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Families SW – useful information for parents of 0-12 year olds in SW London.

March 2012

FamiliesSouthWest.co.uk Iss

ISSN ue 21 3 135 4-95 Est 53 19

Free ! 90.

South West

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Easter activities Local playgroups Local childcare Community gardens

Little Rascals Your local traditional toy shop for ages 0-6 Soft and wooden toys from brands including:

•Jellycat, •BigJigs, •John Crane, •Wheelybugs, •ShooShoos, •Grobags©, •Greeting Cards, and more! Visit our enticing shop at 140 Merton Road South Wimbledon SW19 1EH 020 8542 9979 Open Tues to Sat 9-5.30 (Between Polka Theatre and South Wimbledon Tube)

Pottery Painting & Craft Studio •NEW Decopatch papers/figures now stocked! •Handpaint your own potttery •Baby hand or foot prints on pottery •Silver keepsake jewellery •Parties available; Pottery, T-shirt painting, Decopatch •Holiday workshops Open Mon-Sat 10am-6pm, Sun 11am-6pm 85 Nightingale Lane, Wandsworth SW12 8NX 020 8772 8702 www.smartypaints.co.uk

Tel: 020 8696 9680 FamiliesSouthWest.co.uk

March 2012

Contents

SouthWest

Picture credit F&F at Tesco.com

04-05

06-07

All content ©Families 2012 www.FamiliesSouthWest.co.uk Tel: 020 8696 9680 Fax: 020 8696 9679 Editorial: editor@familiesmagazine.co.uk News: news@familiesmagazine.co.uk Adverts/artwork: adverts@familiesmagazine.co.uk Personal ads: personalads@familiesmagazine.co.uk Events, diary dates, whats on info: whatson@familiesmagazine.co.uk

Local news & information

06-07

Community Spirit The BIG Dig Community gardens hold the key to better, fresher food, more exercise and a renewed sense of community involvement. Families reports on 2012’s growth spurt

Education

12-13

Schools row in Wandsworth

12-13

Mother’s Day What is the best way to celebrate?

Next issue: April 2012 Deadline: early March •“Families® South West” heads a group of magazines. All franchised magazines in the group are independently owned and operated under licence.

Technology V. natural childbirth Where do you stand?

•There are over 36 UK local editions with a print run of more than 600,000 copies in all, in which you can advertise too. Oh, and we have a big website… familiesonline.co.uk • MOVING? Families® magazines can be be franchised in new areas. Read initial franchise information on the website or call.

16-19

CHILDCARE FEATURE • How love changes childcare • Top tips on flexible working • Communicating in the office V. Communicating with the nanny

•Printed by Ridgeway Press Ltd, Tadley, Hants We take every care preparing this magazine, but the publishers and distributors cannot be held responsible for the claims of advertisers nor for the accuracy of the contents nor for any consequence. Paper used to print Families is from fully-managed sustainable sources — meaning trees which are felled are continuously replaced. Inks are soyabased, which can be re-cycled. Find us on Facebook and Twitter FamiliesSW

Health

20-24

16-19

Easter activities listings, part 1

20-24

FamiliesSouthWest.co.uk

26-27

The Olympics Not too late to take part!

28-29

Playgroups listings 33-37

Love our website but fed up with seeing info not in your area?

There is a simple solution:

Book reviews Focus on autism

33- 37

What’s On

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• Drama • Events • Exhibitions & Museums

News

By Joanna Parry

Yoga for kids This spring www.childrenstherapies.co.uk are offering new yoga classes for children and families. Yoga can have a very positive impact on children, including improved concentration, calmer behavior and, most importantly for us parents, a better night’s sleep! All children can benefit, including those on the autistic spectrum and with special needs, using breathing and visualisation techniques that are taught to help cope with anxiety. Plus, the family yoga sessions are a great way to strengthen parent-child relationships and have fun together.

NCT changes tack The NCT is the UK's largest charity for parents, offering services from antenatal and parent preparation courses through to dayto-day support based in local branches. But now, with the aim of reaching 20 million parents by 2020, the charity are updating their priorities for the future. "NCT is reaching huge numbers of parents right across the social spectrum, but is reputed to only be working with middle to higher income families,” says Belinda Phipps, Chief Executive. “We have been changing this, and we need to change the way people see the charity too, so every parent knows they are welcome." While credit must be given to the NCT for persuading policy makers to understand the health benefits of breastfeeding, they have been criticised in the past for a lack of support towards those who choose to bottle feed. “Our breastfeeding counsellors can help when you are using formula as well as when you are breastfeeding,” continues Phipps. The charity wants all parents to know it is there to help, whether they choose to breastfeed or formula feed, and that all parents can call NCT's helpline on 0300 330 0700. To see NCT's new strategy visit nct.org.uk/about-nct

Awards announced The shortlist for the Blue Peter Book Awards 2012 has been announced, celebrating the best authors and greatest reads for children. This year’s shortlist includes a fact book about the 2012 Olympics, a treasure trove of information about the extremes of the planet, a novel that investigates those strange howls in the night, and a tale of time travel and tragedy. The shortlisted books will be judged by more than 200 young Blue Peter viewers from 10 schools across the UK, and this year the winner will be announced on a special edition of Blue Peter to coincide with World Book Day in March. www.booktrust.org.uk.

Fun French for children Choose from parent-and-toddler groups, after-school groups, Saturday classes, Advanced and Bilingual groups or private tuition at home, and get your kids having fun with French with Club Petit Pierrot. Visit www.clubpetitpierrot.co.uk for full details of all classes and venues, call 020 7385 5565 or email admincpp@btconnect.com for your free trial lesson.

An additional location for Le Club Tricolore Well loved Club Tricolore has just opened a new centre at St Barnabas' CE Primary School in Pimlico Road, Sloane Square SW1 W8PF. They offer classes where children have real fun learning French, suitable for 5-8 year olds on Tuesdays 3.30 - 4.30pm. Trial sessions available. Please contact Teresa Scibor on 07889 967003.

Online Safety As more and more children are going online, the UK National Centre for Child Protection (CEOP) is calling on parents in a new campaign to help keep their children safe. Four reports are received each day by CEOP of instances of a child finding themselves in immediate danger, with many linked to internet abuse. “Have fun online and enjoy the benefits the internet can bring,” says Peter Davies, CEO of CEOP, “but we ask parents to talk to their child and make sure their online safety is built into everything they do. Every day we see the effects on children's lives when things do go wrong, so please work with us to help keep your children safe and empower them to know what to do if things go wrong". Giving out personal information, posting inappropriate photos and befriending people they don't know can put children at risk of bullying or even contact from people who may cause them harm. www.clickceop.net

Third school goes bilingual Shaftesbury Park School in Battersea will be the third school in Wandsworth Borough to go bilingual, joining Wix and Putney’s Hotham School in introducing a French bilingual stream, a scheme pioneered as a means of maintaining high academic standards and giving younger children the chance to learn a language. The council is currently consulting on the introduction of the bilingual stream and subsequent changes to the admission arrangements - find out more at www.wandsworth.gov.uk/admissions/consultation. School staff are also happy to chat to parents about the changes – call 020 7228 3652 or email bilingual@shaftesburypark.wandsworth.sch.uk

Tel: 020 8696 9680 FamiliesSouthWest.co.uk

News Inclusion in these pages is always FREE: send to news@familiesmagazine.co.uk

Get inspired

Get inspired …and get creative with The Creation Station

Tumble with your tot Tumble Tots in SW London is celebrating its 25th anniversary this year, and is now the leading active physical activity in the area and the springboard to developing children’s skills for life. Encourage your child’s motor skills, confidence and sociability in a safe and nurturing environment – classes are at Broomwood Church Hall, Kyrle Road, SW11 on Mondays, Tuesdays and Thursdays. Contact Julia 0208 464 4433, julia.forrest@tumbletots.com to join in the fun. www.tumbletots.com

…and get creative with www.thecreationstation.co.uk With oodles of fun for 4 month-5 year olds, plus weekend and holiday sessions for 1-11 year olds in Wimbledon, Raynes Park, Earlsfield, Southfields, Colliers Wood and Morden, your child can experience their own journey of discovery and exploration. Sessions cost £7.00 per child, £4.00 per sibling, with a special offer for Families SW readers to buy one session get one free, quote FAMSW. Call Melanie 0844 854 9096, melanie@thecreationstation.co.uk

Special needs tutor If you’re looking for a tutor for children with dyslexia or special needs, contact Eily Messant on 07866465263 or eilymessent@hotmail.com. Based in Clapham, Eily works intuitively with each child, preparing individual lesson plans that cater for each child's needs. Eily has worked as a tutor for 6-11 year olds for over 7 years, helping children who struggle to keep up with school work, have trouble with reading and spelling or with understanding and answering comprehension exercises.

WWF’s Earth Hour Whether you’ve taken part in WWF’s Earth Hour before or not, don’t miss it on Saturday 31 March at 8.30pm. A chance to get involved in a global phenomenon, join hundreds of millions of people turning off their lights for one hour on the same night, all across the planet. But it’s not just to save an hour's electricity Earth Hour is about people coming together to celebrate the planet and focus on how we need to protect it, not just for an hour but every day. Sign up at www.wwf.org.uk

Two legs good Help families in March, Chancellor urged

The Little Legs Company has doubled its size on the Northcote Road, SW11, and are now the proud owners of two large barrows just outside Gails on the corner of Mallinson Road. They have expanded their childrenswear range to include emerging designers such as Ava&Luc, a Balham based children's designer, as well as their iconic Guards sleepsuits, babygrows and blankets for newborns. www.thelittlelegscompany.com

The single parents’ campaigning group Gingerbread is urging Chancellor George Osborne to use his March budget to reverse some of the cuts they say are most damaging to family finances. Gingerbread chief executive Fiona Weir said families in some areas were facing real hardship, in part because of recent cuts, and called on Mr Osborne to ease off families and set out what she called “a credible plan” to reduce child poverty rates across Britain.

Brain tumour research funds required On 30 March Brain Tumour Research are encouraging nurseries, schools, and office workers to make a donation in order to nominate their ‘head’ to wear a silly hat for the day in aid of the charity’s annual ‘Wear a Hat Day’. The campaign aims to raise awareness regarding the prevalence of brain tumours and the need for vital research. Sue Farrington-Smith, Director of Brain Tumour Research: “Brain Tumour Research receives less than 1% of national cancer research spending in the UK yet the deadly disease kills more children and people under the age of 40 than any other cancer. ‘Wear a Hat Day’ is a fun way of increasing awareness and getting people raising money for an often overlooked form of cancer”. To get involved, request your fundraising packs or for further background into Brain Tumour Research go to www.braintumourresearch.org

FamiliesSouthWest.co.uk

Community spirit

The BIG Dig Compiled by Samantha Chippindale

Photo credit: bonningtonsquaregarden.co.uk

Community gardens hold the key to better, fresher food, more exercise and a renewed sense of community involvement. Families reports on 2012’s growth spurt

ith spring in full bud, the gardens of South West London are alive to the sound of digging, weeding and planting. Increasingly the gardens being tended are community gardens, which are springing up as fast as the green shoots in them.

A survey conducted in May 2011 put the number of people nationwide on an allotment waiting list at 86,787, and although 31 councils did add to their allotment stock, it only totalled an additional 939 plots nationally. That leaves a lot of people keen to garden and grow, but with nowhere to do it. Somewhere between the order and tradition of the allotment and the anarchic energy of guerrilla gardening, community gardens harness people’s interest in growing their own, learning about a healthier lifestyle and saving areas of waste ground from dereliction or development. Community gardens don’t always run to acres, and they aren’t all dedicated to growing vegetables, but one thing they do have in common is their ability to bring local people together in a pursuit that is as healthy as it is beneficial to the environment.

Joining a community garden There are plenty of community gardens up and running in South West London, and some of them are already huge successes, such as Dean City Farm, which last summer received 1,000 visitors in a single day. Big or small, however, all are keen to recruit new members and volunteers, especially at this, one of their busiest times of year. You can find out about your nearest garden group via your council website, from ‘Friends’ groups, which encourage active participation in the upkeep of local parks and gardens, and schools, which are often connected with community gardening groups via regular visits. Most gardens also have notice boards up that tell you how to contact the organising committee. If you have your own garden, or even a balcony, you can, of course, start your own ‘community of one’ garden and start growing your own. And a grow-bag or large pot is sufficient to grow a variety of crops if space is an issue; vertical growers such as beans and tomatoes are ideal. But don’t limit yourself to your own space. An elderly neighbour, or simply one who isn’t keen on gardening, might be very happy to let you dig in a few rows of potatoes for a share in the crop.

Tel: 020 8696 9680 FamiliesSouthWest.co.uk

Community spirit Starting from scratch When it comes to starting a community garden, there is more than just the plants to consider. How will you fund the project? Who will organise meetings and establish work rotas? What can be achieved on a limited acreage? What is the ultimate purpose of the garden? The Federation of City Farms and Community Gardens (FCFCG) is a charity that offers training and networking events for members all over London. Members can arrange a free visit from an experienced community gardener who can give advice on set-up issues such as involving local people, land use management, legal requirements and working with volunteers. Catherine Miller, who coordinates assistance for gardeners in London, has seen an increase in requests for support recently. “Sometimes people who are living on a housing estate are looking for more creative uses of their space. Or people could be looking for somewhere for kids to play, to grow food in or they might be interested in wildlife gardening,” she says.

good alternative, providing the chance to grow fruit, green the environment and preserve old and rare fruit varieties. Common Ground sells the Community Orchards Handbook as well as The Apple Source Book, both invaluable resources for anyone planting their own trees.

It’s not all vegetables Gardens don’t have to be productive to be community gardens. The Pleasure Garden and Paradise Project in Bonnington Square, Vauxhall, was established in 1994 when a plot of land bombed during World War II was about to be built on. The residents quickly mobilised, got council approval and took over the plot with the aim of creating a green space that could be enjoyed by everyone, especially those living locally in flats without gardens. The beautifully planted sub-tropical haven was designed by the residents using found objects and is maintained by them as a tranquil refuge open to all.

At the time of going to press, Streatham Common Community Garden was in the first stages of garnering support for its cultivation of the old nursery garden next to The Rookery on Streatham Common. The group’s aim is to recruit more supporters to help grow fruit and vegetables and provide a community focus. Whereas the Streatham group have a ready-made garden to work in, the volunteers responsible for Bamford Gardens, the Transition Town Wandsworth Community Garden had to make the most of a 500 square metre wedge of ground butting up against the railway wall at Wandsworth Town. Despite this, wicking raised beds (to cope with water shortage) overflowed in the summer with a mixture of vegetables, edible flowers and herbs. The Edible Bus Stop had little going for it before 40 volunteers worked last summer to transform the small site opposite Lambeth Hospital into a vibrant, overflowing oasis. So successful was the project that Lambeth Council has pledged £20,000 to further develop the site in 2012. The landscape architect working with the volunteers, Will Sandy says, “I thought, just because it’s a community garden, why can’t it have a high aesthetic?” Vegetable gardening might not be what you and your team are keen on and may not be suitable for the land available. Community orchards are a

Picture credit: FCFCG

Works in progress

Federation of City Farms and Community Gardens www.farmgarden.org.uk Dean City Farm www.deencityfarm.co.uk Streatham Common Community Garden http://projectdirt.com/group/streathamc ommoncommunitygarden Bamford Gardens www.ttwandsworth.wordpress.com Common Ground www.commonground.org.uk The Pleasure Garden and Paradise Project www.bonningtonsquaregarden.co.uk The Edible Bus Stop www.liveurbanloverural.com

Volunteers at Bramford Community Garden

Six more gardens to get involved with – all varied, all rewarding: • Tooting Community Garden, 5 North Drive, Tooting SW16. http://projectdirt.com/group/tootingcommunitygarden.com • The Garden, Fairmount Road, SW2. http://gardenbrixton.blogspot.com • Hyde Farm CAN, Radbourne Ave, Balham SW12. www.hydefarm.org.uk • St Andrew’s Earlsfield Community Garden, Garratt Lane, Earlsfield SW18. www.standrewsearlsfield.org/garden.htm • Fireplace Community Garden, off Kingston Road, Wimbledon SW19. www.wimbledonfoodgroup.co.uk • Eden at St Paul's Community Garden located between Rectory Grove and Wandsworth Road in Clapham Old Town offers community raised beds and volunteer gardening days (every Monday and the first Saturday in the month) in a beautiful, relaxing setting. www.stpaulssw4.org/eden-garden Tel 020 7622 2128

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Tel: 020 8696 9680 FamiliesSouthWest.co.uk

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速

New Schools

Schools row in Wandsworth New schools are sprouting up all over Wandsworth, but what is the commotion all about? Joanna Parry investigates. With four new schools set to open in Wandsworth within the next 18 months, opinions across the borough are hotting up. Two new free schools for secondary-level pupils, a new independent prep school and a new faith-based primary school – will any or all of these resolve the issues of schooling in SW London? “Does Wandsworth really need another school? We already have surplus secondary places, we need more primary.” “That makes at least 2 Free schools in Wandsworth. Meanwhile no funding at all for existing schools badly need of repairs and resources.” “I think it’s a brilliant idea – the more choice we have as parents, the better.” “More schools, especially free ones, has got to be a positive move for the Borough.” These are just some of the opinions voiced by parents at the news of a free school set to open this September. The Michaela Community School (MCS), a new free school in Tooting that promises to give pupils a “traditional public schoolstyle education” with a focus on academic achievement and high standards of discipline, has been welcomed by Wandsworth councillors but not necessarily by all local parents. MCS will be non-denominational, 11-18 and mixed, but not everyone is happy with having a new school in the area, especially with its ethos of bringing, “the values and advantages of a private school education by providing a highly academic curriculum and strong discipline.” “I don’t want a would-be public school in the area,” says one Tooting resident. “The ethos of rating child against child so they know exactly where they are is abhorrent.” But another local resident disagrees. “Strong discipline and a traditional education is exactly what I want for my child. It’s what we need in Wandsworth.” Katharine Birbalsingh, proposed Headmistress, echoes this view, saying “We believe that a firstclass education based upon traditional values should be within the reach of every child, no matter their background. The academic rigour at the school will offer pupils the opportunity to progress to the very best universities in the country.” She adds that subjects such as Mandarin and Latin will be on the curriculum and that the school day will be longer than normal, with pupils expected to take part in compulsory extracurricular activities. Some parents and local residents are also against the location of the school, claiming the borough does not need another secondary. MCS was initially given permission to open in the neighbouring borough of Lambeth where there is a shortage of secondary school places, but was forced to relocate after its site was sold off. Its new proposed site is The Trident Centre on Bickersteth Road, although this is subject to approval from the London Development Agency and its current occupants. Opposers claim there will soon be a surplus of 2,000 secondary school places in the borough as another free school, the

Nursery graduates at South London Jewish Primary School Bolingbroke Academy, is also set to open in September 2012. Bolingbroke, the ninth secondary-level London academy run by ARK Schools, will provide spaces for 800 pupils aged 11-19, and will be sited in the old Bolingbroke Hospital on Wakehurst Road between Wandsworth Common and Clapham Common. Another school opening this September is Wandsworth Preparatory School, a coeducational independent day school which has taken over the site of Alvering Library on Allfarthing Lane. As part of the Bellevue Education group of schools, it aims to provide an exciting and stimulating environment for children ages 4-11. “I have wanted to open a school in Wandsworth for a very long time,” says Mark Malley, a former headmaster who runs Bellevue, “so when Edwina Angell-James, principal of Wee Ones Nursery, approached me with her ideas for the School, I jumped at the chance to start something really special. Wee Ones is established as a leading nursery that nurtures and stimulates its children and I knew that Edwina and I could create a school that delivers the very best of traditional education in exciting ways.” Michaela Community School c/o 15 St John’s Hill SW11 1NT Message line 020 7924 5109 Email info@proposedmcstooting.co.uk www.proposedmcstooting.co.uk Bolingbroke Academy c/o ARK Schools 65 Kingsway WC2B 6TD Tel 020 3116 0800 Email bolingbrokeinfo@arkonline.org www.arkbolingbrokeacademy.org Wandsworth Preparatory School,

Each Bellevue school is run independently but shares the same values: broad curriculums that engage children, innovative teaching and excellent teachers who can capture children’s imaginations and create a real love of learning. Visit Wandsworth Preparatory School on one of their Open Mornings on 3rd, 7th or 10th March 10am12pm, or register your child at www.wandsworthprep.com. Or perhaps the shortage of state primary school places can be relieved by the proposed South London Jewish Primary School. Although still subject to Government approval, the plan is to locate the school on the Southfields Grid, and be open to families of all backgrounds as well as Jewish, across the communities of SW London such as Richmond, Kingston, Wimbledon and Sutton. The school hopes to commence enrolments this year for its launch in 2013. Register your interest at www.sljps.org.uk

The Old Library, 2 Allfarthing Lane, SW18 2PQ Tel 020 8870 4133 Email office@wandsworthprep.com www.wandsworthprep.com South London Jewish Primary School Tel 07432 730 218 Email info@sljps.org.uk www.sljps.org.uk

Tel: 020 8696 9680 FamiliesSouthWest.co.uk

Mother’s Day 18th March 2012 by Joanna Parry

What is the best way to celebrate mums?

Mother’s Day special events on pages 32-37

Flowers, chocolates or time off? (or all three?) Ready for tea?

Isabella Plantation in Richmond Park

A floral treat The perfect way to treat your mum on Mothers Day, Florimania at Hampton Court is a true floral extravaganza. With an abundance of flowers filling Mary II's Apartments, this is an ideal way to celebrate the arrival of spring for any gardening or flower lover. 16-18 March, 10am-4.30pm, entry included in palace admission ticket. Flower arranging demonstrations at 11:30, 12:30 and 2pm. Treat your mum to a free hot beverage with every floral cupcake purchased in the Tiltyard Cafe. Entrance £6.75 - £15.95. Hampton Court Palace, East Molesey, Surrey, KT8 9AU. www.hrp.org.uk/HamptonCourtPalace

Try The Orangery at Kensington Palace for a grand afternoon tea for mum. Once Queen Anne’s greenhouse and entertaining pavilion, the highceilinged building is imposing while its large terrace is a wonderful suntrap. Choose their orange-themed tea or the chocolate version, Enchanted Palace Tea. Served noon-6pm, from £14.85 per head. Kensington Palace, Kensington Gardens, W8 4PX. www.hrp.org.uk/KensingtonPalace Or join the Queen Mother, Oscar Wilde, King Edward VII and Lillie Langtry by becoming a visitor to the historic and timelessly stylish hotel The Cadogan in Knightsbridge. Treat your mum to a traditional afternoon tea in the Cadogan’s wood-panelled Drawing Room and enjoy sandwiches, scones and cake. For that extra touch of decadence why not celebrate the day with a glass of champagne From £22.50 per person. 75 Sloane Street, SW1X 9SG. www.cadogan.com

Your mum will love the stunning spring foliage of Isabella Plantation in Richmond Park. Established in the 1950s, the ornamental woodland garden consists of clearings, ponds and streams and is planted with ferns, exotic trees and shrubs. It’s particularly striking during late March, April and May when the azaleas and rhododendrons put on their annual show. Nearest park gates to the plantation are Ham or Ladderstile. Kings Road, Surrey, TW10 5HS. www.royalparks.gov.uk/Richmond-Park

Take mum out Fancy a walk? If you’re looking for an alternative way to spend Mother’s Day, a ‘walk and talk’ through London is hard to beat. One stretch guaranteed to win you brownie points with mum is the canal-side walk from Little Venice to Camden Lock. The starting point of the 2-mile amble is Little Venice with its bags of charm, then head eastwards along the canal past the elegant properties on either side. You’ll soon reach the Maida Vale tunnel, which requires a short street-level diversion, then a mile-long stretch leads you around the edges of Regent’s Park, where glorious mansions dominate the banks. Passing London Zoo, you’ll head into Camden Lock where you’ll find all manner of cafes and food stalls to toast the end of your walk. This is just one section of the 37-mile Jubilee Greenway Walk, which connects many of the capital’s royal and Olympic sites. www.walklondon.org.uk. Your mum will love the walled gardens that have been on the site of Chiswick House and Gardens since the late 1600s. The Palladian villa's gardens were designed by Lord Burlington and William Kent in the Italian Renaissance style, and contain England's oldest collection of camellias, and the surrounding parkland offers acres more green space to explore. Gorgeous! Burlington Lane, W4 2RP. www.chgt.org.uk

Tel: 020 8696 9680 FamiliesSouthWest.co.uk

Mother’s Day

Nakedhealth MediSpa

Pampering mum Forget flowers and chocolates and get your partner to treat you to some luxury pampering you’ll really appreciate. Located in the heart of Wimbledon, Nakedhealth MediSpa boosts the latest state-of-the-art treatment facilities in a luxury location, and especially for Mother’s Day they are offering a number of pampering experiences that won’t fail to impress. Find out more at www.nakedhealth.co.uk. Or try the Spa at Cupcake - the perfect place to unwind in a friendly, welcoming environment designed to help you be at your best. Let your mum choose from a range of massages, facials, manicures and pedicures. Why not join her and book your little ones into the Mini-Cupcake Club Creche, then stay and relax with a cup of tea and a cupcake (or two) Cupcake Parsons Green 020 3326 4986 and Cupcake Putney 020 8875 1065. www.cupcakemum.com

Special offers and events

All mums need is Love

On Sunday 18 March visit Eddie Catz for free and enjoy complimentary goody bags and hand and neck massages while your children play. Take your little one for a test ride in a Babboe Cargo Bike and negotiate a mini track with kiddie traffic signs, obstacles and balloons, or take the opportunity to invest in a Babboe with a Mother’s Day £200-off offer. www.eddiecatz.com, www.babboe.co.uk/mothersday

Well don’t you? Time off is what we want, time to relax, time to unwind, time for ourselves, just a tiny bit please. This may mean breakfast in bed and not one child to give lunch to, or a mini spa at home with candles and some bubbly while daddy puts the children to bed. And of course what mums really want is lots and lots of our children’ drawings, home made gifts, lots of kisses and lots of cuddles, and lots and lots of ‘I love you mummy’.

Check out www.pinklining.co.uk who have teamed up with Cowshed: the first 150 Mummy’s changing bags sold through the website during March will come with a complimentary gift of 75ml Frothy Cow Hair & Body Wash and 75ml Milky Body Lotion. Shop, and get pampered!

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For real pampering have a look at Amara Spa, where a little luxury says more than words can. Give your mum some time out to de-stress, relax or get help with skincare problems, with the very best quality products such as Dermalogica, Environ, and Tisserand. A perfect gift for a special occasion. 18-20 Fulham High Street, London, SW6 3LQ, 020 7384 9111, enquiries@amaraspa.co.uk. www.amaraspa.co.uk

Health Tuscan Fun with your little ones Mum and baby/toddler holidays in Italy

•Yoga and Zumba • Delicious food • Cooking lessons • Spa treatments

Babysitting during classes For ages 3 months to 4 years 07785 571292 www.mum-and-baby-experience.co.uk

HUGE SALE OF NEW AND SECOND-HAND SKI CLOTHES FOR ADULTS AND CHILDREN SKISUITS, JACKETS, SALOPETTES, GLOVES, SNOWBOOTS, GOGGLES, HELMETS, ETC. BIG REDUCTIONS ON LAST YEAR'S STOCK PLUS THIS YEAR’S NEW COLLECTION At 22 Northbourne Road, Clapham, SW4 7DJ

www.skiderouge.com Any enquiries ring Libby de Rougemont on

020 7720 4871 / 07939 051220 libbyderouge@hotmail.co.uk Do come and bring friends

Clapham Family Osteopath Cranial specialist Julia Finlay B.Ost M.Sc (Paed Ost), Registered Osteopath

Babies Children (inc special needs) Mothers pre and post natal All the family Contact: juliafinlayosteopath@gmail.com Tel: 07779 017965 www.claphamfamilyosteopath.co.uk

Technology Vs natural childbirth: which side to take? By Toni Harman

On a global level, a war is being waged between two models of maternity care. On a global level there are two sides to childbirth: On the one side, midwifery believes in the power of women's body and spirit to birth naturally. On the other side, the obstetric model believes that women need technology to give birth. Right now the obstetric model is winning the war. Consequently, birth has become highly technological and according to many of the world's leading experts, unnecessarily overmedicalised. Could doulas, non-medical birth companions, be the answer? Toni Harman and Alex Wakeford, the couple behind a new, independently made, sixty minute documentary certainly think so. DOULA! tells the story of three doula-supported births and shows the practical and emotional support that doulas provide during pregnancy, birth and the first few weeks of parenthood. Showing positive births in an intimate style, the film goes some way to prove the statistics that, if supported by a trained doula, mothers are half as likely to need a caesarean and their labours could be shortened by 25%.

ROBIN FARQUHAR-THOMSON Wonderful Pictures of Children

robinft.co.uk 020 7350 0312 info@robinft.co.uk

States, particularly political documentary makers, where we encourage people to host screenings in their local communities, often their in own homes or town halls. At the very least, we want our film to demonstrate that birth does not need to be managed and controlled by the medical machine." The filmmakers' current project is the global documentary and video resource web site, OneWorldBirth.net "We are travelling around the globe and to date have interviewed over one hundred of the world's leading birth experts and all of them are calling for a halt to the unnecessary overmedicalisation of birth today" says Harman. "We want our films to inform and motivate an army of global "birth warriors" to create the tipping point that will propel birth into the mainstream to deliver real change." "Women", in the words of the legendary Social Anthropologist Sheila Kitzinger, "will take childbirth back".

Toni, the film's director: "Doulas have an important role to play in modern birth as their presence is resisting the global trend that is embracing medical intervention and caesareans. In some city hospitals in Brazil, c-section rates that have reached a staggering 93%. I even think doulas are quiet revolutionaries in questioning the dominant obstetric opinion that women can no longer give birth without medical assistance." Host a screening during Doula week! To help stoke the revolutionary fire, Harman and Wakeford are helping co-ordinate almost 200 screenings of their film around the world during World Doula Week March 22-28. The film's producer Alex Wakeford says "We're using techniques pioneered by indie filmmakers in the

To know more or to arrange a screening (free to the organiser): doulafilm.com oneworldbirth.net info@altofilms.com 01273 747837 / 07770 794233 Share your feedback on Facebook! (FamiliesSW) OFFER! BE IN Families SW’s APRIL ISSUE FOR JUST £20! If you run pre or post natal yoga classes, or cranial, osteopathy, baby massage, hypnobirthing, or are a doula, offer any baby health service, sell baby clothes or goods then get yourself (or your website) listed in our magazine from just £20! 20 words of your choice, fill in a quick form online, pay with paypal, easy. You are in! Do it here: www.familiesonline.co.uk/babyfeature or call us for details.

Tel: 020 8696 9680 FamiliesSouthWest.co.uk

THE WILLOW NURSERY 823-825 Wandsworth Road, Clapham, SW8 3JL Tel: 020 7498 0319 Est.1981 E-mail: admin@thewillownursery.co.uk Joint Heads: Caroline Henson & Virginia Bisset. Opening hours: 8.15am to 12.15pm Sessions: Mornings only Weeks open a year: Termtime Ages: Two and half to 5 years Max no. of pupils: 40. Pupil/teacher ratio: Under 3yrs: 4:1, 3-5yrs 8:1 Curriculum: Montessori and traditional methods. Activities: Art, craft, cooking, Spanish, gardening, home corner, ICT, messy play, computer club. Four specialist teachers for singing, dance, gym and cooking. Facilities: Large, bright, spacious hall and a smaller reception room. Contact: Please contact Amanda for Prospectus and to arrange a visit. The Willow is renowned for its creativity. Our aim is to create a stimulating, happy and fun environment so that the children love coming to school. We develop confidence and a keen interest to learn both independently and with individual attention.

www.thewillownursery.co.uk

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Childcare feature

How love changes childcare Joanna Moorhead reveals the secret ingredient in childcare – and explains how Ofsted has caught on to it as well If 18 years of organising childcare for my children taught me anything at all, it’s this: you can pay someone to look after your kids, but you can’t pay someone to love them. What this means – or at least, what it means to me – is that when and if someone comes along who actually does love your kids, hold onto them for all you’re worth; because they are literally priceless in your family’s life. For me, the wonderful carer who really did love my daughters was Linda. She arrived in our family’s life when my eldest child was two, and she stayed until the birth of my fourth. When she left, she said it was because she didn’t want to fall in love with another of my babies – because then it would be too hard to leave, and during the time she’d been working for us, she and her husband had moved further out of town. Nannies, Maternity Nurses, Housekeepers and Mother’s Helps

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Across the years I reckon I’ve paid at least 20 different carers to look after my children – and I still occasionally have to find childcare for my youngest daughter, who is nine. I’ve searched for – and found – carers for tiny babies, and for older (and not always very easy) pre-schoolers. I’ve found nurseries for some of my children, and I’ve had au pairs from time to time.

Look for someone who makes your child happy, pure and simple None of the carers in our family were as much a part of our team as Linda was, and none of them loved my children as much as she did (she still comes back to see them, several years on); but the more the carer engaged with, and enjoyed, whichever child or children she was looking after, the happier the children were. So I have no doubt at all what matters most in choosing a childcarer. Look for someone who makes your child happy, pure and simple. Look for someone your child looks forward to being with, and is happy to share his or her days with. Often – or so it has sometimes seemed to me – parents are too ambitious in their hopes for a childcarer. Ironically, this means they end up getting a raw deal for their child. They want a carer who, as well as looking after their child, will also manage to make the beds and iron the laundry and leave the kitchen spotless at the end of the day. And of course, if you’ve been out at work since dawn and you’ve got another tough day tomorrow, tidiness does matter – because in order to enjoy a bit of time with your child, you don’t want to have to start ploughing through the washing up. But expecting too much ‘round the edges’ from a carer means your child

can miss out: because it’s that primary relationship between the nanny, or mother’s help, or childminder, that matters more than anything else. Interestingly, Ofsted recently came to the same conclusion. In recent years, the main thrust of an Ofsted check on a nursery or childminder has been on safety issues, especially safeguarding ones. But under new plans, inspectors will concentrate instead, in the future, on whether children feel loved and emotionally secure while they’re in the nursery or childminder’s home, and will look at children’s personal development, such as how ready they are to share and to take turns, and how well they engage with the other children around them. The plans are out for consultation until April, but they’ve already received a warm welcome – because of course they make perfect sense. I’d also say, looking back over my many years of employing childcarers, that – strangely enough – the carers the kids would have chosen were unfailingly the ones who were most successful in our family. The litmus test of a childcarer’s abilities is, at the end of the day, whether your child would choose to be with that person (assuming you aren’t available which, of course, you’re not). For this reason, it seems a bit odd to me that parents sometimes report feeling jealous of the feelings their child has for their childcarer. No carer is ever going to replace a parent, but surely the very best accolade for the choice you’ve made for your children is if your replacement is the next-best person in their life? Ideally, a carer should resemble a much-loved family member – depending on what sort of carer they are, and what sort of age they are. So in my family, Linda was a ‘granny’ figure (although she was only ten years older than me, and a very glamorous granny when she first arrived at our door, aged just 40); we’ve had Czech and Polish au pairs, usually shared with other families, who have had a bigsisterly relationship with my daughters; and we’ve had carers in nurseries who have been like favourite aunties. And all in all, my daughters have laughed a lot, and enjoyed their time, and improved their social skills through their attachments and their relationships with the people who’ve cared for them. Like every working mother, I owe all these people who’ve backed me up through the years a huge debt of gratitude: because we all need to know our kids are safe and happy in order to do our jobs. So, follow your instincts is what I’d say: find someone your child really likes being with, and a carer who clearly enjoys being with your child. If you’re very, very lucky, you may even find someone to love him, or her; and then you’ll truly have hit the jackpot.

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Childcare feature Childcare: your options flexible about working hours. Expect to pay: between £3 and £8 an hour

There’s lots to think about when you’re weighing up which sort of childcare to go for. Do you want your child looked after at home, or somewhere else; with other children, or one-to-one with a carer? You’ll also need to consider what sort of care will dovetail with your working hours; plus (and all-importantly) your budget.

A nanny: looks after your child in your own home, and may live in or live out. You can cut your costs, and give your child a playmate, if you share a nanny with another family with a similar-aged child. Expect to pay: between £7 and £10 an hour, plus you’re responsible for your nanny’s tax and NI contributions.

A day nursery: usually open long hours, typically from 7am to 7pm. You need to think about how you’ll get your child to and from nursery; also, if you intend having another child soon, remember that having two children at nursery will double (or almost double, if there’s a sibling discount) the costs. Expect to pay: £30-50 a day

An au pair or mother’s help: au pairs or mother’s helps tend to come from other EU countries, and may or may not live in your house. They’re often not trained, but will need to have some experience of childcare; they look after your children, and may do some housework as well. Expect to pay: between £6 and £8 an hour for a live-out, less if they’re live-in and you’re providing food.

A childminder: looks after up to six children (three of whom can be under five) in her own home. Childminders can often be

Childcare pitfalls Don’t be vague with your carer about what you want/need. But once you’ve spelt out what you need, be prepared to trust her to provide what your child needs when she’s in charge, within the boundaries you have set Don’t enter into a childcare arrangement unless you’re certain that the logistics work. Any niggle about practicalities is likely to grow much, much bigger as time goes by Don’t forget to trust your instincts. Never ignore any nagging doubts about a carer’s suitability – explore the doubts instead, because you need to be completely sure that all is well when you’re not around

Top Tips on flexible working By Mandy Garner, editor of Workingmums.co.uk 1. When negotiating flexible working, make sure you think practically about what works for your family. For instance, make sure your childcare plans allow enough leeway so you don't end up rushing everywhere all the time. 2. Be incredibly organised. Have a list where you write down everything you have to do. You can then feel a sense of achievement as you tick it off, even if you are adding more things to it in the meantime. 3. Prepare all the school/nursery/childminder stuff you need in the morning the night before, including uniforms and lunch boxes. That way you only have to get the kids up, dressed, breakfasted and out in the morning. Anything more increases the stress levels and means you arrive at work as if you have been on a combat training course. 4. Try to plan ahead so you are not always re-arranging childcare at the last minute. This includes inset days, holidays, Christmas plays, summer outings, etc, etc.

emergency such as a school strike negotiate with your work to see if you can work more flexibly that day, eg, from home. 6. Multi-task. Try to save time by doing several things at once. If you are going out to drop someone off, make sure you remember to do all other tasks that need doing outdoors, eg posting a letter, enroute. Eventually it will become a way of life. 7. Be good to your friends and family. You will need them. If a friend does you a favour, ensure you always repay it so that you can ask again in the future. 8. Simplify your life - say no to the things you don't need to do and build in some rest time into your life. Everyone needs a duvet day once in a while. 9. Ask your friends for tips on what makes their lives easier. It may be something as simple as tying your door keys round your neck to stop you from always scrabbling about for them. Learn from those who have gone before you.

5. Have a back-up back-up plan. Negotiate with your partner, if you have one, or any other form of support what you will do if there is an emergency such as school closure and try to share the burden. If you know in advance that there is going to be an

10. Be your own best friend. You will spend your life doing things for other people. Ensure that you also build some time in for yourself, even if it is only to have a bath all by yourself.

Workingmums.co.uk is a jobsite and community for workingmums looking to work flexibly around their family. They also run events - Workingmums.co.uk LIVE London is at the Business Design Centre, Islington on March 27th 2012. To register your free place visit www.WorkingmumsLIVE.co.uk/london

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Childcare feature

Communication in the office V. Communication with the Nanny! Communicating in the office is one thing...communicating with your nanny requires a different approach. A happy nanny/mummy relationship is based on good communication skills. Kathryn Mewes, a nanny for 13 years Kathryn Mewes and owner of her own agency, Bespoke Nannies, explains. My mother once told me that: “You can say anything in life to anyone... “Until you became a parent your staff relations ...you just need to choose your moment and pick your words carefully.” were always out of your home. Your work persona was kept for the office.... now it is needed at home as well. I enter people's homes and help them with a challenge they may be facing with their child. I spend 72 hours living alongside you helping and guiding with sleep training, eating and weaning and behaviour and discipline. I often work with a nanny present and so often I advise and help with communication methods between parent and nanny. The key is to know what you want from your nanny and to be realistic. Your nanny will dedicate up to 12 hours a day to your children but she does also have a life of her own to consider. I interviewed a business woman recently who was employing a full time live-in nanny. I asked her about how she makes her nanny aware of her expectations. Her response was fascinating... “I don't really.” was her reply. “ I don't want to discipline her and upset her. If I do this she may become upset or angry and I don't want her unhappy around my children when I have to leave her alone all day.... I think I live on a false hope that if I say nothing the issue will go away.” she then gave out a huge sigh and said “but it rarely does go away.”

Highly Qualified Permanent/Temporary Weekend / Before and After School Nanny staff available, also reliable Babysitters Housekeepers and Cleaners available Please call Caring Hands Services 020 8279 1830, 07908 561552 e.mail: frain.caringhandsservices@hotmail.co.uk Or visit us www.caringhandsservices.co.uk

Revise your approach like so: • You would much rather your nanny emptied the dishwasher in the morning rather than you. • “Name, I am so busy in the morning. I would like to be able to sit and breakfast with (child's name) before dashing out the door. Would you mind emptying the dishwasher each morning while I eat? Thank you so much. That is so kind and such a help.” By praising your nanny at the end of the statement she will not hear this as instruction. • You would like your nanny to have your child in the bath by the time you arrive home from work and the kitchen to be tidy. • “ I can see that you and (child's name) have such lovely busy days together. Would you please have dinner together at 5pm and be upstairs having a bath by 6pm. I would love to think that you will be finishing your working day once I arrive home and take over the bath time.”... “Would you be able to manage to tidy the kitchen before the bath time or would you rather do it once I get home and am bathing (child's name)?” By giving your nanny a decision to make she will not feel that you are giving her instruction. At the end of the day you need to gel with your nanny. You need to respect one another and this all stems from good communication. With a sensitive approach, constructive criticism is greatly received. You are enhancing your nanny's skills and the bond between you is continuing to strengthen.

Safety net There is an increasing need for emergency childcare when a child is ill and unable to go to nursery or a nanny is not able to come to work. Many of our clients love feeling safe in the knowledge that we can ‘parachute’ someone trustworthy in, at very short notice. They know that their little one is being cared for by an experienced CRB checked childcarer in the child’s own home. The service is a safety net which requires little commitment from the parents but gives them peace of mind and can be a real life saver when things go wrong. Bryony Churchill Director, Like Minders Babysitting and Ad Hoc Childcare 0844 879 7189 www.likeminders.co.uk

For further information about Kathryn Mewes and the service she provides go to www.bespokenanny.com where you can find out more and contact her for a consultation.. The 3-Day Nanny by Kathryn Mewes will be published in June by Vermilion, £12.99.

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Childcare feature

Agencies see part-time demand In the last 18 months business has really changed. There are many more 2 or 3 days positions around, says Emma McCarthy of Gina’s Nannies. “I think is for two reasons: some clients have had their full time job reduced as their employers have felt the pinch and, conversely, in some families the mother needs to go back to work part time to supplement her partner’s income. Either way these part time jobs are much more common than they were a couple of years ago and I am convinced it’s a direct result of the economic climate. The challenge is that most nannies need the financial security of a full working week, and are therefore more reluctant to accept a 2 day offer until they have found a 3 day one to work alongside it! The good news is that with a little patience we’ve been able to fill most vacancies!” Emma McCarthy Proprietor, Gina’s Nannies, 020 8333 7671

Tips for communicating with your Nanny • Remember to praise her when prise is due. This only needs to be a slight comment. • Encourage your children to thank your nanny for their day. • Ask your nanny her opinion. • Don't allow a 'little niggle' to escalate just pick your moment and address it. • Never discipline your nanny in front of your children. • Addressing matters on a Friday early evening is a good time. Thoughts then digest over the weekend. • Have a monthly 'chat' where you can both address points. Holiday, activities etc. • Ask your nanny to keep a basic diary if this would reassure you about the daily movements. • Try not to ring your nanny continually through the day. It will begin to knock her confidence. • Be sensitive but up front and honest with your nanny.

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Easter holiday listings, part 1

Help! The Easter holidays are coming up! Ta daaa!! … Families’ Easter activity listing comes to the rescue! Play with Clay

ARTS AND CRAFTS Artyard Handmade 318 Upper Richmond Road West, East Sheen, SW14 7JN 30 March. An eggstatically exciting programme for Easter – One-day Easter Workshop using topical themes and artist-inspired projects, creating giant clay easter bunnies, Japanese kites, Chihuly creations and canvas paintings. 10am3.15pm, ages 5-12, bring your own lunch, £36. Call 020 8878 1336, info@artyard.co.uk. www.artyard.co.uk Dulwich Picture Gallery Gallery Road, SE21 7AD 4 and 5 April. Funky Origami – Make a paper garland to decorate your home for Easter. 6-8 years, 10.30am-12.30pm, 9-11 years, 2.304.30pm. £18 for two days. 15 April. Indian Kites Create your own Indian inspired patterns and learn basic kite construction. 10.30am-4pm, 6-10 years, each child must be accompanied by an adult. £20. Book on 020 8299 8732 or l.mckie@dulwichpicturegallery.org.uk www.dulwichpicturegallery.org.uk

Fun with Fimo Clay West London April dates tbc. Craft Activity Sessions – Creative clay modelling sessions, fun, fully supervised and non-messy! For 6 years and over, 10am-4pm, £45. Bring a packed lunch and a box to put your creations in. Call Clare McKnight on 020 8992 3767, fimofun@tiscali.co.uk, www.funwithfimoclay.co.uk Little Hands Design 67 Belsize Lane, NW3 2-5 April. Easter holiday course Give your kids the chance to experiment with fashion ideas and complete a project in these intensive crash courses. There are two 3-hour sessions daily, 9-12pm and 1-4pm. £225 for the full week, or £120 for a half-day week. Email info@littlehandsdesign.com or call Astrid Jacoby on 07739 535684. www.littlehandsdesign.co.uk Play With Clay Streatham & Clapham High School, 42 Abbotswood Road, SW16 1AW 10-13 April. Easter Holiday Workshop – Fun and creativity with clay, ages 6 and over, 9.30am-3.30pm, from £20 per half day including all materials and firing. Call 07930 413649, info@play-withclay.com. www.play-with-clay.com

Eddie Catz Putney, 68-70 Putney High Street, SW15 and Wimbledon, 42 Station Road, SW19 Call 0845 201 1268, www.eddiecatz.com There is SO MUCH happening this Easter! From drama, languages, etc. Crazy Science Workshop, 11th Apr 10am-1pm For 5-10yrs (drop off) Make an Easter bunny Workshop, 11 April 10am-1pm, ages 4-8, drop-off, £20 (includes a bunny or a bear). Easter French Egg-stravaganza with Club Petit Pierrot 4th Apr- 4-5pm For Children 0-10 and families Toddler Easter Fun Morning 10th Apr - 10am-12pm 2-4 yrs (Parent & Toddler) And 4th Apr in Wimbledon - 6-8pm Easter Lasertag Disco Evening For 6-12yr olds Check the website eddiecatz.com for all details. Pottery Café 735 Fulham Road, SW6 5UL, Tel 020 7736 2157 322 Richmond Road, TW1 2DU, Tel 020 8744 3000 153 Northcote Road, SW11 6QB, Tel 020 7223 3388 Dates throughout March. Spring madness – Visit the Pottery Café to paint an egg cup this spring. Throughout March they have a fantastic offer of 3 for the price of 2. £6.95 per egg cup, plus a studio fee of £5.99 per person. All ages welcome. www.pottery-cafe.com

Smarty Paints Pottery Studio 85 Nightingale Lane, Balham SW12 8NX 2-5 April. Easter holiday workshops – Daily workshops, 10.30am-12.30pm, ages 6 & above. There will be a different activity each day including some fun new activities: Decopatch (they'll explain!), t-shirt painting, ceramic painting with glaze & acrylic. Cost £15 per day (including snack). Discount for additional days booked. Call 020 8772 8702, smartypaints@btconnect.com. www.smartypaints.co.uk

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The second part of this listing will be published in the April issue but can be viewed online first from 15 March. Go to familiesouthwest.co.uk/ whatson

LANGUAGES Le Club Tricolore St Colomba’s Church, Pont Street, SW1 April dates tbc. Easter Holiday Activity Days – French Activity Days for children ages 3-11. All levels of French are catered for, with an emphasis on fun and getting children hooked on French. Call Teresa on 020 7924 4649/07889 96703, info@leclubtricolore.co.uk. www.leclubtricolore.co.uk

MUSIC AND DRAMA Allsorts Drama More House School, 22 – 24 Pont Street, SW1X OAA Notting Hill Prep School, 95 Lancaster Road, W11 1QQ 2-4 April and 11-13 April. Easter holiday workshops – Join their 3-day workshops and create a fantastic performance for family and friends. Ages 4-11, 9.30am–12.30pm, £90 for three days with a 20% sibling discount. Call 020 8767 5298, www.allsortsdrama.com Funky Monkey Keyboard Classes Streatham and Herne Hill 10 & 11 April. ‘One Hit Wonder’ Keyboard Workshops – One-day workshop for beginners to try out the keyboard and make music the Funky Monkey way! Learn how to write and play notes C-G, basic introduction to theory, learn famous tunes, quizzes and activities. Take home workbook provided. 10am-2.30pm, dates dependent on venue, ages 5-8, £30. Call 0800 107 7949, mail@funkymonkey.info. www.funkymonkey.info

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Funky Moves The Exhibit Kids Club, 12 Balham Station Road, Balham, SW12 9SG 2-4 April. Funky dancing in the Easter holidays – Funky Moves is providing fantastic entertainment at The Exhibit Kids Club in Balham this Easter. The kids will watch a film (Rio, Street Dance or Tangled) in the private cinema while they eat lunch, then a dance to a song from the film and do a performance for the parents. 123pm, minimum age 5, £15 per day. Call to book 0208 772 6556, exhibit@exhibitbars.com or alice@funkymovesdance.com. www.funkymovesdance.com Perform Barnes, Clapham, Fulham, Notting Hill, Kensington, Richmond, Wimbledon 2–13 April. Alice in Wonderland holiday courses – Tumble down the rabbit hole with Alice on an adventure, have tea with the Mad Hatter and play croquet with the Queen of Hearts in these 3day courses, ages 4-8, dates and times dependent on venue. Call 0845 400 4000, enquiries@perform.org.uk. www.perform.org.uk Stagecoach Theatre Arts, Battersea Honeywell School, Honeywell Road, Battersea, SW11 6EF 10-13 April. ‘Too Cool for School’ Easter holiday workshop – Time to put on a show this Easter! Build self-confidence and have fun. The groups take classes in dance, drama and singing and work towards a performance for families and friends. 4-6 year olds, 9.30am12.30pm, £105 for the whole workshop / 7-14 year olds, 10am4.30pm, £135. Call Micky on 020 8946 2986, email battersea@stagecoach.co.uk. www.stagecoach.co.uk/battersea

Allsorts Drama

Studio Film School Alderbrook Primary School, Balham, SW12 8PP 2-4 April. Movie Musical Magic – Calling all budding crew members and performers to make your own movie musical! Learn a classic song and dance routine, and learn how to direct and shoot a big production number in this show-stopping holiday course. Ages 7–16, 9am4pm, £135 (£125 siblings). 2-4 April. Screenplay Special – Develop your own screenplay in this special Easter holiday masterclass. Work with a screenwriter to develop a treatment and original script, before workshopping scenes with actors for some professional feedback. Ages 11-16, 9am-4pm, £115 (£105 siblings). Call 0845 533 3763, info@studiofilmschool.co.uk. www.studiofilmschool.co.uk Theatrebugs @ Eddie Catz Putney, 68-70 Putney High Street, SW15 3-5 April. Theatrebugs Easter Drama Workshop – Join Theatrebugs for an Easter break adventure. Three half days jam packed with drama, music, dance and arts and crafts. 9.30am-12.30pm, ages 3 and a half to 8, drop-off. Call

for more information and prices on 020 7350 2995, enquiries@theatrebugs.co.uk www.theatrebugs.co.uk Upbeat Music Chelsea and Fulham 2–5 December. Easter holiday sessions – Record a CD with your child's photo on the front. Sessions also include singing, dance, drums, electric guitars and end of course performance. 10am-4pm each day, ages 4-14. Call 07816 901396, email upbeatmusic@btinternet.com. www.upbeatmusiccourses.co.uk

SPORTS All Star Coaching Wandsworth Common Tennis Centre, Wandsworth Common, Dorlcote Road, SW18 3RT 26 March–26 April. Junior Holiday Tennis Courses – All Star Coaching at Wandsworth Common Tennis Centre, ages 5-7, 10am-1pm or 3-5pm; ages 8-14, 10am-3pm. 4 or 5 days a week according to the week. Call 020 8871 4706. www.allstarcoaching.co.uk /juniorholiday page 22

Easter holiday listings Amanda’s Action Club Common Ground Café Bar, Wandsworth Common April dates tbc. A fun and stimulating workout for little ones. For details and class times visit www.amandasactionclub.co.uk Back Flip Performers Old Rutlishians Sports Ground, Poplar Road, Wimbledon, SW19 3JS and The Katie Cannon Centre, Bedfont Public Hall, 75 New Road, Bedfont, TW14 8HR 2-13 April. Holiday camps – Gymnastics, fun, fitness and games for 4-12 year olds. 10am-3pm, £30 per day. Call 020 8940 7998, info@backflipperformers.com. www.backflipperformers.com Battersea Sports Centre Hope Street, SW11 2DA April dates tbc. Kids Camp – Enjoy a variety of sports, fun and games, arts and crafts, dance, trampolining, martial arts and much more. £9.50 per day or £45 per week paid in advance, 10am-3pm, registration from 9.30am. Ages 7 – 13. For details call 020 8871 8529 or 020 7228 0632, email bsc@wandsworth.gov.uk Chelsea FC Soccer School Battersea Park, Barnes, Balham April dates tbc. London Soccer School – For boys and girls aged 3-15 (Mini Kickers ages 3-5, Soccer Schools 515, Goalkeeping 8-15). Call 020 7957 8220, londondevelopment@chelseafc.com. www.chelseafc.com/soccerschools

Playball Battersea Park and Oak Lodge School, Nightingale Lane, SW11 10-13 April. Easter Holiday Camp Bouncy castles, treasure hunts, Playball skills and games and more… Ages 3-8, 10am-1pm, drop off, sign up for as many days as you like. 10 & 11 April at Battersea Park, 12 & 13 April at Oak Lodge School. Call 07738 375317, gavin@playballLondon.com. www.playball-London.com Ridgway Stables 93 Ridgway, Wimbledon Village, SW19 4SU 27-30 March, 3-6 April and 10-13 April. Holiday courses 4-day courses of riding on Wimbledon Common and stables management, 8-16 year olds. Call Julia to book 020 8946 7400. www.ridgwaystables.co.uk or www.merrton.gov.uk/activeplus Telford Park Tennis Club 35a Killieser Avenue, Streatham Hill, SW16 2-6 April, 9-13 April and 16-20 April. Hotshots Holiday Tennis Camps – A series of fun, 5-day coaching sessions for all levels, ages 4-15. 11.30am-4pm each day MondayFriday, no membership required. £25 per day or £110 for the week. Call 020 8674 5979, coaching@telfordparktennisclub.co.u k. www.telfordparktennisclub.co.uk Tennis4you Wimbledon Park Tennis Courts, Wimbledon Park, Home Park Road, SW19 7HR

Wimbledon Stables

Wandsworth Council Easter Fun A fun programme offering exciting activities for children aged 3-13 years. Details not known at time of going to press. Check their webpages nearer the date. www.wandsworth.gov.uk/holidayfun See ad page 40.

2-13 April. Easter Tennis Coaching – Ideal Easter holiday fun for kids. Tone mental and physical skills while learning to play tennis. Camps take place during the weeks of 2 and 9 April, ages 4-16. Call 020 8789 0482 or 07961170675, email paul@tennis4you.co.uk. www.tennis4you.co.uk Wandsworth Leisure Wandsworth April dates tbc. Holiday Fun programme – Swimming, multisport, trampolining, archery, dance and more for children aged 3-13 years. Sessions supervised by qualified and experienced staff.

Download a brochure at www.wandsworth.gov.uk/holidayfun or phone 020 8871 6756, email holidayfun@wandsworth.gov.uk Wimbledon Village Stables 24 a/b High Street, SW19 5DX 11-13 and 18-20 April. Children’s Holiday Courses – Aimed at children under the age of 10, including complete beginners. Enjoy a riding lesson every day and play fun pony games and quizzes. The 3-day courses run from Wednesday to Friday on both weeks, 1.454.15pm. £170. Dress for the weather and bring a drink and snack! To book call 020 8946 8579. www.wvstables.com

HAPKIDO SELF DEFENCE classes available for children, teenagers and adults. Dan Jun breathing, Kicks, punches, throws, joint-locks, tumbles, jumps and breakfalls. NEW: Little Samurai’s class for children aged 3.5 - 5yrs Hapkido teaches: •Respect •Fitness •Discipline •Confidence •Control & sensitivity •Inner calm & peace •Defence •Strength & agility Instructor: Jon Bailie, 2nd Dan Qualified Hapkido Instructor and fully insured Classes available @ Battersea Spiritualist Church SW11, St Luke's Community Hall SW12, Broomwood Hall SW11, The Contact Centre SW4 and other venues

For all enquiries/bookings, please call on

07932 667 336 Private tuition/home visits also available

www.semokwan-hapkido.co.uk

Tel: 020 8696 9680 FamiliesSouthWest.co.uk

Easter holiday listings MUSEUMS & GALLERIES Beaulieu National Motor Museum Beaulieu, Brockenhurst, Hampshire SO42 7ZN 31 March – 15 April. Easter fun Join in a Hare-Brained Easter Trail at Beaulieu, look for the hares, find the answers to the clues and collect a sweet treat at the end. See the National Motor Museum’s new exhibition, Bond In Motion. Call 01590 612345, www.beaulieuevents.co.uk Foundling Museum 40 Brunswick Square, WC1N 1AZ 7 April. Quentin Blake Family Fun Session – Loads of activities exploring the themes of the Quentin Blake exhibition. 1-4pm, ages 3-12, free with entrance fee of £7.50 adults, children free. Call to book 020 7841 3600, familyfun@foundlingmuseum.org.uk. www.foundlingmuseum.org.uk Horniman Museum 100 London Rd, Forest Hill, SE23 3PQ 31 March. Family workshops – Touch real museum objects in these family sessions. Explore the animal kingdom, musical instruments, costume, masks, toys and puppets from all over the world in themed workshops. 11.45am-12.30pm and 1-1.45pm. Call 020 8699 1872, www.horniman.ac.uk Museum of London 150 London Wall, EC2Y 5HN Monday 2 April. Animals from the past – Meet Museum curators and look at

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objects from our collections to discover how important animals have been to London’s past. Find out who made the lions in Trafalgar Square, meet Tibs, the rat-catching Post Office cat, and search for hidden animals in the galleries. 5yrs+, free. Museum open 10am-6pm daily. Call 020 7001 9844, www.museumoflondon.org.uk Museum of London Docklands West India Quay, E14 4AL Tuesday 10 April. Rats and Ravens – Draw, cut and stick images of rats or ravens and bring them to life in your own animated film sequence. Create your own animal-inspired shadow puppet theatre and hear the story of the first frozen chicken! 12.301.30pm & 2.30-3.30pm, 3yrs+, free. Museum open 10am-6pm daily. Call 020 7001 9844, www.museumoflondon.org.uk/Dockl ands Sir John Soane's Museum 13 Lincoln's Inn Fields, WC2A 3BP 4, 5, 11, 12 and 13 April. Easter holiday activities – Half- or full-day children’s workshops: discover amazing Greek

Sir John Soane's Museum

Painshill Park Wild Survival! myths, paint pots, create puppets and prints, design buildings and find out about fascinating freezes. Ages 7+, 10.30am-3/4pm, £20 for whole day, £12 half day, pay in advance. Check website for details. Call to book 020 7440 4263, cjlucky@soane.org.uk. www.soaneeducation.org.uk

IDEAS FOR A DAY OUT Battersea Park Children’s Zoo Battersea Park, SW11 4NJ 31 March - 8 April. Easter fun Easter Egg Hunt around the zoo the animals are guarding easter eggs! Buy a quiz sheet and follow the clues. £1.50, includes prize. Make an Easter card – 3 and 5 April, drop-in sessions 11am-12.30pm and 1.303.30pm, £1. Rabbit Day 10 April – rabbit story time 11.45am and 3.15pm, free; Rabbit mask making, drop-in sessions 11am-12.30pm and 1.30-3.30pm, £1.

Chicken Day 12 April – chicken story time, 11.45am and 3.15pm; chicken portraits, drop-in sessions 11am-12.30pm and 1.30-3.30pm, £1. Usual entry fee applies. Call 020 7924 5826, www.batterseaparkzoo.co.uk Chelsea Physic Garden 66 Royal Hospital Road, SW3 4HS 3, 4, 10, 11 and 12 April. Family Activity Days – 3 April Chocolate Tuesday: craft activites and chocolate tasting, ages 7+. 4 April Garden Safari: discover microscopic marvels and poisonous plants, ages 7+. 10 April Garden Photography: bring your camera, ages 11+. 11 April Animal Olympians: ages 4+, 12 April Lotions & Potions, an introduction to herbal medicine, 7+. All at 10.30am-2.30pm. Call 020 7352 5646, education@chelseaphysicgarden.co.uk www.chelseaphysicgarden.co.uk page 24

Easter holiday listings Hampton Court Palace Surrey, KT8 9AU 6-9 April. Easter at Hampton Court Join the Tudor Court as they mingle in the courtyards and passageways, halls and chambers of Hampton Court Palace. Choose your friends and enemies wisely - you don't know what fate may await you...Complete the special Easter egg hunt family trail and get an 'eggstra' special prize! For more information visit www.hrp.org.uk/HamptonCourtPala ce or call 0844 482 7777. Lyric Hammersmith Lyric Square, King Street, W6 0QL 14 April. The Snail and the Whale – A tiny snail hitches a lift on the tail of a huge humpback whale and together they go on an amazing journey. 11am & 1pm, ages 4-10. Messy play at 12 &2pm. 21 April. Kid Carpet and the Noisy Animals – Follow the adventures of a singer and his animal band as they make friends, play games and rock out at a grand dance contest. 11am & 1pm, ages 3 – 8. Messy play at 12 & 2pm. Call 020 8741 6807, www.lyric.co.uk Kew Gardens Kew Road, Richmond, TW9 3AB 8 April. Celebrate all things chocolatey Easter Egg Hunt, seek out Buzzie Bee, Snap, Trap and Venus. Chocolate themed family trail and chocolate workshops. 020 8332 5655, info@kew.org, www.kew.org Painshill Park Painshill, Cobham, Surrey 2-13 April. Easter fun 2-5 and 10-13 April, Great Easter Egg and Spoon Challenge, 12-4pm, ages 2-13, free. 3, 4, 11 and 12 April, Wild

Survival! - Bush Craft for Kids, 9am-4pm, ages 8-13, £35, book in advance. 3 and 11 April, tracking and orienteering. 4 and 12 April, den building in the woods. 01932 868113, www.painshill.co.uk Syon House Syon Park, London Road, Brentford TW8 8JF Sunday 8 and Monday 9 April. Easter Trail Look for the clues inside Syon House and outside in the gardens to win a prize. House and Garden Admission costs apply. Call 020 8560 0882, info@syonpark.co.uk. www.syonpark.co.uk WWT London Wetlands Centre Queen Elizabeth's Walk, Barnes, SW13 9WT 31 March – 15 April. Easter Eggstravaganza Meet a family of friendly ducklings, find out how they grow and what they like to eat. Two interactive duckling shows every day - find out about these fluffy characters and join some special duckling games. Take part in the pond-dipping sessions and complete the special Easter trail (£1) and receive a small prize. Call 0208 409 4412, info.london@wwt.org.uk. wwt.org.uk/london Wimbledon Village Wimbledon Sunday 25 March. Easter fun Following last year’s successful Easter egg hunt, the village shops and businesses are planning another event to start the holidays off with lots of chocolate-y smiles! Pony rides, face painters, games, Easter bonnet competition, lots of chocolate and of course the egg hunt. www.wimbledon-village.com

Le Club Français FUN FRENCH FOR CHILDREN FROM 3-11yrs In school teaching for Keystage 2 children We arrange Clubs for Nursery, Primary Schools for lunch and after School

Call 07918 156831 or 020 8542 2709 f o r d e t a i l s

Tel: 020 8696 9680 FamiliesSouthWest.co.uk

Bilingual education since 1996 The French Nursery School For children from 2 years old to 5 years old. (Toddler group from 1yr) Morning or afternoon sessions available Full time sessions 9h - 15h

SW7 Queen's Gate SW1 Knightsbridge Group of international nursery schools All schools have native language teachers, excellent facilities and lovely outside playground / garden.

The Belgravia Nursery School Bilingual Nursery school French/ English. For children 2-5 years. (Toddler group from 1yr) Part time session 9h - 12h Full time session 9h - 15h • 15h35-17h The Spanish Nursery School SW7 and SW1 The Spanish out of school club for children from 2 to 5 years old. Toddler Group from 1 year old

The Kensington Gardens Nursery School, W2 For a brochure please call Bilingual Nursery school French/English Marie-Laurence Edmonstone For children 1-5 years old 020 7259 21 51 marie-laurence@thefrenchnurseryschool.com

Dawmouse Montessori Nursery Schools WWW.DAWMOUSE.COM There are now two established Montessori Nursery schools in Fulham bearing the Dawmouse name. The original Dawmouse Brunswick in Haldane Road, SW6 7EU and Dawmouse St Peter’s at St Peter’s Terrace, SW6 7JS. Both schools offer a wide range of Montessori equipment and have outdoor play areas. They will offer a safe, stimulating and active environment in which children can have fun and achieve. The broad curriculum covers all areas of the Early Learning Goals and includes science, drama, cookery and music lessons. Project work will give the children scope for creative development as well as an increased understanding of their world. We insist on our staff being Montessori trained teachers. For a prospectus and a visit to view the schools please contact : www.dawmouse.com or speak with Miss Emma 020 7381 9385

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The Olympics

Get ready to celebrate the London 2012 Games By Rebecca Carr

This summer, the London 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games will be an amazing festival of sport and culture: a breathtaking event that the whole nation can get excited about. You will get to see the very best athletes in the world, the fastest runners, the highest jumpers and the strongest swimmers. Here’s how you too can get involved and be a part of the greatest sporting event in the world.

The 2012km Challenge

Be a Local Leader The Local Leader programme is an opportunity for people in communities across the UK to be at the heart of the London 2012 Games and celebrate them in your local area. Millions of people will be celebrating and at the heart of every celebration will be the one person who makes a difference, an organiser or someone who makes things happen. So if this sounds like you, why not become a London 2012 Local Leader and plan an activity that can include the whole family. All you need is an idea of how you will celebrate the Games. You can create your own events or use the ideas communities across the UK suggested to London 2012. From Gardening for the games to planning a sports quiz or an opening night in or a super Saturday family BBQ, get your friends, family and neighbours ready to celebrate the greatest sporting event in the world.

Ideas to get you started and involve the whole family: Let’s get gardening Dig out your trowel and get planting! Use your window pots, garden or community allotment to celebrate through all things floral. You can use Olympic colours or Union Jack themes.

School’s out Every week during the school holidays keep the family busy during the holidays with the toolkit from London 2012. Packed with ideas and learning opportunities.

Design a flag Why not design an Olympic flag to wave when the Olympic Torch passes through your town or village.

Celebrating the Olympic year, choose your target distance at 2,012, 201.2 or 20.12km and then complete this in your preferred sports. You need to be aged seven or over to register. Cover your chosen distance via one or more of the following sports (for families or groups this is an aggregated total): • Running, • Walking • Cycling • Swimming • Canoeing/Kayaking, • Horse-riding • Rowing, • Sailing

Youth and Family Gold Challenge The Youth and Family Gold Challenge is the charity challenge where you take on Olympic and Paralympic Sports to raise money for charity. Everyone aged 5 and over can take part either as an individual, as part of a team, or with your family and fundraise money for one of Gold Challenge’s 125 charities. The Family Activity Challenge This challenge is all about doing sports together and is perfect for families. Learn one new sport and or try a family run, walk, cycle or swim. It’s accessible for younger children or those who want to involve elder members of the family too. The Youth and Family Gold Challenge offers three challenge options to choose from. This is your challenge and you can choose how you do it: • Complete your challenge indoors or outdoors • Choose new sports, or push yourself further in your favourite sport • Complete it as an individual or as a family

Olympic Sport Challenge

This challenge is for those of you who want to try out new sports. Pick five Olympic or Paralympic sports to learn or improve on, then coach or take part in a competitive event to complete your challenge. You need to be aged seven or over to register.

The Family Activity Challenge

This is a two part challenge, perfect for families as it's all about doing sports together, regardless of age or ability. Firstly, choose one new sport to learn then do two of the following as a family: • Swim 500 metres • Run 1,500 metres • Walk 5,000 metres • Cycle 10,000 metres The Family Activity Challenge can be done anywhere you choose but you must complete it together as a family.

For more information and to register visit: www.london2012.com/localleaders

More information is available at: www.goldchallenge.org

Tel: 020 8696 9680 FamiliesSouthWest.co.uk

Renting your home or garden for the games

Considerations for letting your family home

For those lucky enough to live near to the Olympic park, there’s one big question you might be thinking; can I rent my house to visitors for the games? Some London letting agents have reported a serious interest from those looking to rent their homes near to the action this summer. Reports suggest some homeowners are asking between £3,000 and £5,000 per week to rent their home.

• You will need to have a spotlessly clean house

If you are thinking of renting your home, there are two options available: pay an agent who specialises in short-term lets or do it yourself! Agents will typically charge commission of 10 – 15% and the advantage being they provide a contract and crucially collect the money for the rent.

• Your home insurance will not cover you for commercial lets so you will need to organise additional cover.

• All your cupboards, wardrobes and draws will need to empty and all personal possessions removed from your property.

• There will be a cost associated with finding somewhere for your family to stay while your home is rented • You will pay tax on the income you generate from the rent

If you wish to avoid paying commission, then there are a variety of websites such as rentduringthegames.com where you can list your property for a small insertion free.

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Useful websites to help you decide whether to rent your home during the Olympics www.accommodatelondon.com/olympics www.londonrentmyhouse.com www.2012homerentals.com www.rentduringthegames.com

Campinmygarden.com There is also the opportunity for garden owners of London to fill the accommodation gap with an affordable alternative – renting your garden to campers! Campinmygarden.com launched in April 2011 is an online advertising site for private garden owners to rent their garden to travellers as a low cost shortterm alternative to expensive hotels. The London 2012 Olympic games offers homeowners the opportunity to rent their garden as a micro-campsite for two weeks, providing an accessible, affordable and fun alternative to traditional accommodation that might otherwise be very costly. Campinmygarden.com allows garden owners to be open about the facilities they can provide and the pricing they offer. The rating and reviewing system also allows campers to provide a review and a rating, which can provide an insight for the next visitor. Why not rent your garden this summer and earn yourself some extra cash whilst allowing visitors to experience the “real” London with a warm welcome and friendly stay. For more information visit: www.campinmygarden.com

Playgroups listing

Playgroups, parent-and-toddler groups and pre-school drop-in sessions, Part 1 A vital resource for new (and not so new!) mums, most playgroups offer a varied mix of toys, games, singing, story-time and arts and crafts. Even better, they usually cost no more than a pound or two. Watch out for our next playgroup listings over the next few months. They will all be added and constantly updated on our online Directory. In the meantime, if you know of any more playgroups, please let us know at listings@familiessouthwest.co.uk

SW1 Saint Peter's Poppets Parish Hall, 2nd floor, Saint Peter's Church, 119 Eaton Square, SW1W 9AL contact@stpeterspoppets.co.uk www.stpeterspoppets.co.uk Open drop-in: Mondays 9.3011.00am, babies and toddlers up to pre-school age (4-5 yrs). During half terms they also have crafts for 7-8 year olds Fee £1 (during half term might be additional fee)

SW2 Brockwell Park One O'Clock Club Brockwell Park, Arlingford Road, SW2 2TA 020 8671 4883 www.lambeth.gov.uk Open 12.30-3.30pm, Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday, all year round No fee

SW3

SW6

SW10

Violet Melchett Children's Centre 30 Flood Street, SW3 5RR 020 7938 8621 www.rbkc.gov.uk infovmchildrenscentre@rbkc.gov.uk Open Tiny Tots Drop-in - babies under 1, Mondays 10am-12pm; Stay-and-Play Drop-in - ages 0-5, Tuesdays 10am-12pm; Stay-andPlay Drop-in Nannies and Childminders - ages 0-5, Thursdays 10am-12pm; Stay-and-Play Dropin - ages 0-5, Fridays 10am-12pm No fee

Ray’s Playhouse 247 Stephendale Road, Fulham, SW6 2PR 020 7371 9002 www.raysplayhouse.org Open Monday to Friday 9.30am11.30pm, ages 0-5. Tuesday afternoons 1.30-3.30pm Fee £2

Cheyne Children’s Centre 10 Thorndike Close, SW10 0ST 020 7349 1650 www.rbkc.gov.uk Open Tuesdays and Thursdays 10am-12pm, ages 0-5 No fee

SW7

Battersea Chitter Chatter Battersea Arts Centre, Lavender Hill, SW11 5TN chitterchatterbattersea@gmail.com www.nct.org.uk Open Mondays, Session 1: 9.3010.20am, Session 2: 10.30-11.45am, ages 12 months – 4 years Fee £2 per child, per session

SW4 Under 5s Nature Playgroup Oasis Children's Nature Garden, Larkhall Lane (nr corner of Studley Rd), Stockwell, SW4 6SP 020 7498 2329 www.oasisplay.org.uk/ naturegarden.html naturegarden@oasisplay.org.uk Open Fridays 10.30-12pm during term time, times differ during holidays. Sessions run in all weather Suggested donations £1 per child

SW5 St Cuthbert with St Matthias CE Primary School and Earl’s Court Children’s Centre Warwick Road, Earl's Court, SW5 9UE 020 7373 8225 info@st-cuthbert.rbkc.sch.uk www.st-cuthbert.rbkc.sch.uk Open Baby and Toddler Drop-in Tuesdays 10-11.30am; Childminder’s Drop-in Thursdays 9.30-11am fortnightly No fee

NCT Kensington & Chelsea Toddler Group Garden play-space in the Science Museum, Exhibition Road, South Kensington, SW7 2DD 0844 243 0007 www.nct.org.uk toddlersnctkensington@yahoo.co.uk Open Meets every Wednesday 34.30pm, with a group booking to use the play-space 3.10pm-3.50pm No fee

SW8 St Stephen’s Parents Group / NCT Bumps and Babes St Stephen’s Church, St Stephen's Terrace, Stockwell, SW8 1DH 020 7820 3759 www.nct.org.uk st.stephens@fegans.org.uk / nct.riverside_ststephens@yahoo.co.uk Open St Stephen’s Parents Group - Thursdays 10am-12pm; NCT Bumps and Babes – Fridays 9.30-11.30am. Ages 0-5 No fee but donations welcome for refreshments

SW9 Max Roach One O'Clock Club Wiltshire Road, SW9 7YA 020 7274 6693 www.lambeth.gov.uk Open Wednesdays, Thursdays and Fridays 12.30-3.30pm, all year round No fee

SW11

SW12 Balham Pitter Patter St Stephen's Church, Weir Road, Balham, SW12 0NU pitterpatterbalham@gmail.com www.nct.org.uk Open Wednesdays 10-11.30am, age under one Fee £2 per child

SW13 Castelnau Centre Project Playgroup Castelnau Community Centre, 7 Stillingfleet Road, Barnes, SW13 9AQ 020 8741 6526 www.castelnaucentreproject.co.uk Open Monday, Wednesday and Friday mornings 9-11am, term time only, ages 0-5 Fee Over 1 year £3, under 1 year FREE with a sibling

If you are looking for a place where your little one (from 7 months to 5 years old) can learn Spanish whilst having fun with other children, “Vamos a Jugar” Spanish playgroup offers you this opportunity in a fantastic atmosphere. We are open everyday from 3-5pm (flexible with children arriving after school). Clapham South area. Call Mary for your trial session 07597 671240 or e-mail us at vamosajugar10@yahoo.co.uk

Tel: 020 8696 9680 FamiliesSouthWest.co.uk

Playgroups listing SW14

SW19

Mortlake Hall Playcentre 30 Mullins Path, North Worple Way, SW14 8EZ 020 8878 8780 Open Monday – Friday 10am-12pm, closed during August, ages 0-5 Fee £4 per family

Bumps, Babies & Beyond (Wimbledon and Wandworth NCT) Wimbledon Park Pavillion, Wimbledon Park, SW19 7HX www.nct.org.uk wandwnct+playgroups@gmail.com Open Fridays 10.30am-12pm Fee £2

SW15 Bizzy Bugz Putney Leisure Centre, Dryburgh Road, Putney, SW15 1BL 0208 785 0388 Website dcleisurecentres.co.uk/sites/putney Email enquiries@dcleisure.co.uk Open Mondays, Tuesdays and Fridays 9.45-11am, Wednesdays and Thursdays 9.45-10.45am, ages 0-5 Fee £3.90 for first child, £2.90 for second sibling

SW20 Saint Peter's Poppets

SW16

SW17

Streatham Vale One O'Clock Club Abercairn Road, Streatham Vale Park, SW16 5AG 020 8764 3688 www.lambeth.gov.uk Open Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays 12.30-3.30pm, ages 0-5 No fee

Parent and Toddler Group St Boniface Youth Club, St Boniface Church, 185 Mitcham Road, Tooting, SW17 9PG 020 8672 2345 pandt@stbonifacetooting.org.uk www.stbonifacetooting.org.uk/wordp ress Open Tuesdays 10am-12pm during term time No fee

Bruno Bear Club Christ Church Hall, Cottenham Park Road, Wimbledon, SW20 0DW 020 8946 4491 www.christchurchwestwimbledon.org Open Thursdays 9.15-11.15am, ages 0-5 Fee Contributions welcome

Although we have taken every care in preparing these listings, times and dates can change, we take no responsibility for the accuracy of the information. Please check with the playgroup before you set off!

SW18 Coronation Gardens One o'clock Centre Coronation Gardens, Pirbright Road, SW18 5NB 020 8874 3975 yolayiwola@wands worth.gov.uk www.wandsworth.gov.uk/fis Open Monday – Friday 13.30pm, open year round, ages 0-5 No fee

Saint Peter's Poppets

Visit 345 Nursery where “The quality of teaching and learning is outstanding” (Ofsted 2008). Children become independent inquisitive and motivated in this rich and vibrant learning environment. Great outdoor space! Options include Afternoon School, Lunch Club and Early Bird Club. www.345nurseryschool.co.uk Please contact us on 020-8870-8441 or dixonannab@aol.com Fitzhugh Grove, Trinity Road, London SW18 3SA

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Book reviews Reviewed by Emilie Amos

A Beginner’s Guide to Autism Spectrum Disorders By Paul G. Taylor Published by Jessica Kingsley Publishers ISBN 978-1-84905-233-7 RRP £9.99

Autism: A Practical Guide to Improving Your Child’s Quality of Life By Jonathan and Polly Tommey Published by Piatkus ISBN 978-0-7499-4238-0 RRP £12.99 Including numerous examples of the authors’ own experiences of bringing up their son with autism, this book helps the reader realise that they are not alone. With topics ranging from understanding the first signs of autism and the diagnosis, finding a support network and gaining the most appropriate education for your child, to exploring the various types of therapies available and planning for the future, this book provides parents a valuable insight into a somewhat daunting world. Of particular interest to me was the section on diet and nutrition, and how changing this can be highly beneficial to a child with autism. This will be an important resource for both new and experienced parents of children with autism. Families Rating: 5 out of 6

Fortunately, there are now many worthy books published on autism, but what I find distinguishes this title is the amount of information relayed in a very personable style. We are very much led to put aside parenting ‘conventional’ children, in order to see the world from the perspective of the individual with autism who sees and understands the world differently. Through it, we are able to gain a better idea of how someone with autism behaves and their reasons for doing so. Whilst concise, this book provides an up-todate commentary as well as practical advice on numerous aspects of diagnosing and coping with autism. I would highly recommend this book to anyone who wants to better their understanding of autism. Families Rating: 5 out of 6

From Home to School with Autism By K I Al-Ghani and Lynda Kenward Published by Jessica Kingsley Publishers ISBN 978-1-84905-169-9 RRP £19.99 Whilst primarily a resource book for use at school, I found that this title was filled with incredibly useful information and strategies for bringing up a child with autism at home. It provides a welcome alternative to trawling through the web to find information and templates for visual timetables, Social Stories, reward charts, and many other useful examples of what can be used to make an autistic child’s day run as smoothly as possible. This comprehensive, constructive information-filled resource is a title that should be on the bookshelf of anyone caring for an autistic child, either at school or at home. Families Rating: 5 out of 6

Reviewed by Louise Turner

The 10 Most Important Things You Can Do For Your Children By Roni Jay Published by Prentice Hall Life, ISBN 0273720279 Paperback,RRP £9.99 This is not a 6-inch manual on everything you need to know about parenting! Instead, it sets out the vital principles to help you get your children safely from toddlerhood to the end of their teens. The author writes from a position of commonsense. She knows that life is busy and you are often strapped for time, therefore she covers what really matters when it comes to raising happy, healthy, well-balanced children. The book covers questions like: “What can I teach my children that will have the most positive impact on their lives?” and “What little things will make the biggest difference to their happiness now and success in the future?” Families Rating: 5 out of 6

Tel: 020 8696 9680 FamiliesSouthWest.co.uk