiences alike. Ideal for families aged 6+

Wed 28 May 2.30pm

To Sat 24 May (various times)

Adapted from the original Rudyard Kipling story, this production dramatises the journey to maturity of Mowgli the man cub.

Myth meets modern day in a boy’s heroic quest to save his dad. For ages 8 – 14 years.

The Jungle Book

Fairfield Halls

Park Lane, Croydon, CR9 1DG 020 8688 9291 www.fairfield.co.uk

Sun 18 May 4.30pm

Old MacDonald had a farm

Join PoetryJoe, star of Cbeebie’s ‘Rhyme Rocket’, for his light-up world of fabulous foods, beastly bugs and peculiar pets. For ages 3 – 6 years.

Thu 29 – Sat 31 May

I, Peaseblossom

An inventive piece of musical theatre for children aged 5+. Puppetry, narrative and song combine to bring the wonderful Wabbits to life.

Sat 21 Jun 3.00pm & 8.00pm

Back Home where de Banana Tree Grows

A larger than life Caribbean musical stage play for the whole family

The Harlequin Theatre & Cinema

Warwick Quadrant, Redhill RH1 1NN 01737 276500 www.harlequintheatre.co.uk

Sat 24 & Sun 25 May 2.00pm

Musicality: Surrey School of Ballet Surrey School of Ballet presents Musicality.

Sun 8 Jun 2.30pm

Old MacDonald Had A Farm

Old MacDonald’s animals have gone missing. Can you help a friendly scientist and his amazing time machine get them back for him?

Thu 12 Jun 7.30pm

The Little Mermaid

Join Ballet Theatre UK in this dramatic re-telling of Hans Christian Andersen’s all-time favourite story of The Little Mermaid, who falls in love with a human Prince and gives up everything to win his love. mention Families magazine if you contact these companies 22Please Families London-Surrey Borders 020 8669 5187

The PoetryJoe Show

Thu 22 May – Sat 7 Jun

The Wabbit King

Now they can drive a Tube train, climb in a bus cab and lose themselves in our exploration zone. Better still, kids go free at London Transport Museum, Covent Garden.

Thu 15 – Sat 17 May (various times)

Written especially for parents to enjoy with their children, this fun-filled farmyard tale brings to life all the best loved characters from the nursery rhyme with a medley of games and sing-along songs. 11.00am & 2.00pm

Let your kids drive in London.

Minotaur

www.Families-LSB.co.uk

10.30am & 2.05pm

How Cold My Toes

A fun-filled journey through the seasons. For ages 2 – 5 years.

Wed 28 – Sat 31 May (various times) A funny, enchanting journey through the world of Shakespeare’s A Midsummer Night’s Dream. For ages 8+ years.

Wed 28 – Sat 31 May (various times)

I, Caliban

An introduction to Shakespeare’s magical tale, The Tempest. For ages 8+ years.

Wed 11 Jun – Sat 16 Aug (various times)

Moominsummer Madness

Meet the Moomins on a summer musical adventure. For ages 4 – 8 years.

Fri 13 & Sat 14 Jun (various times)

Jack at The Beanstalk Cafe

A witty, nourishing, bean-feast of stories. For ages 3 – 6 years.

Wed 25 Jun – Sat 16 Aug (various times)

Skitterbang Island

A heart-warming puppet opera for children. For ages 3 – 6 years.

Secombe Theatre

42 Cheam Road, Sutton, SM1 2SS 020 8770 6990 www.suttontheatres.co.uk

Wed 14 – Sat 17 May

Eve 7.30pm Sat Mat 2.30pm

Fiddler on the Roof

A Wimbledon Light Opera Production. Featuring the great songs, ‘If I Were A Rich Man’ and ‘Tradition’. May-June 2014

Please always phone before setting out in case details have changed since press deadline... Visit www.Families-LSB.co.uk/what-s-on for an updated list of local events

FATHERS’ DAY – SUNDAY 15 JUNE This year, Father’s Day falls on Sunday 15 June 2014. We’ve hunted out some fun ideas for things to do with your dad on this special day. CANADA WHARF One Canada Square, Canary Wharf, London E14 5AB

National Trust

www.canarywharf.com

MOTOREXPO Mon 9 – Sun 15 Jun Mon – Sat: 10.00 – 6.00pm, Sun: 11.00 – 5.00pm A free event showcasing cars from many of the world’s leading motor manufacturers including Mercedes, Land Rover, Jaguar, McLaren, Lotus, Porsche. You will be able to sit inside the vehicles and feel what it’s like to be at the wheel of a sleek new sports car.

www.watercressline.co.uk

CLAREMONT LANDSCAPE GARDEN Portsmouth Road, Esher KT10 9JG 01372 467806 claremont@nationaltrust.org.uk www.nationaltrust.org.uk/claremontlandscape-garden

FATHER’S DAY AT CLAREMONT Sun 15 Jun 10.00 – 6.00pm Fathers get into the Garden free when accompanied by their children. The Surrey Classic Vehicle Club will be displaying their vintage cars by the lake from 10.30am. Free event but normal admission fees apply. More Information available from the Kiosk LEEDS CASTLE Maidstone, Kent ME17 1PL 01622 765400 www.leeds-castle.co.uk

FATHER’S DAY ‘GO WILD’ WEEKEND Sat 14 & Sun 15 Jun Woodland crafts, garden games and learning bushcraft / survival techniques from an expert are just some of the activities available to keep children and Dad entertained on the Pavilion Lawn. A valid entrance ticket to Leeds Castle is required for this event. Small additional charges may apply for some activities. PAINSHILL PARK Portsmouth Road, Cobham KT11 1JE 01932 868113 www.painshill.co.uk

FREE ENTRY FOR FATHERS’ DAY Sun 15 Jun 10.30 – 6.00pm Spend a day with the dads of the family in the beautiful landscape. Free entry to dads when accompanied by their children. Normal admission prices apply to other visitors.

MID HANTS RAILWAY LTD ‘THE WATERCRESS LINE’ The Railway Station, Alresford, Hampshire SO24 9JG 01962 733810

PENSHURST PLACE & GARDENS Penshurst, Tonbridge, Kent TN11 8DG 01892 870307

RIVERHILL HIMALAYAN GARDENS Riverhill, Sevenoaks, Kent TN15 0RR 01732 459777

FATHER’S DAY Sun 15 Jun 11.00am – 5.00pm (Activities); 12.00 – 4.00pm (Craft sessions) Present dad with a penny pendant medal or handmade card in their Education Room. Also try WW1 paintballing, or dress up in WW1 uniforms and have your family photo taken with the Hands on History Team. Speciality beers will also be served in the Garden Restaurant. WW1 Paintballing £2.50 per 12 balls, pay on the day

‘BODGE WITH DAD’ Sat 14 & Sun 15 Jun 10.30 – 4.00pm Bring Dad and have a go at ‘Bodging’ at their Green Woodworking & rural crafts demonstrator event. Free cup of tea or coffee for Dad.

www.penshurstplace.com

www.riverhillgardens.co.uk

WAR ON THE LINE Sat 14 & Sun 15 Jun Commemorate the 100th anniversary of World War I and experience life on a WW2 railway at this living history family event. With civilian and military re-enactors and vehicles, bomb disposal demonstrations, song, dance and merriment. Find out more / book your tickets in advance online or alternatively pay on the day. Adults: £18; Children: (aged 2–16 years) £10; Children under 2 free; Family (2 Adults & 2 Children – 1 child effectively travels for free): £46; Advance tickets include all booking fees and tickets cost the same on the day.

Scan the code

For a wealth of information on what to do with families locally, scan the code into your smartphone

www.watercressline.co.uk

POLESDEN LACEY Great Bookham, near Dorking, RH5 6BD 01372 452048 or 01372 458203 (infoline)

www.nationaltrust.org.uk/polesden-lacey

FATHER’S DAY: BEER FESTIVAL Sun 15 Jun 10.00 – 5.00pm Treat Dad to a special day. Enjoy local brew at the Beer Festival, see the Veteran Car Club of Great Britain’s fabulous vehicles or just relax to a spot of jazz. Free event, normal admission fees apply.

Big wild sleep out www.rspb.org.uk/sleepout

14 & 15 JUNE 2014

Mon 16 – Sun 22 June RSPB’s biggest summer event. Spend a night or two under canvas in order to full appreciate the nocturnal splendour of the UK’s great outdoors. Join family or friends for a fun sleepout in your back garden or at your local RSPB reserve. Put up a tent, make a shelter or sleep under the stars and discover a whole world of wildlife on your doorstep. Check the RSPB website for details of events being organised or to register and receive a fundraising pack to give you more hints and tips about ways to raise money to help give nature a home.

May-June 2014

CALL 01962 733810 TO FIND OUT MORE OR CLICKETY CLICK TO WWW.WATERCRESSLINE.CO.UK

020 8669 5187

Please mention Families magazine if you contact these companies www.Families-LSB.co.uk

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23

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• Hobbledown is a 50-acre farm • With our own Zoo Licence, park adventure featuring towers, we have more than 100 animals tunnels, mazes, aerial walkways, on show a daring high ropes course and a • 5 minutes from Chessington 14,000 sq ft indoor play barn • Less than 30 minutes from Central London

and twitter; @Hobbledown

Find us at: Hobbledown Children’s Farm Horton Lane, Epsom, Surrey KT19 8PT T: 0843 289 4979 E: thehobblers@hobbledown.com www.hobbledown.com

**Suitable for ages 3+ **

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Find us at: Unit 3, The Colonnades, 619 Purley Way, Croydon, Surrey CR0 4RQ T: 020 8686 0040 E: croydonenquiries@kidspaceadventures.com For offers and events see our website www.kidspaceadventures.com

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May-June 2014 09:36 03/12/2013