ISSUE 80: July/August 2012
www.familieswest.co.uk
FREE
Cove
r pi
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Ant
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Rob
ling Get ready, get Get ready, get
set, and go…set, and go…here comesSummer 2012
Families West • PO Box 32231 • London W5 1JR • Tel: 020 8930 4707 • Fax: 0208 930 7704 • E-mail: [email protected]
3July/August 2012 Families West PO Box 32231 London W5 1JR
News & Views 3-5
Education 6-7
Parenting 8-9
Summer Activities:
Take the family challenge 10-12
FREE Summer Activities 14-18
Summer Workshops 18-19
What's On in West London 20-26
Classifieds 27
Contents
www.FamiliesWest.co.uk
Families West is designed by Natalie Schmidt of www.matobodesign.com and printed by Ridgeway Press, 12 Campbell Court, Bramley, Tadley, Hampshire RG26 5EG. Tel 01252 885837. Copyright Families West Magazine 2012. Colour transparencies and any other original materials submitted for publication are sent at owner’s risk and while every care is taken, neither Families nor its agents accept liability for loss or damage. Families West is part of the Families group, established in 1990 and headed by Families South West. All franchised magazines in the group are independently owned and operated under license. We take every care preparing this magazine but the publishers and distributors cannot be held responsible for the claims of the advertisers nor the accuracy of the contents nor for any consequence.
News & Views
It's finally here! The summer of 2012 in
London promises to be action-packed; with
such a myriad of experiences that you need
to really plan not only what you are going to
do, but how you are going to fit it all in. Our
pages this issue are full of activities that
families can take part in and what we couldn't
fit in, has been put on our website
www.familieswest.co.uk
Like many families, we applied for the tickets
and were unsucessful; so we will be heading
out to Hyde Park Live Site so we can feel the
atmostphere with the crowds. This is
something that your kids will be talking about
when they are grown-ups so give them
something to say!
Towards the end of the summer of course,
we need to be thinking about back to school.
Our website will be full of useful hints and
tips for setting down some important routines
to make the next school year flow more
smoothly for everyone. Until then, have a
great summer break.
Cover picture credited to
© Anthony Robling
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Ealing volunteer scoop NCT Stars AwardMary Peters, a volunteer for the NCT Ealing Branch has been
rewarded for her dedication working with local families and
named a regional winner in the NCT Stars Awards. The annual
awards are presented by the UK’s largest charity for parents to recognise and celebrate
the efforts of its volunteers who give their time and skills to supporting mums and
dads in their communities. Mary runs a regular Bumps and Babies group as well as
being a breastfeeding peer supporter. In addition to her core role, she always helps out
at the Nearly New Sales and volunteers for other ad hoc tasks if she can. “She often
goes beyond her role, is a champion of all volunteers and a helpful team member. When new
members request information or introductions, she will often contact them the same day
offering her time and home for coffee and a catch-up. Mary makes a huge difference to
parents by providing timely and friendly access to information and support, and she makes a
massive difference to NCT by promoting the organisation and its goals whilst being a friendly
and professional key first point of contact for many.”
If you want to join Bumps and Babies, sessions take place on Tuesdays from 1.30 -
3.30pm at St Mary's Church Hall (Polygon), St Mary's Road, Ealing W5 5RH. Limited
parking is available. Bring a blanket and a toy for your baby. This is open to members
and non-members of the NCT. There is a suggested donation of £1.50
Help increase your child’s reading age this summerFast ForWord® is a programme designed to increase your child's reading and learning
ability used by the Raviv Practice. They say that on average children working with the
practice leave with a 1-2 years increase in reading age in a matter of 3-4 months
(working 50 minutes per day). It is a computer based programme used by children age
6 to 14+ and works on helping to improve memory, attention, processing speed and
sequencing skills. This will then translate to better decoding, phonemic awareness,
spelling, understanding syntax, reading fluency, improving grammar, and reading
comprehension. The programme is based on over 35 years research and is used in
over 40 countries. Parents are invited to a free demonstration and children can do
their work at home or even on holiday (internet access needed).
For more information call Usha Patel on 07766 837 616
or e: [email protected]
Perform opens new schools in West London London based Perform Drama, Dance and Singing Workshops started a class in January
2000 with 3 children. They now have 4000 children attending their workshops across
London and have chosen to expand more in to West London with new venues opening
in Baron’s Court, Chiswick and Brook Green in September 2012. Perform uses a mix
of drama, dance and singing in their classes and keep the numbers small in each lesson
so that children can get lots of individual attention.
The classes are suitable for 4-8 and 8-12 year old children
and their focus is entirely on The 4 C’s. Confidence,
Communication, Co-ordination and Concentration.
The new classes will be in
• Brook Green on Saturdays at 9.30 and 11.15 at the
Masbro Children's Centre, 87 Masbro Road, London,
W14 0LR
• Baron’s Court on Thursdays at 4pm at St Andrew's
Church Hall, 10 St Andrew's Road, Barons Court,
London, W14 9SX. They will also run a Perform Plus
class for 8-12 years olds at St Andrew’s Church on
Thursdays at 5pm.
• Chiswick A class will be opening in Chiswick on
Mondays at 4pm or 5pm at St Michael’s Hall, Elmwood
Rd, W4 3DY in addition to the 4pm and 5pm class at
Chiswick Town Hall, Heathfield Terrace, W4 4JN.
For more information 0845 400 4000
e: [email protected] www.perform.org.uk
l i hild’ di hi
4 Families West PO Box 32231 London W5 1JR July/August 2012
New
s &
Vie
ws
Have you noticed how good it feels to walk barefoot on the
earth? Recent research has shown that our immune system
functions best when our body has an adequate supply of
electrons. Electrons are easily and naturally obtained by
walking barefoot on the earth, a process known as earthing.
These electrons have antioxidant effects that protect your
body from inflammation and its many well-documented health
consequences. Today we often wear rubber or plastic-soled
shoes which disconnect us from this energy and, of course,
we no longer sleep on the ground. This disconnection from
the Earth creates abnormal physiology and contributes to
inflammation, pain, fatigue, stress and poor sleep. By
reconnecting to the earth, these symptoms can be relieved
and even eliminated. There is no research indicating that
earthing will protect a person from exposure to cell phones
signals, microwave radiation, or radio frequencies, but
research does confirm that it reduces significantly induced
body voltages generated by simple exposure to common
household plugged-in electrical items (even if the appliance is
off), internal wiring, and underground electrical devices. So
next time you open the back door, let the children walk
barefoot, as they have done throughout history, what about
sitting, working, even sleeping grounded indoors?
Get your children (and yourself too) to walk barefoot this summer
Let the Sunshine in A recent survey in the UK
showed that more than half
of adults in the UK did not
have enough vitamin D. In the
winter and spring about 1 in
6 people has a severe
deficiency and about 9 in 10 adults in the UK of South Asian
origin. The symptoms of vitamin D deficiency are unclear and the
problem can often be missed until it reaches severe levels, at
which point it results in a condition known as rickets. What is
also coming to light is the impact of insufficient Vitamin D goes
far beyond the problem of soft bones. New research is revealing
the importance of vitamin D in protecting against many health
problems, and insufficient levels of vitamin D is now being closely
associated with asthma in children, depression (recent research
by the University of Bristol), and two senior paediatric
pathologists have discovered a vitamin D deficiency in a significant
number of SIDS cases. We are all capable of producing vitamin D
with proper exposure to sunlight. However, most sunscreens
filter out UVB light which inhibits vitamin D production. During
the summer, just 15 minutes in the sun without sunscreen in the
early morning and late afternoon is enough for most light-skinned
individuals to create an ample supply of vitamin D, and for skin
with more pigment (melanin) up to 40 minutes. Sunscreens
remain essential during the sun’s peak hours for you and your
children, but maybe use just what you need.
New party themes available with Amanda’s Action ClubAmanda's Action Club have designed two brand new party formats to give older boys and girls
(aged 5-12 years old) unforgettable entertainment on their big day. These are:
• Amanda's Action Club Dance Parties, for boys and girls who want to take dancing to the next level. They
have 5 top breakdancing specialists in their crew (2 of whom are performing in the Olympic ceremonies!).
They'll perform and give the children a break-dancing workshop where they'll learn a dance routine to
show off to their parents at the end.
• Amanda's Action Club 'Strike A Pose' Parties are for young girls you want to feel like young ladies. These 2-hour parties are
hosted by beauticians who give the girls fancy nails and make-up sessions. There's also music, karaoke and dancing, followed by a
red-carpet catwalk show where girls choose their favourite outfits, to wow to their parents as a big finale.
Find out more at www.amandasactionclub.co.uk
Useful websites – To read more
on Vitamin D deficiency, go to:
• www.wddty.com
• www.webmd.boots.com
• www.womentowomen.com
• www.patient.co.uk
To read more on earthing, go to:
• www.earthinginstitute.net
• www.naturalnews.com
• www.kindredcommunity.com
5July/August 2012 Families West PO Box 32231 London W5 1JR
Parental leave plans: where do they leave you?The Queen announced in May that her Government would
propose measures “to make parental leave more flexible so both
parents may share parenting responsibility and balance work and
family commitments”. It was a grand announcement but little
information was provided on how such measures would work in
practice and what difference it would actually make to parents.
Parental leave is currently made up of several components:
maternity, paternity, adoption and parental leave. Maternity leave
can be taken up to 52 weeks, paternity leave 2 weeks, adoption
leave 52 weeks and parental leave up to 13 weeks, 26 if you have
two children. The right to pay during that time differs according
to each category. Under all four types, you are entitled to
benefit from the same contractual rights, benefits and obligations
whilst you are on leave. The only difference being that for
parental leave and for part of your maternity and adoption leave
you will not be paid.
So what are the proposed changes and how will it affect us? According to the EU Parental Rights Directive, adopted in March
2010, the UK Government had to increase parental leave from
three to four months by March 2012. Despite this deadline, it was
recently announced that this great extension of rights will be
delayed until March 2013. In practice this makes very little
difference as a very high proportion of employees do not exercise
their rights to take existing parental leave because it is unpaid.
News & ViewsIn addition, the Government wishes to reduce the default
length of maternity leave from 26 to 18 weeks, with the
remaining entitlement of up to 38 weeks able to be shared
between both partners as they see fit. There would be nothing
to stop parents taking their leave simultaneously, while parents
could also request to take their leave in any number of blocks
of any duration – although employers can refuse this. As great
in theory as this proposal may be with the best of intentions in
mind, it is unlikely to ever work. A recent survey concluded
that only 17% of mothers thought their partner would be
willing and able to take some of the shared leave in addition to
their statutory two weeks’ paternity leave. Most (41%) thought
they would not be able to afford it as a couple, while 14% said
their partner would not want to and 28% said that it would not
be practical.
What either measures do not tackle, and what was not
mentioned in the Queen’s Speech, was how to implement real
practical flexible working for parents to fit around their children
and their childcare. Parents do not want increased leave or
shared leave; they want a career that works with their children.
This may not need a great announcement but it would make a
great change.
Sarah-Jane Butler, Parental Choice Limited, the one stop
source for all your childcare needs. www.parentalchoice.co.uk –
Helping you make the right choices for you and your family.
Yourspace was delighted when Elijah,
aged 10 of W4, won a place in the Families
West competition, on Yourspace Project, part
of their series of holiday courses for children
held in Ealing W5. Elijah said, “Yourspace Project
was fantastic fun... I loved it and couldn’t wait to
go in every single day to work with all the other
kids and teachers. I even made a new best friend!”
If your rising star would like to come
to Yourspace over the summer
(13th-17th August 2012) then check
out www.yourspacedrama.com.
Swashbuckler wins his space
6 Families West PO Box 32231 London W5 1JR July/August 2012
Education
Helping children with reading with online literacy resources
Reading Eggs and Reading Eggspress are interactive
reading and writing activities that focus on the core reading
curriculum of phonics and sight words using skills and strategies
essential for reading success, supporting what children learn at
school. The program has 120 literacy lessons that take a child
from foundation stage through to the end of Key stage 1. In
addition to the lessons there is Reading Eggs World which caters
for children who already know the basics of reading but who
still have much to learn about reading, writing, spelling, and
comprehension. Children are able to choose their own
adventure from a wide range of activities including creative
writing, practicing sight words, vocabulary and comprehension
skills. The Reading Eggspress program contains a library with
over 1000 e-books, and lessons in comprehension, spelling,
vocabulary and grammar. Both the Reading Eggs and Reading
Eggspress programs have a comprehensive reporting system that
tracks progress so that students and their parents can clearly
see each child’s achievements.
Using promotional code UKS24LDW you can trial the
programs for free for an extended period of 5 weeks.
Go to www.readingeggs.co.uk, register your email address
and once your account has been set up you can enter
the code on your parent dashboard.
St Augustine’s Priory welcomes a new HeadteacherSt Augustine’s Priory is
pleased to announce the
appointment of Mrs Sarah
Raffray as Headteacher
from September 2012.
Sarah Raffray comes to
them from a Catholic
Independent Day and Boarding School in Dorset. Sarah cites her
key achievements while Deputy Head there as producing the
roadmap for school improvement, and Sarah has been at the
heart of strategic planning and development.
Sarah is deeply committed to the education of girls and delights
in the richness found in girls’ schools. She sees them as vibrant,
joyful places where learning is treasured and where girls can be
intellectually ambitious. The Catholic vision for education is also
central to Sarah’s work and she is excited about leading St
Augustine’s into a new stage of its development. Sarah brings an
enthusiasm for what is best about what is new and innovative,
along with a desire to celebrate the fine heritage of the school.
The School is looking forward to welcoming her.
8 Families West PO Box 32231 London W5 1JR July/August 20128 Families West PO Box 32231 London W5 1JR
ParentingHow do we respond to failure?Perhaps education systems and modern methods of
parenting don’t equip our children well for responding to
failure positively. Across the world education systems with
their interest in standardising and measuring have put much
emphasis on tests, results, scores and achievements with the
result that sometimes there has been not enough attention
paid to the process of learning, creating happy, creative and
thoughtful problem solvers. So much attention has been paid
to achievements that to fail is no longer an option.
Anything wrong with Positive parenting? Parents have praised their children for doing well. The focus
remains on results rather than on creative thinking or new
tactics tried. This creates a lot of pressure for kids – they
know that winning is what counts and it makes it hard for
them to fail. This creates a culture of risk adversity in
academics, sport and the arts and pits children against each
other rather than encouraging collaboration – who dares to
fail or even to take another path if it is so important to win
and there is a set way to do it?
Parents can influence matters considerably by:▼ what we pay attention to and how we talk about
success and failure. If we pay attention only to
achievements children learn results-based success is all
that counts. When they do not achieve the result hoped
for are our children not worthwhile? When your
daughter comes home from a netball match don’t let
your first question be ‘did you win?’, but ‘Did you enjoy the
game? Did you play your best? Were you able to set up some
goals? How did the team play together?’
▼ Giving meaningful and descriptive praise for
effort, strategies, attitudes and small
improvements, rather than results, to develop a
growth mindset in children. “You kept on trying with these
sums even though you didn’t find it easy. That’s persevering.
Your efforts have paid off – five out of six are correct.”
▼ Looking behind children’s behaviour and
acknowledging their emotions to help them
manage their feelings. Children who develop
emotional intelligence are more resilient and pick
themselves up again after set backs.
▼ Encouraging independence, especially in thinking,
to build self trust. Invite and listen to kids’ ideas.
“I know we did too much for our youngest son around his A
levels because we felt it was so important that he get the
grades he needed for the next step in his education, his
passport to successful adult life. But when he feels his parents
are there to catch him he doesn’t put so much effort in
himself. When we do too much of his thinking/planning/
organising he doesn’t do it himself.” Mother of 18 year old.
▼ Modelling how to handle failure well.
o When you get something wrong don’t beat yourself
up about it but acknowledge the mistake and why it
was a mistake.
o Take steps to remedy it – make amends.
o Articulate what you are learning, show that you
are not diminished by your failures but can profit
from them.
Coping with Failure
By Melissa Hood
It is a certainty that we all experience failure from time to time and therefore need to be able to cope with it. There are (at least) two ways of responding to failure: one is to be beaten down by it and to feel hopeless and discouraged and perhaps give up; the other is to accept that this time things didn’t go so well and determine to keep trying until you do better and hopefully learn something from the experience. Edison found many ways not to invent the light bulb before he discovered the way that worked. “I have not failed. I've just found 10,000 ways that won't work…”
9July/August 2012 Families West PO Box 32231 London W5 1JR
▼ Responding encouragingly to
their mistakes around school
work or music practice or sport
as follows:
o Find something positive to
comment on first. Make sure
you’re acknowledging good
qualities or behavioural traits
such as commitment and
creativity as well as being able
to spell well or do fractions or
dribble a ball well or play a
piece fluently.
o Then ask them to find
something to improve, routinely.
It is a difficult task for parents but we
need to allow our children to have an
unpressured childhood not just for the
sake of their present happiness but
also to create a future generation of
people who can think and are willing
to embrace new ideas.
www.theparentpractice.com
Are you collecting contraband on top of the fridge? What do you do with the kid’s contraband? You know... the game you confiscate when they fight over it or the toy they wallop their brother with. Or the mobile phone they are texting on after bedtime...Some parents have an overflowing mound of toys on top of the fridge,
others hide them. Perhaps you are like me with older children who can
reach above the fridge better than I can and so resort to hiding things about
the house... and losing them.
Contraband can become a source of contention with older children – whose
possessions are they? When they accuse you of ‘stealing’ the CD they raised the
money to pay for themselves – whose is it?
To manage contraband effectively;✔ It must be removed calmly!! Shouting & waving it in their face doesn’t enhance
the message – as a minimum it makes you look slightly mad or worst, it’s scary.
Either way they probably won’t be thinking about their misdemeanour and how
to behave better next time.
✔ Avoid breaking it in the process – particularly electronic equipment. Slamming down a
PS3 may end up with wrangling about who gets it mended and again MAJOR DISTRACTION!
(apart from the fact it will probably be you taking it for repair). Don’t leave electronics in
boot of car on a freezing night either – it may fuse it entirely (been there, done that)
✔ Be clear about what the unacceptable behaviour was and ideally state what
better behaviour you would like to see next time (briefly!)
✔ Only keep it for the shortest period possible. No more effective removing for
a month than 3 days as leads to resentment instead for getting the message. Besides
if hidden, if you are like me you will almost certainly have to spend ages looking an
idiot rummaging in the back of cupboards and behind furniture searching for it.
✔ Don’t allow them to whinge or browbeat you into returning it earlier.
There are plenty of opportunities for them to learn negotiation and debating
skills, just not this one.
✔ Return it with grace after time is up – no long lecture. If you must say anything –
remind them of the positive behaviour you are expecting.
If however the top of your fridge is piled high and you are hunting for capacity for
contraband elsewhere, perhaps it’s time to take a step back and consider a different
approach. Maybe taking away toys as a consequence isn’t working and you are having
to escalate to have an impact. Or perhaps you are keeping things too long. ‘Neutralising’
a toy during an argument until they agree to try a reasonable way to play together with
it does not need it put away for weeks.
More importantly it might be a nudge to go back to basics. Are you looking hard enough for
things to praise? Are you spending special time with your child and joining them in activities
and games they like to play... just enjoying spending time together. This is often enough in
itself to reduce conflict... so that toys remain toys instead of becoming contraband.
Dr Clare Bailey & Dr Debbie Marsden from Parenting Matters will be running a series of
evening Interactive Parenting Seminars in Chiswick in the autumn. They also run parenting
courses, individual consultations held by phone or face-to-face and presentations in schools.
To find out more call 01494 677575 or go to www.parentingmatters.co.uk.
Example: “This morning when we were getting ready
for school I yelled at you guys. We were in
such a hurry and I didn’t think you were
being very helpful. It’s not a good idea for me
to yell at you as it doesn’t make you feel
good,… or me, and it doesn’t make things go
any faster. I’m sorry. I thought about it
afterwards when I was calm and realised that
it was because we were in a hurry and I
didn’t want to be late that I shouted.
Tomorrow I am going to make sure we get
started earlier and I’m going to see what I
can do tonight so that there’s less to do in
the morning. I think I learnt something today.”
Say that you saw it featured
in Families West Magazine
10 Families West PO Box 32231 London W5 1JR July/August 2012
Summer 2012 is going to be all about active fun (it is the Olympics, after all) and getting out and about in the UK (which is, for all of us cash-strapped families, a lot cheaper than going abroad). So what are the best activities to enjoy en famille? Joanna Moorhead investigates
Swing through the forestSwing through the forest
A tree-top adventure makes for an adrenalin-charged day out with the
children – and while you’re up there, you get some brilliant views as well!
Personally, I’ve never been so happy to be back on solid ground as when I got
down from the terrifying heights of the forest course I tried out with my
kids... but on the upside, at least I did make it down, and relying on them to
help me through the most white-knuckle parts of the course went a long way
in terms of family bonding!
The nearest Go Ape! Centres to West London are at Trent Park in Enfield or
Black Park Country Park in Buckinghamshire. (both within an hour’s driving
distance from most West London postcodes.) The over-10s Go Ape! course
takes children (and their parents) through an hour long network of looping
obstacles five metres above the forest floor, including the spider’s web, log
balance and jungle crossing, before finishing on a tree-to-tree zipwire. (Until
recently Go Ape! has been restricted to over-10s, but there’s now a new
course at two of the company’s 27 centres nationwide – Thetford near
Brandon, and Moors Valley Country Park near Bournemouth designed for
children as young as four, although they also need to be at least a metre tall.)
Prices: Go Ape! costs £30 for adults, £20 for 10-17 year olds.
The new junior course costs £15 for any age.
For more information see www.goape.co.uk
11
Climb the rocksRock-climbing is apparently one of the
fastest-growing sports in Britain, and
giving it a try makes for a great family
day out. Like all the best family
challenges it’s about supporting one
another, learning new skills,
encouraging people when they need it,
and celebrating new-found abilities and
courage! Family climbing courses
abound and most are for complete
beginners and take children from about
eight (although some specialise in
working with younger children). Look
for a course where you have a
dedicated instructor: you’ll learn
(amongst other things) how to belay
(ie hold the ropes safely) and how to
make the most of the rock’s features
for your hands and feet. If you’re
looking for a family challenge in a rainy
period, think about climbing walls.
We have the Westway Sports Centre
in W10 where you can hire an
instructor for a family session.
www.westwaysportscentre.org.uk/
climbing
Ride the tracksFor a family with people who can’t get
around very easily – elderly
grandparents, for example, or other
people with special needs – you can’t
beat a trip on a steam railway. Most of
these railways, preserved from
Victorian times, are in areas of
breathtaking natural beauty – The
glorious Oxfordshire countryside
whisks by if you take the Chinnor and
Risborough Railway, for example. (and
on 15 July, grandparents go half price.)
For more information go to
www.chinnorrailway.co.uk or see
www.steamrailwaylines.co.uk for the
lines across the UK
Take the family challenge©
Go A
pe!
Summer Activities
22
33
Say that you saw it featured
in Families West Magazine
11July/August 2012 Families West PO Box 32231 London W5 1JR
Go mountainbiking
Like a lot of city families we have a houseful of bikes, but we
tend not to do anything more adventurous than go to
friends’ houses or the local shops on them. Mountain biking
is a whole different experience from a short trip down the
road: we went to try it on the South Downs, where the
gentle (and not-so-gentle) inclines make for great off-road
cycling adventures. You don’t, of course, have to use an
instructor to get to grips of mountain biking: but if you’re
taking kids with you, and you want to get a real thrill out of
your day (plus you won’t need to get the bikes there,
because the instructor will provide them) then I recommend
a course. Our teacher, Richard, gave us lots of confidence to
try out manoeuvres we’d never otherwise have tried (cycling
over logs, for example – and yes, it’s a lot scarier than it
looks when you’re in the saddle!). He also revealed the
number one rule of mountain biking, which is never look
down. You have to look straight ahead, focusing on the
furthest point of the trail, because if you look down you’ll
change your centre of gravity and fall off. We loved our day
learning to mountain bike: the children (who need to be
over about seven) were a lot better than the parents, but
even the parents managed things they’d never have believed
they could do!
Expect to pay around £40 per person for mountain biking
tuition, including bike hire.
For more information on the Surrey Hills tours see
www.allbikedup.com; for details of courses near you see
www.abc-of-mountainbiking.com
Take an underground walkThere’s something strangely thrilling about taking a walk
through a cave, into the very inside of the earth – the
atmosphere is quite different from anywhere else you’ll
ever go, and the memories of what you see and
experience stay with you for a long time. And, of course,
every child needs to understand the difference between
those stalactites and stalagmites. Some of the best caves
in the country are at Cheddar Gorge in Somerset, the
White Scar Cave at Ingleton in Yorkshire, where you can
take an 80-minute tour through some of the country’s
most awesome subterranean rock formations, and
Wookey Hole near Wells in Somerset, home (apparently)
to the Witch of Wookey. Closer to home, try
Chislehurst Caves in Kent. Not suitable, though, for a
buggy or a wheelchair.
Tickets from around £15 for adults, £10 for children,
depending on how extensive the caves are and how
much else there is to do at the attraction.
For more information on the caves mentioned here see
www.whitescarcave.co.uk; www.cheddargorge.co.uk;
www.wookey.co.uk; www.chislehurst-caves.co.uk
Fly a kiteEvery family has a kite or three, usually given as birthday or
Christmas presents and with fiendishly difficult-looking
instructions. We sometimes thought about taking our
children to fly them, but something always held us back –
usually doubts about how to do it, and whether the area we
were planning to kite-fly in was actually big enough. But a
lesson from Kevin Baker of Southern Breeze, a kite-flying
operation based at Baiter Park on Poole harbour, set us
straight: Kevin showed us how to make sure we were in a
suitable kite-flying area (you need to use your thumb to
check the height of the surrounding obstacles, to make sure
they’re far enough away), and you need to give the kite a
forceful yank to get it into the sky. More adventurous
families can progress to kite-buggying and kite-boarding, in
which you use the power of an airborne kite to propel
yourself along on a vehicle on the ground.
Kite-flying tuition costs around £50 for a half-day’s
family tuition.
For more information on Kevin Baker see www.sbkites.
co.uk. For information on powerkiting lessons near West
London see www.kitevibe.com
Summer Activities44
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12 Families West PO Box 32231 London W5 1JR July/August 2012
Get into metal detection
There’s something almost absurdly
exciting about setting off with a metal
detector and seeing what you’re going
to turn up – even though it will, in all
probability, be complete rubbish.
Because there’s always that chance of
finding treasure – or even, and this is
almost as good, remnants of the way
other people lived, in another age. To
use a metal detector effectively, you
need to use a sweeping motion – and
it’s best to go somewhere with plenty
of space, perhaps where other
interesting finds have been made.
Children are just thrilled with the idea
of a machine that goes bleep the whole
time, and which might lead to some
discovery. Another big plus is that this
is an adventure anyone can enjoy –
great for families with small kids in
buggies or anyone in a wheelchair
(though you need to chose your
terrain wisely). Remember it is an
offence to search the Thames
foreshore without an appropriate.
permit. There are different types of
permit available. For more information,
call Ken Jackleman on 01474 562339
For more information see
www.ncmd.co.uk
Find a geocacheGeocaching is one of those things that sounds totally perplexing to anyone who’s
never tried it, but is a huge hit with almost everyone who has. The idea is to find
some ‘treasure’ – treasure that’s hidden in a box, and is findable using a hand-held
satnav system (any will do). The treasure in question usually consists of a plastic
box like a lunchbox with a whole host of miscellaneous bits and pieces in it –
things like small toys, CDs, pens, anything. The rule is that when you find your
treasure you’re allowed to take one thing out, and you must put one thing in –
and sign the log book of course. The treasure is hidden everywhere and
anywhere – in cities, in the countryside, even underwater.
For more information see www.geocaching.com
Go canoeingGo canoeing
Canoeing centres up and down the
country offer equipment hire and
instruction for families who want to
dip their toes in the water. Your
instructor will help you learn how to
paddle, how to turn and how to
negotiate rapids – and he or she will
also ensure that you’re canoeing in a
suitable place, and in suitable weather,
for the age of your children (which is
crucial, because accidents can happen
quickly in canoes). What’s especially
lovely about canoeing is that, as well
as the skills to learn, you can also
have a day out that’s close to wildlife
– look out for fish, water birds and
dragonflies. If you’re lucky you might
even spot an otter or a water vole.
Hiring a canoe and instructor costs
around £150 for half a day.
Canoe centres in London: ■ Chiswick Pier Canoe Club,
W4 2UG
www.chiswickcanoeclub.co.uk
■ Ealing Canoe Club, UB6 7PQ
www.ealingcanoeclub.org.uk
■ Edge, Progressive Paddling,
W4 3NG
www.edgepaddling.com
■ The Sharks, UB6 7NP
■ Y Paddle Canoe Club,
WC1B 3NQ
www.ypaddle.org.uk
Summer Activities 77
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Say that you saw it mentioned in Families West Magazine
For more information see
www.canoe-england.org.uk/
go-canoeing
13July/August 2012 Families West PO Box 32231 London W5 1JR
Ealing and Uxbridge0203 092 1313 or [email protected]
Chiswick and Hammersmith07792503571 or [email protected]
www.littlekickers.co.uk
Email: [email protected]
www.twisters.org.uk
Gym Gym andand Dance
From Toddlers to Teenagers: Gymnastics, Ballet, Dance Drama,
Drama, Street Jazz/Tap, Boys Street Dance and Art.
For Adults: Stretch Workout and Body Blitz.
TWISTERS classes are stimulating and fun.
We are well known for our patience and understanding.
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We welcome children
of all abilities
For more information call:Hermione on 0208 933 9997or Louise on 0208 840 4452
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Twisters Ealing St. John’s Church, Mattock
Lane, Ealing, W13 9LA
Twisters Acton & Chiswick September 2012 You will fi nd us at: Acton Baptist
Church, Church Road, Acton, London W3 8PP
OPEN DAYFREE GYM PLAY SESSIONFRIDAY 7TH SEPTEMBER
9.15-12.15
Summer Activities
If you are looking for ideas for Summer Activities in West London, then a great place to start is our Directory and our What's On section on www.familieswest.co.uk
We have a comprehensive listings of ideas of things to do to keep the whole family entertained.
14 Families West PO Box 32231 London W5 1JR July/August 2012
Cooking Parties!•• Fun, cooking parties
•• For boys and girls aged 5-16 years•• Cooking classes
Give your child the best party ever!
whisking, baking, giggling, rolling, making, laughing, turning, licking, joking
A great way to learn while having fun!
Call for details:
0208 876 9912email: [email protected]
www.cookiecrumbles.co.uk
At homeWhether the sun is shining brightly or it is bucketing down with rain, if you want to enjoy your own home for a period of time over the summer holidays here is our list of free and fun things to do at home!
1) Using a bucket of water and big (wallpaper) brushes get little ones to paint
the garden fence, wall or patio. Simple and mess-free, but great fun. Or get the
paints outside and try hand/foot/finger painting on the largest paper you can
find – try the back of unused old wallpaper. Then get out the sprinkler hose to
clean everyone off!
2) Set up a treasure hunt with clues around the house.
3) Water fight in the back garden with two teams – one guarding a base,
and the others trying to get to the base and steal (their mission plans)
4) Games day – challenge the kids to get through at least 10 board games, ping
pong sessions etc. in the day
5) Have a movie afternoon with popcorn and a good dvd
6) Camp out, pitch a tent in the garden, fill the paddling pool and sand pit, light
the BBQ and make some fruity cocktails. Then pretend you’re in an exotic
location and laugh at all the poor travellers stuck in airports or on motorways.
7) An outdoor blackboard will encourage all sorts of games and creativity. All
you need is a piece of board, ideally marine plywood, cut to the size you
require, and some blackboard paint, available from DIY or hardware stores.
Once painted, the board can be fixed to your house wall, fence or shed. Keep
chalks in a waterproof box, ready for drawing, writing, treasure hunt maps,
instructions, scoring
8) Rainy day activity? A small amount of screen time is useful for children and
we know they love working and playing on the computer. The Reading Eggs
and Reading Eggspress programs are all about bringing out the best in each
child using unique worlds of interactive reading and writing activities. Using
promotional code UKS24LNW you can trial the programs for free for an
extended period of 5 weeks. Simply visit www.readingeggs.co.uk, register
your email address and once your account has been set up you can enter the
code on your parent dashboard.
9) How about winning some free stuff? Enter our competitions on page
www.familieswest.co.uk for your opportunity to win a load of free stuff to
keep your summer free, free, free! We’ve got treasure hunts, theatre tickets,
baby equipment and more.
FREEFREE Summer Activities Summer Activities
Inspired by the National Trust we at Families Magazine have taken up the challenge to find at least 50 free things for you to do with your children this summer! So whether you’re looking for days out, music, museums, markets, clubs or classes to attend or at-home fun, we’ll prove you really can get something for nothing.
Summer Activities
15July/August 2012 Families West PO Box 32231 London W5 1JR
LibrariesFor when the weather is wet and/or nasty, here’s what you can do indoors for free at a local library.
Story Lab is the 2012 national Summer Reading
Challenge™ coordinated by The Reading Agency and is run
in 97% of UK public libraries. With 780,000 children aged
4-11 taking part, the Summer Reading Challenge is the
biggest national reading initiative. It runs in libraries
throughout the summer holidays, with incentives, activities
and events designed to create a real buzz around children's
reading. The challenge is simple – to read six or more library
books over the summer. Just head to your local library at
the beginning of the summer holidays where staff will enrol
your children – it's completely free of charge – and every
child will receive a membership card or pack.
www.summerreadingchallenge.org.uk or
www.facebook.com/SummerReadingChallengeUK
Summer Activities
Making space for ‘at home fun’ CAN be fun in itself! Juliet Landau-Pope is a certified coach and member of the Association of Professional Declutterers and Organisers. Here she shares some top tips:
1. Be Positive Rather than harping on about tidiness, emphasise the
desire to provide more space to play. Put on some
music and talk about making room to dance. Help
children to visualise direct and immediate benefits.
2. Be Purposeful Help children part from things that they no longer use
by finding meaningful ways to donate. Show respect for
their belongings – don’t talk about ‘chucking out’ or
‘getting rid’ of their toys. Choose a specific charity to
support through donations or by doing a car boot sale.
3. Find Places Clutter often piles up because of indecision – you may
not have decided where to put dressing-up clothes, for
example. Ask the children to help you allocate a
storage space. Then sort things and encourage them to
be selective.
4. Be Particular It’s easy to become distracted so be systematic, and
focus on one task at a time. Take everything off one
shelf, for example and agree not to play with anything
else in the room until you’ve sorted out the books
into piles of what to keep and what to give away. Take
it step-by-step and remind the children of your
particular goals.
5. Aim for Progress rather than Perfect
It can take time to sort and to decide what to reduce,
reuse, recycle, donate or discard. Be realistic about
what you can achieve in each session. Rather than
aiming for perfection, make an effort to notice – and
celebrate – the progress you’re making.
Juliet Landau-Pope offers free consultations. Tel: 078178 33319. Website: www.jlpcoach.com
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Free days outStep Outside Guides: the little books that give you a big day out!
Step Outside Guides are a new
series of beautifully illustrated little
books which offer themed days out
by foot and by bus, discovering
fascinating places and wonderful
surprises in the capital. Everything you
encounter will be free-to-see, so you
don’t need to spend a penny! Just
pack up your picnic, your guide, and off you go.
The days are great for every age, and the books are
specially designed so that children, from about nine years
old can hold the book and take the lead. The maps are
bold and easy to follow and the explanations are simple
and clear. There are things to spot and questions to
consider all through the book, and rest-your-Legs pages
with puzzles and activities for weary moments.
Each book features an animal character, brought to life
by delightful illustrations. The animal lives on the route,
and acts as your escort, highlighting his Top Treasures
along the way. Good picnic spots are noted, free toilets
are marked and accessibility details for buggies and
wheelchairs are included.
The London Treasure Trail and Down by the Thames are
available from www.stepoutsideguides.com and
selected museum shops and book shops at £5 each.
FFSt
pa kck up your piicni
Decluttering Decluttering the playspacethe playspace
As you progress through the
summer of free stuff or when it
is over remember to visit the
National Trust’s interactive website
for kids with the list of the 50
things kids should do before they
are 11 ¾. Kids can log in and tick
off the things as they do them.
www.50things.org.uk/
July/August 2012
16 Families West PO Box 32231 London W5 1JR July/August 2012
Ride a bike
Go Sky Rides are free, community
bike rides, giving you a chance to get
out and explore your local area.
They’re led by a British Cycling-trained
ride leader so you’re in safe hands,
even if you’re a bit rusty. There are
rides at four different levels from
traffic-free rides in parks and on bike
paths, to more challenging rides taking
your cycling a bit further. For example
on 22 Jul at 10am there is a Park to
Park ride starting at the car park in
Holland Park for adults and children
aged 11+ Other rides allow for much
younger children to ride or bike
trailers. www.goskyride.com
Sustrans offer a free information pack
to discover great places to cycle near
you as well as a cycling with children
booklet. They also have an online
mapping program to find out where to
walk and cycle from your home. Just
tap in your postcode and it shows you
local walking and cycling routes as well
as bus stops, train stations and
connections to local destinations such
as shops, schools and sports facilities.
www.sustrans.org.uk
Walks & Bike RidesEnjoy the great outdoors either locally or further afield...
Take a Walk
The Ramblers is leading plenty of
short, family friendly walks this
summer that everyone is welcome to
join for free.
Visit www.ramblers.org.uk/
walksfinder or for information on
getting children and families walking
locally try www.ramblers.org.uk/
info/paths/region/london/
londonwest.htm.
The walks by the river and the canal
look especially good. You may find
www.walkswithbuggies.com/Greater-
London a better bet if you have a tiny
one in tow.
Many West London councils have
walks that have been mapped out for
different levels of fitness and ability.
They range from short 20 minute
walks around parks to a long trek that
may traverse several boroughs.
National Trails are long distance
routes for walking, cycling and horse
riding through the finest landscapes in
England and Wales. Altogether, in
England and Wales, there are about
2,500 miles (4,000km) of National Trail.
They have all been created by linking
existing local footpaths, bridleways and
minor roads and by developing new
ones where there were gaps. They pass
through some of the most stunning
and diverse landscapes in Britain.
There is something to suit everyone,
from short walks to a 630 mile
adventure. www.nationaltrail.co.uk
There are lots more things to do in the 'What's On' section of our website.
Go to www.familieswest.co.uk
MarketsEven without cash to splash, there’s a special pleasure in checking out some of the most famous markets in the world – or perhaps just a local one? Enjoy the atmosphere, the entertainers and take a leisurely stroll just enjoying the ambiance!
Borough Market (SE1) Perfect for
the family, every Thursday sees a
Demonstration Kitchen between 12 –
2pm in the Jubilee Market. These
sessions are free and showcase some
of the produce available in the market
with their resident chef, Hayley
Edwards cooking up dishes inspired by
seasonal produce. Hayley is on hand to
give advice, tips and tricks for the
Kitchen in these informal and hands on
sessions. Borough Market will be
opening for summer 2012 everyday
throughout the Olympic and
Paralympic period – Sunday to Friday
10am – 5pm and Saturdays 8am – 5pm.
www.boroughmarket.org.uk
Top tips for fun family walking: Make it an adventure: Don’t suggest ‘going for a walk’, make it an outing
or adventure to somewhere like a park, a playground, woods or a pond; treat
them to a picnic or take something to eat and drink along the way.
Take it nice and slow: Be prepared to go at their pace, stopping to play and
look at things on the way, and to cut the walk short if they get tired. With
regular walking children will build up their fitness just as an adult does but
keep walks short until you know about their abilities.
Go prepared: Make sure they have comfortable clothes and shoes, and
extra layers in case of rain or cold weather.
Safety First: Remember hats and sun cream, and take something for bites
and stings.
Let them bring a friend, team up with another family, or join a led walk
that’s suitable for families.
Get Creative: You could plan fun activities and games like a treasure hunt or
I-Spy; look out for animals, birds, trees, people, buildings, colours, or collect
tree seeds, leaves, shells, and small stones. Take photographs along the way
they can put in a walker’s diary; get them involved in planning and running the
walks, perhaps plotting the route on a map and map reading during the walk.
Walk with a dog if you have one.
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Brick Lane Market (E1)
The best day to visit Brick Lane market
is on Sundays, though the shops and
restaurants are open every day.
On Sundays the streets are lined with
people hawking their second-hand
wares. There are also street
performers to enhance the vibrant,
lively atmosphere.
Columbia Road Flower Market
(E2) On Sunday the street is
transformed into oasis of foliage and
flowers. Everything from bedding plants
to 10 foot banana trees are up for
grabs. The air is intense with the scent
of flowers and the chant of the barrow
boys "Everthin' a fiver"? A lot of the
flower sellers grow their own plants
or import flowers from around the
world. A beautiful day out that can
cost nothing!
Portobello Road Market (W10)
is one of the most famous street
markets in the world. It is a popular
destination for Londoners and tourists
alike. Portobello Road goes straight
through the heart of Notting Hill, the
trendy area of London made famous
by the film. Portobello Market takes up
most of what is actually more properly
called Portobello Road, it stretches for
around two miles, although on a
crowded Saturday afternoon it takes
quite a while to walk from end to end.
Spitalfields (E1) London's oldest
market, Spitalfields is now open every
day except Monday and Saturday.
Resplendent under a Fosters &
Partners-designed glass canopy, the
market and shops offer cutting edge
fashion and interiors, original artworks
and as well as food. Spitalfields also
offers regular free events, including
lunchtime concerts, festivals, tango
classes, fashion shows and much more.
Cabbages and Frocks Market
in the cobbled yard of St Marylebone
Parish Church, sells vintage clothing
and delicious food. Open every
Saturday from 11am-5pm, marvel at
the food specialities on sale. The
market supports new designers and
cottage industries. There is retro and
vintage clothing, homewares, cute
childrens clothes, hand blown glass
and jewellery by individual designers.
www.cabbagesandfrocks.co.uk
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Parks & GardensLocally we are lucky to have a plethora of enticing green spaces with lush grass, perfumed flowers, acres of room in which to wander and most with children’s playgrounds. Visiting is FREE! Look them up on www.familiesonline.co.uk/LOCATIONS/London-West/Directory/Parks-in-West-London and try somewhere new!
A little further afield, here are a couple of suggestions for little ones...Aldenham Country Park (WD6) covers 175 acres of woodland, and boasts a
range of nature trails for visitors to enjoy. It’s also home to ‘100 Aker Wood’, a
recreation of all the features found in the Winnie the Pooh adventures. Children
love the boating lake, and the rare breeds’ farm, which is home to a variety of
animals such as chicks, geese, ducks, goats, guinea fowl, turkeys, lambs, cattle,
sheep, and poultry. You can enjoy outdoor fitness, woodland experiences, mixed
farming, pony rides, nature walks and more! www.aldenhamcountrypark.co.uk
Hampstead Heath (NW3) is one of London’s most popular open spaces.
An island of beautiful countryside, the magic of Hampstead Heath lies not only in
its rich wildlife and extensive sports and recreational opportunities, but also in its
proximity and accessibility to millions of people. There is a zoo, an athletics track,
an education centre, extensive children's facilities, three swimming ponds and a
Lido. www.cityoflondon.gov.uk
The Welsh Harp or Brent Reservoir (NW9) is 170 hectares of open water,
marshes, and grassland. It is an attractive recreational centre, and inhabits a range
of wildlife. There are two bird hides on the site, a range of nature trails, and a
large space of open water. There are vast amounts of wildlife to see, which makes
a lovely afternoon out. www.brent.gov.uk/pks.nsf/pages/LBB-89
Free park resources: While you are outside visiting parks, fields or other
natural spaces you could be part of a fun wildflower survey. Plantlife's Bee Scene
survey is free and is an easy way for children to learn about wildflowers in their
local area and whether that area is good for bees. By 'planting' the findings on
the Wild About Plants website, they will help create a virtual meadow of good
wildflower sites across the country. A series of free guides and resources are
downloadable free from: www.wildaboutplants.org.uk/beescene
London’s Royal Parks Brompton Cemetery (SW10)
covers 16.5 hectares and is one of the
finest cemeteries in the country. In an
area with few green spaces or outdoor
recreational facilities, the cemetery
offers an oasis in all seasons, with paths
for walkers and cyclists, and hours of
diversion for historians, genealogists,
naturalists and connoisseurs of
memorial art and sculpture.
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Bushy Park (TW11) – Lying north of Hampton Court
Palace, the history of the park is inextricably linked to
the palace, yet it has always had its own distinct rural
character. The famous Arethusa 'Diana' Fountain forms
the centrepiece to the equally famous Chestnut Avenue.
Facilities in Bushy Park include a children's playground
and toilets for disabled people are available.
Green Park (SW1) is a peaceful park surrounded by
Constitution Hill, Piccadilly and the Broad Walk where
you could fly a kite or climb a tree!
Hyde Park (W2) has a wide range of facilities. There
are cafes and restaurants offering everything from ice
creams and sandwiches to three course meals. There is a
children's playground and the Lookout, a former police
observation point which is now an education centre
where children learn about nature and wildlife.
Kensington Gardens (W2) with the free Serpentine
Gallery, two play-grounds and children's entertainment
(thrice daily for six weeks during school summer
holidays), bandstand recitals in the summer months, this
park is a must! It also boasts a huge wooden pirate ship
as the centrepiece of the Diana, Princess of Wales'
Memorial Playground. Kids love to play, explore, dash
about, and let their imaginations soar in this magical
space. There is a sensory trail, tee-pees, a beach around
the pirate ship and various toys and play sculptures; all
set against a lush backdrop of trees and plants. There's
plenty of seating so the grownups can relax too.
Regents Park (NW3) has an open air theatre (end of
May to early September), bandstands (which hold a
variety of lunchtime and evening concerts), puppet shows
and London Zoo.
Richmond Park (TW10) has a wide range of facilities
on offer, including a playground at Petersham Gate and
educational facilities for those with special needs at
Holly Lodge.
St James’s Park (SW1) is the oldest Royal Park in
London and is surrounded by three palaces. Facilities in
the park include a children's playground (with toilets) and
deck chairs (April-September). There is pelican feeding at
2.30pm each day.
Greenwich Park (SE10) is home to The Old Royal
Observatory, the Observatory Planetarium (by
appointment), a bandstand (Sunday concerts during
summer), a children's playground and entertainment such
as puppet shows and workshops.
For more details about ‘What’s On’ in our Royal
Parks visit www.royalparks.org.uk
Hyde Park © Indusfoto
A BIT OF EVERYTHING…. DAY CAMPS
TWISTERS 23-27 Jul TWISTERS SUMMER SCHOOL for children aged 3+
(majority of children will be age 3-5). Sessions include Gym/Dance Drama/Art
and Music. Art materials and refreshments provided. Sessions 10.30am-1pm. £90
for the week. £20 per session. Siblings deduct 10% for 2 days or more.
020 8933 9997 or 020 8840 4452 www.twisters.org.uk
PICCOLO PLAYCENTRE 23 July-31 Aug For ages 3-11, 8.45am-5.45pm at
Hogarth Youth Centre, W4 2JR 07525 773 659 [email protected]
SCIENCE
MOTHER NATURE SCIENCE 23 July-24 Aug SUMMER SCIENCE CAMP For
ages 5-12, 9am-3.30pm in Ealing, Harrow, Hampstead, Northwood, Brent and other
locations in North and Northwest London. Hands-on activities exploring scientific
schemes and topics. Experiments to make and take home. Two programmes to
choose from- “Science Olympics” and “Science Academy. Themes include-Balancing
Acrobat Toys, Submarine Divers, Lava Lamps, Momentum Marble Runs, Friction
Sprinters, Powerful Explosive Energy Shows, Slime, Dry Ice, Creating Crystals,
Balloon Hovercrafts, Sun-printing, Kaleidoscopes, Diffraction Glasses, and Water
Rocket Launching. 020 8863 8832, e:[email protected] www.mnature.co.uk.
Group discounts available.
HOLLAND PARK ECOLOGY CENTRE 23 July-5 Sept Environmental themed,
outdoor and creative activities for ages 5-12. Booking essential on
020 7938 8166 e:[email protected] www.rbkc.gov.uk/ecology
DRAMA AND MUSIC
PERFORM THREE DAY WORKSHOP of drama, dance and singing for ages 4-8.
The theme this summer is The Wizard of Oz using original live music, dance
and improvisation. On the final day, family and friends are all invited to a
mini-performance.
Venues:
30 Jul – 3 Aug and 20 – 24 August: in NOTTING HILL at St Peter’s Hall: 2.30 –
4.30pm.
23 – 2 July: in CHISWICK at the St Michael’s Hall: 2.30 – 4.30pm.
30 July – 3 Aug and 20 – 24 August: in EALING at the St Barnabus Millennium
Hall: 10am – 12noon
6 – 10 Aug: in KEW at the Kew Community Centre: 2.30 – 4.30pm.
Book on 0845 400 4000, e: [email protected] www.perform.org.uk
STAGECOACH KENSINGTON AND CHISWICK 23-26 July SUMMER
WORKSHOP for ages 6-18 at Addison Primary School, Addison Gardens, London,
W14. An exciting and fun packed four days of singing, dance and drama! You do
not have to be a Stagecoach student and no previous experience is necessary –
just lots of enthusiasm and energy. For more information, call Sara Catlin
Brown on 020 8398 8106 www.stagecoach.co.uk/kensington
STAGECOACH KEW 30 July-3 Aug REPUNZEL AND HER MAGIC HAIR
For ages 5-12. 020 8487 1456 www.stagecoach.co.uk/kew
LYRIC HAMMERSMITH All the sessions listed below are free and suitable for
ages 11-19. 020 8741 6864 www.lyric.co.uk
6-10 Aug MAKING THE BAND Get a unique insight into the music industry
in a 5-day bootcamp for singers, songwriters, musicians, producers and
dancers.
20-24 Aug PLAY IN A WEEK Create a full scale whodunnit play in 5 days
– an opportunity for performers, costume or set designers.
28-31 Aug CARNIVAL WEEK Costume and lantern making workshops,
and carnival song and dance sessions.
YOURSPACE 13-17 Aug YOURSPACE HOLIDAY COURSES in drama for
children and teenagers in Ealing W5. Yourspace (12-18 yrs), Yourspace too
(6-11 yrs) and Yourspace tots (3-5 yrs) www.yourspacedrama.com
e:[email protected] or call Faith Hegerty (director) on
07580 474638
RICHMOND THEATRE
13-17 Aug CREATIVE SUMMER SCHOOL 10am – 4pm daily for ages
12 – 16. Work with professional theatre practitioners to create your own
site-specific play.
13-17 Aug PERFORMANCE SUMMER SCHOOL 9.30am – 4pm daily, for ages
8-11. Learn a variety of theatre skills, from song and dance to design, take part
in a backstage tour and perform on stage.
MONSTER CAT THEATRE 20 -22 Aug DRAMA WORKSHOP for ages 5-12 in
Ealing. 020 8567 5276
19July/August 2012 Families West PO Box 32231 London W5 1JR
NEED EXTRA INCOME?TEAM LEADERS NEEDED£500–£2000+ per month, work from home.
Part time or full time with fl exible hours.Full backup support and training.33 years of success and growth.
Are you what we’re looking for?Call Alison or Ian
01923 232242
Facepainting fun!Facepainting fun!Little Mugs Face PaintingProfessional face painter for any event
www.facebook.com/ littlemugsfacepainting
07946640669
Summer ActivitiesDANCE
THE KENSINGTON BALLET SCHOOL 6-10 Aug
SUMMER SCHOOL in Kensington for children aged
3 - 5 years. 9am-12 noon. Venue: Christchurch, Victoria
Road, London W8 5RQ www.kensingtonballet.com
DIDDIDANCE Diddi Dance are running their funky
pre-school DANCE CLASSES for boys and girls
aged between 18 months and 4 years throughout
the summer. Classes are held in, Willesden Green,
Ealing, Kensal Rise, Queens Park, Northfields, West
Kensington and Notting Hill. Contact Gina to book
your free trial e:[email protected]
07426 009 179 www.diddidance.com
ART
CORNER 9 23 July onwards SUMMER ART CAMP
for children 5+ Different art & craft projects to
develop creativity and art skills. 10am-12noon Mon-
Fri www.corner9.com 07763 472516
FIMO CLAY Various dates in July and Sept
CLAY WORKSHOPS for age 6+ in Acton.
020 8992 3767 www.funwithfimoclay.co.uk
KITE STUDIOS 16-31 July ART WORKSHOPS
which include painting, printmaking, construction and
clay. 10.00-11.30 am for ages 4-8 and 12-4 pm for
ages 8yrs + Venue: 2b Bassein Park Rd, W129RY
020 8576 6278 [email protected]
GYMNASTICS
THE LITTLE GYM WANDSWORTH, FULHAM,
HAMPTON AND TEDDINGTON 23 Jul-2 Sept
SUMMER CAMP Three-hour OFSTED approved
camps for ages 3-6 and 6-12 with games, crafts and
gymnastics all based around a fun weekly theme. The
older children will be able to focus on advancing
their gymnastic skills. www.thelittlegym.co.uk
WANDSWORTH & FULHAM 020 8874 6567
HAMPTON & TEDDINGTON 020 8977 0099
THE LITTLE GYM WESTFIELD 23 Jul-1 Sept
SUMMER CAMP Themed two-hour and three-hour
Camps for ages 3-8 years. Non-competitive and
supervised by a high ratio of trained instructors.
020 8735 0817 e:[email protected]
THE LITTLE GYM CHISWICK 23 Jul-31 Aug 6
weeks of OFSTED registered SUMMER CAMPS for
ages 3-8 and a weekly programme of gymnastics classes
for ages 4mths – 12 yrs. Olympic themed half-day
camps, flexible booking for members and non-members.
SPORTS
SPORT ACADEMIES 9 Jul-17 Aug Fun, safe, active
and inspirational SCHOOL HOLIDAY SPORT
CAMPS for 3-14yrs. Ofsted registered. Professional,
CRB cleared coaches. 10% sibling discount. Separate
camps for different ages
- TINY TOTS SPORT ACADEMIES –
multi-sport camp for 3-5s
- SPORT ACADEMIES – multi-sport camp for 6-14s
Venues:
CHISWICK at King's House Sports Ground,
Riverside Drive W4 2SH
HAMPSTEAD at UCS Active, Frognal NW3 6XH
HARROW at Harrow School, Garlands Lane,
Harrow on the Hill HA1 3EA
RICHMOND at King's House School Junior
Department, 61 King's Road TW10 6EG
www.sportacademies.com or call 0844 335 8217.
FIT FOR SPORT 23 July-31 Aug OFSTED
Registered KIDS CAMPS. Activities include many
sports, games, arts and crafts and healthy lifestyle
education. For ages 3-12, standard, extended and
half-day options available. 0845 456 3233* *Reduced
rate number www.fitforsport.co.uk
Dates and Venues:
23 Jul-31 Aug at Belmont Primary School,
Chiswick W4 5UL, Brentham Club Ealing W5
1NP, Kensington Leisure Centre, W11 4PQ and
Trailfinders Ealing W13 0DD,
2 Jul-31 Aug at Paddington Imperial College
W2 1LF
LITTLE KICKERS Football skills for children aged
18 months to 7 years in Ealing and Uxbridge.
Classes take place through the summer holidays.
020 3092 1313 e:[email protected]
www.littlekickers.co.uk
MI SPORTS 30 July-17 Aug MULTI-SPORTS
SESSIONS from 10am-3pm
www.mi-sport.co/ealing or 07894 540257
COOKERY
COOKIE CRUMBLES For ages 5-12 at
58 Pembroke Rd, London W8 6NX 020 8876 9912
www.cookiecrumbles.co.uk
24 July and 14 Aug AMERICAN CUPCAKES
AND MILKSHAKES 2-5pm. Recipes will include
red velvet, Oreo cookies and Malteser cupcakes
followed by some delicious milkshakes. 5-12 yrs.
27 July OLYMPIC FUN IN THE SUN 2-5pm.
Delicious smoothies, followed by energy muffins
and chocolate medals. 5-12 yrs.
3 Aug LITTLE ITALY 10am-12 noon, Focaccia,
Beef Meatballs in Tomato Sauce and ice cream
sundae. 4-8yrs.
3 Aug BIG ITALY 2-6pm, Lasagne, ravioli,
biscotti and of course some delicious semi-
freddo ice cream. 9-16 yrs.
6 Aug AFTERNOON TEA 2-5pm, Scones, iced
fancies, tea biscuits and more. 6-11yrs.
9/10 Aug TEENAGE SURVIVAL WORKSHOP
10.30am-4pm, Basic cookery skills for ages 13-17.
17 Aug LITTLE CHINESE BANQUET
10-12.30pm 4-8 years and 2-6pm 9-15 yrs.
Stir-fried noodles, dim sum, sweet and sour
chicken and more.
21 Aug LITTLE /BIG DINNER MENU Cook
and eat a 3-course meal.10am-12.3opm for
4-8yrs and 2-6pm for 9-15 yrs.
28 Aug TRULY MADLY PASTA 2-6pm, Hands-
on pasta making as well as sauces and some
delicious puddings. 5-12yrs.
30 Aug NEW YORK DINER 10am–12.30pm for
4-8 yrs and 2-6pm for 9-15 yrs. Homemade chips,
burgers, New York cheese cake, gooey brownies,
cinnamon swirls and tortilla crisps. 4-8 yrs.
PREPARATION FOR 11+
FLEET TUTORS 13-31 Aug If your child is sitting an
entrance test for a grammar or independent school,
you may need to think about using the summer
holidays to get a head start on preparing for the test.
Recent results show that over 80% of students
exceed their predicted scores in public exams when a
reputable tuition provider is commissioned. Mylene
Curtis, Managing Director of ‘Fleet Tutors’, says
“parental feedback following our intensive, small group
‘11+ Examination Preparation Courses’ is overwhelmingly
positive, with parents reporting excellent results and many
students receiving offers from their first choice schools.”
Typically, 11+ exam preparation courses are designed
for small groups of 10 and 11 year olds – with a
maximum class size of 5 or 6 learners. Fleet Tutors
not only uses past examination papers but has also
developed its own comprehensive learning materials
to support their targeted revision programmes. “We
should have approached Fleet Tutors earlier! The sessions
were helpful and my son has increased confidence for the
exam having attended your revision course.” (Parent,
Chessington, Surrey) Courses take place in Chiswick.
Call 020 8580 3911 or 0845 644 5452 or
20 Families West PO Box 32231 London W5 1JR July/August 2012
What's On
RHS HAMPTON COURT PALACE FLOWER
SHOW 3 - 8 Jul An idyllic setting for a day of
home-grown fun. Enough ideas, plants and
gardening products to tempt gardeners of all
ages. Tickets £14.50-£32.50) from www.rhs.org.uk
0844 338 7505
ACTON CARNIVAL 7 Jul 12-7pm, at Acton
Park. Entry £2, children under 12 free. A vibrant
grassroots community festival with music, dance,
performance, exhibits and food. The carnival
procession leaves at 12pm travelling from
Woodlands Park on Crown Street, down the
High Street to the festival site in Acton Park.
TABERNACLE SCHOOL FETE 7 Jul at
Avondale Park, London W11. 12-4pm, bouncy
castle, stalls, International food, bric -a brac, face
Painting, nails.
KENSINGTON NCT MUMS NIGHT OUT
10 Jul 8pm, at The Queen’s Head Pub, 13 Brook
Green, W6 7BL – a chance to unwind, chat
and make some new friends. Reservation
has been made under “Miranda Thwaites”;
confirm attendance on the NCT Kensington
Facebook Page.
TODDLER OLYMPICS 11 Jul, 10am-12pm at
Kensington Gardens. Olympic-inspired fun with
Local early-years sports specialists, Active Planet.
They will be running three, 30-minute sessions
of organised games for children, (suitable for
children 18 months +).Plus a face-painter, singing,
medals handed out. Bring along a rug and picnic
lunch. Free but registration essential on
www.nctkensingtonolympics.eventbrite.com
BBC PROMS 13 Jul-8 Sept Classical music
festival at the Royal Albert Hall. Plenty of
concerts for families including the Wallace and
Grommit Prom on 29 Jul. See the full list on
www.bbc.co.uk/proms/whats-on/2012/
categories/for-families
PORTOBELLO ROAD ARTS DAY 14 Jul 1-4pm,
A fun afternoon of street theatre and arts for all
the family in Portobello Road, W10. Free.
THE SANDPIT 15 Jul 2.30-6pm in Holland Park.
Explore an afternoon of games and playful activity
designed by a range of game designers, theatre-
makers and technologists. For ages 10-18.
FESTIVAL OF SACRED ART AND MUSIC
19-22 Jul, at St Barnabas Church, Pitshanger
Lane, W5. Artists from London will exhibit work
on the theme of Sacred Art, (any visual media
intended to inspire, enlighten or praise spiritual
values of any faith.) Events include a Champagne
Reception with live jazz, a ‘Come and Sing’
daytime rehearsal and evening performance of
Handel’s Messiah which will be open to all
singers and an afternoon ‘mini Glyndebourne’
picnic with champagne. Details on
www.barnabites.org/artsfestival
BIG DANCE BUS - EALING 11 Jul 3-7pm at
Haven Green, Ealing. This quirky double-decker
Routemaster is a pop-up rave with music,
compere and DJ. Suitable for all the family, free.
BT RIVER OF MUSIC 21 and 22 Jul The two-day
celebration will feature free concerts along the
banks of the river Thames, starring musical talent
from Olympic countries around the world. “A
World of Music in London”- Six stages will host
music from the world's major continents:
• Asia in Battersea Park
• Africa in London Pleasure Gardens
• Europe in Trafalgar Square and Somerset
House
• The Americas at the Tower of London
• Oceania at the Old Royal Naval College
Greenwich
OLYMPIC TORCH PROCESSION AND TEA
PARTY 26 Jul 2.30-6pm at Music House for
Children, Shepherds Bush. Tea party to celebrate
the Olympic torch going past the venue. Also
stalls, flag making, sing-along and Olympic sports
and games. £3 adult, £1 children includes tea
and cakes. Book on 020 8932 2652.
www.musichouseforchildren.co.uk
WAKE UP THE NATION! 27 Jul. At 8am people
all across the UK will ring bells for three minutes
to perform artist Martin Creed’s Work No. 1197.
Hand bells, door bells, bicycle bells, church bells,
school bells, last orders bells, dinner bells…
where there is a bell, there can be someone to
ring it! To find out how to take part, visit
www.allthebells.com
NCT CHISWICK AND HAMMERSMITH NEW
MUMS MEET 8 Aug 2pm, in Starbucks 376
Chiswick High Road, London, W4 5TF.
Contact: [email protected]
NCT CHEEKY MONKEYS TEA PARY
17 Aug 12 noon in Holland Park, Ilchester Place,
Kensington, W8. Play games, eat cake and meet
other parents. Lots of entertainment, food stalls,
goody bags and prizes to be won in the tombola.
All the money raised will go towards helping
NCT to reach more parents from all
backgrounds. Contact Miranda Thwaites
e:[email protected] 0844 243 0007
02 LONDON MELA 19 Aug in Gunnersbury
Park, W3, Free entry. A festival inspired by South
Asian culture. Entertainment includes classical
and new music, as well as street arts, dance,
visual arts, a giant funfair, comedy, and food stalls
offering cuisine from around the world. In 2012
the O2 London Mela celebrates its 10th birthday
and the Olympics coming to London. Festival
highlights include music from the Philharmonia
Orchestra and a 300-person parade with giant
floats and amazing costumes.
www.londonmela.org
PARTY ON THE PIER 19 Aug Family fun day on
and off the river at Chiswick Pier starting at
11.30am. Free boat trips every 45 minutes, canoe
taster sessions, stalls, BBQ, refreshments, and
music. Also Amanda’s Action Club sessions, face
painting, ice cream and bouncy castle.
www.chiswickpier.org.uk
NOTTING HILL CARNIVAL 26 and 27 Aug
Europe’s biggest street festival. Details on
www.thenottinghillcarnival.com
BOOK SWAP & STORYTELLING IN THE
PARK 29 Aug 10am-12noon in Kensington
Gardens. Join NCT Kensington & Chelsea for
some reading fun in the park. Bring along a
children’s book that you’re willing to swap
(in good condition). Also Storytelling session.
Bring a rug and picnic. Free, suitable for
parents with children aged 1+
www.nctkensingtonbooks.eventbrite.co.uk.
There are lots more things to do in the 'What's On' section of our website. Go to www.familieswest.co.uk
© H
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Diary Dates
21July/August 2012 Families West PO Box 32231 London W5 1JR
To advertise in Families West please email [email protected] or phone 020 8930 4707When you contact us, please say that you saw our advert in Families West!
For children aged from 2 to 5 years. The nursery follows the Montessori method. We also offer, French, Ballet, Music, IT, Art and Drama.
Full and part time sessions are available. Qualifi ed and experienced teachers maintain a high standard of learning and care.
* Excellent academic record* Caring and nurturing environment
* Happy, considerate and confi dent children
Tel no: 0208 579 2304 Mobile no: 07956 228 959Email: [email protected]
Website: www.stmatthewsmontessori.com
Group of International nursery schoolsW2 Lancaster Gate • Bayswater
• Notting Hill Gate
SW7 Queen’s Gate
SW1 Knightsbridge
All schools have native
language teachers, excellent
facilities and lovely outside
playground/garden
For a brochure please call
Marie-Laurence Edmonstone
020 7259 21 51
Bilingual education since 1996
The Kensington Gardens
Nursery School
Bilingual Nursery School
French/English
• For children from 1 to 5 years old
• Morning and afternoon sessions
• Full time sessions
• Summer school in July and August
The Spanish Nursery School
Bilingual Nursery School
Spanish/English
• For children from 1 to 5 years old
• Morning and afternoon sessions
• Full time sessions
• Summer school in July and August
22 Families West PO Box 32231 London W5 1JR July/August 2012
The London 2012 Games: a summer spectacular After years of effort, dedication and anticipation, it’s nearly here! The London 2012 Games marks a defining moment for athletes of Team GB and Paralympics GB – a chance to show the world what they can do on home soil.
London 2012 will be remembered for years to
come. There are all kinds of activities for the
family to enjoy together. Whether you continue
to follow the Olympic Flame, catch the action
at a host of venues, or watch the action on big
screens across the UK, there is a lot to do and
see this summer.
London 2012 for free If you were not lucky enough to get Olympic
or Paralympic tickets, you can still see some of
the world’s top athletes in action this summer.
Some of the best open-air action is free to
enjoy without tickets. Events like the marathon
and road races offer the chance to see world-
class athletes in peak performances against the
magnificent backdrop of the London skyline.
London 2012 on the big screen If you can’t make it to any of the regional
venues, why not head to your local live site. BT
London Live Hyde Park, one of the eight Royal
Parks, will deliver unparalleled viewing of the
Olympic Games via a series of big screens,
including the largest one in the UK. The live
BBC coverage will include London 2012 medal
events, with cultural entertainment and live
music also on offer. It will be free to access
between 28 July and 11 August. (The Opening
Ceremony Celebration Concert on July 27 and
the Closing Ceremony Celebration Concert on
August 12 will be ticketed.) There are three
options for visiting -
• Walk in on the day from 11am.
• Get a guaranteed entry ticket – up to four
tickets per person will be available to be
booked, in advance, for entry into BT
London Live Hyde Park, before 2pm, on a
specified day. There is no limit to the
number of days you can guarantee your
entry for. These tickets will not be
available for the Opening and Closing
Ceremony Celebration Concerts. Lots of
activities will be on at the park including
tennis, lacrosse, football, volleyball and
basketball organised by Sport England.
There will be 4 giant screens to watch all
the Olympic action as well as live music
acts and refreshments.
• The Opening and Closing Ceremony
Celebration Concerts at Hyde Park on
July 27 and August 12 will be ticketed.
Tickets will be available via www.
btlondonlive.com
Visit www.london2012.com/join-in for more details.
What's On
London 2012 Festival The London 2012 Festival is the biggest festival the UK has ever seen and features 12,000 events and performances at over 900 venues featuring artists from across the world coming together in celebration of the Games. The Festival started in June and runs through to the 9th September when the Paralympic Games end and the Games are handed over to Rio.
The Festival is all about getting involved – so why
not bring the kids along. There are many events you
can attend that are family friendly and in every
corner of the UK. Visit www. London2012.com/
festival for a full list of events you can enjoy.
London 2012 Join In Celebrate the Games at home with friends, family
and neighbours; here are some hints and tips to
make your event memorable:
Free events in London Road cycling: 28 July – 1 August The Road Cycling starts at The Mall and ends at
Hampton Court Palace.
Triathlon: 4 – 7 August The gruelling triathlon schedule includes swimming,
cycling and running – all taking place in Hyde Park.
The Marathon: 12 August The Olympic Marathon has around 80 athletic
competitors and will pass landmarks such as the
Tower of London, St Paul’s Cathedral, the Houses of
Parliament, Buckingham Palace and Trafalgar Square.
The Paralympic Torch Relay The London 2012 Paralympic Torch Relay will begin in London on Friday 24 August with the lighting
of England’s Flame. The UK’s other three capital cities – Greater Belfast, Cardiff and Edinburgh will
then light a flame on each of the following days, at special Flame lighting events. Once a Flame has
been lit, it will visit local community groups and key locations in and around the city.
Paralympic Flame Lighting Ceremony Each Flame will then be taken to Stoke Mandeville, home of the Paralympic Movement where the
four flames will be combined at a Paralympic Flame Lighting Ceremony on 28 August to create the
London 2012 Paralympic Flame. There will then be a 24-hour Torch Relay from Stoke Mandeville.
Torchbearers working in teams of five will carry the Paralympic Flame to the Olympic Stadium to
light the Cauldron at the Opening Ceremony of the London 2012 Paralympic Games.
Key dates 27 July
The Opening Ceremony
28 July The Olympic Games begin
12 August The Closing Ceremony
24 – 29 August The Paralympic Torch Relay
29 AugustThe Paralympic Games begin
Opening Night in The world will be watching the UK as the Opening
Ceremonies announce the start of London 2012.
Get in on the action and host your own VIP
screening for friends, family and neighbours.
Super Saturday On Saturday 4 August a massive 25 gold medals
will be awarded at the London 2012 Olympic
Games. What better way to celebrate the gold rush
than getting your whole community fired up with a
sizzling BBQ?
Whatever you do this summer, make sure you celebrate the greatest sporting event in the world and enjoy a summer like no other.
© Antoine Douaihy
23July/August 2012 Families West PO Box 32231 London W5 1JR
What's On
Days out HOLLAND PARK ECOLOGY CENTRE
020 7938 8186 www.rbkc.gov.uk/ecology
7 July BIRD AND NATURE WALK IN
HOLLAND PARK A guided nature walk around
Holland Park. 9am, meet at Lord Holland’s statue
www.thefriendsofhollandpark.org 020 7602 0304
7 July SUMMER WILDLIFE AREA OPEN DAY
Explore the normally closed wildlife area and
discover its fauna and flora. 2-6pm.
23 Jul-5 Sept SUMMER HOLIDAY ACTIVITIES
Environmental themed, outdoor and creative
activities for children.
26 July WILDLIFE AREA OPEN EVENING
6-8pm, Discover the plants and animals of the
wildlife area and do a bit of pond-dipping. Suitable
for all ages, Free, drop-in event.
31 Aug BAT WALK FOR KIDS Discover the
dark, fascinating and secret world of bats by
searching for them with bat detectors. 7.30-9pm,
for ages 5-10. Booking essential on
020 7938 8186 e:[email protected]
WWT WETLAND CENTRE
Queen Elizabeth's Walk, Barnes SW13 9WT.
020 8409 4400 www.wwt.org.uk
Daily 9.30am - 5pm £4.95/ £8.95, under 4s free,
family £25. A spectacular 105 acre wetland
landscape of lagoons, lakes and ponds which
offers a safe haven for hundreds of wild bird
species, dragonflies, bats and amphibians.
REGULAR EVENTS: FEED THE BIRDS with a
warden at 3pm everyday, walk with a warden
weekends at 12noon, GUIDE IN THE HIDE
every Mon, Tues, Thurs and Sat 11am-1pm and
PUSHBABIES 9.30-10.30am Tues and Thurs. £6
WEEKEND ACTIVITIES FOR CHILDREN
Until 15 Jul Make butterfly feeders, natural
picture frames and go pond dipping.
19 and 26 Jul and 2, 9, 23 and 30 Aug BIG BAT
WALK for children aged 8+ Learn about bats
and see them in the reserve. (bat detectors
provided) Times vary with sunset. £10. Book
ahead on 020 8409 4400
21 and 22 Jul TRADITIONAL CRAFTS
WEEKEND 11am-4pm, See skilled professional
demonstrate their skills at making felt, stained
glass, jewellery, ceramics, mosaics, spinning,
weaving, knitting and much more using the raw
materials provided by the wetlands. Children can
have a go at some activities.
21 Jul-12 Aug WETLAND OLYMPICS Encounter
some more record breaking wetland animals,
weave Olympic rings and go pond dipping.
2 Aug FAMILY WILDLIFE PHOTOGRAPHY
10am-3pm. Talk and practical photography session
for ages 8-16. £40 per parent and child.
10 and 17 Aug NIGHT SAFARI For children aged
7+, an exciting evening in the wild exploring
animals and the elements. Make a fire, listen to
stories, do pond dipping at twilight and go on a
bat walk. £20 per child. Booking is essential: call
020 8409 4400.
13 Aug – 2 Sept BE A WETLAND WARDEN
Join the junior wetland warden team for the day,
help build animal refuges and carry out mini
wildlife surveys.
ODDS FARM PARK
Wooburn Common Road, Wooburn Common,
High Wycombe, Bucks HP10 0LX
01628 520188 www.oddsfarm.co.uk
Open every day 10am-5.30pm, £9.50 adults, £8.50
children, under 2’s free. Children can get up close
to whole range of rare breed farm animals as well
as play in the heated barn with haybales to climb,
a soft play park, indoor sandpit and games area.
Jul and Aug OLYMPIC SUMMER AT ODDS
FARM PARK Extra activities include Sheep racing
with a specially built mini race track with jumps
and bends, eager sheep and miniature jockeys. Also,
a Maize Maze, Tractor and Trailer Rides, Go Karts
and furry friends in the large Undercover Animal
Barns. Plus, within the Giant Indoor Playbarn,
you’ll find a massive adventure play area including
4 lane Astra Slide, 2 large drop slides, a netted area
with zig-zag chicanes and tunnels, and a swinging
rope. Plus special Toddler and Under 5’s areas.
BATTERSEA PARK CHILDREN’S ZOO
Battersea Park, Chelsea Bridge Gate, London SW11
020 7924 5826 www.batterseaparkzoo.co.uk
10am-4.30pm. Adult £7.95 children (2-15) £6.50
family £26. Children must be accompanied by an
adult. Usual entrance fee applies for activities.
OSTERLEY PARK
Jersey Road, Isleworth, Middlesex
020 8232 5050 www.nationaltrust.org.uk
Opening hours: Gardens are open every day from
8am-6pm; house and café are open Weds to Sun
12.30-4.30pm. Cost: £3.80 per adult, £1.90 per
child for gardens. £8.70 per adult, £4.35 per child,
£21.75 family for entry to Osterley House.
A spectacular mansion surrounded by gardens,
park and farmland makes this an ideal place to
come with the family. Lovely place to walk
followed by a cup of tea and a cake in the café.
Every Thurs in the school holidays OSTERLEY
CRAFT CART 1-4pm. Trails and simple craft
activities for families. Drop-in
Thurs from 26 July-30 Aug 50 THINGS TO DO
BEFORE YOU'RE 11 ¾. Outdoor themed
activities for families to tie in with the National
Trust '50 things to do before you're 11 ¾'
campaign – see www.50things.org.uk Drop-in, for
ages 3-12. 1-4pm.
29 Jul and 26 Aug FAMILY DISCOVERY DAY Art,
craft and storytelling activities from 1-4.30pm.
SYON HOUSE & GARDENS
London Road, Middlesex TW8 8JG
020 8758 1888 www.syonpark.co.uk
Open Wed, Thu, sun & Bank Hol 11am-5pm.
£4/£8/£10.50 family £22. Only 10 miles from
Central London. Home of The Duke of
Northumberland, full of beauty and magnificence
with its own wonderful parkland.
To 22 Jul. EXCAVATION AND COMMUNITY
DIG Training excavation which will provide two
structured five-day course, (July 9-22 inclusive)
for both beginners and the more experienced,
covering aspects of site survey, excavation and
recording. The community Dig (July 2-6) will
provide opportunities for all ages to come to the
site for short periods to have a taste of
archaeological excavation. More info:
9-12 Aug. CINEMA UNDER THE STARS Come
and watch your favourite film under the stars.
KENSINGTON PALACE
Kensington Gardens, London W8 4PX
0844 482 7777 www.hrp.org.uk/KensingtonPalace
Until 4 Nov JUBILEE: A VIEW FROM THE
CROWD This new exhibition will explore Queen
Victoria’s Diamond Jubilee of 1897 from the
point of view of those who celebrated it and will
include a range of specially selected objects
which demonstrate the wealth of different
celebrations, from museum collections and
private landers.
7, 8 Jul THE KENSINGTON PALACE PARTY.
12noon-5pm Hosted in the grounds, take part in
Victorian country dancing, rock and roll and
Morris dancing- all classes suitable for beginners.
Performances, craft activities and storytelling will
also be taking place throughout the weekend.
Free, classes will be on a first come basis.
20 Jul FRIDAY LATES: VICTORIAN RULES!
Exclusive activities include pop-up history talks,
live music, making activities and special food and
drink deals.
TOWER OF LONDON
Tower Hill, London EC3
0844 482 7799 www.hrp.org.uk
Mon-Sat 9am-5.30pm, Sun 10am-5.30pm
£10.45/£17.60/£20.90, family £55, under 5 free.
Top ten things to do with children at the Tower
of London on www.hrp.org.uk/TowerOfLondon/
TowerActivitiesforfamilies
SPECIAL EVENT: Weekends in August and
Bank Holiday Monday AN AFFAIR OF
HONOUR A historical re-enactment- Swords are
drawn and pistols flare as restoration rakes settle
their differences 17th century-style. Goaded on
by King’s stunning mistress, Barbara Villiers and
under the watchful eye of famous diarist Samuel
Pepys, the duellists prepare for bloodshed.
SUMMER OPENING OF
PARLIAMENT TOURS
Houses of Parliament, Parliament Square, St Margaret
Street, Westminster, London SW1A. 0844 847 2498
29 Jul-1 Oct. TOURS take in some of the most
significant Palace areas where Parliament meets
and explain what Parliament is, how it works and
call attention to its journey from the past to the
present. £6/£10/£15 family £37
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HMS BELFAST
Moored on the Thames between London Bridge and
Tower Bridge. The Queen's Walk, London, SE1 2JH
020 7940 6300 www.iwm.org.uk/visits/hms-belfast
Open 10am-6pm. £14 adults, children under 16
free. Launched in 1938 and served with
distinction in both the Second World War and
the Korean War, this is the only surviving
example of the great fleets of big gun armoured
warships built for the Royal Navy in the first half
of the twentieth century.
GUN TURRET EXPERIENCE A chance to see
what fighting at sea would have really been like.
Lights, audio, projections and movement will
recreate the experience, highlighting the hectic and
cramped conditions that would have seen twenty-six
men in this confined space at any one time.
INTERACTIVE OPERATIONS ROOM
The nerve centre and brain of the entire ship has
been updated with exciting interactives – rotating
radar screens and two large touch screen
interactive games based on the real-life Pony
Express exercise of 1961.
7-8 July POINTS ON A COMPASS Drop in
11am - 12.30pm and 2 - 4pm. Find out more
about the countries, cultures and journeys
HMS Belfast has taken whilst in service.
Free informal event suitable for all ages but only
with parental supervision.
11-19 Aug TATTOO T-SHIRTS 11am - 12.30pm
and 2 - 4pm. Design your own tattoo designs on
t-shirts and learn all about the traditions behind
original naval tattoos. Free drop-in event suitable
for all ages but only with parental supervision.
Museums and Galleries
NATURAL HISTORY MUSEUM
Cromwell Road, London SW7 020 7938 9123
Info: Mon-Fri 020 7942 5000.
Sat & Sun 020 7942 5011 www.nhm.ac.uk
Mon-Sat: 10am – 5.50pm Sun 11am-5.50pm.
Free. Home to the nation’s finest collection of
natural history specimens.
WEEKENDS AND SCHOOL HOLIDAYS:
11am-5pm. ACTIVITIES range from scientific
specimens at special handling stations around the
galleries, Explorer backpacks and natural history
specimens, ranging from a shark jaw to a
meteorite as old as the Earth. Science educators
are there to help you with your investigations.
For ages 7+
EXHIBITIONS:
To 16 Sept ANIMAL INSIDE OUT An anatomical
safari of the natural world £6/£9, family £27
To 2 Sept SCOTT’S LAST EXPEDITION
The Terra Nova expedition to Antarctica.
To 30 Sept WILD PLANET Free outdoor
exhibition featuring shots from Wildlife
Photographer of the Year.
INTERACTIVE FILM: WHO DO YOU THINK
YOU REALLY ARE Make a virtual journey back
through your evolutionary past to where extinct
creatures appear to roam around you in the studio.
Everyday at 3.30pm and weekends at 11am.
SPECIAL EVENT: 1 Jul INSECT DAY Hands-on
activities, crafts, Nature Live shows and bug hunts
in the Wildlife Garden. 12 noon-5pm.
14 and 25 Jul ANIMAL VISION FOR FAMILIES
A scientific show investigating the world only
visible to certain reptiles and invertebrates.
10.30am, 11.30am and 1.30pm. Free.
SCIENCE MUSEUM
Exhibition Road, London SW7 2DD
0870 870 4868 www.sciencemuseum.org.uk
Open 10am-6pm daily (Until 10pm from
28 Jul-5 Aug). Free
FAMILY ACTIVITIES: EVERY DAY
LAUNCHPAD SCIENCE SHOWS – free
interactive science gallery where you can launch
a rocket, turn your head into a sound box and
control a magnetic cloud. Plus science shows for
ages 8-14 years old.
IMAX AND 3D EXPERIENCES - Born to be
Wild 3D (U), Hubble 3D, Wild Ocean 3D, Deep
Sea 3D, Sea Monsters 3D, Fly me to the Moon
3D, Space Station 3D (20 Jul-20 Aug – Batman)
EXHIBITIONS: To 28 July
PALACES – a participatory artwork made from
thousands of milk teeth donated by children
around the UK. Standing two metres high, the
sculpture resembles a coral castle under water.
CODEBREAKER – ALAN TURING’S LIFE AND
LEGACY Code-breaking, computing,
mathematics, artificial intelligence and biology.
SUMMER OF SPORT – Mobility, speed, precision
and sustainability - who needs it? Athletes and
engineers. Find out how science and technology
will deliver an excellent performance at the
Games this summer and in future.
SIGNS, SYMBOLS AND SECRETS: An illustrated
guide to alchemy.
OTHER HIGHLIGHTS: ANTENNA LIVE
SCIENCE-Volunteer to take part in cutting-edge
experiments conducted by visiting scientists.
Suitable for visitors aged 7+.
In July and Aug – EXHIBITIONS:
• Will phones replace cash and cards? Turn your
phone in to a ‘mobile wallet’.
• How can new technology improve mobility?
Looking at how two prosthetic legs, the Genium
Bionic Prosthetic System and the running blade
improve mobility for different uses.
• Can simple design give us a sustainable future?
Aerodynamic bikes and efficient stadiums.
• Will wearable sensors advance sports training?
From 20 July, seeing how scientists at Imperial
College created small, smart sensors that give
the low-down on health and performance
without big bulky kit.
LIVE EVENTS:
14-17 Aug SUPER SPEEDY SPRINT 11am-4pm.
See what difference shoes can make to an
athlete’s performance.
28-30 Aug DRUG WARS 11am-4pm. The use of
illegal drugs and legitimate medicines in sports.
Other live events are planned. Look on the website
for further details.
A COCKROACH TOUR OF THE MUSEUM
Dress up in a cockroach costume and explore
the impact on the climate of scientific and
technological developments from the perspective
of a cockroach. Every weekend in Aug.
Book on 0870 870 4868.
IMPERIAL WAR MUSEUM LONDON
Lambeth Road, London SE1 6HZ
020 7416 5320/5321 www.iwm.org.uk
10am-6pm
EXHIBITIONS: A FAMILY IN WARTIME Life on
the home front, during the Second World War,
through the eyes of one London family. Free.
To Oct. BUILD THE TRUCE At the first
Olympic Games in 776BC an ”Olympic Truce” was
created in order to enable athletes from Greece’s
warring cities to travel and compete in safety.
Reinstated at the 1992 Games the Olympic Truce
continues to exist today. Visitors will be able to
explore the concept of truce, from challenging
notions about the inevitability of war, through to
truce as a method of conflict resolution and what
it can mean on a practical level.
FAMILY EVENTS:
21-22 Jul and 25-31 Aug BUILD THE TRUCE
11am-1pm and 2-4pm. Hear a slimy story of
slugs, snails and truce time tales and do some
related artwork. Free drop-in activities for all ages.
4-12 Aug 'MAKE DO AND MEND' QUILT 11am
- 1pm and 2 - 4.00pm Create a 'Make Do and
Mend' quilt in this communal art activity. Free
drop-in activities for all ages.
BANK OF ENGLAND MUSEUM
Threadneedle Street, London EC2R 8AH
020 7601 5545 www.bankofengland.co.uk/museum
Open Mon-Fri 10am-5pm. Free
23 Jul-31 Aug. A GOLDEN OPPORTUNITY
Visit the exhibition “Gold and the Bank of
England” then make a gold bar-shaped money
box to take home. Enter the gold quiz
competition to win prizes. There will be a special
lunchtime presentations about gold in the
Museum cinema at 1.15pm
What's On©
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25July/August 2012 Families West PO Box 32231 London W5 1JR
What's OnBRITISH MUSEUM
Great Russell Street, London WC1B 3DG
020 7323 8299 www.britishmuseum.org
Free, open daily 10am-5.30p, (until 8.30 on Fridays.)
EXHIBITIONS:
Until 9 Sept. THE LONDON 2012 OLYMPIC
AND PARALYMPIC GAMES MEDALS The story
of the production of the medals for the London
2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games, from the
mining of the metal to the creation of the
designs. See examples of both the London 2012
Olympic and Paralympic victory medals, shown
here publicly for the first time. Free
19 Jul-25 Nov. SHAKESPEARE STAGING THE
WORLD A unique insight into the emerging role
of London as a world city seen through the
innovative perspective of Shakespeare’s plays.
16-18yrs £12, adults £14, under 16 free
accompanied by paying adult.
WORKSHOPS FOR CHILDREN:
1, 21 Jul DIGITAL PHOTOGRAPHY DAY
11.30am-3.30pm, Choose from a menu of
exciting activities to do in the Centre or in the
galleries, using digital cameras, costumes and
more. For age 3+, drop-in.
7 Jul, 25 Aug PASSPORT TO THE AFTERLIFE
11.30am-3.30pm, Reality trail around the
Egyptian galleries.
17 and 24 Aug SHAKESPEARE IN THE
SUMMER 11am-4pm, Art and storytelling
workshop, all ages.
AGE 7+ WORKSHOPS: 11am and 2pm,
booking advised.
8, 14, 15 Jul and 5, 12 Aug ANIMATION
WORKSHOP Use video cameras and stop-
motion software.
18 Aug GREEN SCREEN TIME MACHINE
Use a green screen and Photoshop to create a
picture of yourself interacting with Museum
objects. (11.30am-3.30pm)
19 Aug MANGA COMICS Create your own
Japanese manga characters and comic book.
26 Aug MUSEUM REPORTER Become a
journalist for the day and follow clues around
the galleries using mobile phones.
AGE 13-18 WORKSHOPS: 11am and 2.30pm,
booking advised.
14 Jul CHIPTUNE MUSIC WORKSHOP
22 Jul FASHION PHOTOGRAPHY Run a
photoshoot using a digital SLR using vintage
clothing and handmade accessories.
29 Jul ILLUSTRATION AND PRINT Join a
professional illustrator to design your own prints,
both hand-drawn and using Adobe Illustrator and
Photoshop.
Details of all events on:
www.britishmuseum.org/visiting/family
NATIONAL ARMY MUSEUM
Royal Hospital Road, London SW3 4HT
020 7730 0717 www.nam.ac.uk
Daily 10am-5.30pm. Free
EXHIBITION: To 31 Aug. WAR HORSE: FACT &
FICTION A new major hands-on exhibition
exploring the true history behind the hugely popular
“War Horse” novel by Michael Morpugo. Free.
NEW. JUBILEE: 60 YEARS OF THE SOVEREIGN
AND HER SOLDIERS Key exhibition items
include: Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II’s original
Auxiliary Territorial Service (ATS) uniform,
Diamond Jubilee Medal, The Queen Elizabeth
Cross awarded to next of kin, a timetable of
Princess Elizabeth’s ATS activities, 1945 and also
eye-witness accounts describing The Queen’s
coronation.
ACTIONS ZONES – VICTORIAN SOLDIERS
ACTION ZONE Quizzes, games and hands-on
activities help you learn about life as a Victorian
Soldier and the part they played in the shaping of
Britain’s Empire. Free, in “Changing the World
Gallery”. KID’S ZONE Daily 10.10am-5.15pm.
This new children’s play area explores aspects of
army life from camping to clothing and includes a
dedicated soft play space for babies, plus art and
crafts, dressing-up costumes, books, interactive
toys and panels. Adm charge applies.
www.nam.ac.uk/kids
THE NATIONAL GALLERY
Trafalgar Square, London WC2N 5DN
020 7747 2894/2885 www.nationalgallery.org.uk
FAMILY ACTIVITIES: FAMILY SUNDAYS
Free hands-on art workshops at 11am & 2pm
every Sunday.
1 and 15 Jul JUMP FOR VICTORY Discover
mythological characters, creatures and
competitions and make a trophy to present at
your very own games.
8 Jul RELAY MIX Experiment with the art of
relay drawing - Try out different speeds, materials
and shapes in collage competitions and family
drawing events.
22, 29 Jul and 5 Aug BODIES IN MOTION
Explore the body in motion at these clothed life-
drawing sessions. See www.nationalgallery.org.uk/
families for later dates.
Also MAGIC CARPET STORYTELLING For age
2-5, 11.30am–12 noon and 12.30–1pm. Fly away
on the magic carpet, which comes to land in
front of a different painting each day.
FAMILY WALK AND TALK – a themed journey
through the collection where a guide will walk,
talk and bring paintings alive! 12.30–1.30pm.
1 July (Greek Myths). More dates tba on
www.nationalgallery.org.uk/families
EXHIBITION:
11Jul-23 Sept METAMORPHOSIS: Looking at
change and transformation through inspiration
and sport.
Until 16 Sept TAKE ONE PICTURE: PRIMARY
SCHOOL CHILDREN INSPIRED BY
VERONESE A range of creative responses to
Veronese’s Family of Darius before Alexander.
SUMMER HOLIDAYS: Art Labs are new, short,
focused, and experimental art sessions showing
how to do specific tasks.
12-14 Aug 3D POUSSIN STUDIO SESSIONS
11am and 2pm for ages 5-11. Experiment with
life drawing and mini-model making in these
sessions inspired by the artist Poussin.
19-21, 26-28 Aug PARADISE FOUND + ART
LABS. For all ages, drop-in 11am-3pm. Look at
landscapes and create a meadow.
13 and 20 Aug TALK AND PLAY For ages 2-5
11.30am-1pm, Meet Madame de Seignelay and
friends: Talk, play, sing and create.
13 Aug FREE PLAY 2-3.30pm and 27 Aug
11.30am-1pm. Independent exploration of
paintings for parents and children. Drop in.
14, 21 and 28 Aug DRAWING STORIES 11.30am
-12.30pm, Tell a story through art and play.
THE NATIONAL PORTRAIT GALLERY
St Martin’s Place, London WC2H 0HE
020 7306 0055 www.npg.org.uk/events
Open every day 10am-6pm, (Thurs and Fri
until 9pm) FAMILY EVENTS:
21 Jul and 18 Aug STORYTELLING No ticket
required. Sessions last approximately 45 minutes.
For ages 3+ 10.30am and 1.30pm.
21 Jul and 18 Aug FAMILY ART WORKSHOPS
Free ticket required, available one hour before the
event starts on a first come, first served basis.
For ages 5+ Explore portraits in the Collection,
followed by an art activity. 11.30am and 2.30pm.
SUMMER HOLIDAY ART WORKSHOPS:
30 Jul – 24 Aug FAMILY DROP-IN ART
WORKSHOPS 11am-4pm, Take inspiration from
the BP Portrait Award 2012. Workshops include
animation, making 3D portraits and creating
sculptures. Also Family Trail. (Also on 2 Aug,
1-4pm with BSL interpretation.)
FAMILY AUDIO GUIDE £6 for up to five audio
players, £4 for two audio players (one adult and
one child). Explore amazing facts and stories
about people in the Collection with specially
recorded tours and interactive touch-screen
players. Suitable for ages 7–11.
THE WALLACE COLLECTION
Hertford House, Manchester Square, London W1U
3BN 020 7563 9500 www.wallacecollection.org
10am-5pm, free DAILY SELF-GUIDED
ACTIVITIES include a family multimedia tour,
with interactive games, free armour handling and
a selection of free gallery trails. No need to book.
EVENTS FOR FAMILIES: Booking essential on
020 7563 9527 or [email protected]
1 July/ 5 Aug THE LITTLE DRAW 1.30-4.30pm,
Free drop-in drawing workshop for all ages with
artist and illustrator Anna Saunders. Learn about
looking, drawing and interpretation.
23 July BUGS AND BUTTERFLIES
10.30am- 12.30pm or 2-4pm, £7 per child, ages
7+. Create your own creepy crawly or fancy
butterfly window sticker with inspiration from
Dutch still life paintings.
24-27 July FOUR-DAY JUNIOR SUMMER ART
SCHOOL For ages 10+
24/25 July – BE DAZZLED 10.30am-3.30pm.
Oil painting techniques. £22 per child
for each two-day workshop or £40 for
both workshops.
26/27 July GODS AND MONSTERS
SCULPTURE WORKSHOP 10.30am-3.30pm.
Create your own god or monster using wire,
mod roc and sculpt with plaster.
14/15 Aug DROP-IN ART ACTIVITIES 2-4pm,
free. Follow a trail around the galleries before
taking part in the art activity.
30/31 Aug QR CODE TREASURE HUNT 11am-
4pm, free. Use your smartphone to hunt down
QR codes hidden throughout the museum. Scan
them and answer their questions to win a prize.
PITZHANGER GALLERY AND HOUSE
Walpole Park, Mattock Lane, Ealing, London W5 5EQ
020 8567 1227
Tue-Fri & Sun 1-5pm, Sat 11am-5pm
EXHIBITION: 11 July – 2 Sept LONDON
UNFURLED An exhibition of the 27ft
drawings of the North and South bank of
the river Thames.
26 Families West PO Box 32231 London W5 1JR July/August 2012
What's OnTHEATRES IN WEST LONDON
APOLLO THEATRE – WEST END London W1D 7ES
Bkg www.ticketmaster.co.uk or 0844 277 4321
GARRICK THEATRE 2 Charing Cross Road, London WC2 0HH
0844412 4662 www.barmybritainlive.com
LYRIC THEATRE Shaftsbury Avenue, London
0844 412 4661 www.thetigerwhocametotealive.com
PUPPET THEATRE BARGE Little Venice, Blomfield Road, London W9 2PF
020 7249 6876 www.puppetbarge.com
REGENTS PARK OPEN AIR THEATRE Inner Circle, Regent’s Park, London
NW1 4NR 0844 826 4242 www.openairtheatre.org
RICHMOND THEATRE The Green, Richmond, Surrey TW9 1QJ
0844 871 7651 www.ambassadortickets.com/richmond
RIVERSIDE STUDIOS Crisp Road, London W6 9RL
Box Office: 020 8237 1111 www.riversidestudios.co.uk
SOHO THEATRE 21 Dean Street, London, W1D 3NE
Box Office: 020 7478 0100 www.sohotheatre.com
SOUTHBANK CENTRE Belvedere Road, London, SE1 8XX
Ticket Office: 0844 875 0073 www.southbankcentre.co.uk
THE THREESIXTY THEATRE Kensington Gardens (by Kensington Palace)
Dial Walk, London W2 2UH. Bkg: 0844 871 7693
Info: 0844 871 7627 www.atgtickets.com
UNICORN THEATRE 147 Tooley Street London SE1 2HZ
020 7645 0560 www.unicorntheatre.com
WATERMANS 40 High Street, Brentford TW8 0DS
020 8232 1010 www.watermans.org.uk
TheatreHORRIBLE HISTORIES – BARMY BRITAIN Until 1 Sept British history is
full of barmy people who did nasty things to each other. With blood,
battles, murder and mayhem, explore stories from Roman, Tudor, Stuart,
Georgian, Victorian and WW1 periods and find out about famous
characters such as Henry VIII, Anne Boleyn, Guy Fawkes, Florence
Nightingale and General Earl Haig. 6yrs+ GARRICK THEATRE
THE LION, THE WITCH AND THE WARDROBE Until 9 Sept.
This new adaptation of CS Lewis’s classic children novel by Rupert Goold
will be held in a specially designed theatre tent in Kensington Gardens, and
combines puppetry and hi-tech multimedia, projecting the magic of Narnia
with Imax-style video backdrops. The Ultimate summer experience in the
Park! THE THREESIXTY THEATRE
A MIDSUMMER NIGHT’S DREAM Until 5 Sept
Shakespeare’s enduring story of young love featuring
the Open Air Theatre’s fusion of original music,
movement and unique setting. REGENT’S PARK
OPEN AIR THEATRE
THE TOWN MOUSE AND THE COUNTRY MOUSE
1-15 Jul For ages 3+ The story tells of two cousins
who visit each other, both experiencing exciting new
sights and sounds. PUPPET THEATRE BARGE
THE TIGER WHO CAME TO TEA
4 Jul - 2 Sept The doorbell rings just as
Sophie and her mummy are sitting
down to tea. Who could it possibly be?
What they certainly don't expect to
see at the door is a big, stripy tiger!
Following on from the highly successful
2011 tour, the loveable tea-guzzling
tiger appears in this delightful family
show; packed with oodles of magic, sing-a-long songs and clumsy chaos!
David Wood's stunning stage adaptation of Judith Kerr's picture book is fun
for youngsters everywhere, and their grownups. Ages 3+. LYRIC THEATRE
A WILD LIFE: AN AUDIENCE WITH STEVE BACKSHALL 8 Jul,
4pm & 7pm BAFTA winning adventurer Steve Backshall gives an illustrated
talk about his worldwide expeditions, his encounters with wild wonders
and the mysteries of the natural world. RICHMOND THEATRE
HAIRY MACLARY AND FRIENDS
11-15 Jul “Out of the gate and off for
a walk, went Hairy Maclary from
Donaldson’s Dairy”. Anyone with
young children will recognise these
immortal words instantly as the
opening lines of the book Hairy
Maclary from Donaldson’s Dairy by
Lynley Dodd. Back on stage with
many of the characters from the book, music, singing and several favourite
stories. For ages 2-8. RIVERSIDE STUDIOS
THE MAGICIAN’S DAUGHTER 14-19 Jul. Written by Michael Rosen in
association with The Royal Shakespeare Company. Part of “Festival of the
World” A wonderful blend of puppetry, live music and song for this
captivating story of the adventures of a young girl on a magical faraway
island SOUTHBANK CENTRE
THE BOY WHO FELL INTO A BOOK 18-28 Jul
A fantasy adventure, served up with typical Alan
Ayckbourn magic and lashings of imagination. A
wonderfully inventive play which emphasises the
value of reading, and the power of the imagination
to transport the reader to other worlds.
SOHO THEATRE
SLAP DASH GALAXY 22-27 Jul Part of “Festival of the World.” Two
brothers flee their home planet on a quest across the universe-an entire
shadow puppet universe, made from bits of rubbish. Some parts are a bit
scary for children under seven. SOUTHBANK CENTRE
HANDA’S SURPRISE 17-26 Aug Part of “Festival of the World” Travel to
Kenya and follow Handa as she journeys to see her best friend Akeyo, in the
next village. Physical performance, puppetry, live music, song and audience
participation. 2-5yrs. SOUTHBANK CENTRE
NICKELODEON’S DORA THE EXPLORER LIVE! SEARCH FOR THE
CITY OF LOST TOYS 28 Aug-16 Sept Dora’s fan will delight in this two act,
song and dance spectacular that invites them to think, sing and play along.
The show is designed to teach kids to explore, communicate, overcome
obstacles, solve puzzles and discover a diverse and exciting world..all while
having lots of fun! APOLLO THEATRE
ANGELINA BALLERINA – BALLET GIRLS AND
HIP HOP BOYS 30 Aug – 2 Sep, Thu-Sun eves
6.30pm, Fri – Sat mats 2.30pm. Angelina Ballerina,
in a new show full of singing and dancing.
Angelina and her friends think their dreams have
come true when Camembert Academy wins the
opportunity to dance live on the famous TV show
‘Simply Mouse Dancing’. Pre-show family
activities for children on 31 Aug and 1 Sept at
10.30am and 3.30pm. RICHMOND THEATRE
HOW WAS IT FOR YOU? 29 Aug – 1 Sept The Unicorn Young Company
present their take on the Olympics, based on interviews with Londoners of
all walks of life, from Stratford to Southwark and Tooting to Tottenham, in
spectacular dance and movement pieces that let you relive the action once
again. £15 adults, £10 under 21s. UNICORN THEATRE
THE BEE DETECTIVE 31 Aug – 2 Sept Part of “Festival of the World”
When worker bees begin to disappear Sophie will have to use all her
deductive powers to solve the case and save the hive. This fun and intriguing
honeybee murder mystery invites you to join the investigation and help the
intrepid Sophie with her enquiries 6yrs+ SOUTHBANK CENTRE
KIDS WEEK IN THE WEST END
Kids Week is the popular annual
promotion that enables children aged
16 and under to go to the theatre
for free when accompanied by a full-
paying adult, plus an additional 2
children can go for half price. To
celebrate its 15th birthday, it will run
throughout the whole of August.
Families can choose from over 35
top London shows and there will be
a selection of free activities and
events for children to take part in.
www.kidsweek.co.uk
27July/August 2012 Families West PO Box 32231 London W5 1JR
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020 8677 6871
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either a nanny looking for a position or a family that is looking for a nanny.We also have nannies registered looking for full time, part time live in and out positions. All nannies are CRB checked.Call Alison on 0743 270 4580, [email protected], www.perfectlymatchednannies.co.uk
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WIN... An Aquabeat MP3 Player with New Metanium EverydayOne Lucky winner will win a MP3 Player worth £70. Two runners up will receive a specially designed Metanium changing bag, worth £30 each.
Closing date 1st August
WIN... A Personalised Treasure Hunt from huntfunGo treasure hunting this summer with huntfun! Two personalised hunts can be won!
Closing date 7th July.
WIN... A Family Ticket to watch 'The Boy who Fell into a Book' WEDNESDAY 18TH – SUNDAY 29TH JULY at SOHO THEATRE 020 7478 0100www.sohotheatre.com/whats-on/ the-boy-who-fell-into-a-book
Closing date 12th July
WIN... A Family Ticket to Odds Farm Park
2 Family Tickets to be won, (2 adults, 2 children) Closing Date 12th July.