families london sw issue 219 september 2012

®South West

Find us online:

FamiliesSouthWest.co.uk

Issue 219ISSN 1354-9553Est 1990.Free!

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

September 2012

•Huge clubs andclasses feature

•School Open Days•Back to school •Huge What’s on

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The French Nursery school

For more information please call on 0207 259 2151 or email:

[email protected]

Bilingual education inSW7 and SW1

• 2-5 yearsFrench • Spanish

See our advert on page 8

2 Tel: 020 8696 9680 FamiliesSouthWest.co.uk

Pilkington ConstructionDesign and build

• Loft conversions

• Extensions

• Side returns

Joinery, decorating and refurbishments

Email: [email protected]

Mobile: 07812 168515

WINDOW CLEANING

• Established in 1977

• We make appointments and always stick to them• We start at 7am, ideal for busy working people

• We like to pre-book our visits to suit you• We are reliable, conscientious and trustworthy

SJ Bridgeman

020 8538 3777 & 07780 [email protected]

September 2012 3®®

04-05 Local news & information

06-07 Mums know bestShare your tips and knowledge

10-11 Talking matters How to deal with grief

12 Children’s healthBedwetting: confronting the night-time challenge

14 Health and nutritionShould our children eat less wheat?

15-22 Education- School news- Open Days- Help with reading

23-39 CLUBS &

CLASSES FEATURE

40-45 What’s On• Drama• Events• Exhibitions & Museums

46-47 Diary dates, directory and classified

September 2012

All content ©Families 2012www.FamiliesSouthWest.co.uk Tel: 020 8696 9680 Fax: 020 8696 9679Editorial: [email protected] News: [email protected]/artwork: [email protected], diary dates, what’s on info:[email protected]

Next issue: October 2012 Deadline: early September

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Contents

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15-22

40-45

06-07

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SouthWest

Everything that is supposed to be in heaven is already here on earthPi

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Green AppleAwardsFamily favourite Morden Hall Park has won anaward in the 2012 Green Apple Built EnvironmentAwards, Europe’s longest running environmentalawards. The National Trust property’s Stable Yardhas won the Green Apple for Best Retrofit, afterthe Stable Yard was renovated and opened to thepublic in November 2011. The Victorian yard isnow one of the most energy efficient historicbuildings in the country, providing an interactivecentre for learning about sustainable green livingand new energy-saving products, as well as anexhibition space, craft stalls and café. For moredetails see http://nationaltrust-mordenhallpark.blogspot.com


Family charity inWandsworthAs part of Small Charities Week, Home-Start Wandsworth recently opened its newoffices, with help from local MP Jane Ellison.The charity is based in York Road, Battersea,and although relatively new it has alreadyworked with many young, vulnerableWandsworth parents in their homes, helpingthem build strong, healthy and happy families.The new offices will help the charity meet thechallenges of continuing to support families inneed, as well as securing vital funding andvolunteers. A very worthy cause.www.homestartwandsworth.co.uk

Visit bootieboutique.comfor all your Jubilee- and Olympic-themed gifts and accessoriesthis year. The brainchild of local craft-lover Kirsty Kissell,www.bootieboutique.com sells unique personalised handmadegifts for babies and young children, ranging from bunting andbooties to Bugaboo accessories, all of which are just gorgeous.Worth a look!

Donate please!Next time you’re passing through Fulham,please drop off your donations of food at theFoodbank, located in Christ Church onStuddridge Street, SW6. As food and utilitiesprices continue to rise and jobs are lost orhours decreased, people are finding itincreasingly hard to support themselves, andthe Foodbank always needs more food. Aslong as it’s in-date and non-perishable, theywant it! You can even download a foodbankshopping list to see just what they need.www.hffb.org

Nannies with likemindsFor all your babysitting and ad hoc childcareneeds, go to Like Minders - a local membersclub offering parents flexibility when they need itmost. Whether it be evening sitting, daytimehelp, holiday nannies or last-minute emergencycover they can help – it’s a service you can dip inand out of as and when you need. The agencyprides itself on using the very best childcarers, allof whom are CRB checked and have passed astrict selection process, ensuring their standardsremain high. All the benefits of a nanny withoutthe long-term commitment! Call 0844 879 7189,email [email protected]

News & Views

Support for dadsFathers Reaching Out is a support group formen whose wives or partners are suffering frompostnatal depression. When a woman is sufferingit can have a massive effect on their partners -men can find themselves having to carry out allthe main duties at home whilst working, caringfor their wife and their new born child, withsometimes other children at home too. Theseresponsibilities can cause a lot of stress, butwww.fathersreachingout.com provides anoutlet where men can express their feelings andemotions without being judged, and talk to otherswho have been in the same position. The focus ofthe site is to provide men with the support theyneed to cope at this difficult time.

Beautiful cardsTwo mums-of-three from Barnes have set up Little Page,selling gorgeous stationery for kids and adults alike.Inspired by cherished toys and favourite things with avintage twist, their personalised Christening invitations havebecome a favourite amongst the residents of Barnes, butyou can also find thank you notes, party invitations, birthannouncements and correspondence cards. Designed andproduced in Barnes, a Little Page invitation is guaranteed tobecome the pride of any mantelpiece. And for an evenlonger-lasting keepsake they will print your christeninginvitation onto linen – a perfect framed piece for anynursery. www.littlepage.co.uk

Party perfectionTry local children’s party caterers Hats and Bellsto wow your little ones at your next party. Theynow offer a quintessentially English tea and a fully-fledged circus fantasia, and everything else inbetween! From mini organic shepherd’s pies tohandmade cakepops and irresistible cookies, theycan create healthy, not so healthy and positivelynaughty food. However big or small your party,they will work their magic and won’t fail toimpress. www.hatsandbells.com

News


Inclusion in these pages is always FREE: send to [email protected]

Be careful with musicA new survey by Baby Sensory has discovered that many parents are unaware of the risks of playingmusic through headphones to their baby bump. The research by the baby development classes foundthat 89% of parents are unaware of the risks involved when playing music to their unborn child: that theamniotic fluid within the womb actually doubles the level of decibels a child hears from 60 to 120. BabySensory founder, Dr Lin Day says, “It is widely researched and publicised that playing music to an unbornchild helps mother and child bond and assists with brain development, which I fully support. However, theproblem with playing the headphones directly on the abdomen is that the amniotic fluid works as a conductorof sound and can amplify the music which causes it to be far louder for the baby. This can, in somecircumstances, lead to hearing problems to the child from birth.” Find out more at www.babysensory.com

Writing competitionThis summer Hornsby House School pupils scooped both winnerand runner-up prizes in the Polka Theatre writing competition. TwoYear 6 pupils won the top prizes in the short story Writing the Worldcompetition, the theme of which was "London" in honour of the2012 Olympic Games. Winner Charlie Barber, aged 11, wrote ‘TheThames Murder’, which was performed by actors at the PolkaTheatre at their Writing the World festival in July, and IsobelLaughton, also 11, won the runner-up prize for her story, Lucy'sPromise. "Writing the World is an excellent project and the Londontheme of this year's competition inspired some wonderful stories,”said Carmel Regan, Year 6 English teacher. “We are very proud thatCharlie and Isobel's stories were chosen as winner and runner-up."www.hornsby-house.co.uk

Artisan brings gold to PutneyIn this Olympic year, a local business wins gold! Artisan Coffee Shop on UpperRichmond Road, Putney, has picked up a gold award for Coffee Bar Independent ofthe Year, the first time a coffee shop in South West London has won this. “It’s greatto finally have somewhere that serves coffee as it should be,” says local resident andcustomer, Matt. “It’s clear that a lot of passion and time goes into each cup.” “It’s afantastic achievement,” adds owner Edwin Harrison. “We have only been open 6months so credit goes to the team who have all put in a fantastic effort to get us towhere we are today.” www.artisancoffee.co.uk

Art at the Royal A new Sleep and Ventilation Unit opens thisSeptember at The Royal Brompton Hospital, andlocal charity The Octavia Appeal has funded theartwork decorating the Unit, which will beinstalled in the main corridor, at reception and ineach bedroom. Created in collaboration withyoung respiratory patients, the project wasspecifically supported by Zebedees NurserySchool in Fulham who held a sponsored Danceearlier this year, raising over £3,500! Thefundraising continues with a family morning atTwice Times Nursery in South Park, SW6 on 29September – come along for lots of fun and someyummy Hummingbird Bakery cupcakes.www.octaviaappeal.org

Yummy treatsFor the best frozen yoghurt in London, tryMilk In It near Clapham Common TubeStation. Their healthy alternative to icecream has just been named Best FrozenYoghurt by the Financial Times. It was set upby local business woman Antonia Kadri, whonot only cultures the yoghurt herself butwho you will often find selling her waresfrom her ice cream trike in ClaphamCommon! What a treat!www.milkinit.co.uk

Alice inBloomsburyThis summer children from Wimbledon andacross SW London came together for a danceproduction of Alice in Wonderland at theBloomsbury Theatre. The children, allstudents of the Dance Fusion Academy,formed a cast of 150, including some as youngas 2! Founder Sarah Preston comments, “All ofthe children were outstanding and to achievewhat they did in 3 months has been amazing.They have made Dance Fusion Academy, theirparents and the community proud and we hopethat this experience will stick with themthroughout their years.” Dance Fusion also hada summer school over August – find out moreat www.dancefusionacademy.co.uk

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mums know best

Give them opportunities

to develop their Emotional

Intelligence (EI)We 21st century mothers are very good at being ‘human doings’ ratherthan human beings, forever chasing the ends of our To Do lists for aspot of that elusive me-time. Well, children need downtime too,especially once the autumn term is in full swing. Remember, we workand learn best in short spurts of 45 minutes or so with breaks inbetween. In fact, our EI (emotional intelligence) is a higher indicator ofsuccess in life than our IQ, according to Daniel Goleman, author of thelandmark book Emotional Intelligence (see: http://danielgoleman.info).Happy and relaxed children are more creative and absorb informationmuch more easily. It is as simple as that.If your child is willing, encourage her to try a children’s yoga class atthe Sivananda Yoga Centre in Putney: www.sivananda.org/london orwww.yogabugs.com Or a meditation class at the Thai BuddhistTemple in Wimbledon: www.buddhapadipa.org

Walk to school, walkeverywhere for betterhealth and safercommunities In Sweden, children learn none of the three Rs until the age of six.Instead they are encouraged to play and are taken on nature walksevery day (even in the bitter Scandinavian winter). And guess what? Bythe age of ten, Swedish children rank amongst the most literate inEurope (which is higher than the UK). OK, so we may not be able tochange the national curriculum overnight, but we can at least makesure our children get their daily dose of nature, if only by ditching thecar and scheduling walk-to-school time. Through the park or along atree-lined street if feasibly possible, collecting leaves, blackberries (fora pie perhaps?) and conkers along the way. Set off early enough andthis could create relaxed, quality time to chat with your child. A greatstart for both of you, don’t you think?

Children need downtime tooA lovely time to chat with your children

SeptemberThis month we are talking about: Back to school

At Families South West, wehave plenty of seasonedmums (and the odd dad) onstaff who like to chat abouteverything from the tear-your-hair-out challenges to theexquisite, heart-melting joys ofbringing up our children.Seeing as we are all constantlymaking mistakes (yes, we hold

our hands up!) and learningon the job, it makes sense topool our experience. “Mumsknow best” is our new forumfor sharing the tips, secretweapons and handy hints wehave learned whilst toilingaway at the coal-face ofparenting.

Now, if we like to share tips (“kidstoo buzzing to sleep? Tell them to runup and down the stairs ten times.Works for me!” says our editor andmum of five Pascale), we thought ourreaders would enjoy this too. In fact,so eager are we to hear your tips thatwe have prizes to give away for thebest contributions.

That’s right mums and dads, getthinking because our readersneed....... YOU!

The page where parents share their knowledge (because raising the next generation is, you know, only the most important job in the world).

Compiled by Helena Foss

®®

Have aparenting tip toshare?Post your inspired ideas and stories onour Facebook Page:www.facebook.com/familiesSWThe hottest parenting tips will bepublished and the Tip of the month willwin a copy of The Politically IncorrectParenting Book: 10 no-nonsense rules tostay sane and raise happy kids, by NigelLatta (Vermillion, £12.99).

mums know best

Tips for a healthybreakfast Television advertising can be an insidious thing. One recent advert for achocolate hazelnut spread suggested that it constitutes a healthybreakfast due to its components of “hazelnuts, skimmed milk and cocoapowder.” But do not be fooled. According toAdvanceNutrition.co.uk the top ingredient of this spread is, in fact,sugar, ranking in at a hefty 56 per cent. Next is vegetable oil.Nutritious fuel to help your child focus at school? We don’t think so.Have a child who refuses to eat breakfast? Don’t give in with sugarloaded popping rice. Tempt him to kick off the day with a smoothie:it’s easy to accept as it is a sweet drink but it’s healthy too. Choose aglass of liquid (yoghurt, juice, coconut water, rice, oat or almond milk),add some fruit fresh (or tinned) and a few green leaves or evenavocado (trust us, they will never know) and add a spoon of hempprotein powder (from health food shops). Raw cocoa powder is agreat addition: as long as it is raw, its health benefits are off the scale; ithas extremely high levels of anti-oxidant flavanoids, Vitamin C,magnesium, iron and zinc. You can always add some date or agavesyrup to sweeten if necessary—no sugar! Blend it all up. Sip slowly.Now that is what we call good nutrition.

Hide protein and vitamins in a yummy smoothie

Reasons why it isall worth it“Mummy, can I stroke your boobiesbery [very] gently?” my four-year-oldboy (who still gets his ‘v’s and ‘b’smixed up) asked me one evening as wewere cuddling on the sofa. “Why wouldyou want to do that?” I asked. Helooked up and sighed: “Because they arebery lobely.”

(Helena Foss, Families SW writer)

September 2012 7

Think about this: “The world will be saved by

the Western woman.” – The Dalai Lama

The multi-tasking trampolineWho says trampolines are just forvertical bouncing up and down? Anne-Sophie Hulett from Tooting (mum of11-year-old Toscanie and nine-year-old Matisse) came up with theingenious idea of tipping it on its side:“My children now use our oldtrampoline for tennis practice,” shesays. Bouncier and much more fun,apparently, than just hitting the ballagainst a wall (could it work forfootball too?) “It keeps them busy forhours, not to mention wearing themout before bed.”

Advantage, Mrs Hulett!

ReaderTIP

of themonth


Bilingual education since 1996

The French Nursery SchoolFor children from 2 years old to 5 years old. (Toddler group from 1yr)Morning or afternoon sessions availableFull time sessions 9h - 15h

The Belgravia Nursery SchoolBilingual Nursery school French/ English. For children 2-5 years. (Toddler group from 1yr) Part time session 9h - 12h Full time session 9h - 15h • 15h35-17h

The Spanish Nursery SchoolSW7 and SW1The Spanish out of school club for children from 2 to 5 years old.Toddler Group from 1 year old

The Kensington Gardens Nursery School, W2Bilingual Nursery school French/English For children 1-5 years old

SW7 Queen's GateSW1 KnightsbridgeGroup of international nursery schools

All schools have native language teachers, excellent facilities and lovely outside playground / garden.

For a brochure please call Marie-Laurence Edmonstone020 7259 21 [email protected]

Dawmouse Montessori Nursery Schools

WWW.DAWMOUSE.COM

There are now two established MontessoriNursery schools in Fulham bearing theDawmouse name. The original DawmouseBrunswick in Haldane Road, SW6 7EUand Dawmouse St Peter’s at St Peter’sTerrace, SW6 7JS.

Both schools offer a wide range of Montessori equipment andhave outdoor play areas. They will offer a safe, stimulating andactive environment in which children can have fun and achieve.The broad curriculum covers all areas of the Early LearningGoals and includes science, drama, cookery and music lessons.Project work will give the children scope for creative developmentas well as an increased understanding of their world.We insist on our staff being Montessori trained teachers.

For a prospectus and a visit to view the schools please contact :

www.dawmouse.com or speak with Miss Emma 020 7381 9385

®®September 2012 9

THE WILLOW NURSERY823-825 Wandsworth Road, Clapham, SW8 3JLTel: 020 7498 0319 Est.1981

E-mail: [email protected] Heads: Caroline Henson & Virginia Bisset.Opening hours: 8.15am to 12.15pmSessions: Mornings onlyWeeks open a year: TermtimeAges: Two and half to 5 yearsMax no. of pupils: 40. Pupil/teacher ratio: Under 3yrs: 4:1, 3-5yrs 8:1Curriculum: Montessori and traditional methods.Activities: Art, craft, cooking, Spanish, gardening, home corner, ICT,messy play, computer club.Four specialist teachers for singing, dance, gym and cooking.Facilities: Large, bright, spacious hall and a smaller reception room.Contact: Please contact Amanda for Prospectus and to arrange a visit.

The Willow is renowned for its creativity. Our aim is to create astimulating, happy and fun environment so that the children love coming toschool. We develop confidence and a keen interest to learn bothindependently and with individual attention.

www.thewillownursery.co.uk

Talking matters

“Everyone grieves in their own way, at their ownpace,” explains Dan. “Most model their parents,especially younger children. Very young children tendnot to understand and so don’t accept the person hasgone. They think they’re coming back. Death doesn’tmean the same to a young child as it does to you andme. That changes when they get to about 6 years old.Then they begin to understand the person who hasdied, isn’t coming back. They will have feelings but atthat age, can struggle with verbalizing them.”

Honesty and direct, real language are the key tocommunicating with children. There’s a naturalinstinct as a parent to want to protect your childfrom sadness and loss, but most of the childrenDan works with say they prefer to know what’sgoing on. It gives them the chance to askquestions, and gives parents the chance to explainthings. Open and honest language is also vital.

“Be clear with the words you use. Don’t be afraid tosay ‘death’ and ‘dying’ otherwise the child will beconfused,” Dan explains. “If you say you’ve ‘lost’someone, a child thinks they can be found. If you saysomeone has ‘fallen asleep’ a child thinks they can be

woken, or they can be scared to go to sleepthemselves.”

Dan’s work combines individual and familycounseling with group workshops. Thoseworkshops use art, drama, dance and sport toeither focus the children’s mind on workingthrough their grief, or providing a positivedistraction with young people going through thesame experiences. At the moment Dan’s planning asailing trip and some self defence classes.

A most poignantexercise with thehelp of artArt is a big part of the therapy and Dan usesdrawing with the children. When the words runout, drawing a picture can be a way ofcommunicating feelings. The walls of the art roomare covered with work from both those beingtreated here and the children they leave behind.

“A useful exercise to do with a child is to divide apiece of paper into three sections,” explains Dan.“This is before, during and the future. Get the childto draw a picture in each area. It helps to start aconversation, acknowledge what’s happened butimportantly to see there’s a future. This can takesome children 10 minutes and others much longer.”

“Most children are OK. Yes, they will be changed. Yes,the experience will stay with them for life. But they’llbe OK.”

Useful Websites• Child Bereavement Charity

www.childbereavement.org.uk• Child Bereavement Network

www.childhoodbereavementnetwork.org.uk• Winston’s Wish

www.winstonswish.org.uk


Supporting your childthrough griefIt’s a sad fact, but at some point in their young life, your child will lose a loved one. How do you help them processtheir grief and when do children need professional support?

We interviewed Dan, who supports children dealing with the very worst sort of loss – often a parent - and saysthere are as many different ways of grieving as there are children.

WHAT DO I SAYTO MY CHILD?� Tell them the truth. Excluding them can

make them feel left out and resentful. Bytalking to them YOU control theinformation and keep communicationchannels open.

� Use clear, real language.

� Let your child know it’s OK to askquestions. They will have worries andconcerns and verbalizing them can helpkeep them in perspective. Youngerchildren will ask the same question overagain. Be patient.

� Don’t hide your emotions from yourchild. By showing you are upset, you aregiving them permission to show they areupset.

� Keep your boundaries in place.Children become confused when theboundaries they’ve lived with disappear. Ifthey’re badly behaved, tell them. If they’vegot a routine, stick to it. You’re givingthem a stability at a time when life feelsvery unstable.

� Look out for changes in behaviour –anger, anxiety, worry, fear of beingabandoned. Their fears may be irrationalbut listen and respond in a straightforwardand truthful manner.

� Consult the professionals. If you feelyour child isn’t communicating or copingthen ask for support.

The Copper Tree is the story of aclass of children who learn how tocope with the death of their teacher,Miss Evans. We witness the youngstersfinding out she’s unwell, her final visitto the school and how they deal withthe news of her death.

“The aim of the book is to celebratethe life lost and find a way to continuethe memory,” explains Hilary. “Expertscall this Continuing Bonds Theory. Thechildren in Miss Evans’ class areencouraged to remember thecharacter and qualities she impartedand to pass them on. It means theperson who has died, lives on in asense.”

However sad the theme, this isn’t asad book. It is a story about loss, butit’s also a story about the gifts we giveeach day to each other. It’s writtenfrom the point of view of Olivia, oneof the children, so there are placeswhere the narrator’s mind wanders -to observe a three legged dog winninga race at Sports Day, or a classmate’sobsession with bats.

The beautiful illustrations and simplestory disguise a book that’s been wellresearched and given the support ofexperts in the field of childbereavement. Hilary was keen tomake sure she handled the delicatesubject matter with sensitivity andresponsibility and as a result, she’swon the support of leading charities

and hospices around the country.“There were three mainconsiderations,” explains the author.“Firstly the importance of using realpeople, not animals. Secondly, you’vegot to avoid euphemisms. If you tell a5 year old they’ve ‘lost’ someone,they’ll think you’ll eventually find them.Finally there should be no whimsicalnotions of heaven. What do we reallyknow? It’s up to parents and teachersto explain as they feel fit.”

Hilary would like The Copper Tree tobe used as a resource in schools andshared in classrooms across thecountry as a way of encouragingchildren to communicate. The message

the book gives isthat a life lived isto be celebratedand thosetouched by thatlife should pass onwhat they’velearnt. To Hilaryand her family, thepublication of TheCopper Tree is acelebration of theshort but full life

her sister in law Caroline lived. Herspirit, courage and memory will nowlive on in the pages of this amazingbook and in the hearts of those whoread it.

The Copper Tree is £6.99 andavailable to order fromwww.amazon.co.uk or through theofficial websitewww.thecoppertree.org

Useful Websites• The Childhood Bereavement

Network, 020 7843 6309.www.childhoodbereavementnetwork.org.uk

• www.jigsaw4u.org.uk 020 8687 1384

• www.chasecare.org.uk• www.trinityhospice.org.uk

Talking matters


The storybehind ‘TheCopper Tree’Three years ago Families Leeds Editor Sarah Butters had to tellher then 5 year old daughter about the death of a youngrelative. She searched for a book to help her. Three years on,she’s found that book and has been along to chat to itsYorkshire author, Hilary Robinson.


Children’s health

Bedwetting is a common childhoodcomplaint, affecting up to one in 10children up to the age of nine. In thelead up to Urology Week on 17-21September, Mr Feilim Murphy, UrologyConsultant at The Portland Hospital forWomen and Children, shares hisexpert insights into bedwetting andhow to combat it.

• Bedwetting affects more boys than girls and canrun in families, with children tending to grow outof it around the same age as their parents did

• In the vast majority of cases, bedwetting istemporary and will quickly disappear withparents and child working together as a team. In those children where it persists, you shouldconsult your doctor. Many parents are reluctantto do so due to embarassment or concern that itis too trivial, but it is important to rule out anymedical causes for bedwetting

• Wetting the bed can be a sign of a minor delay inthe maturity of the nervous system, where achild doesn’t recognise the signs that they needthe toilet during the night. A lot of children whowet the bed could also have undiagnosed daytime toileting problems, which are reinforced atnight time. Only by fixing the days can you fix thenights

• Bedwetting can feel extremely isolating andshameful. It can get worse due to anxiety aboutschool trips or sleepovers. It is extremelyimportant to reassure the child that it is not theirfault and neither they, nor their bladder, is ‘lazy’

• Reassurance, praise and support are important togive your child confidence, and remove feelingsof guilt or blame. Reward systems like star chartsfor dry nights will reinforce this and can be veryeffective

• To begin to combat bedwetting, make sure yourchild drinks lots of fluid during the day, and teachthem to recognise the signs of needing the toilet.Encourage them to use the toilet regularly,especially in school, or out and about

• Alarm systems, which wake the child (andsometimes the whole house) upon contact withmoisture, have also been shown to be aneffective therapy in a majority of cases, with alow relapse rate

• In more severe cases, for instance, children whohave never been dry at night or who havedaytime accidents, need to be referred to anappropriate specialist. Children older than sevencan be prescribed medication to decrease theamount of urine produced

All children are different, but their activeparticipation in dealing with their own bedwettingenables them to regain control of their bladder.The key factor for success is the child’s motivation;gradually winning the child over is the fundamentalstep. In children in which the alarm or medicationhas not made a significant improvement I use aprotocol driven child centred treatment program

with the assistance of my excellent clinical nursespecialists which allows the child to gain controlover their own body and the condition•Mr Feilim Murphy is a Consultant Urologist at ThePortland Hospital for Women and Children.

The Portland Hospital is the UK’s largest independentchildren's hospital, devoted to caring for babies andchildren up to the age of 16 years. It is 'home' tomore than 70 top paediatric related consultantspecialists - the largest group of private paediatricspecialists in the UK - many of whom are consideredto be amongst the world's leading clinicians.

We asked some therapistsfor their advice

Bedwetting: confronting thenight-time challenge

Hypnotherapy and treatment ofenuresis from MG Hypnosis:“To start, it is imperative to build a sensitive andpositive rapport with the child. After a detailedmedical background, we then use a variety of tools tohelp your child find the right solution for them. Kidsoften can fix their own “problems” using theirbrilliant imaginations. We use techniques likepretending, relaxation and imagery, metaphors, timedistortion, and always confidence boosting to helpthem over come bedwetting. The keys factors inhelping your child is for the parents to be relaxedabout it, and continue to encourage your child (evenwhen it feels frustrating). •Call Marygrace on 07931 547414 for moreinformation, or to discuss your personal situation.Details at www.mghypnosis.co.uk

Lower spine should be checked"Osteopaths working with children have found thatthere is frequently a connection between bed-wettingand a particular region of the lower spine, the secondlumbar vertebra being the most common level. Thisappears to be a reflex phenomenon, which may be aresult of an irritable bladder or a significant factor inthe cause of bed-wetting. Clinical experience showsthat correcting the mechanical disorder by gentlemanual means can result in an improvement inbladder control. Minor injuries, like falling out of atree, can be responsible for disturbing the mechanicalintegrity of the spine and this can destabilize thenervous system enough to diminish bladder control.

Bed-wetting quite often is distressing for childrenand distress, too, has its physical picture, mostlythrough increased muscle tension in particular partsof the body. Specific osteopathic treatment is aneffective way of reducing the physical stress in thebody, and this in turn promotes better bladdercontrol."•Stuart Korth DO, DPO, FICO, Director ofOsteopathy, Osteopathic Centre for Children,www.occ.uk.com 020 8875 5290. The Foundationfor Paediatric Osteopathy, trading as the OsteopathicCentre for Children (OCC) Registered Charity No:1003934

Energise and strengthen thekidney“The organ relating to urination is the kidney and inChinese medicine if the kidney is deficient the bladderbecomes unable to regulate urination. A lot of childrenexperience nocturnal enuresis or ‘bedwetting’ due to adeficiency of the kidney energy which manifests as fearor anxiety. Acupuncture can treat to strengthen thekidney and resolve this fear to enable a child to havemore control of bladder function. Research shows thatacupuncture can modulate brain function and influencethe parasympathetic innervation to the urinary tract.(W.F. Bower, 28 October 2012). •For more information please contact Serena ForbesMBAcC, BSc (hons), BA (Hons), Lic Tui Na:[email protected] 07786 473 746.www.serenaforbes.comReferences: W.F. Bower, M. Diao. Acupuncture as atreatment for nocturnal enuresis; AutonomicNeuroscience: Basic and Clinical; 28 October 2012 (Vol.157, Issue 1, Pages 63-67)

Fish power for those little brainsUniforms, shoes and stationery are just some of the stresses to face parents at this time of year, but how do you ensureyour child is on the road to a healthy development if they are a fussy eater? Recent studies have shown that children whohave an omega-3 enriched diet have a significantly higher cognitive performance, are protected against some childhooddiseases and go on to have better health in adulthood. Persuading your child to eat fish 2-3 times a week can be astruggle. Nordic Naturals range of chewable gummies are an easy way to get all the benefits of omega-3s andmultivitamins into our children’s diets. Each product is naturally fruit-flavoured and free from any fishy taste – choosefrom favourites like Omega-3 Gummy Worms and Nordic Berries.

Not all fish oil supplements are the same, so how do you ensure high quality? • Third–party test results for purity and freshness. • Is the fish oil manufactured according to international quality standards?• Does the fish oil smell or taste fishy? If so, the fish oil has most likely been exposed to oxygen and is becoming rancid. • Supportive scientific research to prove the efficacy of the fish oil brand.• Sustainable fishing practices. Any environmentally responsible fish oil manufacturer should offer transparency into their

fishing practices.Nordic Naturals is available at health food stores and pharmacies. www.nordicnaturals.com/uk

Health and nutrition

Wheat is a common part of our and our children’sdiets. It is in almost every meal we have - cereal,bread, crackers, biscuits, cakes, pastry, and pasta.It is also recommended by many worldgovernments as an essential part of our dailyintake. However, wheat grown today looks verydifferent from how it used to look. Chemicals areused to grow wheat today, as well aspreservatives, and the most notable difference ishow it’s processed. Today most wheat-based foodsare highly processed, removing most of thenutrients.

Perhaps therein lies the reason, as wheat isincreasingly being linked to common allergy,sensitivity, ADD and hyperactivity in kids,celiac disease, fatigue, weight gain and more.Wheat contains fibre and other nutrients that arebeneficial for health and wellness. However,sensitivity to wheat and gluten (a large proteinfound in wheat) is increasing. Some people have asevere allergic reaction to gluten, known as coeliacdisease, which affects as many as one in 300 in the

UK. But wheat intolerance is also moreprevalent. Symptoms occur after the body reactsto wheat and interferes with its normal processes,causing everything from irritable bowel syndrometo thyroid disorders, arthritis, diabetes, asthma andeczema. Indeed, many nutritional therapistsbelieve too much wheat causes headaches, afeeling of ill health, bloating, tiredness and evendepression. There's little mainstream scientificevidence to support this, but that hasn't stoppednutritionists advising their patients to cut down onwheat intake or use alternatives to wheat such asspelt, rye, barley, rice and soy.

It is very easy to overdose on wheat and end upeating it for breakfast, lunch and dinner – toast,sandwiches, a pizza. Try cutting wheat down toone meal a day for the family, and eat the mostnatural and unrefined wheat such as wholemeal orwholegrain bread and whole-wheat pasta. Whileit may not be necessary for most of us to cut outwheat completely from our diets, it’s worth theeffort to reduce excessive wheat intake.


For centuries wheat has been at thecentre of our diets. Over the last10,000 years, the earth's populationhas doubled ten times, and wheat isone food source that has helpedenable this. Wheat feeds more peoplein the world today than any otherfood. Yet nutritional therapists arestarting to advise reducing ourconsumption of wheat, in some caseseven eliminating it from our dietstotally. Why?

Wheat-free lunchboxesGood quality proteins, complexcarbohydrates and healthy fats are thekey to a super wheat-free lunch box.

• Quality proteins - Deli meats, cheeseand cheese spreads, salads (chicken,turkey, tuna), soup, yogurt, protein bars,hard-boiled eggs, falafel

• Complex carbohydrates - Vegetablesand fruits (celery, carrot sticks, sugar snappeas, broccoli, cauliflower), rice, wholegrain gluten free bread and crackers,hummus, gluten free pasta with pesto andpinenuts, rice cakes with fun toppings (nutbutters, jam, cheese)

• Healthy Fats - Olive oil, raw nuts/seeds,dried fruit, avocados, olives

Should your children eat lesswheat? By Elisabeth Dolton

September 2012 15®®®®

How To.... Simple, quick guides from Families® to help you help your family…Series 1

Helping reading forchildren with learningdifficultiesBooks and Audio Follow a book as the audio book plays. Listento a chapter, and then read it together Turn on the TV subtitlesSub-titles on your TV or DVD help increasesight word vocabulary, whilst developing asense of flow of written and spoken language Make your child the star of theirown audio book Your child can read into a recorder, thenfollow the book together during playback Everyone joins in Reserve thirty minutes each evening for familyreading time. Each family member readsdifferent material and then shares informationabout it, or take turns reading aloud from thesame book.

Support their learningHelp ensure your child doesn’t get behind inreading material necessary for school subjects,ask for help with obtaining textbooks on CD.Together identify unfamiliar words you comeacross and show your child how to look upthe meanings of words. Children withspecific learning difficulties and dyslexia couldbenefit from the PQ4R strategy(http://learningdisabilities.about.com/od/instructionalmaterials/a/pq4rstrategy.htm)

Step one –Set up reading time every day Decide when and where a reading session willtake place, which fits into your householdschedule, and keep it. 10 minutes is fine.

Encourage your child to read aloud. They don’thave to get every word right, and praise themoften. If they are discouraged by their ownreading, you read aloud. The pleasure of listeningto you read can restore their enthusiasm. Offerto read every other sentence, page, chapter, andhave conversations and discussions about thecontent.

Make it fun. Children love sound effects, differentvoices, pulling faces.

Step two – During reading timeIntroduce the bookmark. Stop after a few pagesand pick up where you left off at another time

Provide an accessible, special place for children tokeep their own books

Use special incentives, e.g. an extra 5 minutes tofinish a chapter, a promise to take them to see thefilm of the book, sticker charts and certificates

Notice what attracts your children's attention,even if it’s only pictures, and build on thatinterest. Gather more information on the same subject.

Listen to audio books (in the car too). These helpdevelop visualisation, a critical pre-reading skill.

Let them choose their own books. Don’t worrythe books are too young or too easy, earlyreading success can came from several "non-traditional" sources such as comics.

Buy a special notebook and record all the books they have read, add their thoughts and astar rating.

Step three – See the teacher and judge wherethey areFind out what reading programme the schoolfollows, get to know the levels, and aim tosupplement the programme at home.

Prepare a timetable. Know what level your childis at and the next, with some idea of when it canbe achieved. There is no race to be the first toread, it just puts things into context.

Step four – Plan specific reading linked activitiesExtend your child's positive reading experiences,e.g. If they enjoyed reading about dinosaurs, visitthe Natural History Museum.

Encourage activities that require reading, e.g. reada recipe, instructions, and directions, play gamesthat require reading, use a reference book to lookup something you have seen.

Visit the library and give your child their ownlibrary card. They can choose their own librarybook or listen in on story-time.

Step five – Be a role model Let your children see you reading for pleasure.Read aloud everyday items - menus, road signs,food labels.

Give books as gifts.

Leave books, magazines, and colourful cataloguesaround your home.

Write short notes for your child to read.

Reading opens up new worlds to your childrenand gives them a chance to use their imaginations.There are many ways to encourage your child toread, and the best ways always includeparticipation on your part.

How to encourage readingBy Elisabeth Dolton

Many of us know the value and enjoyment of reading. Good readers becomebetter writers, better learners and well rounded individuals. Taking an active partin helping your children become interested in reading is vital. Despite busy days,tired kids, limited time and many distractions, we outline five simple steps thatcan help.

School feature


School feature

Hot on the heels of the announcement of newindependent school Wandsworth Prepopening this September, the team to head theschool has been confirmed. Melissa McBride wasappointed Head of School, with Bridget Saul asDeputy Head. Currently Head of Year 8 and Headof PSHCE at Thomas’s London Day School inBattersea Melissa, a Wandsworth resident, has awealth of experience to bring to the school.Bridget, who also joins from Thomas’s, has fifteenyears of teaching under her belt and eleven years’experience as Head of Department.“Wandsworth Prep School will aim to turn outintellectually curious pupils who are ready to takea full, active and positive role as a global citizen,”says Melissa, “and above all strive to instill in pupilsa love of lifetime learning and foster anatmosphere of mutual respect.”www.wandsworthprep.com

There is also good news for Fulham parents, as agroup of local residents are hoping to open a newChurch of England boys secondary school nextyear. If successful, Fulham Boys School willopen in September 2013 with its first intake ofYear 7 boys. “From speaking to parents locally, it’sclear there’s very real demand for more choice atsecondary level, for boys in particular,” said AlexWade, chairman of the group. “Fulham hasn’t gota secondary faith school for boys, other than theexcellent but heavily oversubscribed OratorySchool, and our ambition is to fill this gap with anoutstanding school with inspirational teachingplanned specifically to bring out the best in boys.”Whilst the plans are for a Church of Englandschool, organisers are actively encouraging supportfrom across the community. Their vision is for atruly inclusive school with at least half of the placeseach year open to applicants of all faiths and none.

Backing the proposals, Fulham and Chelsea MPGreg Hands said: “I was elected MP for Fulham ona platform of creating more secondary schoolchoice, and I have given this proposal for a newFulham Boys School my wholehearted support. Iurge all residents from SW6 and beyond toregister their support.”www.fulhamboysschool.org

Another proposed school for South West Londonis a primary on Franciscan Road. Local parentsknow that Tooting desperately needs additionalprimary places to keep up with the growingdemand, and to address this problem GraveneySchool is working with Wandsworth Council andthe support of other primary and secondaryschools in the area to open a new school inSeptember 2013 on the site of the ProfessionalCentre. The school would admit 60 pupils intotwo reception classes each year, eventuallycreating a school with 420 places from receptionto Year 6. At present they are undergoingconsultation and are asking for feedback fromfuture parents to establish the level of demand.Find out more at www.graveney.org

The proposed South London JewishPrimary School is also collecting registrationsto measure its support - over the past few monthsthey have been preparing themselves for approvalby meeting other Jewish schools, and have hadtheir interview with the Department forEducation. If the application is successful theschool will open in September 2013, welcomingpupils across all sections of the Jewish communityas well as children of other faiths. “The opening ofthe first Jewish primary school in South Londonwill be real milestone for our community and forthe provision of education to all children in SouthLondon,” says Shirley Lee, director of the SLJPS.“We are very proud of being able to offer a crosscommunal, mixed school, dedicated to creating anenvironment in which children can grow to theirfullest potential as responsible and dedicatedmembers of British society and of the Jewishcommunity.” www.sljps.org.uk


Open Morning forProspective Parents

& Girls

Saturday 13 October 2012

Please visit us at www.jags.org.ukJames Allen’s Girls’ School

144 East Dulwich Grove, London SE22 8TETel: 020 8693 1181 / Fax: 020 8693 7842

School News

School feature


Outstanding NurseryA Wimbledon-based nursery has just beenawarded “Outstanding”! South London's onlyJewish nursery, Apples and Honey, has achievedan 'Outstanding' rating across all areas of its recentOfsted inspection, reflecting its exceptionalcommitment to providing the highest quality earlylearning environment. “The nursery is outstandingin meeting the needs of children,” Ofsted said.“There are meticulous procedures in place toensure that all children are treated as individuals,whose care and education is of paramountimportance.” Apples and Honey, an independentnursery for two-and-a-half to five year olds isbased at Wimbledon and District Synagogue on theedge of Wimbledon Common, and welcomeschildren of all faiths, while being centred on thevalues and traditions of Judaism. “I’m thrilled thatmy daughter has been attending such anexceptional nursery,” says Naomi Reiniger. “Shehas thrived during her time here thanks to the careand dedication of her teachers and the positiveinteraction she shares with her wonderfulclassmates.” applesandhoney.org

Young entrepreneurs atAlderbrook Primary School haverecently launched a healthy tuck shop enterprisebusiness. Year 5 and Year 4 pupils set up ‘FruitUniverse’ Healthy Tuck Shop, headed up by

Directors Tina aged 9, Sophia aged 10, Suhayl aged9 and Mirsab aged 9. The ‘Fruit Universe’ teamrecently spent the day with award-winning socialenterprise company fruit to suit, learning businessskills and putting together a business plan topresent to their head teacher before they couldcommence trading. To date, 7 Wandsworthprimary schools have set up healthy tuck shopbusinesses using fruit to suit training programs.“The launch of this project reflects the type oflearning that we are passionate about atAlderbrook,” says Kate Baum, Head teacher.“Children are applying a range of skills fromseveral areas of the curriculum to develop life longskills and experiences that they will remember andcherish for many years to come.”

A playground for the JubileeLion House Nursery and Pre-PrepSchool in Putney are celebrating the opening oftheir new Jubilee Playground. The Playground, inco-operation with Putney Methodist Church, wasofficially opened by Justine Greening, MP, anddoubles the outside space available for the childrenat break times. Costing £16,000, it has a softsurface and trim trail and allows children from LionHouse School and the church’s Sunday School toclimb, jump, scramble and swing on the newequipment in safety. The opening was a hugesuccess thanks to the hard work of Lion Houseparents who baked and sold an array of wonderfulcakes and biscuits which made a profit of over£600 for Christian Aid. lionhouseschool.co.uk

School feature

SPACES AVAILABLE FOR 2012/2013

We are an independent nursery schoolin the heart of Balham. We providechildren with a warm and friendly

environment and hold traditional values.Ages 2.6 - 5 years.

"Children are happy and settled in this bright,welcoming and inclusive nursery"

Ofsted January 2012

Please phone 0208 675 8258 with any enquiries.

New checks for children—is your child’s phonics decoding up to scratch?Following on from a pilot scheme last year, new phonics tests were introduced to all Year 1 pupils thisyear. The Year 1 phonics screening check is a short assessment to confirm whether children have learntphonic decoding to an appropriate standard, and will apply to all Year 1 pupils in maintained schools,academies and Free Schools. The test took place between 18 and 22 June 2012, with the aim ofidentifying children who need extra help and who can then be given support by their school to improvetheir reading skills. According to the Department of Education, the check comprises a list of 40 wordsand non-words or nonsense words, which a child will read one-to-one with a teacher. Half of the wordscover phonics skills that tend to be learnt in Reception, while the other half are based on Year 1 phonicsskills. The aim of the DfE is that the tests will not be daunting, but are merely there to check thatchildren at the end of Year 1 have the foundations they need to learn to read, such as skills for blendingsounds into words and the phonic knowledge of recognising the sounds for basic letters and lettercombinations. Find out more athttp://www.education.gov.uk/schools/teachingandlearning/pedagogy/phonics.

Congratulations to Nightingale Nursery!Following the success of Nightingale 1 Montessori Nursery, Nightingale 2 Montessori Nursery opens itsdoors in September 2012 at St Stephen's Church Hall, 35 Weir Road SW12 0NU, Balham.The Montessori method of teaching is based on encouraging and developing the child's interest and

independence through a wide range of exercises usingspecific materials working individually or in a group.“Everything we do is geared to the enjoyment oflearning.” The first years of life have a great influence on achild's mind and character, thus the aim of the Schoolis to encourage the child to have a desire to discover,learn and gain independence.Open Monday – Friday 9:15 am – 12.30 pm. Nowtaking registrations for 2013/2014.www.nightingalemontessori.co.uk 07930 401769


Contact Vicky Barnett BA, MSc, PGCETel: 020 8876 [email protected]@firstclasslearning.co.ukwww.firstclasslearning.co.uk

Exam boards get toughFinally, exam boards are listening to the cries ofparents and teachers that GCSEs are becomingtoo easy! The exams regulator, Ofqual, hasannounced that it will be making changes toGCSEs in English literature, maths, history andgeography, tightening them up and ensuringstudents study the whole curriculum. Thiscomes amid concerns that pupils are onlystudying topics likely to come up in exams,rather than the entire course. "We aretightening GCSEs in these key subjects to makesure students cover the whole curriculum,”says Ofqual chief executive Glenys Stacey. "Wewant our young people to have the bestpossible educational experience, withqualifications that prepare them for the future.The exam boards have welcomed this steerfrom the regulator and are to look again atthese qualifications and how the rules areinterpreted to make sure that young peopletaking them have to study an appropriate rangeand depth of the subject." This spring’sannouncement is part of a move away fromteaching to the exam and to encourage widerstudy. Changes to GCSE geography will beintroduced for teaching from this September,with maths from November and history andEnglish literature papers from September2013. "It is vital confidence is restored in theexams system,” added a Department forEducation spokesman. “We are committed toraising standards for all pupils and are pleasedOfqual is taking action to ensure that GCSEs inthese subjects are more challenging.”

School feature


School feature


School feature

Open DaysThe October Open Days will be published in the October issue.

•Westminster Under School SW1 7-13 B 13-18 B 6th 7+/8+ entry 17/9 and 8/10. 11+ entry 1/10 By appointment 020 7821 5788•Westminster School SW1 Form G By appointment 020 7963 1003•Eaton Square School SW1 3-13 Co-Ed By appointment 020 7931 9469•Streatham & Clapham High School SW2/16 11-18 G 29/9 10-1pm 020 8677 8400•Streatham & Clapham Junior School SW2 3-11 G 22/9 10-12 noon 020 8674 6912•Gems Hampshire School SW3 3-13 Co-Ed Individual tour by appointment 020 7352 7077•Ecole des Petits SW6 3-6 Co-Ed By appointment 020 7371 8350•Eridge House School SW6 2-11 Co-Ed 6/10 9.30-1pm 020 7371 9009•Fulham Pre-prep SW6 4-7 Co-Ed By appointment 020 7386 2444•Sinclair House School SW6 2-11 Co-Ed By appointment 020 7736 9182•The London Oratory RC SW6 11-18yrs B 10, 18, 25 Sept 6.30pm 1st Oct 2.30pm 020 7385 0102•Ravenstone SW7 2-11 Co-Ed By appointment 020 7225 3131•Ecole de Battersea SW11 3-10 Co-Ed By appointment 020 7371 8350•Dolphin School SW11 3-10 Co-Ed Weekly tours 020 7924 3472•Thames Christian College SW11 11-16 Co-Ed 19/9 11-1pm, 25/9 11-1 pm, 6 Oct 10-1pm 020 7228 3933•The Dominie SW11 6-11 Co-Ed By appointment 020 7720 8783•White House Prep School SW12 4-11 Co-Ed By appointment 020 8674 9514•Harrodian School SW13 4-18 Co-Ed 11+ Open morn: 12/10 2/11 Advance booking essential 020 8762 6321•Ibstock Place School SW15 3-18 Co-Ed Jnr: 28 Sept, 16 Nov 9.30am, Snr: 22 Sept 5-7pm 020 8876 9991•The Lion House School SW15 3-7yrs 6 Oct 10am-12 020 8780 9446•Putney Park School SW15 4-16 G 4-8 B 22/9 10.30-12 noon 020 8788 8316•Bertrum House School SW17 2-7 Co-Ed Showrounds by appointment 020 8767 4051•The Roche School SW18 2.5-11 Co-Ed 22/9 10.30-1pm 020 8877 0823•Donhead School SW19 7-11 B By appointment 020 8946 7000•The Study Prep School SW19 4-11 G By appointment 020 8947 6969•Portland Place W1 9-18 Co-Ed Tours: 20&27 /9, 4/10 9.15-11am. Open ev: 3/10, 5-6.30pm. 020 7307 8700•Ravenstone Pre-prep W2 1-7 Co-Ed By appointment 020 7262 1190•International School of London W3 3-18 By appointment 020 8992 5823•Arts Educational School W4 11-18 Co-Ed 4/10 5-8pm Y 7-11 entry, 5/10 6-8.30pm for 6th. 020 8987 6666•Heathfield House School W4 4-11 By appointment 020 8994 3385•The Falcon School for Girls W5 3-11G By appointment•Latymer Prep School W6 7-11 Co-Ed Open days throughout Autumn term. By appointment. 0845 638 5700•Latymer Upper School W6 11-18 Co-Ed 8/9 and in Nov, 11+ entrance only (child in Y6). Tickets required 0845 638 5721•Fulham Prep W14 7-13 Co-Ed By appointment 020 7371 9911•St James Junior School W14 4-11B 4-10G 13 Oct 10am-12 noon. 020 7348 1793•Fulham Pre SW14 4-13 Co-Ed By appointment 020 7371 9911•Alleyns Junior School SE22 4-11 Co-Ed 22/9 10-12.30 020 8693 3457•JAGS SE22 13 Oct 020 8693 1181•Sydenham High GDST SE26 Junior: 22 Sept, 3&9 Oct, Senior school 19 September, 6+11 October 020 8557 7000•Coloma Convent Girls School RC CR9 11-18yrs G 18th Sept 7-9pm, 6th Oct 10-12 020 8654 6228•Haberdashers’ Aske’s Herts 5-18B 6 Oct 1-4pm (Main School and Prep School)

Boys’ School 13 Oct Prep School by appointment only. 020 8266 1700•Eton College Windsor 13-18B By appointment 01753 671000

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After-school activities definitely offer value to yourchildren. Reports indicate those who participatein after-school programs have better schoolattendance, higher grades and loftier aspirations.They’re less likely to get into trouble and are atlower risk of obesity. It is also a great opportunityfor children to develop social and leadership skills.The benefits are there, but under which classes?

Talk to your child and find out how they feel aboutthe activity, and let them choose at least one clubor activity themselves. Help them chooseactivities that reflect who they are and what theywant to learn, don’t impose your preferences.Explain that it’s important and fun to try newthings, and remember switching activities is normalamongst children.

Always check out the quality of an activity.Discipline-based activities that create a qualityproduct over a period of time are great, e.g.putting on a play. Don’t think that high cost equalhigh quality, some activities are cheaper to run likefootball. Staff members should be professionalswith skills and experience.

Consider the mix of activities. The benefits ofexercise are huge, so including a sport would be agood start. Extracurricular activities are ideal forchildren to explore and practice what it means tobe a group leader, e.g. Brownies. If you are stuckbetween two similar activities, consider theusefulness, e.g. drum lessons might be cool, butthe guitar might have wider applicability.

Finally, remember logistics. The afterschoolprogramme affects you too. Avoid signing on totoo many activities that leave you scrambling fromone to the next. No one will have fun doinganything if it means arriving late, leaving early, and

going without dinner on Tuesdays and Thursdays.Look hard for places you can walk to, it reducesyour carbon footprint while keeping you fit forfree! Finally do build in some downtime.Children need to have independent play as well asthe structured activities, so ensure time is built infor dinner, watching T.V. and relaxing. Leave someactivities perhaps for the summer, when differentinterests can be tried, without the pressure ofschool demands.

After-school activities can provide enrichment,adventure and variety. They can enhanceknowledge and build character. Spend a bit moretime choosing the right activity programme foryour child and you will reap the benefits.

Consideration for special needschildren • Consider your child’s interests, rather than their

needs. Many regular activities can use technologyor planning to help their participation, e.g. drama,athletics, cooking, academic

• Evaluate your child's stamina. Check they havethe energy for an extracurricular activity?

• Talk with the activity leaders about your child'sunique medical and communication needs.Provide them with emergency contactinformation.

• Make sure family downtime is a regular part ofthe schedule. Sometimes your family needs tohave nothing to do — as a group.

Remember the inclusion of children with specialneeds is beneficial to all. Special needs childrenachieve more, improve behaviour, and enhancemotivation. Children without special needs learnfrom working cooperatively and grow inconfidence through helping others.

As the new school year starts, sodoes the time to choose after-schoolactivities, but take a quick look andyou will find a whole range of classesavailable, from Scouts to Ballet, fromFrench to Karate. How can weknow which ones are the best for ourchild, offer value for money, andcritically, which ones they will enjoy?


Clubs and classes feature

Choosingafter-schoolactivitiesBy Elisabeth Dolton

St James’s Church Hall,Welham RoadSW16 6NT

Principal: Alison AllenClasses from age 2 1/2 onwardsTuesdays, Wednesdays, Thursdaysand Saturdays

Enquiries:[email protected]

Tel: 020 8769 4337www.abcballetschool.org


There are several signs of an overly busy family.Children become tired, overwhelmed and irritableas a result of no downtime, activities are beingdone out of habit or because everyone else is, oryour children spend so much time in activities thatyou don’t know what else is going on in their lives.Back-to-school makes you think back-to-stress!

If your family is overscheduled, ease the pressureby simplifying the daily routine. This is achievablein two ways - cutting back on extracurricularactivities, and getting more organized.

Scale down extracurricular activities. Limit thenumber of activities you have in a week to one artistic, one athletic, and one social forexample. Focus more on creating a manageablefamily schedule.

As you cut down on outside activities, set asidededicated time for the family to be together. If

you feel it’s important to eat dinner together a fewnights a week, or have a set time when you andyour children can just chat, arrange the scheduleto make it happen. Reserve time to play and hang out.

Streamline household routines to make time athome more relaxed. Keep spaces that you useevery day, like the kitchen counter, free of clutter.Keep things where you use them. After dinner, layout breakfast, make lunches and gather everythingneeded for tomorrow’s activities. Have yourchildren lay out their clothes before going to bed.

Once you create some organisation in the house,it’s likely to spread. But almost contradictorily, letgo of the idea of being a perfect parent and resistfeeling guilty if the house is less than immaculate.Take a few minutes to relax after getting home;don’t immediately dive into meal preparation.

Clubs & classes feature

Finding the balance

for busy

familiesBy Elisabeth Dolton

Finding a balance - Top Tips forparents:• Listen to your children. If they appear

fatigued, irritable or overwhelmed theymay be over-scheduled.

• Talk to your children. Find out whichactivities they love and which theycould live without.

• Ask yourself: "Does my child want tobe involved in all these activities, or do Iwant them to be? Your best intentionsmay be adding to the pressure

• Don’t forget ‘me time’. Don’t sacrificeyour own wellbeing. Find time torecharge and rejuvenate.

Considerations for SpecialNeeds The balancing act of keeping a busyfamily with special needs on trackthrough school, therapy, doctor visits,and fun can be tough.

• Focus on priorities, exploit resourcesfor planning, and continuallycommunicate as a family.

• Provide a structured lifestyle –everyone benefits psychologically frompredictability. Planning family schedulestogether goes a long way towardsreinforcing disability independence.

• Implement effective routines – gettingdressed, loading the car, and eatingmeals can take substantially more timefor children with disabilities.

• Integrate flexibility into familyschedules that allow opportunities topractice disability independence –children can learn valuable benefits ofteamwork and planning ahead to meettheir goals.

• Keep supplies handy. Portablecontainers for equipment andmedications enable smooth transitionsto the car and back for instance.

With flexible diligence, parents ofchildren with disabilities can lead familiesto a fulfilling and well-balanced life,where disability activities are just part ofa reliable, reassuring family pattern.

As parents we want our children to take advantage of opportunities and haveenriching experiences, whilst keeping on top of our own demands and duties.So it’s no surprise that families can often find themselves over-committing andrunning from one activity to another. An over-busy schedule impacts on us all.Parents feel pressured to maximize every opportunity for their children, and withless family time relationships can suffer. Too much structured activity cancontribute to anxiety, stress, and even depression in children. Finding a balancedlifestyle is key.

CupcakeCupcake’s comfortable, modern environment isdesigned with the whole family in mind.Membership includes classes for the whole family;the Cupcake Crèche and After School Clubs; funball-pool playroom; our fabulous café. Located inthe heart of Parsons Green, visit us today for atour. Cherish the moments at Cupcake.� 020 7186 [email protected]

Tumble TotsTumble Tots is the country’s leading physical playprogramme and is now in its 25th year in yourarea. Using specifically designed equipment,Tumble Tots classes offer a structured programmedesigned to build self-confidence and developessential listening and language skills along with thekey motor skills of balance, agility, co-ordinationand climbing. Classes start from 6 months to 5years old. [email protected] or � 020 8464 4433 for more information or tobook a trial class.

Club ItalianoThe tutor’s point of view: “Every week I discoversomething new about how children learn. RecentlyI’ve noticed the importance of: Repeating,repeating and more repeating.” Children arehappy to repeat the activities done in previous

lessons, they find it comforting and like to bepresented with a topic they have already heardabout. This allows the lesson to have a strongroutine in which to modify the pattern graduallyweek by week. It is absolutely true what theexperts say: “learning is relearning”. StefaniaFrigieri-Baldwin www.italianlearning.co.uk

Club Petit PierrotSongs, rhymes, dances, fun language games, role-play… Est 1993, the popular Club Petit Pierrot,with its stimulating and innovative programme,offers fun French lessons. From 8m (parent/toddler)to 8yrs, they also teach in many schools and caneven organise private tuition at your home. NEW:creative classes in French Chelsea/Putney + NEWparent/toddler groups Northcote Lib on Wedafternoons. They continue to offer p/toddlergroup, and a drop-off class for 4-6y in Wimbledon.www.clubpetitpierrot.co.uk� 020 7385 5565 for bookings and FREE TRIAL.

SING, DANCE & ACT atStagecoach Wimbledon Classes for all ages (4yrs -18yrs) and all abilities (beginners to advanced).Whether you want to build confidence, learn newskills, perform professionally or just to have fun,Stagecoach Wimbledon has a class to suit you. � 020 8 946 3400,[email protected]/wimbledon

West London DanceAcademyAn IDTA accredited school, offers classes in ballet,boys' ballet, musical theatre and tap dance tochildren. Classes are taught by qualified teachersin Chiswick, Ealing, Fulham and Wimbledon.� 07771 984 [email protected]


8p26


News round up

of your local

Clubs &ClassesCompiled by Amanda Butterworth Tumble Tots

Stagecoach BatterseaEnjoy a fabulous 2012 Autumn term at Stagecoachin Battersea! They will have a few places in someof the classes for the September 2012 new term ...so book now atwww.stagecoach.co.uk/battersea Fabulousclasses in dance, drama, singing and musicaltheatre ... every weekend at Honeywell School.� 020 8946 2986

Ecole de Danse of Balham provides classes in Ballet including Pointe work fordancers of all ages. They offer a caring, safeenvironment which helps nurture and improvestudent confidence and self-esteem. � 0797 31672 23 jpcabardos@ecolededanseofbalham.co.ukwww.ecolededanseofbalham.co.uk

Ruggerbeez provide exciting and professionally run weekly playsessions to children aged 2yrs - 7yrs acrossLondon. They operate in schools, parks, clubs andnurseries providing birthdays, camps and lessons.Try them out for FREE. No membership fee, joinany time. www.ruggerbeez.com � 0844 5446784. Nominated 'Best Community Programme' -Rugby Expo 2011

Be.DanceCome to a BE.Dance class and learn the coolestcommercial choreography! With fun and games

for kids and the freshest funkiest choreography forteens and adults, there’s bound to be a BE.Danceclass for you. Classes are based in Wandsworth, aswell as after school clubs at Honeywell andEmanuel Schools. BE.Inspired!New students: Free trial lesson and 15% off thefirst terms fees - book now for September –[email protected] or � 07545 697352.www.bedance.co.uk

PerformWatch your child’s self-esteem soar with Perform’sunique drama, dance and singing weeklyworkshops. Book now for September’sspellbinding Magician’s Chamber theme. Try aFREE class at over 200 venues across London andthe South East, � 0845 400 4000 to book or visitwww.perform.org.uk/venues

Tiny Tiptoes baby massageLearn the basics of how to massage your baby toimprove sleep, soothe colic and gas, increase andstimulate babies’ growth. Classes held weekly andinclude baby massage techniques, baby yogamovements and sensory play and development.Visit www.tinytiptoes.co.uk or � 0845 5196 442for more details.

Mange Tout As seen on BBC1’s “Fast Food Baby” is not justfor the fussy eaters out there, it is a greatinteractive class that introduces fruit andvegetables in an exciting and fun way whilstteaching children songs, colours, numbers, co-ordination and sharing. The weekly fact files offerparents nutritional info and recipes too! Lucy alsospecialises in private one to one sessions andcourses in your home www.mangetoutkids.com� 020 8672 2400 and book a FREE trial.

Blueberry Playsongs are classes where little ones can participate in thejoy and experience of live guitar-accompaniedmusic. Talented group leaders will get the bestfrom every child with nursery rhymes, actionsongs, instruments, games and dancing. Classic



HAPKIDOSELF DEFENCEclasses available forchildren, teenagersand adults.

Dan Jun breathing, Kicks, punches, throws,joint-locks, tumbles, jumps and breakfalls.NEW: Learn the way of the Samuraisword, children ages 9yrs and overHapkido teaches:•Respect •Fitness•Discipline •Confidence•Control & sensitivity •Inner calm & peace•Defence •Strength & agility

Instructor: Jon Bailie, 2nd DanQualified Hapkido Instructor and fully insured

Classes available @ St Luke's Community Hall SW12,Broomwood Hall SW11, The Contact Centre SW4 andother venuesFor all enquiries/bookings, please call on

07932 667 336Private tuition/home visits also availablewww.semokwan-hapkido.co.uk

Mange Tout

Stagecoach Battersea



familiar songs, new ones to learn and props add toa fun and lively class! Established 1991.� 020 8677 6871 /[email protected]

Allsorts dramafor children hold their popular classes on Fridays atMore House School, SW1 ages 4-6, 4pm - 5pmages 7-11, 11-14, 14-18, 5pm - 7pm.Saturdays at Notting Hill Prep,Lancaster Road,W11 and South Hampstead High, NetherhallGardens, NW3 ages 4-6, 10am - 11am and ages 7-11, 11-14 and 14-18, 11am - 1pm. To book a freetrial class � 020 8 969 3249 or visitwww.allsortsdrama.com

Monkey MusicAward winning music classes for babies and smallchildren from 3 months to 4 years. MonkeyMusic’s award winning classes have an enviablereputation as a ‘must do’ activity! Specialist, agespecific music classes offer weekly fun and gigglesas the children are mesmerized by original songs,specialist percussion instruments, dance,movement, puppets, props and lots of bubbles!

To book your complimentary class in:• Chelsea, Belgravia, Gloucester Rd:

� 020 8767 9827 NEW! 3-4yrs classes from Sept• Fulham, Putney & Barnes:

� 020 8480 6064 • Clapham, Battersea & Balham (SW12)

� 020 8699 0977 • Southfields, Wandsworth, Earlsfield, Tooting,

Balham & Streatham:� 020 8764 5185 • Wimbledon, Southfields and Raynes Park:

� 020 87041852

Blue Wave Swim SchoolQuality swimming lessons for all ages and allabilities including “Adult and Child” lessons(suitable for babies and toddlers). Private, semi-private and small group lessons delivered byqualified and experienced teachers. Weekday andweekend swimming lessons in SW17 & SW19. Formore information visit: www.bluewaveswim.co.ukor call 07764 615 047.

Music’all Is a local dynamic music school running onSaturdays in Parsons Green, Fulham. A charity withbursaries, from foundation with instrument tasters,to advanced, they provide high quality affordablemusic tuition to all. Pupils also take part incommunal music making: choirs, ensembles &orchestras. www.musicall.org.uk� 07590 691265.

TheatrebugsBabyBug Caterpillar Club new to Clapham,Balham, Barnes and Battersea! Birth to 2 years,enchanting parent and baby drama sessionsbrought to life for you and your baby.Cocoon Club new to Clapham, Balham, Barnesand Battersea! 2-3.5years, your little bugs will goon an imaginary journey each week -meeting lotsof animals, copying their moves and sounds andcoming up with great solutions to save the day! Afterschool Butterfly Club in Clapham, Balham,Barnes and Battersea! 3.5-6 years, an actionpacked all singing, all dancing, all acting after schoolclub that will really knock your socks off. See website for full details of dates!www.theatrebugs.co.uk � 0800 975 5290Book your free trial online!

Amanda’s Action Club Amanda’s Action Club provides stimulating,physical development classes for babies, toddlersand pre-school children. It's all about fun, fitnessand music – an early-learning workout that kidsjust love! Weekly classes in Chiswick, ParsonsGreen, Wandsworth, Battersea, Putney, Ealing andRavenscourt Park. New venue: Will Baki will behosting the classes in the Eat, Play, Love cafe onBattersea Park Road every Tuesday and Thursdaymorning at 10am. There will also be extra classesat the Common Ground Café on WandsworthCommon. Plus, they have designed two brandnew party formats for 5-12yr olds: breakdancingworkshops with top breakdancing specialists or‘Strike A Pose’ Parties for girls who want to feel

like young ladies! � 01895 623 999 Seewww.amandasactionclub.co.uk

Waterlife Swim SchoolSpecializing in baby, toddler and pre-schoolswimming. 6 days a week various locations in SWLondon and Surrey.www. waterlifeswimschool.com� 020 8947 2149

The BudokwaiToddler Gym classes are both educational in concept and a child’s first steps into exercise and sport. Taking place in a traditional dojo with soft floor children can develop a range of important skills such as agility, balance andcoordination, in addition to improving their spaceawareness. � 020 7370 [email protected] www.budokwai.co.uk

Safrey Academy BACK with fresh new classes in Dance and Singing!Based in Streatham their highly skilled teachers willmake you feel at ease, building on confidence andperformance skills. Children will haveopportunities to perform at local events as well ascompetitions. To register email:[email protected]

Cookie CrumblesThere’s a lot happening at Cookie Crumbles thisAutumn. They’re just launching their first range ofhealthy baking mixes for children, the closest abaking mix can come to home baking. The rangecomprises a moorish “awesome wholesomeBrownie Mix”, a utterly delicious “Vanilla andBlueberry Muffin Mix”, a “Sunny SunflowerCookie Mix” and a “Granola Energy Bar”. Allmixes contain all natural ingredients. Prices startfrom £4.99 and the mixes are currently availablefrom Cookie Crumbles at cookiecrumbles.co.ukas well as selected delis.

Blue Wave Swim School

Monkey Music

8p 28

Fancy FootworkTheir classes Ballet, Tap, Modern & Jazz, MusicalTheatre, and Movement to Music are a greatfoundation for girls and boys 2 years to 18 to learnthe art of dance and the opportunity to perform inshows and study for RAD/ISTD exams in a fun,inspiring atmosphere. Locations in SW11, SW12,SW18 and all are assured a warm welcome. � 0845 094 1774 [email protected]

Act dramaThis Autumn 2012… Join Act to take part in theirfantastic Christmas Panto… Saturday classes, for5-16 year olds, are high energy, fun and inspiring.The classes are led by professional actors whoteach drama and performance. Students areencouraged to free their imagination and expresstheir creativity. Act builds confidence and self-esteem. Contact Jane Cameron, � 07976 873161. [email protected]

Crouching Tiger Karate Offers Shotokan Karate and self-defence classesfor children and adults in South-West Londonincluding: Kew (Richmond), St. Margaret's(Twickenham), Putney, Barnes and Chiswick. Theclasses are a great way to exercise and learn self-defence in a friendly and enjoyable atmosphere.� 020 8560 5267 � 07734 655 057www.crouchingtigerkarate.co.uk

ABC Ballet School A local school catering for children from the age of2 ½ upwards. From 6yrs children may be enteredinto ballet exams following the Cecchetti Method.There is a ballet show every other year. The aimof the school is to pass on the love of dance whilstworking on life skills such as friendship, confidence,musicality, deportment and a knowledge of theballet world. � 020 8769 4337 � 07703 154777 www.abcballetschool.org

Caterpillar Music Has been offering exciting fun music sessions since2001 across the UK. Children are inspired to learnthrough exciting sessions of fun music making,learning the songs and actions with their parentsand friends. At each class, every child is given apercussion instrument and puppet to use - eventhe youngest members! Classes are unique assome babies are as young as just 6 weeks. For aFree Trial Session and information on classes in:Battersea, Clapham, Earlsfield, Southfields and•Tooting, call Shumi � 020 85401762,•Fulham call Charlotte � 020 76109695, •Wimbledon call Helen � 020 8286 3754 www.caterpillarmusic.com

Rugbytots The first UK rugby specific play programme forchildren between 2 -7 years. Rugbytots combinesthe multiple skills used in rugby, and other sports,with a fun, enthusiastic and energetic programmedesigned to enhance your child's social and physicalskills. New classes coming in September; they alsodo birthday parties! � 0845 481 [email protected]

La Sylvaine and Wendy Bell Schools Impressive high results in RAD Upper Grades.Proceeds of annual shows have paid for therefurbishment of a studio and a wooden sprungfloor (Chelsea Theatre), £2200 sent to A.Bah, 4thyear in MedicalSchool. Read this amazing story onthe school website www.lasylvaine.co.uk

Funky Movesbringing out the fun in funky! A range of fantasticfunky street dance classes for kids aged 4-16 years.Classes start in September in Wandsworth, Barnesand Chelsea. Kids learn great moves and groovesto the coolest tunes around at the moment!Courses run for 12 weeks and finish with anamazing finale performance for the parents. Allclass information is on their [email protected] � 07810 431 101



Phot

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La Sylvaine and Wendy Bell Schools



Le Club FrançaisProvide fun French clubs and classes to primaryschool children throughout Wandsworth, Mertonetc. Their mission: to allow primary schoolchildren to learn languages in a fun and positivemanner and to promote the teaching of foreignlanguages by native and fluent teachers.They provide extra-curricular Fun Primary SchoolLanguage Clubs, PPA Modern Language Teachingand Fun Music for Toddlers. � 020 8542 2709

Le Club TricoloreThis buzzing language club was set up in 1987 byTeresa Scibor, acclaimed French teacher andauthor and is thriving thanks to her unique methodof teaching. Children absorb French naturally andwith a good accent. Weekly immersion Frenchclasses with art and craft for 2½ – 5 and 5 – 6½year olds, fun French for older children, a motherand toddler group. Trial sessions available. As aretired examiner, Teresa also prepares pupils forCommon Entrance and GCSE examinations. Formore details about her classes, call Teresa on � 020 7924 4649 � 07889 967 003www.leclubtricolore.co.uk

Todos a CantarSince 2003 has been running a weekly session offun action songs, puppets and stories in SPANISHfor children under 4s. Sessions are run by Cecilia,who is originally from Argentina, and who hasthree children ages 6, 8 and 10. NEW! from September 2012 new classes inBattersea, Wimbledon and New Malden. � 0208870 4624 [email protected]

"STAGE FORWARD" Speech and Drama Clubs SW6Prepare for LAMDA grades in 'Acting' or 'TheSpeaking of Verse and Prose' Develop communication skillsLearn new acting and performance techniquesAll ages welcome (classes are held by age group)Call or email Emily for more info: � 07717 798145 [email protected]

Musical Express A fun filled music class for pre-schoolers. Withmusical stories, puppets and lots of time for freeplay with real percussion instruments givingchildren the freedom to explore their environmentand learn through play. Visitwww.musicalexpress.co.uk for more informationor call Ali � 07808 587606.

Tin Pan Annie MusicExperts agree that music is the single mostimportant tool in the learning and development ofbabies and young children, Tin Pan Annie Musicclasses (as seen on TV) are tailored to specificallyallow your little ones to gain the very most fromparticipating in live music. They are brilliant funtoo. Classes are from 4months to 5 years and areheld every weekday morning and afternoon allover South London – call the office to arrange yourFREE TRIAL.� 020 8670 0644 [email protected]

KiddikicksKiddikicks is the very best football coaching forchildren aged 18m to 5 years. They are pleased toannounce their new multi-sport programme 18mto 8 years and Ligasoccer, mini match play forUnder 8’s. Available SW1V; W2; SW7; SW6;SW14; SW19. www.kiddikicks.co.uk,www.ligasoccer.co.uk � 020 7937 [email protected]; [email protected] term starts Sept 12 2012.Available for nursery, private, school settings andbirthday parties.

SwimwaySwimWay will be running small group parent andbaby lessons at their newly refurbished pool in aprivate house, (Gordon Avenue, East Sheen SW148DZ). This newly refurbished private house pool isthe perfect location to introduce your baby to thewater, the pool has just been restored andrenovated and the water is kept at an ideal 32degrees. SwimWay is the leading home visitSwimming School in London, providing swimminglessons to children and adults in exclusive private

FOOTSTEPSSchool of Dance and Drama

Principal Maryrose Meadwell, RAD Registered, AISTD. STSD. LGSM.

Established 1983EXPERT IMAGINATIVE CLASSES in

PRE SCHOOL DANCING from 21/2 years.Speech & Drama. Classical Ballet. Tap & Jazz.

Coaching, Festivals-Grades 100% pass rate. West Wimbledon SW20

020 8540 3090

Il Club ItalianoItalian for children aged 3-11, 4 to 5pm

Thursdays: Fulham Fridays: Chelsea Also: Italian for adultsin Barnes and Richmond

Approx £121 per term.

STEFANIA Tel: 020 8748 6418

www.italianlearning.co.ukwww.racc.ac.uk Italian for adults classes in Richmond.

Todos a Cantar is a session of fun action songs,games, puppets and stories for under 4s.

All nationalities welcome - Sessions totally in Spanish, Classes in Clapham,

Battersea, Wimbledon, Wimbledon Park, New Malden.

More information and bookings - Contact [email protected]

www.todosacantar.blogspot.com

TODOS A CANTAR- Spanish for children

Swimway

Kiddikicks

developments, homes and schools around London,as well as in 5 sites open to general public. � 0208 871 3972 [email protected]

Semokwan Hapkido martial artsTeaching Hapkido, Hankido and Hangumdo classes for Children, Teenagers and Adults in theClapham area.Contact � 07932 667 336 or visitwww.semokwan-hapkido.co.uk

Dove-studios.comDove-studios in Chelsea offers:• New Saturday art clubs starting in September

(5-16years),• New 'boys only' Friday art class!• Wednesday and Thursday term time after

school activities resume in September withdrawing, painting, sculpture, stories, and craftsfor fun and to complement school learning.

Contact Cornelia on 0777 568 2094 for furtherdetails or see dove-studios.com

Mini CrotchetsMini Crotchets is celebrating its 20th birthday inSeptember and it is still ‘probably the best musicgroup in South London’. Not being a franchise,Mini Crotchets classes are all run by Joya and thecounting songs, nursery rhymes, instruments,finger puppets all come with a dose of ‘Joyamagic’and with a live piano accompaniment –Come and see for yourself!www.minicrotchets.co.uk � 020 8675 1052.

Upbeat Pop and RockpartiesSing, dance, record a CD, learn how to play drumsand guitars. End of term performances.All children from 5 - 15 welcome and grown-upstoo! Holiday courses and parties also available.For more information, contact UPBEAT� 07816 901396 [email protected]

Little GymThe Little Gym offers a diverse range of activitiesfilled with movement, music, learning and laughter.Their age-appropriate sessions, where childrenfrom four months to 12 years progress at theirown pace, are designed to enable them to buildtheir confidence and have fun as they develop their

skills. Please contact them to arrange your freeintroductory class - � 020 8874 6567. Email:[email protected]

Trailer Film and TelevisionAcademy based in SW London, the academy has beencreated by Graham Theakston, a BAFTA winningFilm and Television Director (who has workedwith children and adults on Film and Televisionshows throughout the world) and Linda Magistris,a professional Actress/Author and TelevisionPresenter with over 30 years experience in theindustry. Trailer will be offering MOVIE MAKINGCOURSES from the Autumn in the holidays as wellas a new AFTER SCHOOL FILM CLUB wheretheir ‘film crews’ will be taught all the skillsinvolved in making a film on a weekly basis over a6 week course.www.trailerfilmandtelevisionacademy.comcontact@trailerfilmandtelevisionacademy.com� 020 8946 3310 � 07767356350

Eddie CatzEddie Catz is a hub of pre-school classes. Enrol ina class and you get a FREE play on the day! AtPutney there is Amanda's Action Club, Playball,NCT Postnatal and Weaning, Monkey Music, LittleKickers, Tiny Tutus Ballet, Club Petit PierrotFrench, London Mums Playgroup, Zumba forMums & Babies while you can join Twinkle ToesBallet, Little Kickers, Playball, Babyccino ItalianPlaygroup, Musical Express, Dynamic Dance and

Martial Fitness at Wimbledon.� 0845 2011268 www.eddiecatz.com Visitthem on Facebook

Following the huge success of the WOW Toys playarea installed in Eddie Catz softplay in Putney inOctober of last year, Eddie Catz Wimbledondebuted its own purpose built WOW play areawhere under 5’s can play freely with a selection ofWOW’s battery-free, high quality, British-designed,developmental toys.

SouthWest London YogaSouthWest London Yoga was set up by SerenaDavis, a Qualified Yoga Teacher, certified by theBritish Wheel of Yoga and Yoga Alliance. Inaddition to teaching Hatha yoga to adults andchildren, Serena is also a Pregnancy and PostnatalYoga Teacher with a genuine passion for yoga.Serena’s teaching style is focussed on breathawareness and alignment in each posture, withsome Vinyasa Flow sequences incorporated in herclasses. Serena teaches private classes and smallgroups in her candlelit Wimbledon Village studio.www.southwestlondonyoga.co.uk

DramabudsImaginative Drama for 2 – 7 year olds. Each weekthey explore a new exciting story through drama,movement and song! Dramabuds is a great placeto make new friends, build confidence, becreative, use your Imagination and have lots of fun!Classes on Tuesdays mornings for 2- 5 Year olds at



Yoga classes inWimbledon Village

Classes for adults, children,pregnant and postnatal

women. Classes are held in abeautiful, tranquil studio in

Wimbledon village.

www.southwestlondonyoga.co.uk

New term commencesSaturday 8th September.

See website for details

Dove-studios.com



South Wimbledon Community Centre. Nurseryclasses and After School clubs throughout SWLondon too.www.dramabuds.co.uk � 020 8669 2355

Helen O’Grady DramaAcademyMelanie Moore, Principal of the Helen O’GradyDrama Academy says: “Our curriculum is designedto develop children’s confidence andcommunication skills, children are part ofsomething positive, fun and successful” � 0207274 5616 or email [email protected] find out about our affordable classes and tobook a free trial. www.helenogrady.co.uk

West Wimbledon DanceAcademyThe school continues to flourish. Two classes haveentered their first Ballet exam and three moreclasses are entering in October. The Pre-Primaryand Primary groups have also performed twiceduring the last year. The Principal, Caroline hasbeen asked by the ISTD to become an examinerfor the Imperial Ballet and regularly teaches theScholarship classes at the ISTD Headquarters.Ballet, Tap and Modern for girls and boys age 2 ½years upwards. � 07956 606 [email protected]

Cupcake The comfortable, modern environment is designedwith the whole family in mind. Membershipincludes classes for the whole family; the CupcakeCrèche and After School Clubs; fun ball-poolplayroom; their fabulous café. Located in the heartof Parsons Green, visit them today for a tour.Cherish the moments at Cupcake. 11 HeathmansRoad, London SW6 4TJ � 0207 186 6000www.cupcakemum.commumcierge_parsonsgreen@[email protected]

Butterfly Ballet, BarnesMagical and creative Ballet classes for children age18 months+ encouraging confidence, co-ordination and musicality through the art form ofdance. Classes are taken by Catherine Loveless, aformer professional dancer with English NationalBallet and a RAD registered teacher. Saturdaysand weekdays. www.butterflyballet.co.uk �07547 483699 [email protected]

Life ElementKundalini Yoga at ReCentre Balham : Life Elementhas teamed up with reCentre to bring theexperience of Kundalini Yoga to the local area.Their teacher, Perla, will be at reCentre everyFriday, where you can come and talk to her abouthow Kundalini Yoga can support and significantlyimprove your life. [email protected] � 020 8672 4455

West Wimbledon Dance Academy

Music

Safrey Academy ofPerforming Arts

Street Dance, Ballet, Musical Theatre, African Dance.

Classes: The British Home, Streatham, SW16.Ages 4-16

Our aim is to provide stimulating and exciting classes held by teachers who have all worked in the

profession in theatre and TV

www.safreyarts.co.uk [email protected] taster class & 1/2 price registration

Safrey gained 3rd Place at the DanceChallenge National Finals 2012.


Music/Clubs and classes feature


THE SOUTHFIELDS SCHOOL OF BALLET

We offer imaginative Ballet and Jazz classes forchildren (boys & girls) from 21/2 years. The

emphasis of the school is on fun, musicality andfitness, with the option to take Royal Academy

of Dance (RAD) examinations.020 8683 0222

classes held in Southfields and Wimbledon� Sibling Discount

� Join anytime

Principal: Mrs. Eliane Gerhard, BA (Hons), LRAD

Dance Clubs and classes feature


Dance/Languages/Clubs and classes feature


Drama Clubs and classes feature


Clubs and classes feature Family club/Arts/Sports


SportsClubs and classes feature


Sports Clubs and classes feature

Children’s private lessons and hacking from 4yrs oldSaturday Club and After School Riding on Wimbledon Common

Half term and Holiday courses

Ridgway Stables93 Ridgway Wimbledon Village SW19 4SU

Tel 020 8946 7400www.ridgwaystables.co.uk [email protected]


Sophie and I met at a playground in Fulham wellover 15 years ago, she has been writing ourWhat’s on column ever since. We thank her forher dedication and painstaking efforts: it’s a lot ofwork to compile such a huge document! Sophiehas decided to move to new interests and developher creative interests, including photography (seewww.mcastex.com). We wish her all the best andof course, we stay very good friends!

From now on, our What’s on listings are

compiled by Joanna Parry.

Please send your events to be listed toJoanna on: [email protected] for her consideration.

Please always phone before setting out incase details have changed since pressdeadline or we got it wrong...

DRAMAAPOLLO THEATRE31 Shaftesbury Avenue W1D 7EZ0844 412 4658 nimaxtheatres.com /nickjr.co.uk/shows/dora To 16 September. Dora The Explorer Live! –With the help of the audience, Map, Backpack,Boots, Diego and theirncourageous friends, Dorauses her map-reading, counting, musical andlanguage skills to pass through the numberpyramid and the mixed-up jungle to reach the Cityof Lost Toys. From £13

BFI SOUTHBANKBelvedere Road, South Bank SE1 8XT 020 7928 3232 bfi.org.uk 9 Sep. Peppa Pig and Friends Family Funday –As part of the Thames Festival, come along andmeet some of the top creative minds from AstleyBaker Davies, the animation studio behind PeppaPig and Ben and Holly's Magic Kingdom. Watchbrand new episodes, learn about how they aremade and watch Peppa Pig and her friends on thebig screen.

COLOUR HOUSE THEATREMerton Abbey Mills, Merantun Way SW19 2RD 020 8542 5511/ 07944 868385colourhousetheatre.co.uk8 Sep-11 Nov. Robin Hood and Maid Marian –Everyone in Sherwood hates the greedy, evilSheriff because he’s taxing the poor, but RobinHood and his Merry Men have hatched a cleverplan to stop him. Performances on Saturdays andSundays, 2 and 4pm, £9/£10.

LYRIC HAMMERSMITHLyric Square, King Street W6 0QL020 8741 6850 lyric.co.uk3-22 Sep. Morning – Simon Stephen’s play written especially for theyoung performers of the Lyric Young Company,transferring to London after premiering at the2012 Edinburgh Fringe. 15 Sep. The Golden Cowpat – Come on down to the farm and meet farmerHector and his naughty cow Betty, as they embarkon a quest to find their fortune. 11am and 1pm, 3-7yrs, £821-22 Sep. Clockheart Boy – When a boy with no heart is washed ashore, aprofessor vows to bring him back to life. Fri 2pmand 7pm, Sat 11am and 1.30pm, 6-11yrs, £828-30 Sep. Handa’s Surprise – Travel to Kenya with Handa as she sets out on ajourney to surprise her best friend. 10.30am,11.30am, 1.30pm and 2.30pm, 2-5yrs, £8

NATIONAL THEATRESouth Bank SE1 9PX020 7452 3000 nationaltheatre.org.ukTo 27 October. The Curious Incident of theDog in the Night-Time –An adaptation of the touching and bleaklyhumorous award-winning novel by Mark Haddon.13yrs+8 Sep. Roald Dahl Day with Michael Rosen – A morning of brilliant stories about Roald Dahl,celebrating his birthday and a new book abouthim, Fantastic Mr Dahl, written by the formerChildren’s Laureate Michael Rosen. 10.30am,Cottesloe Theatre, £3/£4.

POLKA THEATRE240 The Broadway, Wimbledon SW19 1SB 020 8543 4888 polkatheatre.com 29 Sep-27 Oct. Sticks and Stones –It’s August 2011 and riots are spreading. It’ssummer, it’s hot and the entire country is holdingits breath...9-13yrs, £8-12

29 Sep and 2–5 Oct. Little Sunshine, LittleRainfall – Meet head-gardener Little Sunshine andstill-learning gardener Little Rainfall in their magicalJapanese garden – a theatrical experience blendingJapanese folklore with traditional music. 3-7yrs,£8-10. Performances 29 Sep 11am and 2.05pm, allother days 10.35am and 2.05pm

What’s On

Polka Theatre

Out and About

PUPPET THEATRE BARGEThe barge will be moored opposite 87 PetershamRoad, Richmond on Thames TW10 6UT07836 202 745 / 020 7249 6876 puppetbarge.com1, 2, 8, 9, 15, 16, 22, 23, 29 and 30 Sep. BrerRabbit Visits Africa – Brer Rabbit decides to visithis grandma in Africa and gets himself into trouble.All ages, 2.30pm, £8.50/£101, 8, 14, 15, 21, 22, 28 and 29 Sep. Bottom’sDream – by William Shakespeare. Age 8+,7.30pm, £8.50/£10

PUTNEY ARTS THEATRERavenna Road, Putney SW15 6AW020 8788 6943 putneyartstheatre.org.uk18-22 Sep. Daisy Pulls It Off – Combining thetalents of Group 64’s teenagers and PutneyTheatre Company, this rip-roaring tale inspired byAngela Brazil and Enid Blyton will enthrall anddelight. Tues £5/£7, Wed-Sat £7/£10

REGENT’S PARK OPEN AIRTHEATRE Inner Circle, Regent’s Park NW1 4NR 0844 826 4242 openairtheatre.orgTo 8 Sept. Ragtime – Set at the turn of the 20thcentury, this powerful musical unites three familiesseparated by race and destiny. £17.50/£44.50 To 5 Sept. A Midsummer Night’s Dream –With original music, movement and its uniquesetting, this magical, comedic and seductive tale isset to be one of the theatrical highlights of theyear. £17.50/£44.50

RICHMOND THEATRE The Green, Richmond TW9 1QJ0844 871 7651 atgtickets.com/Richmond12-15 Sep. Great Expectations – A lavish,spectacular and unashamedly theatrical productionof the Dickens favourite. £15-£29.50

SHAKESPEARE’S GLOBE THEATRE21 New Globe Walk, Bankside SE1 9DT 020 7401 9919 shakespearesglobe.com Dates throughout September – performancesof Shakespeare’s plays The Taming of the Shrew,Richard III, Twelfth Night and As You Like It15 Sep. Study Day – An exploration of theatricalperspectives on The Taming of the Shrew, £40/£50

SOUTHBANK CENTREBelvedere Road SE1 8PX 020 7960 4200 / 0844 847 9910southbankcentre.co.uk

3-6 Sep. Hairy Maclary –A must for the whole family, with music, singingand your favourite Hairy Maclary stories. £10

ST JAMES’S THEATRE 12 Palace Street SW1E 5JA0844 264 2140 stjamestheatre.co.uk18 Sep-27 Oct. Bully Boy – Part of the first season at the new St James’sTheatre. Sandi Toksvig directs a play tackling themoral issues of contemporary military occupationand its effect on the mental health of servingsoldiers. £20-£30

THEATRE ROYAL, HAYMARKET18 Suffolk Street, SW1Y 4HT0845 481 1870 (Theatre Royal) trh.co.uk020 7452 3000 (National Theatre)nationaltheatre.org.uk18-29 Sep. Private Peaceful –A National Theatre production based on the bookby the third Children's Laureate, MichaelMorpurgo, award-winning author of War Horse.Private Tommo Peaceful is a young First WorldWar soldier awaiting the firing squad at dawn.During the night he looks back at his short butjoyful past growing up in rural Devon, and thebattles and injustices of war that brought him tothe front line. 8yrs+

THREE SIXTY THEATREKensington Gardens (by Kensington Palace), Dial WalkW2 2UH 0844 871 7693 / 0844 871 7627 atgtickets.comTo 9 Sept. The Lion, The Witch And TheWardrobe –This new adaptation of CS Lewis’s classic childrensnovel takes place in a specially designed tent inKensington Gardens, and combines puppetry andhi-tech multimedia with Imax-style videobackdrops. The ultimate summer experience inthe Park! £25 -£60

EXHIBITIONSAND MUSEUMSBANK OF ENGLAND MUSEUMThreadneedle Street EC2R 8AH020 7601 5545 bankofengland.co.uk/museumTo 10 Nov. Titanic Documents – See these claims for the replacement of Bank ofEngland notes from the relatives of victims of thedisaster, on display to the public for the first time.To 10 Nov. Gold and the Bank of England –An exhibition examining the part that gold hasplayed during the Bank's long history.


8page 42

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BRITISH MUSEUMGreat Russell Street WC1B 3DG 020 7323 8299 britishmuseum.orgTo 9 Sep. Winning at the Ancient Games – To celebrate the London Olympics, follow a familyvictory trail around the collection.To 30 Sep. The Horse: From Arabia to RoyalAscot – Discover the epic story of the horse, a journey of5000 years that has revolutionised human history. To 25 Nov. Shakespeare Staging the World – Discover the world of William Shakespeare andthe emerging role of London as a global citythrough objects and contemporary performance.£12/£14, under 16s free.

FOUNDLING MUSEUM40 Brunswick Square, Camden Town WC1N 1AZ020 7841 3600 foundlingmuseum.org.ukTo 9 Sep. Trail: Adventures in VauxhallGardens – Illustrator Nina Cosford has created a free activitytrail for younger visitors, exploring the sights,sounds, tastes, smells and feelings of the currentexhibition The Triumph of Pleasure: VauxhallGardens 1729 - 1786.To 24 Nov. Dickens and the Foundling –A fascinating new display exploring the relationshipbetween Charles Dickens and the FoundlingHospital.

GEFFRYE MUSEUM136 Kingsland Road E2 8EA020 7739 9893 geffrye-museum.org.uk22-23 Sep. Ceramics Celebrations – As part of the Ceramics in the City fair themuseum is hosting free craft activities for childrenon both days. 2-4pm

IMPERIAL WAR MUSEUMLambeth Road SE1 6HZ 020 7416 5320/5321 iwm.org.uk6 Sep-1 Jan 2013. Cecil Beaton: Theatre of War – A major new exhibition exploring the impact ofthe Second World War on photographer, designer,writer, cartoonist, diarist and socialite CecilBeaton’s life and work. £6/£8, under 15s free21-23 Sep. Build the Truce – Call a truce, whatever your differences, and hear aslimy story of slugs, snails and truce time tales. Findout what united the slugs and snails in this funny andinspiring tale and make your own unique artworkinspired by the story. 11am-1pm and 2-4pm22 Sep. International Day of Peace – Storytelling and art sessions for children, 10.30am-5pmTo 30 Nov. War Story – First-hand experiences of British service personnelcurrently serving in Afghanistan.To 1 Jan 2013. A Family in Wartime – Experience life on the Home Front through theeyes of one London family

MUSEUM OF LONDONLondon Wall EC2Y 5HN 020 7001 9844 museumoflondon.org.uk9 Sep. Finds from the River – Walk along the foreshore of the River Thames andsee what exciting archaeological finds you candiscover. 12-2pm16 and 30 Sep. Museum Explored – Join one of the Museum's Hosts and explore thegalleries through fun, hands-on activities. 5yrs+,11.30am-1.30pm and 2-4pm23 Sep. Perfect Pattern – Using digital technology, design a pattern for a

cushion or T-shirt. 5yrs+, 12.30-1.30pm, 2-3pmand 3.30-4.30pmPlease note that the Museum of LondonDocklands will be closed until 16 Sep.

NATIONAL ARMY MUSEUM Royal Hospital Road SW3 4HT 020 7730 0717 nam.ac.uk To Jan 2013. Jubilee: 60 Years of theSovereign and Her Soldiers – A display exploring different aspects of therelationship between the Queen and her Army. To March 2013. War Horse: Fact and Fiction – A major new exhibition exploring the true historybehind the popular War Horse novel - interactivedisplays, costumes and props from the Spielbergfilm, and material from War Horse author MichaelMorpurgo and the National Theatre.Victorian Soldiers Action Zone – Quizzes, games and hands-on activities to learnabout life as a Victorian Soldier and the part theyplayed in the shaping of Britain’s Empire.Kid’s Zone – A new play area exploring aspects of army lifefrom camping to clothing, with a soft play spacefor babies, art and crafts and dressing-up. Small fee

THE NATIONAL GALLERY Trafalgar Square WC2N 5DN 020 7747 2894/2885 nationalgallery.org.uk To 23 Sep. Metamorphosis – An exhibition looking at change andtransformation.9, 16, 23, 30 Sep. Family Sundays –Activities designed especially for families to enjoyand learn together.Studio Sundays are hands-on workshops that startin the Gallery, followed by a studio session (2hours).Drawing Sundays explore National Gallerypaintings as inspiration for your art (80 minutes).Magic Carpet Storytelling for children aged 2-5.Sundays 10.30-11am and 11.30am–12pm. Fly awayon the magic carpet, which comes to land in frontof a different painting each day.

NATIONAL MARITIME MUSEUMPark Row, Greenwich SE10 9NF020 8858 4422 rmg.co.uk 16, 23 and 30 Sep. Discover Sundays –

Be inspired by our maritime past and explore yourpersonal connections to the sea. 11.30-1.30pm

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and 2-4pm, all ages15, 22 and 29 Sep. Explore Saturdays –Meet a character from the past and take part in anexciting performance that will bring maritimehistory to life. 12pm, 1pm, 2pm and 3pm, 6yrs+11, 18 and 25 Sep. Play Tuesdays – Young children can have fun with their families asthey explore the Museum through making, music,dance and stories. 10.30am, 11.30am, 1pm and2pm, under 5s

NATURAL HISTORY MUSEUMCromwell Road SW7 5BD020 7942 5000 nhm.ac.ukTo 31 Oct. Wildlife Garden – Escape the city and wander through the tranquilcorners of the Wildlife Garden. With woodland,meadow and pond, the garden is a haven forthousands of British plants and animals.8 Sep. Nature Live Event– Discover more about the work of the 300-plusMuseum scientists and world-class experts in aninteractive event. 2.30pm, freeSaturdays and Sundays in Sep. Hands-On Nature – Visit the handling station and explore someinteresting specimens with the help of specialistscience educators. 2-5pm

SCIENCE MUSEUMExhibition Road SW7 2DD0870 870 4868 sciencemuseum.org.uk To 28 Oct. Ariel 1 – A special exhibition celebrating the 50thanniversary of the launching of the world’s firstinternational satellite, Ariel 1. Free

TATE BRITAINMillbank SW1P 4RG020 7887 8888 tate.org.ukTo 16 Sep. Another London – International Photographers and City Life 1930-1980 brings together some of the most celebratednames in international photography. £13.50/£15.50To 23 Sep. London 2012 Olympic andParalympic Games posters –Twelve leading contemporary artists have beencommissioned to create the official posters for theLondon 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games,displayed at Tate Britain as part of the London2012 Festival.

TATE MODERNBankside SE1 9TG020 7887 8888 tate.org.uk2 Sep. Family Event: The Tanks –Explore the vast spaces of the Tanks throughaction, sound and performance. Under 5s Zone –A new play space for under 5s, inviting children ona creative, physical and sensory exploration ofthemes inspired by Cubist art works.

V&A MUSEUM OF CHILDHOODCambridge Heath Road E2 9PA 020 8983 5200 museumofchildhood.org.ukTo 9 Sept. Beautiful Games –An exhibition exploring what makes an athletesuccessful, and how the latest technology helps usto become faster and stronger.To 28 Oct. Mascots of the Olympic Games – A display showcasing over 50 mascots from thelast 44 years of summer and winter OlympicGames.14 Jul-9 Dec. Happy Birthday Mr Punch! – As part of The Big Grin, a nationwide celebrationof Mr Punch!

THE WALLACE COLLECTIONHertford House, Manchester Square W1U 3BN020 7563 9500 wallacecollection.orgTo 16 Sep.The Noble Art of the Sword: Fashion andFencing in Renaissance Europe – Discover the untold story of this fascinating andlittle known area of Renaissance art, revealing theskilled artistry behind the rapier.To 16 Sep. Making the Renaissance Sword – Featuring stages in the construction of a rapier, thisdisplay reveals that the Renaissance swordsmithrelied on a unique tradition of craftsmanship datingback to the early Middle Ages.

DAYS OUTAUDLEY END HOUSE ANDGARDENSOff London Road, Saffron Walden, Essex CB11 4JF01799 522842 / 0870 333 1181english-heritage.org.uk/daysout/properties/audley-end-house-and-gardens1, 2, 8, 9, 15, 16, 22, 23 Sep.Bringing Audley End to Life! - Come and see the Service Wing and Stablesbrought to life by Victorian costumed characters.Discover how this country house estate workedand played as the summer draws near.29 and 30 Sep. Apple Weekend –Visit Audley End's thriving organic Kitchen Gardenand enjoy a variety of apple themed activities, stallsand refreshments throughout the day.

BATTERSEA PARK CHILDREN’SZOOBattersea Park, Chelsea Bridge Gate SW11 4NJ020 7924 5826 batterseaparkzoo.co.ukThroughout Sep – With a zoo, animalencounters, play area and café, a visit to the worldfamous Battersea Park Children's Zoo is a must see.

ELTHAM PALACECourt Yard, Eltham, Greenwich SE9 5QE020 8294 2548 / 0870 333 1181elthampalace.org.uk 4 and 18 Sep. Art Deco Tours –Join an expert guide to tour the 1930s house andview its stunning interiors and furnishings,reflecting the high fashion of the 1930s. 11am and2pm, £2/£311 Sep. Medieval Tour –Tour the remains of the Royal Medieval Palace,explore the ruins in the grounds and examine thehistory of the Palace from 1066 through to theRestoration. 11am and 2pm, £2/£3

HAMPTON COURT PALACEHampton Court, East Molesey. Surrey, KT8 9AU0870 758 8080 hrp.org.uk To 30 Sep. The Wild, The Beautiful and theDamned – A new exhibition about the story of beauty,debauchery and decadent art at the late Stuart Court.1-2 Sep and 6-7 Oct. Live Tudor cookery –King Henry VIII’s famous Tudor kitchens are nowhome to food archaeologists, bringing the kitchensto life experimenting with traditional recipes toprepare feasts fit for a king!

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HMS BELFASTThe Queen’s Walk SE1 2JH 020 7940 6300 iwm.org.uk8-9 Sep. Points on a Compass – Find out more about the countries, cultures andjourneys HMS Belfast has taken whilst in service.11am–12.30pm and 2–4pm, all ages.Gun Turret Experience – A chance to see whatfighting at sea would have really been like. Interactive Operations Room – Imagine what itwould have been like to control HMS Belfast fromthe Operations room, the nerve centre and brainof the entire ship.

KENSINGTON PALACE Kensington Gardens W6 4PX 0844 482 7777 hrp.org.uk/kensingtonpalaceTo 4 Nov. Jubilee: A View from the Crowd – This new exhibition celebrates Queen Victoria’sDiamond Jubilee of 1897, from the point of viewof those who celebrated it, from duchesses tonewspaper sellers.

LEEDS CASTLEMaidstone, Kent ME17 1PL 01622 765400 leeds-castle.com To 21 Oct. What the Butler Saw – Life above and below stairs at Leeds Castle in the1930s. Featuring archive material and photographs,visit this bygone era of high society and the richand famous.

MORDEN HALL PARKMorden Hall Road, Morden SM4 5JD020 8545 6850 nationaltrust.org.uk/morden-hall-parkExplorer Packs and Trails – Explorer packs are available from the second-handbookshop (a deposit is required), containingthemed activities around the park. Follow trailsaround the park with activities to complete.

OPENING OF PARLIAMENT TOURSHouses of Parliament, Parliament Square, St MargaretStreet, Westminster SW1A0844 847 2498 parliament.uk/visiting/visiting-and-tours/summeropening19 Sep-6 Oct. Tours take in some of the mostimportant areas of the Palace in which Parliamentmeets and explain what Parliament does, what ithas meant at different times and how it came to bewhat it is today. £6/£10/£15

TOWER OF LONDONTower Hill EC3 0844 482 7799 hrp.org.ukTo 31 Dec. Royal Beasts – For 600 years, wild and exotic beasts were heldcaptive in the Tower. Discover why they wereimprisoned and experience how they would havelived at the Royal Menagerie.29 Sep-7 Oct. Ranulf Flambard’s GreatEscape –When King Henry I succeeds his brother William II,his first act is to imprison his brother’s hated taxcollector in their father’s impregnable newfortress, the Tower of London. But the wily RanulfFlambard is soon scheming to get out. Timings tobe confirmed.

WWT WETLANDS CENTREQueen Elizabeth’s Walk, Barnes SW13 9WT020 8409 4400 wwt.org.uk/visit-us/london 1 Sep. Wildlife Walk –A wildlife walk for members - spot somesensational seasonal wildlife. 1pm, £22 Sep. Willow Weaving and Basket Making –Try out basket making and willow weaving

techniques at a special traditional craft workshop.10am–4pm, £45pp 2 Sep. The Birdlife of Portugal –Join Portuguese birding expert João Jara for afascinating talk on the birdlife of Portugal. 2.30-3.30pm, £36,13 and 20 Sep. Big Bat Walk –See these amazing flying mammals and theirastonishing aerial acrobatics and learn more aboutthem from a bat expert. Time varies with sunset, £109 Sep. Reptile Walk –Look for some of the shyer residents of thereserve. 11.30am–12.30pm29 Sep. Peruvian Amazon Adventures –Join biologist James Borrell to discover science inthe rainforest. How does field research translateinto practical conservation measures and whatdoes the future hold for this small corner of theAmazon? 2.30-3.30pm, £3

DIARY DATES/EVENTSBANDSTAND MARATHONBattersea Park SW11 4NJ bandstandmarathon.org.uk9 Sep. Join the Bandstand Marathon and be partof one of 500 events nationwide on the same day,1-5pm.

BBC PROMSRoyal Albert Hall, Kensington Gore SW7 2AP020 7589 8212 bbc.co.uk/promsTo 8 Sep. Up to seventy world-class concerts,plus a series of chamber concerts in nearbyCadogan Hall. Plenty for kids too!

BRITISH LIBRARY96 Euston Road NW1 2DB020 7412 7332 bl.uk/whatson 21 Sep. The Hobbit at 75 – In the run up to the release of part one of PeterJackson’s filmed version of the tale, join acelebration of this fabulous and hugely influentialbook, with readings, conversation and specialguests. 6.30-8pm, £5/£7.50

DULWICH PICTURE GALLERYGallery Road, Dulwich SE21 7AD020 8693 5254 dulwichpicturegallery.org.uk2 and 30 Sep. Artplay – Get creative at these drop-in workshops with avariety of art activities. 2-3.45pmTo 16 Sep. Andy Warhol: The Portfolios – Featuring some of Warhol’s most iconic printportfolios as well as lesser known sets

FULHAM PALACEBishops Avenue SW6 6EA020 7610 7169 fulhampalace.org 6, 13 and 20 Sep. Movies on the Lawn – Enjoy an outdoor movie on the main lawn whilehaving dinner on the terrace of the DrawingRoom. Or bring a picnic and a rug and find a spoton the grass. 6 Sep – Casablanca, 13 Sep –Romeo and Juliet, 20 Sep – The Artist.7.45pm, tickets £8.50/£12.50 fromwhereisthenomad.com

ICKLE PICKLES SUMMER PARTYTooting Bec Common, by Dr Johnson Avenue SW17 8JU0845 2011268 www.icklepickles.org/Event/The-ickle-

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Pickle-Summer-Party2 Sep. A spectacular fundraising event withfunfair rides, bouncy castles, face painting, fantasticfood, children’s entertainment, music, medievalstocks, Punch & Judy, welly wanging and more!Supported by Eddie Catz, raising funds for life-saving neonatal equipment. 11am-5pm.

LANDMARK ARTS CENTREFerry Road, Teddington TW11 9NN020 8977 7558 landmarkartscentre.org19 Sep. Kids Comics Club –Draw your own comic strips, make up your owncomic story and learn all about different comicforms. 4-5.30pm, ages 7-12, £60 for 6Wednesdays8 and 29 Sep. Kids Art Club –Fun workshops supervised by professional arteducators including drawing, painting, reliefmaking, printing and collage. 10am-12pm, £12

LITTLE BIG PEACE EVENTStreatham, littlebigpeace.com17-23 Sep. Peace Festival –A free mini-festival celebrating the idea of cultureand peace. See website for details

MAYOR’S THAMES FESTIVALMallside, The Bargehouse, Oxo Tower Wharf,Bargehouse Street SE1 9PH020 7928 8998 thamesfestival.org8 and 9 Sep. Join in the final celebrations ofthe London 2012 Festival as the London 2012Games draws to a close. Includes: Scharnhorst - World première of a spectacularperformance,combining international choirs andyoung percussionists performing live after dark onthe historic HMS Belfast. 8 and 9 Sep, 9pm and 8pmNight Carnival – an amazing scene of illuminatedstructures and costumes. 9 Sep, 7.15pmKids’ Choir – 9 Sep, 1pmFiring on the Foreshore – fire clay pots on theriverbank and discover the Thames’ history. 8 Sep,12-5pmBarge-Driving Races – 9 Sep, 1-5pmBlue Ribbon Village - the Festival's family-friendlyriver and environmental zone on Potters Fields ParkRivers of the World Exhibition – featuringartworks created by pupils who participated in thisyear’s international arts project

NCT PUTNEY AND [email protected] Sep. Hypnotherapy – Birth Option andBeyond - Discover more about Hypnobirthing andhow hypnotherapy can help with sleep issues, postnatal blues and building self confidence and selfesteem. Free, email to book your space

OCTAVIA APPEALTwice Times Nursery, South Park, Fulham SW6octaviaappeal.org29 Sep. Fun Charity Morning – Shop, have fun and treat yourself to some yummyHummingbird cupcakes while raising money for agreat cause. 10am-12pm

PAINSHILL PARKPortsmouth Road, Cobham, Surrey KT11 1JE01932 868113 painshill.co.uk14 Sep. Opera Gala – A night of opera in The Conservatory. Enjoy aselection of arias from La Traviata, The PearlFishers, Samson and Delilah and The Barber ofSeville, performed by principal singers from TheRoyal Opera House, English National Opera andinternational opera houses throughout the world,

plus songs from best-loved musicals such as Carousel,Kismet, Showboat, and Bernstein’s legendary WestSide Story. £22.50/£25, gates open 6pm

PANTS IN THE PARKBattersea Park SW11 4NJ020 8394 7969 pantsinthepark.org22 Sep. Family 5K Fun Run –Run, walk, toddle or push a pushchair and raisemoney for Prostate Action. Decorate your pants anddisplay them to the world - a great family day out!9.30am, race starts 11am, £5/£10, under 5s free

PUMP HOUSE GALLERYBattersea Park SW11 4NJ020 8871 7572 pumphousegallery.org.uk29 Sep. Halloween Kids Workshop – 12-4pm 12 Sep-25 Nov. Beauty Is The First Test – Exhibition exploring the relationship betweenmathematics and craft.

ROYAL OBSERVATORYGREENWICHGreenwich SE10 9NF 020 8858 4422, rmg.co.uk21 Sep-Feb 2013. Astronomy Photographerof the Year 2012 Exhibition – See the spectacular winning images from thisyear’s competition - from distant galaxies to ourvery own Milky Way and neighbouring planets, theentries reflect our enduring fascination with thenight sky.

SNAKES AND LADDERS SYONPARKSyon Park, Brentford, Middlesex TW8 8JF020 8847 0946 snakes-and-ladders.co.uk19 Sep. Pirate Day! – Arrrrr Shipmates! Followthe Perishing Pirate Trial to earn bountiful booty.

WILDLIFE WATCH CLUBWimbledon Common, near the Windmill020 8540 6154Meet on the first Sunday of each month at theInformation Centre near the Windmill. 10am-12pm. 6-14yrs. £1 registration fee and £2 persession. 9 Sep. Apple Pressing and Making NaturalCloths – Bring any spare apples from your gardenso you can take a bottle home.

ZIPPO’S CIRCUS Twickenham Green, Richmond0871 210 2100 zipposcircus.co.uk20-25 Sep. Gold! – Britain’s favourite circusbrings you an action-packed 2 hours of the best ofboth traditional and contemporary circus acts –expect the unexpected! £6-£22, family ticketsavailable.

robinft.co.uk 020 7350 0312 [email protected]

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CLUBS AND CLASSES•WHYOGA � 01372 459 [email protected] pregnancy yoga (7pm -8pm) and all levels yoga (8pm -9.30pm) in Balham Library andEarlsfield Library Monday andWednesday evenings.•THE BABY CARE COMPANYGrandison Road SW11� 020 7228 1041thebabycarecompany.co.uk5 and 19 Sep. 2nd Baby PreparationClass – Discover the tricks of copingwith 2 children and learn simpletechniques to avoid jealousy, whilemaintaining that special relationshipwith your first child. 8.15pm18, 20, 25 and 26 Sep. Getprepared for life with baby – A setof 3 classes to get you ready and fullyequipped with techniques for lifewhen you bring your baby home.Times vary.•ECOLE DE DANSE OFBALHAMHeaver Studios, 239 Balham HighRoad SW17 7BE � 07973 167223ecolededanseofbalham.co.uk8 Sep. Open Day –- For bookingand information please contact Jean-Pascal [email protected]•EDDIE CATZ WIMBLEDON42 Station Road SW19 2LP� 0845 201 1268 eddiecatz.com19 Sep. Smallprint FingerprintJewellery – Create stunning silverkeepsakes with your children’sfingerprints – choose from pendants,charms, cufflinks, keyrings and more.10am-12.30pm•FIRST AID FOR LIFEBalham and Westminster� 020 8675 4036firstaidforlife.org.uk11, 15, 28 Sep – First Aid for Babies – A course covering care of theunconscious baby and child as well asmost commonly occurring injuries andillnesses such as choking, bleeding,breaks, bleeds, burns, head injury andfebrile convulsions. 9.30am-12.30pm,£60/£65. •THE PAPERED PARLOUR7 Prescott Place, Clapham SW4� 020 7627 8703thepaperedparlour.co.uk23 Sep. DIY Screenprinting – Immerse yourself in the world ofcontemporary printmaking. Fromcreating fine art editions to revampingyour wardrobe, get the skills youneed to take your ideas to the nextlevel. 12-5pm, £77.5030 Sep. Hand Printed Wallpaperwith CUSTHOM Design –Join bespoke wallpaper artist JemmaOoi to explore the wondrous worldof block printing. Taking inspirationfrom natural forms and geometricshapes, you’ll begin by carving yourown wallpaper block to create adistinctive design. 12-5pm, £133

•KUNDALINI YOGA atReCentre BalhamEvery Friday 12:00-13:30 visit:www.lifeelement.co.uk� 020 8672 4455MUMS LIFE 2The Awareness Centre, 41 AbbevilleRoad, Clapham SW4 9JX� 020 8769 0993theawarenesscentre.com/mumslife2 / ginamusa.com28 Sep. Group Programme – Do you want to know who you are aswell as being a mum? Join this 4-weekgroup programme for mothers whowant to spend some time thinkingabout their own needs and wants.£195 for the course. [email protected]

HEALTH•Hanna Evans AcupuncturePregnancy and BirthEnjoy your pregnancy and prepare forbirth with local acupuncture specialistfor morning sickness, breech turning,acupuncture induction andacupressure for labour. � 020 7384 1851 07799 417924www.hannaevans.co.uk•MOBILE SPORTS MASSAGE THERAPIST � 07711 724129 www.tsportsmassage.com Theo has 20+ years’ experience of Relaxing to Deep Tissue and Sports Massage in the comfort of your home. Business Award Winner 2012

BABIES•Baby Massage � 07843 224079www.helenmartinrolls.co.ukRegular baby massage classes atNeal's Yard Remedies, SW11 andSW19/20. Private tuition forindividuals and NCT groups.

CHILDCARE•PROBLEMS WITH YOURKIDS?� 07932 339416 Sleeping, eating,boundaries... Seeking parentingsupport? Contact Maya, professionalSuper Nanny / troubleshooter. Over20yrs experience, ask for [email protected]

SERVICES•WINDOW CLEANERAs used by Families South Westoffice! Niaz is meticulous and evencleans the window frames beautifully!� Call 07737 905 224 for a trulysparkling job.

•Moreplumbing www.moreplumbing.co.uk� 07855 530771A Fulham based plumbing and heatingcompany, covering the whole ofSouth West London. Moreplumbingcarries out plumbing and heatinginstallations, maintenance andemergency call out.Moreplumbing is Gas Safe registered,therefore can install and service gasappliances.

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BOOKS

LLyyddiieeCChhii llddrreenn’’ ss PPaarr tt iieess

0207 622 25400207 622 2540The Unique BirthdayThe Unique Birthday

ExperienceExperienceThe theatre of Peter Pan,The theatre of Peter Pan,

Superheroes, Fairies,ArabianSuperheroes, Fairies,ArabianNights and more...Nights and more...

In your home! UnforgettableIn your home! UnforgettableBilingual English/FrenchBilingual English/French

www.lydieparties.comwww.lydieparties.com

VACANCY

Earn Extra Money?Capital Focus Groups are

looking for people to take partin Market Research

and give their opinion on avariety of subjects.

If you would like to earn extracash please call Liz on 07761

128059 or [email protected]

Most popular onFamiliesOnline

Separation anxietyFamiliesonline.co.uk/separationanxiety

Starting school tipsFamiliesonline.co.uk/newschooltips

Best age to start schoolFamiliesonline.co.uk/schoolage

Thinking of having a dog?Familiesonline.co.uk/dogtips

Rediscover London’s royalparksFamiliesonline.co.uk/royalparks

Recent scary reports on red meat and risk of cancer &heart disease.Familiesonline.co.uk/meat

Chocolate muffins with 47% less saturated fatFamiliesonline.co.uk/muffins

No-cry Potty Training solutionsFamiliesonline.co.uk/pottytraining

Lactose intolerance for babies,sorting myth from realityFamiliesonline.co.uk/lactose

What to do if your baby is chokingFamiliesonline.co.uk/choking

…and our best blogs onFamiliesSouthWest.co.uk

• Celebrating our sister PERIOD by Anja Brierley Lange, Yoga instructor and Ayurvedic practitioner

http://www.familiesonline.co.uk/LOCATIONS/London-South-West/Blogs/Anja-Brierley-Lange-Yoga-instructor-and-Ayurvedic-Practitioner

• Using praise effectively by the Parent Practice

http://www.familiesonline.co.uk/LOCATIONS/London-South-West/Blogs/Enabling-parents-to-bring-out-the-best-in-their-children-from-The-Parent-Practice

Special sections• Familiesonline.co.uk/food

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PAINTING & DECORATING

Interior / ExteriorExperienced, Reliable, CleanFully Guaranteed / InsuredFREE ADVICE & QUOTE

John:- James & Lamont020 8462 4646 - 07802 535695

AMITY COMPUTER SERVICESHome and businesscomputers repaired

& managed.Consultancy and tuition

also available.

Phone Danny on8944 0681 or 07961 428 596

E-mail: [email protected]

Come all the family and learn

Spanish with Pedro.

Group and individual lessons.

Call Pedro on 07956 699963

TUITION

HEALTH

Individual TuitionPublic Speaking, Elocution,

Comprehension, DramaConfidence Building,

Speech & Interview TechniqueClare Price. LGSM, ALAM, SRD.

(020) 7735 3156www.speechspecialists.co.uk

Learn to massageyour child

Massage is relaxing and bringsloving closeness.

Learn simple techniques in yourown home or your friend's. Hands-on parent and child

workshop by qualified massagetherapist and aromatherapist.

Call Lorraine on 079101 14153

HOLIDAYS

Counsellor/Psychotherapist Family/Couples/Individuals

Fathers’ GroupOver 10 years’ extensive experience

including: Addiction, Anger/Rage,Bereavement, Depression, Relationships

Problems, Crime/TraumaChristopher Clow UKRCP,

BACP (Accred), 07791 833 279 / 020 7585 1399

[email protected]

MUSIC

PIANO TUITIONFriendly, experienced and qualifiedteacher of children 6+ and adults.

Take exams or learn purely for pleasure.

Different styles covered.Home visits possible.

Mark Lester MA, CT ABRSM020 8870 7830

www.marklester.biz

HOLIDAY FLAT IN PROVENCE

Vaugines (Luberon), 30 min from Aix/Marseille. In the centre of an historical

village a flat on the first floor,accommodation for 2 to 5 people. One room with double bed, and

mezzanine two small beds.Huge living room looking on to the

Durance valley. Perfect pied a terre to visit and discover this part of Provence.

Price 400 Euros/week Dep 250 Euros. Please contact [email protected]

Ring us 00 33 474 67 59 17fax 00 33 474 67 50 29.

Please phone in English to

check availability…

Affordable rent!

Reliable Handyman• Garden maintenance

and building work (fences, patios, sheds, etc..)

• Jobs around the house (carpentry, painting, fitting furniture, etc…)

• Computer maintenance(repair, teaching)£20/hour or packages possible.Call Brian: 0774 513 6424

2 cottages in Cornwall- including sports facilities and

indoor & outdoor pools.

Please phone for details

01483 282471 or e-mail

[email protected].

Cots, highchairs etc can bearranged too!

Classified

SERVICES

Call All Property Claims…Not only do we provide aquote, we'll get it agreed withinsurers and start your buildingrepairs faster than anyoneelse—we promise!

Unique FREE serviceWe get insurers to agree to allthe repairs you are entitled toand will start building workswithin 48 hours from insurer'sauthorisation.

020 8764 0007www.allpropertyclaims.co.uk

BuildingInsurance Claim?Been asked to gettwo quotes?


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The PRIMARY Placewhere children learn and have fun!

‘The Primary Place’ is a new way of providing childcare forprimary aged children AFTER they leave day nursery. Wonderfulworkshops, homework club, nutritious food and escorted travel.

Try our summer history workshops in July and August too!

1 Hide Place • London • SW1P 4NJ020 7592 0195 • 07956 661891

families london sw issue 219 september 2012

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