families london south west may 2016

When is a child oldenough to babysit?What is Mindful Birthing? How to start a new exerciseregime when you’re a busy mum

Exam preparationstrategiesHalf term activitiesCost effective ways tofreshen up your home

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SouthWest

25YEARS

May 2016

Really useful information for parents of 0-12 year olds in SW LondonFind us online: FamiliesSouthWest.co.uk

Fabulouslocal babyservices

®2 Familiessouthwest.co.uk ( 8696 9680 May 2016

May 2016 3®

IN EVERY ISSUE

04-05 Local news

06 Families ‘Top 5’ this month

34-38 What’s On •Diary dates & events•Theatre•Museums and galleries•Days out•Half term activities

FEATURES

07-15 Education•Are we too focused on academia and not

enough on developing thinking skills? •Local School news•Exam preparation strategies

16-18 Home & Interiors•A relatively cost effective way to freshen

up your home•The importance of a good relationship

with your builder

19-23 Health and Fitness feature•Osteopathy, homeopathy, acupressure,

Lymphatic drainage, sophrology, life coaching and more

•When is a child old enough to babysit?

24-27 Baby Feature•Weaning, baby massage, cloth nappies,

Private Pregnancy Show, mum and baby holidays

•What is Mindful Birthing?

28-3 Clubs and Classes•Round up of great local Clubs & classes •Does your child lack confidence?

try dance classes

Families® SW London | May 2016 | Issue 256

Find us on Facebook & TwitterFamiliesSW

ADVERTISE IN OUR NEXT ISSUE: Contact us on 020 8696 9680

Contents

Vote for your favourite local Outdoor Playground onFacebook.com/FamiliesSW


Local news

Top 10 outdoor playgrounds Mountain Warehouse, the UK’s largest outdoor retailer, revealed in a recent study:

• British kids spend 50% less time playing outdoors than their parents did• Almost one quarter of British kids have never climbed a tree• 8 out of 10 British parents prefer to keep their children indoors for reasons of safety• Half of British parents admit to sometimes relying on school to ensure their children

play outside

Conveniently, two of the top 10 outdoor ‘playgrounds’ in the UK are in London (Richmond Parkand Hampstead Heath). Which one is your favourite playground locally? Let us know viaFacebook. Results in the next issue! : facebook.com/FamiliesSW

Please telladvertisers you saw them

It makes a HUGE difference

Thank you

in Families

National Young Writers’ Awards – free competitionParticipate in this fantastic, free writingcompetition for children across the UK,judged by best-selling author of theCharlie & Lola, Clarice Bean and RubyRedfort books, Lauren Child andorganised by tuition provider, ExploreLearning. There's a family trip toDisneyland Paris and £500 worth ofbooks for your school up for grabs. Thecompetition runs until Tuesday 7th June. : explorelearning.co.uk/youngwriters

Ambitious plans forTooting CommonThe Heritage Lottery Fund has backed plansto restore some of Tooting Common’s mostprominent historic features and breathe newlife into this much loved green space.Wandsworth Council has been awardednearly £1.4m of National Lottery funding torevitalise some of the common’s best-lovedfeatures, including restoring ancient habitatsand boosting biodiversity. It will also providenew acid grasslands, renovate the lake,restore the Woodfield Pavilion, refurbish thepopular lido and restore a unique 1930sdrinking fountain. For more informationabout the Tooting Common Heritage Projectsee : projectdirt.com/project/13903 orwandsworth.gov.uk Volunteers requested to get involved.

Healthy party food:hooray! Check out this new company offering healthychildren’s party food. Just Kinder PartyFood have years of experience in high-endcatering. They are passionate about craftingthe perfect nibbles and refreshments and willprepare fresh, delicious and beautifullypresented food. Children are sure to love theunique, delicious food that Just Kinder Foodprovide for your memorable event. Thechildren’s party catering ensures that bothchildren and parents alike can tuck intoyummy and healthier food at [email protected] ( 3641 6208 : justkinderpartyfood.co.uk

My First Ballet family workshopAn extra special workshopyou need to book NOW ifyou are keen to go. On the10th July the EnglishNational Ballet will put upa very popular creativeDance workshop in theenchanted world of forestsand fairies and explore themagical story of PrincessAurora. Learn extracts fromMy First Ballet: SleepingBeauty (taking place at thePeacock Theatre 6-10 July)with English National Ballet dance artists, get up-close to the dazzling tutus and stunning scenery,and experience the thrill of dancing on stage. Suitable for 3 to 6 yrs and a participating adult.Book at : ballet.org.uk

Get strolling for Walk toSchool WeekSay goodbye to traffic jams and lack ofparking spaces andwalk to school aspart of the annualWalk to Schoolweek, organised byLiving Streets.Running from 16th to22nd May, the themeis ‘Strider’s Walk inthe Wild’ exploringhabits and naturalenvironments ofdifferent animalspecies each day. Living Streets are alsopromoting walking your recommended 20minutes a day with the #Try20 campaign.They are encouraging individuals to fit in theirdaily walking through creative tips sentdirectly to your inbox. : livingstreets.org.uk/wtsw

May 2016 5®

Join the campaign to banmicrobeadsIt is believed that 100,000 marine mammalsdie from ingestion of plastic, or by beingtrapped by plastic bags each year. Theintroduction of the 5p charge on plastic bags isa great step towards combating this majorthreat. Microbeads (exfoliating agents less than5mm in diameter) not only pass through thesewage system, they are also very toxic wheningested by wildlife. There are two things youcan do to help: avoid products withmicrobeads—they are found in soaps, toothpastes, lip gloss, nail varnish and more — and pleasesign the Greenpeace petition to have them banned. It matters hugely. : greenpeace.org.uk

Natural home cookfood deliveredThe brainchild of two West Londonfoodies, Piccolo Plates offers freedelivery across London of child friendly,healthy, homemade and nutritious dishes,delivered directly to your door. Noadded salt. No added sugar. Simplynatural and nutritious. Each dish is £5 andserves 2 children and all dishes arefreezable. Avoid the stress at tea time byfeeding your little ones these wholesomeand delicious dishes.: piccoloplates.com

New psychological therapy clinic Built with passion, FernwoodClinic offers an expert service tohelp clients to make permanent,long-term improvements totheir emotional well-being.They provide healthcare for arange of emotional concerns,such as depression (including preand postnatal), anxiety, panicattacks, phobias, stress andobsessive compulsive disorder.Each client is offered tailoredtherapy to provide the mosteffective, collaborative solutionfor their needs, includingcognitive behavioural therapy,mindfulness based cognitive therapy, acceptance and commitment therapy (third wave CBT),interpersonal psychotherapy and exposure therapy. A holistic approach, regarding diet andexercise is also stipulated alongside clinical work to offer the utmost care to clients.Fernwood is exclusively staffed with professional clinical and counselling psychologists registeredwith the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC) and British Psychological Society (BPS).All healthcare professionals have at least 7 years of training, along with extensive therapyexperience. ( 8673 8604 : fernwoodclinic.co.uk

Looking for domesticharmony?dallas dacre lacy ltd, supplies the crème dela crème in domestic staff throughout the UKand overseas. The agency, run by DallasDacre Lacy herself, provides a personalisedservice that sources and introducesexperienced staff to maintain and run clients’homes or care of their children and pets.dallas dacre lacy Ltd’s aim is to make theperfect match where both client andcandidate have a feeling of domestic harmony.Take the weight of your shoulders andcontact dallas dacre lacy ltd to find qualitydomestic staff that will make your home runlike clockwork and your life less stressful. : dallasdacrelacy.com or call ( 3080 0129

Local newsWorld’s tallest colouring bookIs your child a colouring fanatic? With thisnew book, he/she can colour a giant tower allthe way from his/her house, past dragons andwitches, space ports and flying elephants, toreach the moon at the very top. By SarahYoon and published by Laurence King, £9.95.We love it.

Safer route for Tooting pupilsSchool pupils in Tooting now have a safer route to school as work to improve road safety on theapproach to two schools has begun. Traffic calming measures are being installed in DaleburyRoad where it meets Trinity Road, with the junction remodelled to slow vehicles down, plusimproving sight lines and making it easier for children to cross the junction. It will also providestep free crossing points for buggies and wheelchairs. ‘These simple safety measures will helplocal parents and children who attend schools in the area,’ said Transport spokesman CllrJonathan Cook.


The Polka Theatre240 The Broadway, Wimbledon SW19 1SB: polkatheatre.com 1 June. Play in a Day: James and the GiantPeachA gigantic peach of a workshop! Explore acting andperformance skills with a Polka Theatre directorwhilst creating your own version of James and theGiant Peach to share with friends and family. Ages6–9, 10.30am–3.30pm, £30.2 June. Theatre Unlocked: Design MasterclassA unique opportunity to find out what goes onbehind thescenes andspend theday workingwith theprofessionalset andcostumedesigner ofJames andthe GiantPeach tocreate your own set model. Ages 10–14,10.30am–3.30pm, £30.3 June. Puppetry Skills Meet some of Polka’s puppets and spend the daywith their professional puppeteer to create yourown. Learn the art of bringing puppets to life. Ages7-11, 10.30am–3.30pm, £30.

Families ‘Top 5’ this month

National Maritime MuseumPark Row, Greenwich SE10 9NF: rmg.co.uk27-28 May. Maritime Family History Day Led by expert staff, this family study day introduces the CairdLibrary's collections, the world's largest collection of merchantnavy family history resources. 11am-4pm, £27/£24.27-28 May. Greenwich Book Festival The second Greenwich Book Festival will take place in thebeautiful buildings and grounds of the Old Royal NavalCollege, Greenwich. Don’t miss it!30 May – 4 June. Above and Beyond Workshops Half term holiday workshops to accompany the museum'sflight-themed exhibition 'Above and Beyond'. Learn aboutspace, ships and spaceships, and help build amazing top-secretflying, floating and sinking machines. 11am-1.30pm and 1.30-4pm, drop in, all ages. FREE

The Chelsea Physic Garden66 Royal Hospital Road, Chelsea SW3 4HS: chelseaphysicgarden.co.uk31 May. Chocolate TuesdayLook into the history, geography and science of chocolate andcelebrate this very special substance. The day will includecraft activities, a Garden tour, chocolate tasting and thechance to create your own mixtures to take away. 10.30am-3pm, ages 7+. 31 May. Puppetry in MotionDesign garden-inspired creatures and turn paper cups intobeautiful characters. Artist Hyunjung Choi will lead thiscreative and lively day giving you the know-how to make yourown cup puppets at home. 10.30am-3pm, ages 7+.1 June. Marvellous MasksSee a selection of masks from around the world and hear the stories behind them. Then it’syour turn to create your own marvelous mask and decorate it with leaves, twigs and seeds fromaround the garden. 10.30am-3pm, age 7+.2 June. Thinking With Your Nose: an introduction to plant perfumesTeam up with the wonderful Organic Pharmacy to bring to life the scent-sational world of plantperfumes. Learn the basics of perfumery: the plants, the science, the jargon and how to makeyour own perfect personal blend to take away. Age 11+, 10.30am-3pm.

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Visit RHS Garden Wisley Woking, Surrey, GU23 6QB : rhs.org.uk Just down the A3, Wisley is perfect for a day outfrom SW London. Late evening opening everyThursday in June. 28 May – 5 June May Half Term and BuddingGardeners As part of the RHS Campaign for SchoolGardening, local schools have built their own minishow garden, which will be on show until 5 Juneand there will also be the chance for the public tovote for their favourite. During May half term,bring the family for scouting-themed activities withan interactive orienteering trail around the garden. 4 – 5 June Birds of Prey Meet wonderful birds of prey up close and learnall about them during this weekend. Watch thebirds in agility displays at 11am and 2pm each day.

Half term is just around the corner, so here are our Top Five picks of workshops, classes and events to keep your little ones entertained.

Brand new MagicGarden atHampton CourtPalace Opens daily 10am-6pm. The MagicGarden is included in the palaceticket price or purchase a separateticket for entry to the Magic Gardenand Maze only. £7.50 adults and£5.50 children.: hrp.org.ukWe haven’t been to visit as we go topress, but this imaginative new playgarden sounds amazing. Inspired bythe myths and legends of the Tudor Court, it is populated by mysterious mythical beasts, withbattlements to storm, towers to besiege, and even a secret grotto to discover. The MagicGarden is also a unique way for families to explore the palace’s past. Designed by RHS Chelseaaward-winning landscape architect Robert Myers for Historic Royal Palaces, the new garden hasbeen six years in the making and begins an exciting new chapter in the palace’s 500 year history.

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May 2016 7®

To learn more about us just visit our new web site at www.dawmouse.co.uk or email [email protected]

Tel: 020 83989294

Dawmouse Montessori Nursery School “To assist a child we must provide him with an environment which will able him todevelop freely” Maria Montessori

Celebrating 20 years of excellence in Montessori teachingCome and visit one of our two Dawmouse Montessori Nursery Schools in Fulham anddiscover why we have enjoyed such a long period of success teaching children from2yrs to 5yrs in their early years education.

www.dawmouse.co.uk

Passionate about teaching and learning

• EYFS and Montessori Method of teaching • MEAB inspected and accredited Montessori nurseries (the only ones in SW12)• Ballet, Drama, Football, French and Music classes • Morning, afternoon and full day sessions (term time only)• Summer Clubs

Est 1976Ofsted registered and MEAB Accredited

An independent nursery school for children 2 to 5 years

Contact: [email protected] www.nightingalemontessori.co.ukRegister early to avoid disappointment.

Nightingale 1 Montessori: St Luke's Church Hall, 194 Ramsden Rd, SW12 8RQ. 07958 567210Nightingale 2 Montessori: St Stephen's Church Hall, 35 Weir Rd, SW12 0NU. 07930 401769


Streatham & Clapham Prep School SW23-11 Girls Nursery and Prep School 3/5 9am-10.45am ( 677 8400 : schs.gdst.net

Parsons Green Prep SW64-11 Co-Ed Midweek tours on Thursdays at9am by appointment only ( 7371 9009 : parsonsgreenprep.co.uk

Sinclair House School SW64-11 Co-Ed 10/5 10-11.30am ( 7736 9182 : sinclairhouseschool.co.uk

Ravenstone Prep School SW74-11 Co-Ed Pre-Prep 8/6 Prep 9/6 booking required ( 7225 3131 : ravenstoneschools.com

St. Nicholas Preparatory School SW72-10 Co-Ed Open Morning 19/5 and 16/69.30am, plus Open House every Wednesdayand Thursday during term time 9.30-10.30ambook in advance ( 7225 1277 : stnicholasprep.co.uk

Newton Prep SW84-11 Co-Ed Friday tours by appointment -10.30am ( 7720 4091 : newtonprepschool.co.uk

Dolphin School SW114-11 Co-Ed Open Mornings most Thursdays9.10-10.30am by appointment ( 7924 3472 : dolphinschool.org.uk

White House Prep School SW124-11 Co-Ed Tours Tuesday mornings at9.15am ( 8674 9514 book in advance : whitehouseschool.com

Hornsby House School SW124-11 Co-Ed 9/6 9am ( 8673 7573

Ibstock Place School SW153-18 Co-Ed Pre-Pre and Prep 15/6 9.30amSenior School 11/5 5-7pm booking required( 8876 9991 / 8392 5803 :ibstockplaceschool.co.uk

Broomwood Hall Lower School SW164-8 Co-Ed 19/5 9-10.30am ( 8682 8830 : broomwood.co.uk

The Roche School SW182.5-11 Co-Ed 6/5 and 22/6 9.30-11am ( 8877 0823 : therocheschool.co.uk

St Anne’s C.E. Primary School SW184-11 Co-Ed 9/6 booking required ( 8874 1863 : st-annes.wandsworth.sch.uk

The Study Prep School SW194-11 Girls 3/5, 17/5, 24/5 and 28/6 9.20amand 10.30am ( 8947 6969 : thestudyprep.co.uk

Wimbledon Common Prep SW19(also known as Squirrels) 4-7 Boys 11/5 call to book ( 8946 1001 : wimbledoncommonprep.co.uk

Wimbledon High School SW194-18 Girls Junior School Open Morning 19/5Sixth Form Open Evening 18/5 ( 8971 0900/0902 : wimbledonhigh.gdst.net

Ravenscourt Park Prep School W64-11 Co-Ed Open Mornings 5/5 and 14/69.15am ( 8846 9153 : rpps.co.uk

School Open Days Call to book your place now

May 2016 9®

May 2016 11®

Education – Building resilience in children, Part 2

Resilience is becoming a buzz word in education and hasbeen cited as a key quality our children need to acquire inorder to face the challenges that lie ahead of them on theirjourney through education and into the wide world. It isheard alongside terms like growth mindset andempowerment but this new lexicon is of no use unless it isexplained and justified to parents who want to be equippedto help their children.

As parents we face the most powerful of juxtapositions; we have aninherent need to protect our children from adversity and difficulty butwe also have a duty to make them independent. Achieving this balanceis at the heart of their education both in and out of school so we haveto be prepared for them to make mistakes, support them andencourage them to learn from these before trying again. Simpleexamples may involve helping them learn to ride a bike or tie their ownshoe laces where there is very little pressure put on them, allowing usto be patient and accepting of initial failure. These little bumps in theroad, things they find challenging, help them become resilient as theylearn to iterate and try again on their learning pathway.

Develop Growth MindsetThe term ‘growth mindset’ was coined by American psychologist CarolDweck, to describe an approach whereby challenges can be overcomethrough hard work, in turn developing resilience and independence.People may fail on their journey but with support and understandingthey will learn from their mistakes and persevere for longer, becomingbetter learners. Most children have this approach to life from a veryyoung age but as they get older, the bumps in the road becomeincreasingly bigger and more challenging, for children and parents alike,which can see them plateau. They require a vehicle that provides themwith challenges to avoid this stalling in their development and learning.

Knowledge based system vs. creativityin adversityTraditionally, the education system values academic league tables,rewarding knowledge based learning through formulaic testing, sochildren find it more difficult to take risks in the core subjects. This riskaverse culture removes the opportunity for children to be brave,creative and independent, which develops their resilience. Fortunatelythere are other areas of the wider curriculum that allow children toexplore, create, collaborate and innovate and acquire the skills they aregoing to need for the world that lies ahead of them.

Every child should develop at least twoextra curricular skills Although hugely undervalued by academia, educationalist Sir KenRobinson identifies that sport, music, art and drama all provide fantasticenvironments for children to bebrave, collaborate with others, solveproblems, overcome difficulties andacquire the real life skills they willrequire including confidence,independence and resilience. We allhave heroes who are self-proclaimedproducts of failure, from JamesDyson and the 5,127 prototypes forhis first bagless vacuum cleanerthrough to Michael Jordan and his9,000 missed basketball shots.Whether our children choose asports field, a stage, an instrument ora canvas, I would implore parents tohelp their children develop aninterest in at least two of these creative areas, not to boost their 11+CV but because they are so vitally important in developing the soft skillsthey need.

Skills to fight back and succeedWe have no idea what the world will look like by the time our childrenleave higher education but we do know that whatever that worldthrows at them, if our children are resilient and independent and haveour support as parents then they will be in a much stronger position toadapt, prosper and succeed.

Are we too focused on academia andnot enough on developing thinking skills?By Mark Peters, Assistant Head at Hornsby House

Hornsby House, SW12 www.hornsbyhouse.org.uk

resiliencenoun

1. the ability of a substance or object to spring back into shape; elasticity.2. the capacity to recover quickly from difficulties; toughness.


THE STUDIO DAY NURSERY

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Principal: J.M.R. Williams, NNEB, RSH (Norlander).

May 2016 13®

Education

All children should belearning touch typing In a world where online activity is dominating theway we communicate, computers, laptops andtablets are becoming an essential item. Being ableto touch type is therefore an invaluable skill—asimportant as learning to drive or cook a basicmeal. A skill that once learnt will be appreciatedforever. A touch typist is not reliant on looking atthe keyboard, so focus is not wasted on findingthe keys. Being able to type as fast as you canthink means that ideas flow more readily, so youare immediately more productive, detailed andexpressive in your written work.

Touch typing and SENMost significantly, recent research into learningdifficulties like dyslexia or dyspraxia has concludedthat touch typing is not only of huge benefit forthose with SEN, but in some cases is consideredto be a necessity. Not only is it a relief forchildren who struggle with handwriting, but it alsohelps with spelling, as word patterns are learntusing muscle memory. Intelligent children, whowere once falling behind in class, due to havingdifficulty translating the thoughts in their headonto paper, feel liberated. Their self-confidence isboosted, as is the quality of their written work.And the results speak for themselves.

At NMTT they aim to teach children how totouch type in one week and to make it fun aswell! For info go to : nmtouchtyping.co.uk

New French and EnglishnurseryLittle Linguists nursery is a new French andEnglish bilingual nursery offering flexible, affordablenursery care and education for children in Streatham.They expect that children who join the setting willlearn to understand a language in a natural and directway, similar to how they learned their mother tongue. With lots of lovely Montessorimaterials in the classrooms, Little Linguists use sensory materials, music, and imaginationto create rich learning experiences for your child. Flexible childcare options for childrenaged 0-5 years, 7.30am – 6.30pm.121 Fallsbrook Road, London, SW16 6DU. Contact them to arrange a viewing on ( 8127 8581 or [email protected] : littlelinguistsnursery.co.uk

Inspiring tuition– free trialsession!Explore Learning centres provide maths andEnglish tuition for 5 to 14 year olds of allabilities. The centres are open 7 days a week,meaning Explore can fitinto busy family life. AsExplore members,children work with tutorswho are greateducational role models,enthusiastic aboutlearning and fantasticmotivators. Each childhas an individualisedlearning programme, andall Explore courses mapto the NationalCurriculum in England and the Curriculum forExcellence in Scotland. Find out how your child can benefit fromExplore Learning membership today. Book yourfree trial at : explorelearning.co.uk

Improve 11+vocabulary in a flashLooking to boost your child’s vocabularyahead of the 11+ exam? The 11+Entrance Examination demands strongvocabulary and comprehension skills, this iswhy Farquhar’s Vocabulary Flash Cardshave been specifically created to improvechildren’s verbal reasoning skills andultimately help them succeed. Featuringcarefully selected words collated fromrecognised 11+ material, the cards willbuild confidence and vocabulary knowledgeat the appropriate level tested in the 11+Entrance Examination. The flash cards will encourage your child tobuild up a bank of challenging vocabulary, synonyms, antonyms and compound words. Easilyportable in small sets, they are perfect for vocabulary practice on the go. They can be used inmany ways – as classic flash cards, stuck up as words of the week, or a tool to make up yourown games to challenge friends and family. For more information visit : vocabularyflashcards.co.uk

Local education news

Top of the cropThe Year 6 children atHornsby HouseSchool have achieved agreat set of 11+ resultsthis spring. In fact, intheir secondary schoolentrance exams the 51pupils won a total of 40scholarships andawards! 80% of thechildren are heading toone of six London dayschools: Alleyn's,Whitgift, DulwichCollege, Streatham andClapham High School,James Allen's GirlsSchool and Emanuel, with the other 20% moving on to a range of other London day schoolsand boarding schools, including both independent and state options. ‘I congratulate the Year6 children on the excellent results they have achieved,’ said Edward Rees, Headmaster.‘They have worked very hard and deserve their success. The number of offers achieved areimpressive and reflect the high quality of the teaching at Hornsby House.’ Hornsby House,Hearnville Road SW12 8RS, ( 8673 7573 : hornsbyhouse.org.uk

May 2016 15®

Education – TutoringExam preparation strategiesBy JK Educate - Jaderberg Krais

It’s important to fully prepare for exams, both emotionally and practically. These strategies will help at all levels from SATs andschool testing, to GCSEs and beyond.

Parent’s involvement isimportantAs the exam system has changed greatly overthe past few years, and is continuing to do so,some parents may feel it best to just let the‘experts’ at their child’s school get on with it.However we believe parent involvement isimportant and that parents don’t need to bean expert in any subject to make a realdifference!

It is hard for children to understand the long-term importance of doing their best, so try toencourage and establish a feel good factorabout learning - all learning is hard andrequires sacrifice and deferred gratification,but students need to understand “what’s in itfor me?”. For 11+ it’s to do with visualisingthe end goal of attending a particular school,for older children it is going to their chosenuniversity and getting a good job.

Practical preparations forrevisionCreate a work area where your child will beuninterrupted and comfortable. Agree upfront whether music or screens will help orhinder them. Encourage your child to keep afile for each subject with section dividers andto file new notes and handouts straight away.

Get good revision aids for each subject,including past papers, and match revisionnotes to likely exam questions.

Parents also need to encourage the student tostart revision early and make a realistictimetable that they will stick to. Agree to aregular “check-in” where you are “allowed” todiscuss where the student is in relation totheir deadlines.

Learning tipsIt really helps to structure each revisionsession, setting an achievable aim and testingthis at the end. “Doing something” with theinformation students are trying to learn andremember is essential to allow the brain tolearn, make connections and remember.Different people find different activities useful,and your child needs to find out what helpsthem remember things. Some students like to use “spider maps” orcreate colourful posters that they display onthe wall to see regularly; visualisation,mnemonics or acronyms are examples ofuseful rote learning techniques. Remember,the least effective methods of learning are justrepeatedly reading the information through, orsimply copying it out.

Managing stress duringrevision and examsA little bit of stress can be a good thing as itmotivates us to work hard. But exams canmake stress get out of hand, which can stop usfrom performing well, so it’s important toaddress it and get it back under control.

It’s vital students eat well, with fresh fruit andvegetables and proper breakfasts. Sleep is theother essential. Try to keep householdroutines the same and encourage regularbreaks from work, particularly if they arebecoming frustrated, angry or overwhelmed.

Encourage and praise your child; show aninterest by talking to them about what theyare learning. Keep a note of key dates anddeadlines to ensure you support them beforethe ‘panic stage.’

As the exams draw closer, refrain from talkingabout them. Keep conversations light, trivialand away from anything to do with exams.

Before the exams, remember to tell them thatyou love and value them whatever happens.And remind them of this again, when theresults are due!

JK Educate specialises in bespoke support for children’s learning, with schools advice, child assessments, specialist subject tutoring, entrance exam preparation and study skills. Contact Katie on ( 3488 0754 or : jkeducate.co.uk


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May 2016 17®

Homes & interiors

It’s spring, does the brighter weatherhighlight the need for some homeimprovements?

A relatively cost effective wayto freshen up your homePainting your home can be done very quickly, for maximumimpact and with very minimum disruption to daily family life.We spoke to James Ashton, a senior painter and decorator atDwell Property Services, for some insight and tips for apainting project.

“We are asked to repaint properties for a number of reasons, such asthe arrival of a new baby to the household, general up keep, purchaseof a new property, end of tenancy for Landlords. Whatever the reasons,we always advise on the best paint for the job, be it non-toxic paint fora nursery, durable/washable paint for hallways, to moisture resistantpaint for bathrooms and kitchens.

Surfaces to be painted should always be rubbed down and treated(where necessary), prior to starting any painting works. Thispreparation is essential to providing a smooth even coverage, andmakes all the difference for a professional finish. This combined, withthe quality of the paint and tools used i.e. good quality rollers/brushes,is ultimately what will raise your painting project to a higher longerlasting, standard. At Dwell, we recommend properties are fully re-painted a minimum of every 4-5 years, to maintain a fresh lookinghome for you and your family.

Preparation is also the key when tackling exterior painting works tomasonry, woodwork as well as choosing the right weatherproof paintfor the job. The exterior of a property is often neglected, however,maintaining this area is just as important as the interior; for creating ahome to be proud of.”

So, what are you waiting for? There is no time like the present to giveyour home well needed TLC!

For more information or advice call Dwell Property Services on 020 36647074 for a free, no obligations quote. Take a look at their website for a fullrange of their property services : dwellmaintenance.com 1-9 Hardwick Square, Wandsworth, SW18 4AW.

Grassify your turfLeading suppliers and installers of luxuriously soft artificialgrass and designer outdoor furniture, Grassify providerealistic looking lawns without any of the mess. They alsooffer custom-built storage, LED lighting and can alsotransform balconies, terraces and patios into practical greenspaces. They can organise everything from start to finish ( 7993 9083 : GRASSify.co.uk


• Trust your builderYou must be able to fully trust yourbuilder. Trust is important for anyrelationship to work. Projects alwaysrun much more smoothly once a goodworking relationship with the clienthas been built and trust is established.If possible, consider using them for asmaller project first or theirmaintenance/handyman team to get afeel for how their company works.

• Communicate effectivelyWhen obstacles are encountered, aplan needs to be established quickly toovercome them, in order to makesure that your project keeps to itsschedule. Of course, in this situationcommunication is key. You must beable to feel that you can communicatefreely, easily and regularly with yourbuilder.

• Obtain past work referencesDo your research and ask forreferences. Make sure you establish ifa specific build team is beingrecommended and obtain a guaranteethat this team will be available towork on your project.

• Sign a contractOnce you have selected your chosenbuilder make sure you both sign acontract. This should state the agreedscope of the works, a completion dateand a schedule of payments. It is usualfor a builder to ask for a percentagedeposit up front, this will allow him topurchase required materials and alsopay his team up until an agreedcompletion stage. Do remember toagree any further changes and costs inwriting along the way to avoidanything unexpected at the end. It’sadvisable to make sure that you are100% happy with the work, whichhas been carried out before partingwith the final payment.

Kelmscott Home Improvement say:“For the future success of ourbusiness it’s essential that we ensureour clients are happy. Personalrecommendation is very powerful andof the utmost importance to us. Goodluck with your search for the bestbuilder for your project. If you’d liketo meet with us to discus your nextproject, we’d love to meet you.Alternatively please give us a call tobook our handyman for those DIYjobs you don’t have time for.”

First recollection“When I was little, I remember two things in mybedroom: the curtains and my name on thecushion. So now I am a mum, I look at mychild’s bedroom and wonder how I couldpersonalise it?”

Why don’t you contact Tatiana of My Right Style in thefirst instance? Email her with your thoughts, it could benursery furnishings, cot lining, bed covers, soft walldecorations or wall painting, smart curtains or romanblinds, buntings, any shape cushion covers, stylish tailoredor knitted clothes, accessories or headwear. She isbrilliant! All products can be personalised for your babyor toddler. All kinds of embroidery can be done: you canwrite the name of your child or just the initials, or it couldbe the first letter only in any type of font by choosingfrom their Alphabet Gallery, where you can find over 110fonts. Make a name as simple as a patch or appliqué, softstuds, buttons, shape cut-outs, or unique hand knitted 3Dhand made wool cord. You can supply the fabrics or theycan order for you. “My Right Style Ltd thrive to understand the character ofyour child, his/her personality, the atmosphere and styleof the house to please you and keep friends and familyhappy.”

Do look at her website, Tatiana also does wardroberevitalisation, interior design, style advice, colour analysis,online personal shopping and more. She is bursting withideas and advice, all at affordable [email protected] : myrightstyle.co.uk ( 07741277190.

Good relationship with yourbuilder = positive build projectChoosing the right builder for your project is key to its success. Buildprojects of any size are disruptive to the normal running of your life,so selecting the right builder can make a huge difference to theinconvenience you feel and the positivity with which you approachthe project.

Homes & interiors

Kelmscott Home Improvement( 8772 8191 [email protected] : khil.co.uk

May 2016 19®

Health & fitness

Preparation is keyBefore you start any kind of exercise routine,check with your doctor (or midwife if you’repregnant) that it’s OK. If you’re recently givenbirth, wait until after your six week check-up.If you had a C-section or other complications,you might want to wait a while longer. Alwaysstart with stretches to warm your muscles anddon’t overdo anything. If you start to hurt, it’syour body’s way of telling you to stop. Startwith a small, short routine and graduallyincrease the time you spend and the intensityof your work-out.

Let’s swapChances are your nearest and dearest mayalso be feeling the belt pinch. So talk throughyour desires for a little time to yourself to geta little fitter and suggest you swap. He has thekids while you go to the gym, for a swim, for along walk in the woods – whichever you feelyou like the most. Then do the same for himanother day. If you’re single, could you and afriend swap exercise times?

Do what you likeIt may sound obvious but choose an activityyou actually enjoy. If you join a spinning class,can’t keep up, end up red in the face andaching all over and dread going back, it’s notthe right exercise for you. Try out a fewdifferent classes – everything from kick boxingto zumba is available, in gyms and church halls– and then pick the one you like the most. Ifyou have joined a gym, you might find it worksbetter to do a different thing each time. Try toinclude something that gets your heart racing,something stretchy and something thatinvolves weights.

Kids come too Can’t palm the kids off onto a relative? Wantto get a few more steps done this week? Takethe kids with you. Go to a local park withscooters and bikes and baby in a pushchairand walk around the outside of the park,encouraging the kids to race you. Not onlywill you all get an oxygen boost, they willsleep really well that night.

Using babyIf you are stuck at home quite a lot with avery young baby and don’t yet feel ready forthe communal changing rooms, try someexercises at home. There are quite a fewpost-natal exercise DVDs now that start youoff gently and most importantly, know how tosupport and strengthen your body as itreturns to your pre-pregnancy shape. Pop inthe DVD, do a few exercises and have yourbaby on a play mat next to you so that you’restill close. You can even use your baby tostrengthen your arms by lifting her over andover – and she’ll love it too!

Quick burstsThe time when your baby naps can be greatfor a quick burst – one of the hottest newfitness trends right now. Use this precioustime wisely. Do push-ups against the wall oron your knees, use small weights to tightenarms (tins of beans work just as well), dosquats and a few yoga poses for flexibility andstrength in your core.

How to start a new exercise regimewhen you’re a busy mumBy Sally J. Hall

When, for goodness sake, are you going to find the time for a new fitness regime to shift those few pounds or get that babyweight off? Don’t despair, we have a few great ideas.


LEARN TO RUNBeginner & improver courses forWOMEN on Wimbledon Common

COURSES start throughout the year

Contact Caroline on 07810 486286,[email protected]

Mindfulness for childrenusing creative breathing techniques, visualisation and other fun activities

I can help your child• relieve anxieties and fears• relieve exam stress• improve sleep patterns• increase self-esteem and confidence• develop concentration skills

Sessions can be 1-1 or group in central location in Putney

Ellen Ley, BA (Hons) Early Years professional statusDip Counselling, Children & Young People

[email protected] 020 8789 2474/07790 782157Trained and qualified with founder and internationally renowned author Lorraine Murray

May 2016 21®

Health & fitness

Pregnancy Health Yoga withTara Lee DVD £14.99

A very comprehensive DVD that offers achoice of eight workout routines all suitablefor pregnancy. It promises not just tostrengthen your muscles but to give youmore energy and help you relax too. Itincludes a birth visualisation by Dr GowriMotha, the creator of the Gentle BirthMethod too.

My Pre & Post Natal Workouts£34.99 Davina McCall

You name the reason for exercise, Davinahas made a DVD for it. But she really doesknow quite a bit about fitness duringpregnancy and afterwards. In this DVD,Davina and her personal trainer Jackie Wrenshow you how to do a workout in twosections for before and after you have yourbaby. Well thought out and well presented.

Post Natal Pilates£9.99 Caroline Sandry

Pilates is a very powerful form of exercisethat gives you great strength in your core,abdominal muscles and also has the musclelengthening effects of yoga. This DVD offerssafe and effective exercises designed to beused at different stages, from right after birthor as soon as you feel able. I t offers twostages: pelvic floor and the muscles of thepelvis and abdomen then it moves on toimproving strength and tone.

Three of the best post-baby fitness DVDs

Recommended equipment

Dumbbells£5.05 Reebok

Weighing from one to five kilos, theseweights are ideal for banishing the bingowings. Get pumping! They come in fivecolours – one colour for each weight.

Rowing Action Exerciser£12 Pineapple

This little gadget will help you get fitter athome and will tuck away under the bedwhen not in use. It can be used in a rowingmotion to help tone your thighs, bottom,abdominal muscles and back.

Pilates Stretch Bands£8.10 Calmia

Use these oversized stretch bands to giveyou resistance to help tighten abdominals,tone your arms and back and shoulders andslim your legs and behind. In three colours.

Love your tennisIf you or your children enjoy playing tennis then why not sign up to aJonathan Markson Tennis Camp? With 5 hours of professionalcoaching each day this is the perfect way to get some healthy exerciseand improve your tennis. Their experienced coaching team uses thelatest technical drills and on-court video analysis to boost yourperformance. Children of 7+ years, adults and all levels are welcome.Next camps are taking place on 28–30 May (Barnes), 25–29 July(Barnes), 15–19 August (Fulham). ( 7603 2422, [email protected] : marksontennis.com

Learn to run: new courses forbeginners and improversFrom outside the Windmill Café on Wimbledon Common,Common Runners offer beginner and improver running courses andsocial runs during the week, usually straight after school drop-off. Thewomen-only classes are small and friendly and they welcome all agesand abilities. If you want to get fitter, loseweight, run a 5K or more, theirnew courses will guarantee to getyou up and running. Contact Caroline on ( 07810 [email protected]


Health and well being

Would you enjoy a free life coaching session? We asked Laure Polidori of The Family Life Coach to describe a typical session: “After giving birth to her baby, the client encountered some issues in her relationship with her in-laws.These were mainly due to different cultural backgrounds, which ended up affecting her home and couple.

We explored what was really triggering her anxiety and concerns. Once the causes were understood, theclient gained confidence in herself and clarity about what she really wanted. Thanks to that she was able tofind a way to express and communicate perfectly what she wanted, in a way that made her feel good aboutherself. This not only improved her relationship with her in-laws, but also helped reach the right balance inher couple, by finding a compromise regarding the bringing up of their child. This provided a much happierenvironment for her baby to grow up in.

Julie (not her real name) said: “I would not hesitate to recommend Laure as a life coach for the family. Injust three sessions, we have largely achieved my original goal, we resolved a situation that I thoughtinextricable. At the end of the third hour, I re-established the communication in my family, and greatlyimproved my relationship with my beautiful family.”In this case coaching has proven to be very effective in untangling a situation that, in first instance, seemed tohave no solution for the client. For your free session contact: Laure Polidori, The Family Life Coach ( 07968 440913 [email protected] : laurepolidori.com

Lymphatic drainage: leg confidence regained!Which one of you has not tried to achieve that perfectly polished look, that sexy silhouette thatHollywood stars tirelessly display on red carpets ? Under scandalous slits or micro mini-skirtscelebrities around the World seize every opportunity to show their most amazing assets : theirlegs ! This summer, it is YOUR turn to steal the spotlight !

An excellent and non-invasive way to regain your “leg confidence” is Lymphatic DrainageTherapy (LTD). Often classified as a slimming treatment, it fights water retention, swollen“heavy legs” and cellulite while reducing the risk of varicose veins.

Lymphatic drainage is a natural function of the body, which plays an important part in immunity.It is a vascular network, which naturally flushes away toxins and metabolic waste. If the systemis not working properly fluids may build up within the tissues, lead to the compression of vesselsand become painful (even at night).

While blood is pumpedby the heart, thelymphatic system relieson the movements ofthe muscles. LymphaticDrainage Therapyconsists in pneumaticcompressions thatimprove the flow ofboth the blood and thelymph in a gentle waybut much morepowerfully than amanual massage. Ituses inflatable bootswith compartmentsthat fill up with air oneafter the other from the ankles moving up to the upper thighs. They then deflate at regularintervals for 30 minutes. The treatment is completely painless and the feeling of well-being isimmediate. It usually induces a light sweating due to toxin elimination through the skin. Asession will make you feel relaxed and as “light” as an astronaut on the Moon ! or as glamorousas Liza Minnelli in “Cabaret”!

Although it does not lead to direct weight loss, this treatment contributes to reshaping thebody, reducing swelling and the feeling of tiredness. Long term, it improves the orange peelaspect of the skin and retones the legs.Francine Joyce offers nutrition and cosmetics with the French touch !: sos-silhouette.com or : dietconsulting.co.ukMaison Médicale, 10 Cromwell Place, South Kensington ( 7589 9321.

Meditation not for you? Try dynamic relaxation Developed in the 60’s by a Spanishneuropsychiatrist combining Eastern traditionand Western techniques, Sophrologycombines breathing, visualisation, gentlemovement and relaxation techniques to bringboth body and mind into harmony. Anyonecan learn these fast and effective techniques,which can be practiced anywhere, at anytimeie: you won’t need to ‘empty your mind’ orsit on a cushion for hours.

Florence Pasteur will make you immediatelyat ease. She will give you the tools foranchoring your body, giving you a momentfor catching your breath, restoring yourvitality. All of this will help with mind clarity,reconnecting with your values and yourselfand aligning your being and your doing.Sophrology techniques are so easy andadaptable they can help you and your familywith any challenges you could be facing(sleeping troubles, child birth, career change,stress management, craving for ‘me time’…)

‘I experienced the physical change after myfirst 10 minutes practice, which made awhole difference. I found Sophrology theeasiest tool among many others that I havetried. It offered me more than what Iexpected. I loved the dynamic, engaging and apositive interaction in a safe space created bythe practitioner.’ Mrs T. 44 yrs old.

It’s a lifetime of toolsfor a balanced lifestyle!Suitable from 8yrs.Tried and tested byPascale Gravell,Families South Westeditor, who loved it.Florence is super. : florencepasteur.com

May 2016 23®

Health and well being

£10 acupressure massage offer The Wellness Centre, the massage specialists inNorthcote Road, are offering a fantastic opportunityto all readers of Families SW magazine: a 45minute treatment of their signatureAcupressure Massage for only £10! A skilledpractitioner with years of training and experiencewill search out acupuncture points to find andrelease areas of tension on your body. To takeadvantage of this amazing offer go to their websitewww.TheWellnessCentre.com and book in aPressure Point Session, using the code FSW10 tohave a relaxing and therapeutic Massage for only£10 (normally £45). New customers only, alltreatments to be booked in before 1st June 2016.For any questions email them [email protected]

When asking an older sibling or friendly teenager to babysit, it is vitallyimportant to consider how competent they would be in an emergency; • How mature and responsible are they?• Are they familiar with your home and any risks within it?• Do they know your children well?

Remind your babysitter to be mindful of hazards including hot drinks,pets, tiredness and anything else that could cause a danger.

Is an older sibling the best option? Research published in 2010 in Injury Prevention, a BMA journal,revealed when older siblings supervise younger children there is anincreased risk of injury: mothers tend to spot and remove dangers,whereas older siblings often interact with hazards eg. make a hot drinkand leave it accessible. Children also behaved in a more risky mannerwhen supervised by siblings, copying what they were doing and failingto listen when chastised. This led to more accidents and injuries.

As a babysitter you are entrusted with someone else’s life in yourhands and that is a tremendous responsibility.

The following preparation encourages a safer arrangement:• Ensure your babysitter is First Aid trained• Fully brief them, introduce them to your children and familiarise

them with your home• Remind them they are there to supervise your children safely and

adhere to your rules• Have a local back-up adult available• Make arrangements in advance for the sitter’s safe return home

Complete an emergency check list – available from : firstaidforlife.org.uk

It should include your children’s names, dates of birth, allergies ormedication, your mobiles and work telephone numbers, GP contactdetails, emergency telephone numbers – 999/112, reliable neighbours’numbers and addresses as well as location of electricity and water main

Parents need time away and most babysitters are wonderful and thechildren remain safe and happy, however it does no harm to thinkcarefully and plan before leaving them and everyone will be that muchsafer as a result.

First Aid for Life run specific First Aid courses for teenagers to helpkeep themselves and others safe and know how to help in anemergency. Emma Hammett, : firstaidforlife.org.uk, ( 8675 [email protected]

In praise of HomeopathyI started using homeopathy whileresearching an article for FamiliesSouth West. The more I read aboutit, the more I wanted to try. Itworks so well I am amazed it is notmore commonly used. Did youknow it is perfectly common formany GPs in France to prescribe“the little sugar pills?” In Switzerlandhomeopathy has the same status asconventional medicine when itcomes to state medical insurance.Homeopathy, along with herbalmedicine, acupuncture and ChineseTraditional Medicine, had been rejected by the country’s health authorities for a lack ofscientific proof of their efficacy in 2005, but a groundswell of support for them from aproportion of the Swiss population caused a change of heart, so they are now included inthe health insurance scheme until 2017 under a probationary arrangement.

Homeopathy is completely natural with no side effects. When my twins were born I got‘full on’ mastitis. My homeopath, who knew me – don’t try this on your own –prescribed the remedies I needed, I carried on with breast feeding and got betterwithout antibiotics; when my son got ear or chest infections, he was relieved too; mydaughter’s nightmares were cured overnight, as well as impetigo (that took longer). Onebeautiful thing about homeopathy is that I am empowered to learn which remedy worksfor each of my children. Slowly, with time, I learnt to give certain remedies myself. It isso effective, yet so gentle. I found I was able to go to my GP less often as I was able todeal with chesty coughs and common ailments on my own. Of course I also go and seemy GP as well, and will use antibiotics if necessary, but I have found with my five childrenthat we only needed them a few times in 20 years. Not bad!? And good for the NHS.

When is a child old enough to babysit?Emma Hammet of First Aid for Life explains: “The Health and Safety Regulations 1997 protect children at work, but do not have any jurisdictionfor babysitting. RoSPA and the NSPCC recommend no one under the age of 16 should be left in charge of a baby or toddler.

May 2016 25®

Baby feature

Sue Lewis ante nataland post natal servicesSue Lewis is a Women's HealthPhysiotherapist well known for her small andfriendly ante classes in Wimbledon. Togetherwith Gill Martin AN/PN fitness trainer, she isalso offering mummy MOT's with lots ofadvice about correct postnatal exercise.They see mothers one to one with pelvicgirdle pain, ante natal obstetric problems,sacro-iliac joint pain, separated abdominalmuscles (Sue wrote the treatment guidelinesat St. George's for Symphysis PubisDysfunction). Specialist care also includespost natal complications and anygynaecological problems, and back pain. At the fabulous newly built scout house inSW20, at Coombe House KT2 7DT or inyour home.( 07762 601 [email protected] : suelewisantenatal.co.uk

Baby-led weaningBaby-led weaning has become anincreasingly popular weaningmethod, with many parentschoosing to move away from themore traditional spoon feeding ofpurees. Two London mums have joinedforces to create Little One Led,an online portal that providesadvice, ideas and recipes as well asrunning regular workshops acrossLondon. “For those that areinterested in learning about howbaby-led weaning works, theseworkshops are the perfect startingpoint,” said Zoe Hill, NutritionalTherapist and Co-Founder of LittleOne Led. “At one of our workshops you’ll learn how it all works, when to start, the benefits ofbaby-led weaning, what foods to offer and what foods to avoid as well as addressing anyquestions you may have.” Workshops are held at The Contact Centre, Church of the Holy Spirit, Hambalt Road SW4 9EHon a monthly basis. : littleoneled.com

Protecting babies fromwireless radiationMore than one hundred medical doctors,scientists and public health experts fromaround the world have signed a JointStatement advising pregnant women to takesimple precautions to protect themselves andtheir babies from wireless radiation.

The Statement is part of a national right-to-know campaign called the BabySafeProject. The project is based on recentscientific studies suggesting that radiationfrom wireless devices is capable of interferingwith the tiny electrical impulses that helpsynapses connect in a developing brain."The fetus is perhaps the most vulnerable tothese types of insults, when the brain is justforming, when all of the organ systems arejust beginning to develop," says Dr. HughTaylor, Chief of Obstetrics and Gynecology,Yale-New Haven Hospital, Professor ofWomen's Health at Yale University, and leadauthor of the study.

“Families” has been campaigning for years onthis issue. Precautionary advice includes:don’t position your WIFI router next to baby,turn your WIFI off— or at the very least atnight, don’t leave your baby monitor too closeto baby, don’t leave your mobile phone nextto baby, nor tucked in your bra! Be safe.: babysafeproject.org

'Knowing your midwife': can this become a realityfor UK women?A landmark conference explored this question last month with the collaboration of The PositiveBirth Movement, Neighbourhood Midwives, the Association for the Improvements in theMaternity Services (AIMS) and more.

Indeed surveys by the NFWI and NCT reveal some sad facts: • 6 out of 10 did not see the same midwife more than once in pregnancy, 4 in 10 saw up to 10

different midwives.• 8 out of 10 had never met the midwife who cared for them in labour and a startling 15% did

not have one to one care in labour.

For those women with resources there is the option of adding on to their NHS care by engagingthe services of a private, independent midwife. A constant part of your experience, she’llprovide your ante natal care at home, available by phone if you are worried, on call to you forlabour and by your side throughout labour and birth. She will visit frequently in the post natalperiod and support you until 6 weeks as you grow into a confident and happy mother. Ofcourse, sadly this is no help to those women who are unable to afford this care. This is whyNeighbourhood Midwives is working hard to provide its model of care through the NHS and isalso setting up a Charity so that they can reach disadvantaged and vulnerable women.

In the meantime if you would like some additional care throughout your pregnancy, birth andpostnatal period just call Neighbourhood Midwives and know that you may be helping a womanless advantaged than you in the future.: positivebirthmovement.org : neighbourhoodmidwives.org.uk : aims.org.ukSources:Support Overdue: women’s experiences of maternity care. NFWI. 3 May 2013.Maternity Services Survey: Care Quality Commission 2013.

Positive Birth Movement We wrote about this excellent group in Familiesbefore. The Positive Birth Movement aims toconnect pregnant women together to sharestories, expertise and positivity about childbirth,aiming to challenge the epidemic of negativity andfear that surrounds modern birth. The ClaphamGroup is co-facilitated by Nadia Raafat alongsideindependent midwife Anna von Horsten andNeighbourhood Midwife Tina Perridge. It ishosted at a local yoga studio. The group has greatenergy behind it. To take part email Nadia [email protected] or start your own group: positivebirthmovement.org

Natural intimacy We’ve come across this great site for the eco-aware modern woman. Natural intimacysells natural and alternative menstrual andfertility products, like FemmyCycle menstrualcup (disposable pads and tampons) or Cayaopening up the world of hormone-freecontraception. Love your body! : natural-intimacy.eu


Baby featureFitness, food and fununder the Tuscan sunAre you looking for a chance to have afun, relaxing holiday in the stunningTuscan countryside, with your baby?Let us tell you about Mum-and-baby-experience: you will be staying in abeautifully restored Tuscan farmhouseoverlooking the Tiber valley and LakeMontedoglio. There is a fenced pool,mountain bikes, highchairs, cots, plenty oftoys and baby equipment. You can enjoyyoga, zumba and a variety of fitness classeswhile your children are being entertainedand looked after by qualified babysitters.There are cooking lessons where childrencan join in and learn how to makehomemade pasta and pizza, cooked in theoutside bread oven. All delicious, locallysourced food prepared by their chef andmeals with wine are enjoyed under thepergola. Plenty of time to learn some Italianwith their friendly fun classes or just sit andread a book or swim knowing that yourchildren are enjoying themselves too.

On market day you visit the beautifulmedieval town of Anghiari and have achance to buy some truffle oil or localsalamis before enjoying lunch out at thelocal olive mill with the owners.

Airport transfers (with car seats), excursionto the medieval town of Anghiari and amassage are included. Holidays are suitablefor babies aged 3 months upwards. Childrengo free. Dads and grandparents verywelcome too. Closest airport is Peruguia(Ryanair). What’s not to like?

Contact Rita on ( 07785 571 [email protected] : holiday-villa-in-tuscany.com and : mum-and-baby-experience.co.uk

New baby massagegroup in WimbledonBaby massage is a wonderful way to bondand interact with your baby through a gentleapproach of reflexology and soothing strokesto stories and nursery rhymes; not only doesit help your baby's emotional and physicaldevelopment but it can also help boost hisimmune system.Group classes, private group sessions, a dadsgroup and one to one sessions.Updates, class info and early bookingdiscounts on : facebook.com/wimbledonbabymassage

Changing maternity discrimination at workAn amazing 70% of mothers who return to work leave their jobs within 5 yearsbecause they find it impossible to combine a career and family life. This is notright. Drawing on 14 years of experience and working with over 2,000 women,Bumps and the Boardroom has explored the correlation between what takes placearound the pregnancy journey for high potential women who were moving up thecareer ladder and how the transition to motherhood can benefit, hamper or halttheir continued ability to rise.

Maternity Action and the Alliance against Pregnancy Discrimination are campaigningfor the Government to take action, introduce more robust policies to protectwomen and improve their access to legal recourse. Some companies do providematernity coaching programs, enhanced parental leave packages, training formanagers, support for colleagues, progressive women’s networks and return-shipprograms. These initiatives are great but the overall culture and view of pregnancyat work still remains.

The plan is to create a positive community that will help bring about a ground-breaking shift in current attitudes and also establish a Training Academy. To this effect, Bumps and the Boardroom have entered #VOOM 2016 to pitchtheir business idea to Richard Branson.

If you want to see a change please vote or pledge from your mobile device now : vmbvoom.com/pitches/bumps-and-the-boardroom We have! It takes moments to do but will show that we all want change.

Not using cloth nappiesyet? Nappy Love is an online retailer for clothnappies and accessories. They offer freeindividual advice via Skype and napuccinos inCentral London. They have a selection ofsuper nice nappies, from all-in-ones, to nightnappies to nappy rental. Their mission? Tomake you fall in love with real nappies. : nappylove.co.uk

May 2016 27®

1. Learn to meditateMeditation underlies Mindfulness. This ancient practice has gained much popularityas evidence has demonstrated its efficacy in decreasing stress and anxiety andpromoting emotional wellbeing. But meditation offers the practitioner much morethan just a quiet mind. Through meditation we discover an aspect of ourselvesbeyond the fluctuations of our mental habits, reactive buttons and the beliefs,which shape our experience. We learn that we do not have to react negatively indifficult situations, that we can shape our own beliefs and become immune to thepower of our own thoughts and emotions. We learn how to let go of control andflow a little easier through our own lives.

2. Prepare your bodyPregnancy and birth, especially, are visceral experiences which our refined,intellectual and, increasingly, electronic lifestyles do not prepare us for. Those whopractice regular exercise like yoga, dancing, swimming and walking throughpregnancy produce babies in better positions, experience shorter labours and faremuch better during childbirth. Additionally, preparing your body with massage,alignment work and developing pelvic awareness will all help enable a better birthexperience.

3. Re-program your belief systemWe experience the birth in our minds as well as our bodies. How we think aboutbirth will substantially determine our experience. Yet our cultural beliefs do notprepare us for a positive birth experience; we are taught to fear the pain ofchildbirth and to trust experts more than our bodies. Most of us enter labourmentally ill-equipped for the challenges it presents. A little self enquiry duringpregnancy will reveal to you how you feel and think about childbirth (andbreastfeeding), and whether you believe your body can birth un-assisted. The sixmonths of trimesters 2 and 3 provide adequate time for re-programming yourbelief system and finding ways to work with arising challenges like a lack ofconfidence, mental exhaustion, control, despondency and fear.

4. Create your supportIf you really want a positive birth without intervention, part of your mindfulpreparation has to be understanding the system in which you birth. With 1/4inductions and 1/4 caesarean sections, and as much as 1/2 women (in Londonhospitals) opting for chemical pain relief it is important to be able to discern whena proposed and unwanted intervention is really necessary for your body/baby andwhen it is simply hospital policy. Thanks to fabulous independent organisations likeThe Association for Improvements in the Maternity Services (AIMS), The PositiveBirth Movement, Birth Rights and the NCT there is a wealth of support andinformation for pregnant women at community level.

Explore your support options; for you have many. There are so many courses andtrainings at community level preparing partners with the skills they need to be thebest they can be for you during your birth experience.

For more information on Becoming Mother’s 8 Week Mindful Birthing Course inSW London please visit : becomingmother.co.uk

Baby feature

What is Mindful Birthing? By Nadia Raafat, Founder of Becoming Mother, Yogini, doula and Mindful Birthing teacher

Four tips for a happy and healthy pregnancy and birth experienceMindful birthing offers the pregnant mother an opportunity to discover a new and more fulfilling connection to herself and herbaby during the pregnancy, to experience a much deeper and fulfilling birth and a calmer and more connected path throughearly motherhood.

The Private Pregnancy UK ShowIn the first exhibition of its kind, the Private Pregnancy UK Showwill present the UK’s top private healthcare providers and latestinnovations in women’s health, fertility, pregnancy, childbirth andpaediatric care. Hosted at the Royal Institution, London, the showbrings together leading obstetricians, gynaecologists, fertilityconsultants and midwives from the UK’s leading private hospitalsand clinics.The Show will include exhibitors showcasing the latest innovationsfrom the private sector, an exclusive series of 16 seminars fromworld-renowned doctors and 10 educational workshops. 10am to 6pm Saturday 21 May – Sunday 22 May 201621 Albemarle Street Mayfair, London W1S 4BS : privatepregnancy.co.uk


Creative Little MindsART AND CRAFT & BUILD AND CONSTRUCT WORKSHOPStwo different activities that enhance children's creativityLocations: Chelsea, Fulham and Belgravia

[email protected]

07711 992451

Please tell advertisers you saw them in Families. It makes a HUGE difference. Thanks

May 2016 29®

Drum lessons with a differenceBrett Morgan has been playing drums professionally for 35 yearswith some of the finest artists and musicians around the world. Hehas been the Strictly Come Dancing drummer for the last 10 yearsand has worked with Jessie J, Lady Gaga, Elton John, FreddieMercury, Joss Stone, Rod Stewart the list goes on. He told Families:“After 35 years, I have decided to pass on my knowledge andexperience by giving lessons on a one to one basis or master classesfor students of all ages and ability in their homes or place of choice.”View just a small selection of video clips on : Brettmorgandrums.com and call him on ( 07815 772841.

New tennis classesPopular Fulham-based South Park Tennis is offering new classes for3-4 year olds this spring. Sign up for this pre-school class onMondays 3.30pm-4.15pm, £121 per child per term. And whileyou’re at it, why not check out South Park Cardio Tennis and burnup to 600 calories per hour with tennis-based drills with up-tempomusic! All levels and experience welcome, Tuesdays 9am and 11amand Thursdays 12pm, £10 per drop-in session. ( 07767 480148, : southparktennis.com

Clubs and classesWhat do you thinkof when you hearthe word ‘drama’?I bet, like most people, youautomatically think of a show or aperformance. Sophie Hallett of Shene StageSchool sees almost the completeopposite. “I see something muchmore important than theperformance. I see a child’s self-confidence grow, I see it helpingchildren to understand the worldaround them, I see it encouraging children to work as a team andsupport their peers, I see it helping children to focus and concentratebut above all I see it breaking down barriers and helping children tofeel their voice is important and to be able to express themselves infront of a group of strangers… to have the confidence to be able tolook each one in the eye. These are such essential life skills. A lot ofthe children I have taught have no intention of going into dramaprofessionally but have benefited greatly from having drama as part oftheir weekly routine, in a way it is a release from the routine ofschool during the week to come to a place where they are acceptedfor whoever they are and to create as a group in a safe environment.”•Sophie Hallett has been teaching drama for over 15 years and hasdone a lot of research into the benefits of drama in education. : shenestageschool.com

The dancing traditioncontinues …There is a long tradition of danceclasses at The West Wimbledon SocietyHall – or ‘Avenue Hall’ as it is known.The school, established in 1952 byBrenda Cass, continued for many yearsuntil it became a branch of The JeanHart Academy of Dance. MaryroseMeadwell took over the school in 1983renaming the dance school ‘Footsteps’.

Nearly 33 years later, the tradition isset to continue... Jennifer Siegeris hasnow stepped into Mrs Meadwells as‘Footsteps’ is becoming a branch of‘The Siegeris School of Dance’ thissummer term. The Siegeris School of Dance, with its happyenvironment, has a professional and enthusiastic approach with a highstandard of teaching under the direction of Jennifer Siegeris RADTeaching Diploma, RAD RTS, AISTD DDE. The school offers avariation of ballet, modern, tap, contemporary and jazz classes forchildren and adults. The dance school runs ballet classes in the RoyalAcademy of Dance Graded and Vocational classes and modern and tapclasses with the Imperial Society of Teachers of Dance encouraging thejoy of movement in children from 3 years of age.

For more information and to book a free trial lesson please visit : siegerisdance.com

‘Pop’ makeover for Studio Film School Studio Film School gets an exciting new makeover at the hands ofForm UK – the energetic branding agency behind Abbey Road Studios,Latitude Festival, and McBusted. The company will now be knows as‘Sparks’, to capture the spirit of their fun, vibrant media workshops forchildren. Look no further this term (or this summer holiday) to find anexciting activity for your child, where they can develop their creativeskills, confidence and a love of film. They could be part of the nextgeneration of UK film talent! : sparks-ignite.com

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Clubs and classesDoes your child lack confidence? Try dance classesAs a painfully shy child, Becca Carter,Principal of BE.Dance, can rememberalways holding back at school butbecoming completely alive during afterschool dance classes andperformances on stage. This issomething she can recognise in herown students and as a teacher, nothinggives her more pleasure than watchinga young dancer open up in class andlet go, whilst dancing in the studio. Itis even more thrilling for both theteacher and the parent to then seethese usually reserved children, give ittheir all on stage and have the time oftheir life. It is quite common for adancer to be nervous and havebutterflies before going on stage butonce their adrenalin gets going, moreoften than not they exit the stageenergised and exhilarated anddesperate to get back out there. Theyrealise that they can overcome theirinitial anxiety and all those months ofpractice leading up to their bigperformance are worth it.

A good dance teacher will alwaysinspire a child and encourage them tobe the best that they can be. They willnurture their students who will startto see just what can be achieved through a combination of hard work and dedication to theircraft. The most timid child will gain confidence. It may be in a couple of classes or even a coupleof terms but they will see that with persistence they can improve beyond belief and it is alsorather fun!

Learn to give and accept constructive criticism Regular dance classes will take children out of their usual social circle and introduce them to awider friendship group. In a place where they share common interests, many young dancers findthat they make friends for life in their dance classes. They are encouraged to work together andsupport one another both in class and on stage and share a mutual respect for their peers.When working on a piece of choreography or a new exercise in class, dancers are alwaysfocused on getting it right themselves rather than watching someone else get it wrong. Whenthey do watch each other dance, they learn to give and accept constructive criticism and learnfrom their fellow dancers mistakes and triumphs. If a dancer struggles with something they havethe tenacity to ‘get up and do it again’, safe in the knowledge that their fellow classmates andteachers are their biggest cheerleaders and are willing them to succeed. The support they willreceive in their regular weekly dance classes will forever boost their confidence and they willcarry the lessons they learn on the dance floor with them through life.

Becca Carter can be contacted on 07545 697352. : bedance.co.uk

Book your summercamps nowWhy not get a head start and start thinkingabout those long summer holidays now?Barracudas offer a higher variety ofactivities including sports and arts & crafts.They are rated 'Outstanding' moreconsistently than any other camp provider.They've been running for 24 years now andhave a fantastic and experienced team whomake sure your children always have abrilliant time. For 4.5 to 16 years. AtStreatham and Clapham Prep School, SW16.25th July – 19th August. : barracudas.co.uk

London Dance AcademySaturday classes Established since January 2005 The LondonDance Academy (LDA) provides balletclasses for children of all ages and abilities.Former English National Ballet dancer andlocal mother of 3, Kate Stober is the principaland founder of the LDA. As an accreditedRoyal Academy of Dance (RAD) teacher,Kate’s classes aim to provide a well-balanced,fun introduction to classical dance from ages2 1/2 and upwards.

Weekly classes are already running at theWilberforce Centre on Clapham Common,they have just opened their Saturday morningclasses in a stunning new space within therecently renovated St Thomas’s Church inBalham. Pre-School (2.5+ years) Pre-Primary (4+ years) Primary (6+ years) For further information call ( 07887 855371 : thelondondanceacademy.co.uk

Fun book to learn musicMusic teacher Rebecca Rumens-Syratt presents ahugely enjoyable way for children to learn the language ofmusic, introducing the clefs, the stave, the notes, key andrhythm. Young music enthusiasts will learn how to readmusic and music theory in order to be able to write theirown tunes. Fun activities along the way make learning ablast. Readers can have a go at writing music with sweets,making a bottle-flute and making music with a grass reed.Music for Children can be used in conjunction with thenational syllabus and ABRSM theory and practical gradedexams. By Rebecca Rumens-Syratt. Published by Batsford, May2016, £12.99. Age range: 6-12

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Battersea 020 8946 2986

Fulham 0845 202 5727

Merton Park & Tooting 020 8942 3502

Putney 0845 265 7050

Wimbledon 020 8946 3400

www.stagecoach.co.uk

Nurturing and developing young people's potential through dance, drama and singing.

For 4-18 year olds, after school, at weekends and holiday workshops.

Stagecoach Schools enrolling now

May 2016 33®

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We took every care inpreparing these entries butsometimes events arecancelled or times changed.Please double check eventwith the organiser to avoiddisappointment.

DIARY DATESSee more events in our online

What’s On calendar

Do-re-mi Babies Concerts

Barnes, Chelsea, Fulham, Wandsworth: doremibabies.co.ukDates throughout MayInspirational and fun classicalconcerts. With differentmusicians, instruments andprogrammes. Babies and toddlersare welcome to crawl, dance,sing, cry, nappy change, so youcan relax and enjoy somewonderful music. £10 per adult,children free, tickets online or onthe door. Dates vary dependingon venue.

Golden Hinde

Units 1 & 2 Pickfords Wharf, ClinkStreet SE1 9DG: goldenhinde.comThroughout MayGolden Tour A new tour throughstories, firing of the guns andraising of the anchor. Including aspecial visit from a 16th centuryBarber Surgeon who discusses thehardships and illnesses that camewith life at sea. Age 6+, £15

Southbank Centre

Belvedere Road SE1 8XX: southbankcentre.co.uk/Roald-DahlUntil 3 JulyThe Wondercrump World ofRoald Dahl Did you know thatRoald Dahl used to be a spy, afighter pilot, inventor and

historian of chocolate? Embark ona magical and interactive journeyand discover the secrets of awriter beloved by gazillions ofchildren. Ages 7–12

NCT Kensington And ChelseaMeet Up

Gambado Chelsea, 7 TownmeadRoad SW6 2PY: nct.org.uk/branches/kensington-chelseaEvery Wednesday in MayA great opportunity to meetother mums with babies under1. 9.30-11am, £1, show yourNCT card to get in.

Hampton Court Palace

East Molesey, Surrey KT8 9AU: hrp.org.uk/HamptonCourtPalaceThroughout MayThe Magic Garden A brand newimaginative play garden forfamilies, inspired by the palace’spast. Located in King Henry VIII’sformer tiltyard discoversomething new around everytwist and turn in an immersiveworld populated by mythicalbeasts, including a 25m dragon!Besiege the battlements, stormthe Tiltyard Towers and explore amysterious secret grotto! Includedin palace admission.

First Aid For Life

: firstaidforlife.org.uk [email protected]( 8675 40365, 7, 18, 21, 27 MayPaediatric First Aid coveringthe full Ofsted syllabus forChildcarers6, 14, 20 May, 4 JuneEmergency course as well asmost commonly occurring injuriesand illnesses in adults andchildren: choking, bleeding, burns,head injury etc

Wandsworth Arts Fringe

Venues across Wandsworth: wandsworthfringe.com6-22 MayFun and frolics in the nooksand crannies of Wandsworth.With over 110 events,workshops, street performances,exhibitions and music. Highlightsinclude a giant squid spectacle, amidnight trail of creative activities,a guided tour of the trees by astreet performer, and theopportunity to feed a dinosaur!

Museums at Night May Festival

Museums across London: museumsatnight.org.uk11-14 MayThe UK’s annual after-hoursfestival of arts, culture andheritage. Engage with history afterdark and enjoy a range of specialevents, twilight screenings, all-night sleepovers and torch-littours at our capital’s museums.

Barnes Children’s LiteratureFestival

Barnes Pond: barneskidslitfest.org14-15 MayA whole weekend of events forall ages from 2 to teenagers,including Costa Book Awardwinner Frances Hardinge and twoformer Children’s Laureates, thehugely popular author of WarHorse Michael Morpurgo andbestseller Jacqueline Wilson.

Tower of London

London EC3N 4AB: hrp.org.uk/tower-of-london24 MayDrawn at the Tower with ArtMacabre: Royal BeastsThe Tower was once the historichome to a magnificent menagerieof beasts, from Barbary lions andthe first elephants in England tomischievous monkeys and a polarbear who swam in the riverThames. Explore through drawingthe stories of London’s first zoo.6.30-9pm, £24/£20

The Baby Sleep Show

Kensington Town Hall: babysleepshow.co.uk4 JuneTired and trusted productsproven to help your little onesleep, plus the UK’s leading sleepexperts all under one roof

Hammersmith and FulhamArts Fest

Venues across Hammersmith andFulham: hf-artsfest.com6-12 JuneCelebrating the cultural richnessof the borough including theatre,music, dance, film, art andliterature workshops and events.Check the website for events.

Italian Summer Bazaar

Chelsea Old Town Hall King Road, SW3 5EE [email protected] June 12.30-8pm & 8th June10.30-8pm Italian food, jewelry,home décor, cashmere, leatheraccessories and beauty productsetc. Entry £3

Royal Opera House Screenings

Trafalgar Square: roh.org.uk/about/bp-big-screens/london10 JuneLa Boheme Enjoy operaticroyalty in Puccini's best-lovedopera in the heart of TrafalgarSquare. 7.30pm

London Steiner School Medieval Fayre

Streatham Common: waldorflondon.co.uk 11 JuneA great day of old fashioned funfor all the family.

What’s on

Golden Hinde 16th century Barber Surgeon

First Aid Course

Battersea ( 8133 8552: [email protected] 21 May Accredited PaediatricFirst Aid £96inc vat

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Wimbledon Guild Village Fair

Wimbledon Common, Southside: wimbledonguildvillagefair.org.uk18 JuneA favourite with families, this fairoffers two amazing Food Villagesplus a music stage, jazz tent and afarmers’ market. Highlights for2016 include a fabulous dog show,mini funfair and an AdventureVillage. 10.30am-5pmFREE

DRAMASee more events in our online


Battersea Arts Centre

Lavender Hill SW11 5TN: bac.org.uk4-5 JuneGrandad and Me A livingstorybook about loss, longing andthe treasures of memory andimagination. A little girl traces hergrandad’s footsteps on a magicaladventure through time andspace. For ages 5+, 11am and2.30pm, £12.50/£10

The Cambridge Theatre

Seven Dials, 32-34 Earlham StreetWC2H 9HU: uk.matildathemusical.comThroughout MayMatilda The Musical Inspired bythe twisted genius of Roald Dahl,Matilda revels in the anarchy ofchildhood, the power ofimagination and the inspiring storyof a girl who dares to change herdestiny.

The Chickenshed Theatre

Chase Side, Southgate N14 4PE: chickenshed.org.uk28 MayTales Big Day Out Anentertaining outing for all thefamily. Children can take part in agreat interactive workshop andwatch a fun performance of Talesfrom the Shed, then everyonecomes together for a huge Talesextravaganza. Age 0-6 10am-12pm, 2.30-4.30pm, £8

Colour House Theatre

Watermill Way SW19 2RD: colourhousetheatre.co.uk7 MayLittle Folk with Albo PopularWimbledon folksinger Al Clogstonperforms a series of Saturdaymorning concerts for kids. Folksongs, American camp songs,traditional children’s songs, sing-alongs and original songs,10.30am, £5

Every Saturday and Sunday inMayThe Little Mermaid In thedepths of the ocean lives Aerial, ayoung mermaid who dreams of afaraway land. When the magicalSea Witch grants Aerial’s wish,casting a spell to make her ahuman. 2pm and 4pm, £12/£10

The Little Angel Theatre

14 Dagmar Passage, Cross StreetN1 2DN: littleangeltheatre.comTo 26 JuneWe're Going on a Bear HuntA family go on an expedition of alifetime – running down thegrassy bank, wading through thecold river, squelching over theoozy mud, then peering into acave… what will they find?

New Wimbledon Theatre

The Broadway, Wimbledon SW19 1QG: atgtickets.com/venues/new-wimbledon-theatre See also under half term activities 17-21 MayHorrible Histories - IncredibleInvaders The Celts are crunchedwhen the Ruthless Romans invadeBritain. Can crazy Caratacus savethe nation? It’s a thousand yearjourney with Incredible Invaders!£14.65-£19.6517-21 MayHorrible Histories - GroovyGreeks From savage Sparta toangry Athens, discover the truthabout growing up in Greece. Takeon the Trojans and pummel thePersians. Hold on tight as yougatecrash the Groovy Greeks!£14.65-£19.65

The Polka Theatre

240 The Broadway, WimbledonSW19 1SB: polkatheatre.com 6-8 MayFrogs and Snails and TeddyBear Tales It’s bear’s birthdaytomorrow. His head is full ofexcitement. How will he ever getto sleep? Children are invited tobring a teddy bear to share theperformance. £12/£91-15 MayThe Box of Photographs Everypicture tells a story…WhenChelsea moves into a new flatwith her mum, she finds a box ofintriguing old photographsunderneath her bed. Themysterious lady who lived therebefore must have left them justfor her…Ages 7-11, £13.50/£1014-15 MayFlights of Fancy Follow the taleof a baby Glovebird learning tofly, while the earthbound

puppeteer and stick-in-the-mudmusician attempt to get the showoff the ground. A whimsical andthoughtful rag-bag puppet delight,with music, laughter and feathers.£12/£921-22 MayA Real Mermaid's Tale Anexciting adventure on the highseas with pirates, monstrous seacreatures and mermaid treasure.£12/£9 From 27 MayJames and the Giant PeachJoin James and his new-foundinsect friends as they embark onan extraordinary adventure whichtakes them halfway around theworld with excitement, songs andlaughter. Ages 5-11, £15/£1028-29 MayMeadow The grass remembers.It remembers you. It remembersme. And it remembers theanimals that called the meadowhome...Time changes everythingand only the grass remembers theway things used to be. £12/£9

Puppet Theatre Barge

Little Venice, Blomfield Road W9 2PF: puppetbarge.comTo 15 MayThe Town Mouse and theCountry Mouse These twofamous cousins visit each otherand both experience new sightsand sounds. Town Mouse meetsthe Billy Goats Gruff whilstCountry Mouse meets a town catand a grandfather clock. Music,songs and rod puppets for 3-8year olds. 3pm

Putney Arts Theatre

Ravenna Road SW15 6AW: ticketsource.co.uk/putneyartstheatre3-7 MayThe Ladykillers Five seasonedcon men planning an audaciousheist think they have found the

ideal base. A hilarious newadaptation of the classic Ealingcomedy. This production ispresented as part of theWandsworth Arts Festival 2016.£14/£1017-21 MayUnder the Blue Sky An award-winning, funny and touching playabout the complicated love livesof a group of teachers. £14/£10

The Royal Albert Hall

Kensington Gore SW7 2AP: royalalberthall.comEvery Wednesday in MayStorytelling and MusicSessions Session for babies andtoddlers, encouraging interactionbetween parents and their littleones using musical instruments,singing, movement and stories.Ages 0-4, 10am and 11.30am, £531 MayArabian Nights Classic talesretold with music and puppetry.Let Story Pocket Theatretransport you to a wonderfulworld of mysterious marvels usingpuppetry, music and theatricalmagic, in this new adaptation. Forchildren aged 5+, 11am, 2pm1-12 JuneSwan Lake With 60 swans,stunning costumes and sensationallighting, experience achoreographic kaleidoscope as theRoyal Albert Hall is transformedinto a magical lake. 2.30pm, 7.30pm

Sadler's Wells

Rosebery Avenue EC1R: sadlerswells.com27 MayNorthern Ballet – Tortoise &the Hare. Bringing this much-loved Aesop’s fable to life,Tortoise & the Hare: is the perfectopportunity for little ones to enjoylive ballet, music and theatre, in achild-friendly production. 12 noonand 2pm, £8/£6

Vauxhall City Farm

Southbank Centre

Belvedere Road SE1 8PX: southbankcentre.co.ukThroughout May TheWondercrump World of RoaldDahl Embark on a magical andinteractive journey and discoverthe secrets of a writer beloved bygazillions of children. Ages 7-12

St James Theatre

12 Palace Street SW1E 5JA: stjamestheatre.co.ukTo 21 MayMy Mother Said I NeverShould. Keatley’s award winningplay is a moving exploration of therelationships between mothersand daughters and theconsequences of breaking themost sacred taboo of motherhood.2.30pm and 7.30pm, £15-£45

MUSEUMS &GALLERIESSee more events in our online


Firepower - The Royal Artillery Museum

Royal Arsenal, Woolwich SE18 6ST: firepower.org.ukThroughout MayIn Their own Words Anexhibition about the Great Warbringing to life artillerymen ofdifferent nations, through extractsfrom their diaries, letters homeand photographs.

Horniman Museum

100 London Road SE23 3PQ: horniman.ac.uk

Every Saturday in MayHands on Family WorkshopFun family sessions exploring adifferent theme each week usingreal museum objects.11.45am–12.30pm and 1–1.45pmEvery Saturday in MayArt Makers Have fun with artskills and exciting techniques tocreate something fabulous to takehome. 1.30pm–2.15pm and2.45–3.30pm

The National Gallery

Trafalgar Square WC2N 5DN: nationalgallery.org.ukEvery Sunday in MayFamily Sundays Activitiesdesigned for families to enjoy andlearn together, 11am and 2pm,age 5-11 FREE

Natural History Museum

Cromwell Road SW7 5BD: nhm.ac.uk To 15 MayOtherworlds: Visions of ourSolar System Travel to theremote edges of our Solar Systemin this spectacular newphotographic exhibition. £11/£614 MayDino Snores Discover whatreally happens at the Museumwhen the staff and visitors havegone home. Dino Snores is forchildren aged 7–11, 7pm, ends9.50am the following day, £60(£54 Members)Throughout MaySensational Butterflies Followchomping caterpillars turning intobeautiful butterflies and along theway discover fascinating factsabout one of our planet’s mostamazing life cycles. Now in itseighth year, the tropical butterflyhouse is a favourite for children.

£6.50, family £2227 MayLates Visit the Museum afterhours and experience London’smost unique Friday night out. 6-10pm

Science Museum

Exhibition Road, South KensingtonSW7 2DD: sciencemuseum.comThroughout MayLeonardo da Vinci: TheMechanics of Genius TheMechanics of Genius brings theintricate mechanical concepts ofLeonardo da Vinci’s restless andcurious mind to life in a majorinteractive exhibition. £10Throughout MayFox Talbot: Dawn of thePhotograph A major exhibitionexploring the work of Britishphotography pioneer WilliamHenry Fox Talbot. £8/£6

DAYS OUTSee more events in our online


The Chelsea Physic Garden

66 Royal Hospital Road, ChelseaSW3 4HS: chelseaphysicgarden.co.uk17 MayFamily Activity Day Anassortment of drop-in activitiesfor families including Art Safari,Pulp Fiction, Chocolate Tuesday,

Water World and CreepyCrawling. 12-4pm, admission feesapply.

Cutty Sark

King William Walk, Greenwich SE10 9HT: rmg.co.uk7-8 MayPuppet Pals Lots of differentanimals lived on board Cutty Sarkincluding pigs, chickens and thecaptain’s pet monkey. Chooseyour favourite and make a puppetto star in your own show.11.30am-1.30pm and 2-4pm7-8 MayDon't Put Your Paw in theSugar Bowl! Join a storyteller onboard the ship for tales of animaladventure. Find out whathappened when the monkeys gotinto the galley, the dogs wantedto go on deck during a storm andthe pigs caused a right rumpus.11.30am, 12.30 and 2pm30-31 MayDancing Sailors Stamp your feetand clap your hands, Cutty Sark’ssailors are having a dance. Make acolourful sailor puppet to dancearound the ship. 11.30am-1.30pmand 2-4pm

HMS Belfast

The Queen's Walk SE1 2JH: iwm.org.uk/visits/hms-belfast28-31 May, 1-5 June and 18-19 JuneTattoo T-Shirts Impress yourfriends and family by designing


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Wandsworth arts fringe festival

your very own t-shirt, inspired bytraditional Navy tattoos, and thesailor legend of Davy Jones'sLocker. 11am-12.30pm and 2-4pm

The London Wetlands Centre

Queen Elizabeth, Barnes SW13 9WT: wwt.org.ukSaturdays in MayEarly Bird Openings If you’reup with the lark come and seewhat wildlife is about on thelakes, meadows and gardens. Thisis your chance to enjoy some birdwatching while most Londonersare still tucked up under theirduvets. Admission fees apply.Every Saturday in MayWeekend Family ActivitiesEnjoy a pond dipping session tosee what mini-beasts are aboutand get creative with naturecrafts. Admission fees apply.

28 May – 5 JunePirate Treasure Hunt Ahoythere shipmates! Help CaptainBlackbird find his lost treasure.Aaarrr! £1 per trail (includes asmall prize), plus paid admissionto the Centre. 10am–4pm

HALF TERMACTIVITIESSee more events in our online


Vauxhall City Farm

165 Tyers Street SE11 5HS: vauxhallcityfarm.org30 May – 5 JuneCelebrate the official launch ofthe Farm’s new café andeducation centre with a fun filledweek of farm, gardening, cookery

and horse riding activities. 11am-4pm, entrance free, activitiesindividually priced.

The Bank of EnglandMuseum

Bartholomew Lane EC2R 8AH: bankofengland.co.uk/museum31 May – 3 JunePicture Perfect Explore theMuseum’s inspiring photographyexhibition Capturing the City:Photography at the Bank ofEngland, revealing some of theBank’s historical moments. Createyour own memories by becomingthe face of a current banknoteand make your own ‘Funky photoframe’ to display your picture.

Nature Study Centre

Wandsworth Common: naturescope.co.uk31 May – 3 June

Active Art May Half Term -Hey Doodle Dandy Get readyfor a crazy Doodle Week ofdrawing imaginative characters,line drawings, squiggles andinventive shapes to customiseclothes, skateboard designs, hats,bags and everything you can thinkimaginable to draw on. 3-6 yearsand 7-12 years, full or half days.Call Amanda on 07775 781332

Geffrye Museum

136 Kingsland Road, Hoxton E2 8EA: geffrye-museum.org.uk31 May – 3 JuneInspired by the jobs done byfamilies and servants in the homethroughout the centuries, makenatural cleaning products, bakeseasonal biscuits and plant seeds.Ages 5-16, 10.30am-12.30pm and2-4pm FREE

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Science Museum

Exhibition Road SW7 2DD: sciencemuseum.org.uk7 MayEarly Birds session, plus their BSLprogram SIGNtific. Includes AStar Is Born Storytelling in BritishSign Language at 1.30pm and TheBubble Show in BSL at 3.30pm4 JuneSIGNtific Day. Includes Up, Up,and Away Storytelling in BSL at1.30pm and Magic Lanterns inBSL, time TBC

Leeds Castle

Maidstone, Kent ME17 1PL: leeds-castle.comLeed’s Castle’s educationworkshops and activities forchildren are fully inclusive so thatany schools or groups who havechildren with special needs can be

catered for. They have deliveredto deaf children in the past with amember of the team wearing aloop system or with an adulttranslating into sign language.They also have daily free flyingdemonstrations in the FalconryArena - a fantastic visual showfeaturing a range of birdsincluding hawks, vultures, falconsand owls. The owls are alsobrought to the visitors so theycan stroke them. Meet theFalconer and Meet the Owlssessions take place at the Bird ofPrey Centre each month.

Museum of London and Museum of London Docklands

150 London Wall EC2Y 5HN /No.1 Warehouse, W India DockRd E14 4AL: museumoflondon.org.uk

A dedicated learning programmefor pupils with special educationalneeds and disabilities, with over20 different workshops andsessions. The programme is runby a dedicated SEN ProgrammeManager in conjunction with ateam of specialist freelancers(artists, actors, musicians andstorytellers). All sessions aresupported by a wide range ofonline SEN resources.Don’t miss out on their SensoryExplorer Bags designed forvisitors with physical and learningdisabilities. Each bag containsseven sensory objects that can beexplored in different ways –collect them from the front deskon arrival.

Wallace Collection

Hertford House, ManchesterSquare W1U 3BN : wallacecollection.org2 JuneRNIB Family Day This event isfor blind and partially sightedchildren and their families. Joinmusicians from Tactile, a newensemble of blind, partiallysighted and sighted musicians, tocreate your own brand new pieceof music and tactile score.Booking essential on ( 7391 2273 [email protected]–4pm FREE

The British Museum

Great Russell Street WC1B 3DG( britishmuseum.org7 May

Deaf Discovery Day Hosted inpartnership with Camden FamilyLearning Service and Frank BarnesSchool. 12pm-4pm in the Clore.

Cutty Sark

King William Walk, Greenwich SE10 9HT: rmg.co.ukExplore the ship and itsfascinating story on this audio-described tour for blind andpartially-sighted visitors. Gethands-on with history on theworld’s last remaining tea clipper.£17/£13.50 concessions (includesvisitors with disabilities), includesadmission to the ship, sightedcompanions enter free. Checkwebsite for dates.

First Aid For Life

: firstaidforlife.org.ukFirst Aid For Life run regularcourses at Garratt Park Schooland have run training forprofoundly deaf teenagers withEnglish as a second language andfor groups of children with specialneeds and a huge variety ofphysical and sensory disabilities.They also run First Aid trainingfor children, teenagers and adultswith special needs specificallytailored to their requirements.Their trainers are highlyexperienced medical andemergency services professionalswho create practical, engagingand appropriate training for thoseattending. They also run specialisttraining for their carers and familylooking after them.SEN Great Fire (c) Museum of London

What’s onSPECIAL NEEDS See more events in our online What’s On calendar


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Violin and Piano TuitionPassionate about teaching.

Experienced. Conservatory diploma.SW15 based. Home visits possible.0208 785 6494 /07956 307624

[email protected]

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Earn Extra Money?Capital Focus Groups are looking for people to take part in Market

Research and give their opinion on a variety of subjects.If you would like to earn extra cash please call Liz on 07761 128059 or e-mail [email protected]

What’s on

Face Painting & Balloon ModellingContact Susie 07814 925462www.magicaldesigns.co.uk

Silly Millie the ClownParties for 3-9 year olds

Funny Magic Show, Puppet’s, PartyGames, Silly Songs and Balloon AnimalsCall 020 7823 8329 - 07939 239397

www.sillymillietheclown.co.uk

Clas

sifie

dHorniman Museum and Gardens

100 London Road SE23 3PQ: horniman.ac.uk31 May – 3 JuneFamily Art Fun, Minibeast Safari,Pond Dipping and more.10.30am–4.30pm FREE

Sparks Ignite

Broomwood Hall School, 3Garrad's Road SW16 1JZ: sparksignite.com31 May – 2 JuneComedy FilmmakingWorkshop Make ‘em laugh andtest the funny bones this halfterm. For children aged 7-14,9am–3pm (late club 3-5pm),£175, includes DVD.

Painshill Park

Portsmouth Road, Cobham KT11 1JE: painshill.co.uk1-2 JuneStory Pocket Theatre performArabian Nights Sheherazade has

a feast of adventures and fantasiesto tell involving genies, villains,heroes and princesses. Come andenjoy Ali Baba’s encounter withthe 40 thieves along with Aladdinand his lamp, the Little Beggarand the Fisherman and the Genie.Age 5+, 11.30am, £121-2 JuneStory Pocket Theatre performA Pocketful of Grimms Let themagical storyteller whisk youaway to a land of fables andexplore some of the favouritefairy tales ever told includingHansel and Gretel, the originalBeauty and the Beast andRumpelstiltskin. A rich mix ofphysical theatre, clowning,puppetry and music. Age 4+,2.30pm, £12

V&A Museum of Childhood

Cambridge Heath Road E2 9PA: vam.ac.uk/moc/events30 May – 3 JuneMoving Museum - Wind-uprobots, toy cars and stringpuppets...the Museum is jumpingwith moving toys. Take a closerlook at some of these intriguingobjects with practising artists and

makers. 11am-4pm each day,drop in, all ages. FREECrazy Jumping JacksWorkshop - Artist Laura X Carléwill help you turn your fantasycreature into a classic children'smoving toy - the jointed jumping-jack! £5 per child (with an adult),ages 4-10, 10.30am, 12pm, 2pmand 3.30pm each day.Speaking Sculpture Workshop -Join digital maker Paul Clifford tosee and learn how he makes yoursculptures create noises withsimple wires and tools. Book now£5 per child (with an adult), ages5-12, 10.15am, 11.45am, 1.45pmand 2.45pm each day.

Imperial War Museum

Lambeth Road SE1 6HZ: iwm.org.uk28 May – 5 JuneDrawing a Somme FlipbookFind out about how images weremade into flipbooks during theFirst World War as a way ofanimating pictures, create yourown silhouette of a British'Tommy' soldier and add it to themuseum's animated flipbookcollection. 11am-4pm, drop in, all

ages welcome. FREE30 May – 3 June.Object Conversations: TheBattle of the Somme Feel the weight of a shrapnelpiece from the First World Warand come to grips with real FirstWorld War objects from thecollections. 11am-2.30pm and 2-4pm, drop in, all ages welcome.FREE

London Transport Museum

Covent Garden Piazza WC2E 7BB: ltmuseum.co.uk28 May – 5 JuneMay Half-Term Family FunActivities: The Poster PartyStorytime sessions and creativeworkshops for families. Get artisticwith foam block printing inspiredby your favourite London locations,or listen to a fun storytime sessionabout the loveable pelican Mr Beak.Plus Make & Take workshops forartists aged 3-12, 11.30am and2.30pm. Using posters of wildLondon spaces from the Museum’scollection as inspiration, create afoam printing block based on a funLondon activity.

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