www.familiesglasgow.co.uk

®

Free

We provide the best in children’sparty fun and entertainmentRecommended by The Observer & Tatler

� Magic, games, prizes,

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shows for all ages

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We offer a complete party service

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TWIZZLEPARTIES

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Stretch your child’s imagination in three directions at once

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Call your local Stagecoach to enrol now!

See our directory at www.familiesuponthames.co.uk

upon Thames

July/August 2010 issue 71

The FREE magazine for families with young children living in the boroughs of RIchmond, Kingston, Elmbridge, Hounslow and Spelthorne

®

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2 FAMILIES UPON THAMES July-August 2010

Nurseries inBrentford • Clapham • Hammersmith • Kentish Town • Wembley

Limited places available • Corporate discountsweb • www.bringingupbaby.co.uk

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We offer your child the best start in life

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Come and join in the fun - sing, dance, learn and be inspired at 'ZEBEDEE’S MUSIC’

� Term time classes� Classes tailored for individual age groups: 6 Months – 4 Years

� Wide range of children’s percussion instruments� Exciting props, puppets and Toys

Zebedee’s Music also helps in many otherareas of your child’s learning and development

Zebedee’s Music also does children’s Music Parties!

Classes every morning of the week inGUILDFORD, GODALMNG & WONERSHFor more information and a FREE TRIAL

Please call us on 0870 750 2861

For more information and a FREE TRIAL call us on:

Come and join in the fun! sing, dance, learn and be inspired at

‘ZEBEDEE’S MUSIC’

Term time classes

Classes tailored for individual age groups: 6 Months – 4 Years

Wide range of children’s percussion instruments

Exciting props, puppets and Toys

Zebedee’s Music also helps in many

other area’s of your child’slearning and development.

NCT Classes Welcome!Classes in Guildford, Godalming & Wonersh

0870 750 2861

For more information and a FREE TRIAL call us on:

Come and join in the fun! sing, dance, learn and be inspired at

‘ZEBEDEE’S MUSIC’

Term time classes

Classes tailored for individual age groups: 6 Months – 4 Years

Wide range of children’s percussion instruments

Exciting props, puppets and Toys

Zebedee’s Music also helps in many

other area’s of your child’slearning and development.

NCT Classes Welcome!Classes in Guildford, Godalming & Wonersh

0870 750 2861

For more information and a FREE TRIAL call us on:

Come and join in the fun! sing, dance, learn and be inspired at

‘ZEBEDEE’S MUSIC’

Term time classes

Classes tailored for individual age groups: 6 Months – 4 Years

Wide range of children’s percussion instruments

Exciting props, puppets and Toys

Zebedee’s Music also helps in many

other area’s of your child’slearning and development.

NCT Classes Welcome!Classes in Guildford, Godalming & Wonersh

0870 750 2861

For more information and a FREE TRIAL call us on:

Come and join in the fun! sing, dance, learn and be inspired at

‘ZEBEDEE’S MUSIC’

Term time classes

Classes tailored for individual age groups: 6 Months – 4 Years

Wide range of children’s percussion instruments

Exciting props, puppets and Toys

Zebedee’s Music also helps in many

other area’s of your child’slearning and development.

NCT Classes Welcome!Classes in Guildford, Godalming & Wonersh

0870 750 2861

For more information and a FREE TRIAL call us on:

Come and join in the fun! sing, dance, learn and be inspired at

‘ZEBEDEE’S MUSIC’

Term time classes

Classes tailored for individual age groups: 6 Months – 4 Years

Wide range of children’s percussion instruments

Exciting props, puppets and Toys

Zebedee’s Music also helps in many

other area’s of your child’slearning and development.

NCT Classes Welcome!Classes in Guildford, Godalming & Wonersh

0870 750 2861

For more information and a FREE TRIAL call us on:

Come and join in the fun! sing, dance, learn and be inspired at

‘ZEBEDEE’S MUSIC’

Term time classes

Classes tailored for individual age groups: 6 Months – 4 Years

Wide range of children’s percussion instruments

Exciting props, puppets and Toys

Zebedee’s Music also helps in many

other area’s of your child’slearning and development.

NCT Classes Welcome!Classes in Guildford, Godalming & Wonersh

0870 750 2861

NCT Classes Welcome!Classes in Guildford, Godalming,

Wonersh & Cobham

Zebedee’s Musicalso helps in many

other area’s of your child’slearning and development.

zebedee size k 2.indd 1 16/11/2009 16:56:21

www.zebedeesmusic.co.uk

Come and join in the fun - sing, dance, learn and be inspired at 'ZEBEDEE’S MUSIC’

� Term time classes� Classes tailored for individual age groups: 6 Months – 4 Years

� Wide range of children’s percussion instruments� Exciting props, puppets and Toys

Zebedee’s Music also helps in many otherareas of your child’s learning and development

Zebedee’s Music also does children’s Music Parties!

Classes every morning of the week inGUILDFORD, GODALMNG & WONERSHFor more information and a FREE TRIAL

Please call us on 0870 750 2861

For more information and a FREE TRIAL call us on:

Come and join in the fun! sing, dance, learn and be inspired at

‘ZEBEDEE’S MUSIC’

Term time classes

Classes tailored for individual age groups: 6 Months – 4 Years

Wide range of children’s percussion instruments

Exciting props, puppets and Toys

Zebedee’s Music also helps in many

other area’s of your child’slearning and development.

NCT Classes Welcome!Classes in Guildford, Godalming & Wonersh

0870 750 2861

For more information and a FREE TRIAL call us on:

Come and join in the fun! sing, dance, learn and be inspired at

‘ZEBEDEE’S MUSIC’

Term time classes

Classes tailored for individual age groups: 6 Months – 4 Years

Wide range of children’s percussion instruments

Exciting props, puppets and Toys

Zebedee’s Music also helps in many

other area’s of your child’slearning and development.

NCT Classes Welcome!Classes in Guildford, Godalming & Wonersh

0870 750 2861

For more information and a FREE TRIAL call us on:

Come and join in the fun! sing, dance, learn and be inspired at

‘ZEBEDEE’S MUSIC’

Term time classes

Classes tailored for individual age groups: 6 Months – 4 Years

Wide range of children’s percussion instruments

Exciting props, puppets and Toys

Zebedee’s Music also helps in many

other area’s of your child’slearning and development.

NCT Classes Welcome!Classes in Guildford, Godalming & Wonersh

0870 750 2861

For more information and a FREE TRIAL call us on:

Come and join in the fun! sing, dance, learn and be inspired at

‘ZEBEDEE’S MUSIC’

Term time classes

Classes tailored for individual age groups: 6 Months – 4 Years

Wide range of children’s percussion instruments

Exciting props, puppets and Toys

Zebedee’s Music also helps in many

other area’s of your child’slearning and development.

NCT Classes Welcome!Classes in Guildford, Godalming & Wonersh

0870 750 2861

For more information and a FREE TRIAL call us on:

Come and join in the fun! sing, dance, learn and be inspired at

‘ZEBEDEE’S MUSIC’

Term time classes

Classes tailored for individual age groups: 6 Months – 4 Years

Wide range of children’s percussion instruments

Exciting props, puppets and Toys

Zebedee’s Music also helps in many

other area’s of your child’slearning and development.

NCT Classes Welcome!Classes in Guildford, Godalming & Wonersh

0870 750 2861

For more information and a FREE TRIAL call us on:

Come and join in the fun! sing, dance, learn and be inspired at

‘ZEBEDEE’S MUSIC’

Term time classes

Classes tailored for individual age groups: 6 Months – 4 Years

Wide range of children’s percussion instruments

Exciting props, puppets and Toys

Zebedee’s Music also helps in many

other area’s of your child’slearning and development.

NCT Classes Welcome!Classes in Guildford, Godalming & Wonersh

0870 750 2861

NCT Classes Welcome!Classes in Guildford, Godalming,

Wonersh & Cobham

Zebedee’s Musicalso helps in many

other area’s of your child’slearning and development.

zebedee size k 2.indd 1 16/11/2009 16:56:21

Come and join in the fun - sing, dance, learn and be inspired at 'ZEBEDEE’S MUSIC’

� Term time classes� Classes tailored for individual age groups: 6 Months – 4 Years

� Wide range of children’s percussion instruments� Exciting props, puppets and Toys

Zebedee’s Music also helps in many otherareas of your child’s learning and development

Zebedee’s Music also does children’s Music Parties!

Classes every morning of the week inGUILDFORD, GODALMNG & WONERSHFor more information and a FREE TRIAL

Please call us on 0870 750 2861

For more information and a FREE TRIAL call us on:

Come and join in the fun! sing, dance, learn and be inspired at

‘ZEBEDEE’S MUSIC’

Term time classes

Classes tailored for individual age groups: 6 Months – 4 Years

Wide range of children’s percussion instruments

Exciting props, puppets and Toys

Zebedee’s Music also helps in many

other area’s of your child’slearning and development.

NCT Classes Welcome!Classes in Guildford, Godalming & Wonersh

0870 750 2861

For more information and a FREE TRIAL call us on:

Come and join in the fun! sing, dance, learn and be inspired at

‘ZEBEDEE’S MUSIC’

Term time classes

Classes tailored for individual age groups: 6 Months – 4 Years

Wide range of children’s percussion instruments

Exciting props, puppets and Toys

Zebedee’s Music also helps in many

other area’s of your child’slearning and development.

NCT Classes Welcome!Classes in Guildford, Godalming & Wonersh

0870 750 2861

For more information and a FREE TRIAL call us on:

Come and join in the fun! sing, dance, learn and be inspired at

‘ZEBEDEE’S MUSIC’

Term time classes

Classes tailored for individual age groups: 6 Months – 4 Years

Wide range of children’s percussion instruments

Exciting props, puppets and Toys

Zebedee’s Music also helps in many

other area’s of your child’slearning and development.

NCT Classes Welcome!Classes in Guildford, Godalming & Wonersh

0870 750 2861

For more information and a FREE TRIAL call us on:

Come and join in the fun! sing, dance, learn and be inspired at

‘ZEBEDEE’S MUSIC’

Term time classes

Classes tailored for individual age groups: 6 Months – 4 Years

Wide range of children’s percussion instruments

Exciting props, puppets and Toys

Zebedee’s Music also helps in many

other area’s of your child’slearning and development.

NCT Classes Welcome!Classes in Guildford, Godalming & Wonersh

0870 750 2861

For more information and a FREE TRIAL call us on:

Come and join in the fun! sing, dance, learn and be inspired at

‘ZEBEDEE’S MUSIC’

Term time classes

Classes tailored for individual age groups: 6 Months – 4 Years

Wide range of children’s percussion instruments

Exciting props, puppets and Toys

Zebedee’s Music also helps in many

other area’s of your child’slearning and development.

NCT Classes Welcome!Classes in Guildford, Godalming & Wonersh

0870 750 2861

For more information and a FREE TRIAL call us on:

Come and join in the fun! sing, dance, learn and be inspired at

‘ZEBEDEE’S MUSIC’

Term time classes

Classes tailored for individual age groups: 6 Months – 4 Years

Wide range of children’s percussion instruments

Exciting props, puppets and Toys

Zebedee’s Music also helps in many

other area’s of your child’slearning and development.

NCT Classes Welcome!Classes in Guildford, Godalming & Wonersh

0870 750 2861

NCT Classes Welcome!Classes in Guildford, Godalming,

Wonersh & Cobham

Zebedee’s Musicalso helps in many

other area’s of your child’slearning and development.

zebedee size k 2.indd 1 16/11/2009 16:56:21

Come and join in the fun - sing, dance, learn and be inspired at 'ZEBEDEE’S MUSIC’

� Term time classes� Classes tailored for individual age groups: 6 Months – 4 Years

� Wide range of children’s percussion instruments� Exciting props, puppets and Toys

Zebedee’s Music also helps in many otherareas of your child’s learning and development

Zebedee’s Music also does children’s Music Parties!

Classes every morning of the week inGUILDFORD, GODALMNG & WONERSHFor more information and a FREE TRIAL

Please call us on 0870 750 2861

For more information and a FREE TRIAL call us on:

Come and join in the fun! sing, dance, learn and be inspired at

‘ZEBEDEE’S MUSIC’

Term time classes

Classes tailored for individual age groups: 6 Months – 4 Years

Wide range of children’s percussion instruments

Exciting props, puppets and Toys

Zebedee’s Music also helps in many

other area’s of your child’slearning and development.

NCT Classes Welcome!Classes in Guildford, Godalming & Wonersh

0870 750 2861

For more information and a FREE TRIAL call us on:

Come and join in the fun! sing, dance, learn and be inspired at

‘ZEBEDEE’S MUSIC’

Term time classes

Classes tailored for individual age groups: 6 Months – 4 Years

Wide range of children’s percussion instruments

Exciting props, puppets and Toys

Zebedee’s Music also helps in many

other area’s of your child’slearning and development.

NCT Classes Welcome!Classes in Guildford, Godalming & Wonersh

0870 750 2861

For more information and a FREE TRIAL call us on:

Come and join in the fun! sing, dance, learn and be inspired at

‘ZEBEDEE’S MUSIC’

Term time classes

Classes tailored for individual age groups: 6 Months – 4 Years

Wide range of children’s percussion instruments

Exciting props, puppets and Toys

Zebedee’s Music also helps in many

other area’s of your child’slearning and development.

NCT Classes Welcome!Classes in Guildford, Godalming & Wonersh

0870 750 2861

For more information and a FREE TRIAL call us on:

Come and join in the fun! sing, dance, learn and be inspired at

‘ZEBEDEE’S MUSIC’

Term time classes

Classes tailored for individual age groups: 6 Months – 4 Years

Wide range of children’s percussion instruments

Exciting props, puppets and Toys

Zebedee’s Music also helps in many

other area’s of your child’slearning and development.

NCT Classes Welcome!Classes in Guildford, Godalming & Wonersh

0870 750 2861

For more information and a FREE TRIAL call us on:

Come and join in the fun! sing, dance, learn and be inspired at

‘ZEBEDEE’S MUSIC’

Term time classes

Classes tailored for individual age groups: 6 Months – 4 Years

Wide range of children’s percussion instruments

Exciting props, puppets and Toys

Zebedee’s Music also helps in many

other area’s of your child’slearning and development.

NCT Classes Welcome!Classes in Guildford, Godalming & Wonersh

0870 750 2861

For more information and a FREE TRIAL call us on:

Come and join in the fun! sing, dance, learn and be inspired at

‘ZEBEDEE’S MUSIC’

Term time classes

Classes tailored for individual age groups: 6 Months – 4 Years

Wide range of children’s percussion instruments

Exciting props, puppets and Toys

Zebedee’s Music also helps in many

other area’s of your child’slearning and development.

NCT Classes Welcome!Classes in Guildford, Godalming & Wonersh

0870 750 2861

NCT Classes Welcome!Classes in Guildford, Godalming,

Wonersh & Cobham

Zebedee’s Musicalso helps in many

other area’s of your child’slearning and development.

zebedee size k 2.indd 1 16/11/2009 16:56:21

Come and join in the fun - sing, dance, learn and be inspired at 'ZEBEDEE’S MUSIC’

� Term time classes� Classes tailored for individual age groups: 6 Months – 4 Years

� Wide range of children’s percussion instruments� Exciting props, puppets and Toys

Zebedee’s Music also helps in many otherareas of your child’s learning and development

Zebedee’s Music also does children’s Music Parties!

Classes every morning of the week inGUILDFORD, GODALMNG & WONERSHFor more information and a FREE TRIAL

Please call us on 0870 750 2861

For more information and a FREE TRIAL call us on:

Come and join in the fun! sing, dance, learn and be inspired at

‘ZEBEDEE’S MUSIC’

Term time classes

Classes tailored for individual age groups: 6 Months – 4 Years

Wide range of children’s percussion instruments

Exciting props, puppets and Toys

Zebedee’s Music also helps in many

other area’s of your child’slearning and development.

NCT Classes Welcome!Classes in Guildford, Godalming & Wonersh

0870 750 2861

For more information and a FREE TRIAL call us on:

Come and join in the fun! sing, dance, learn and be inspired at

‘ZEBEDEE’S MUSIC’

Term time classes

Classes tailored for individual age groups: 6 Months – 4 Years

Wide range of children’s percussion instruments

Exciting props, puppets and Toys

Zebedee’s Music also helps in many

other area’s of your child’slearning and development.

NCT Classes Welcome!Classes in Guildford, Godalming & Wonersh

0870 750 2861

For more information and a FREE TRIAL call us on:

Come and join in the fun! sing, dance, learn and be inspired at

‘ZEBEDEE’S MUSIC’

Term time classes

Classes tailored for individual age groups: 6 Months – 4 Years

Wide range of children’s percussion instruments

Exciting props, puppets and Toys

Zebedee’s Music also helps in many

other area’s of your child’slearning and development.

NCT Classes Welcome!Classes in Guildford, Godalming & Wonersh

0870 750 2861

For more information and a FREE TRIAL call us on:

Come and join in the fun! sing, dance, learn and be inspired at

‘ZEBEDEE’S MUSIC’

Term time classes

Classes tailored for individual age groups: 6 Months – 4 Years

Wide range of children’s percussion instruments

Exciting props, puppets and Toys

Zebedee’s Music also helps in many

other area’s of your child’slearning and development.

NCT Classes Welcome!Classes in Guildford, Godalming & Wonersh

0870 750 2861

For more information and a FREE TRIAL call us on:

Come and join in the fun! sing, dance, learn and be inspired at

‘ZEBEDEE’S MUSIC’

Term time classes

Classes tailored for individual age groups: 6 Months – 4 Years

Wide range of children’s percussion instruments

Exciting props, puppets and Toys

Zebedee’s Music also helps in many

other area’s of your child’slearning and development.

NCT Classes Welcome!Classes in Guildford, Godalming & Wonersh

0870 750 2861

For more information and a FREE TRIAL call us on:

Come and join in the fun! sing, dance, learn and be inspired at

‘ZEBEDEE’S MUSIC’

Term time classes

Classes tailored for individual age groups: 6 Months – 4 Years

Wide range of children’s percussion instruments

Exciting props, puppets and Toys

Zebedee’s Music also helps in many

other area’s of your child’slearning and development.

NCT Classes Welcome!Classes in Guildford, Godalming & Wonersh

0870 750 2861

NCT Classes Welcome!Classes in Guildford, Godalming,

Wonersh & Cobham

Zebedee’s Musicalso helps in many

other area’s of your child’slearning and development.

zebedee size k 2.indd 1 16/11/2009 16:56:21

Come and join in the fun - sing, dance, learn and be inspired at 'ZEBEDEE’S MUSIC’

� Term time classes� Classes tailored for individual age groups: 6 Months – 4 Years

� Wide range of children’s percussion instruments� Exciting props, puppets and Toys

Zebedee’s Music also helps in many otherareas of your child’s learning and development

Zebedee’s Music also does children’s Music Parties!

Classes every morning of the week inGUILDFORD, GODALMNG & WONERSHFor more information and a FREE TRIAL

Please call us on 0870 750 2861

For more information and a FREE TRIAL call us on:

Come and join in the fun! sing, dance, learn and be inspired at

‘ZEBEDEE’S MUSIC’

Term time classes

Classes tailored for individual age groups: 6 Months – 4 Years

Wide range of children’s percussion instruments

Exciting props, puppets and Toys

Zebedee’s Music also helps in many

other area’s of your child’slearning and development.

NCT Classes Welcome!Classes in Guildford, Godalming & Wonersh

0870 750 2861

For more information and a FREE TRIAL call us on:

Come and join in the fun! sing, dance, learn and be inspired at

‘ZEBEDEE’S MUSIC’

Term time classes

Classes tailored for individual age groups: 6 Months – 4 Years

Wide range of children’s percussion instruments

Exciting props, puppets and Toys

Zebedee’s Music also helps in many

other area’s of your child’slearning and development.

NCT Classes Welcome!Classes in Guildford, Godalming & Wonersh

0870 750 2861

For more information and a FREE TRIAL call us on:

Come and join in the fun! sing, dance, learn and be inspired at

‘ZEBEDEE’S MUSIC’

Term time classes

Classes tailored for individual age groups: 6 Months – 4 Years

Wide range of children’s percussion instruments

Exciting props, puppets and Toys

Zebedee’s Music also helps in many

other area’s of your child’slearning and development.

NCT Classes Welcome!Classes in Guildford, Godalming & Wonersh

0870 750 2861

For more information and a FREE TRIAL call us on:

Come and join in the fun! sing, dance, learn and be inspired at

‘ZEBEDEE’S MUSIC’

Term time classes

Classes tailored for individual age groups: 6 Months – 4 Years

Wide range of children’s percussion instruments

Exciting props, puppets and Toys

Zebedee’s Music also helps in many

other area’s of your child’slearning and development.

NCT Classes Welcome!Classes in Guildford, Godalming & Wonersh

0870 750 2861

For more information and a FREE TRIAL call us on:

Come and join in the fun! sing, dance, learn and be inspired at

‘ZEBEDEE’S MUSIC’

Term time classes

Classes tailored for individual age groups: 6 Months – 4 Years

Wide range of children’s percussion instruments

Exciting props, puppets and Toys

Zebedee’s Music also helps in many

other area’s of your child’slearning and development.

NCT Classes Welcome!Classes in Guildford, Godalming & Wonersh

0870 750 2861

For more information and a FREE TRIAL call us on:

Come and join in the fun! sing, dance, learn and be inspired at

‘ZEBEDEE’S MUSIC’

Term time classes

Classes tailored for individual age groups: 6 Months – 4 Years

Wide range of children’s percussion instruments

Exciting props, puppets and Toys

Zebedee’s Music also helps in many

other area’s of your child’slearning and development.

NCT Classes Welcome!Classes in Guildford, Godalming & Wonersh

0870 750 2861

NCT Classes Welcome!Classes in Guildford, Godalming,

Wonersh & Cobham

Zebedee’s Musicalso helps in many

other area’s of your child’slearning and development.

zebedee size k 2.indd 1 16/11/2009 16:56:21

Come and join in the fun - sing, dance, learn and be inspired at 'ZEBEDEE’S MUSIC’

� Term time classes� Classes tailored for individual age groups: 6 Months – 4 Years

� Wide range of children’s percussion instruments� Exciting props, puppets and Toys

Zebedee’s Music also helps in many otherareas of your child’s learning and development

Zebedee’s Music also does children’s Music Parties!

Classes every morning of the week inGUILDFORD, GODALMNG & WONERSHFor more information and a FREE TRIAL

Please call us on 0870 750 2861

For more information and a FREE TRIAL call us on:

Come and join in the fun! sing, dance, learn and be inspired at

‘ZEBEDEE’S MUSIC’

Term time classes

Classes tailored for individual age groups: 6 Months – 4 Years

Wide range of children’s percussion instruments

Exciting props, puppets and Toys

Zebedee’s Music also helps in many

other area’s of your child’slearning and development.

NCT Classes Welcome!Classes in Guildford, Godalming & Wonersh

0870 750 2861

For more information and a FREE TRIAL call us on:

Come and join in the fun! sing, dance, learn and be inspired at

‘ZEBEDEE’S MUSIC’

Term time classes

Classes tailored for individual age groups: 6 Months – 4 Years

Wide range of children’s percussion instruments

Exciting props, puppets and Toys

Zebedee’s Music also helps in many

other area’s of your child’slearning and development.

NCT Classes Welcome!Classes in Guildford, Godalming & Wonersh

0870 750 2861

For more information and a FREE TRIAL call us on:

Come and join in the fun! sing, dance, learn and be inspired at

‘ZEBEDEE’S MUSIC’

Term time classes

Classes tailored for individual age groups: 6 Months – 4 Years

Wide range of children’s percussion instruments

Exciting props, puppets and Toys

Zebedee’s Music also helps in many

other area’s of your child’slearning and development.

NCT Classes Welcome!Classes in Guildford, Godalming & Wonersh

0870 750 2861

For more information and a FREE TRIAL call us on:

Come and join in the fun! sing, dance, learn and be inspired at

‘ZEBEDEE’S MUSIC’

Term time classes

Classes tailored for individual age groups: 6 Months – 4 Years

Wide range of children’s percussion instruments

Exciting props, puppets and Toys

Zebedee’s Music also helps in many

other area’s of your child’slearning and development.

NCT Classes Welcome!Classes in Guildford, Godalming & Wonersh

0870 750 2861

For more information and a FREE TRIAL call us on:

Come and join in the fun! sing, dance, learn and be inspired at

‘ZEBEDEE’S MUSIC’

Term time classes

Classes tailored for individual age groups: 6 Months – 4 Years

Wide range of children’s percussion instruments

Exciting props, puppets and Toys

Zebedee’s Music also helps in many

other area’s of your child’slearning and development.

NCT Classes Welcome!Classes in Guildford, Godalming & Wonersh

0870 750 2861

For more information and a FREE TRIAL call us on:

Come and join in the fun! sing, dance, learn and be inspired at

‘ZEBEDEE’S MUSIC’

Term time classes

Classes tailored for individual age groups: 6 Months – 4 Years

Wide range of children’s percussion instruments

Exciting props, puppets and Toys

Zebedee’s Music also helps in many

other area’s of your child’slearning and development.

NCT Classes Welcome!Classes in Guildford, Godalming & Wonersh

0870 750 2861

NCT Classes Welcome!Classes in Guildford, Godalming,

Wonersh & Cobham

Zebedee’s Musicalso helps in many

other area’s of your child’slearning and development.

zebedee size k 2.indd 1 16/11/2009 16:56:21

Classes tailored for individual age groups: 6 Months - 4 Years

Wide range of children’s percussion instruments

Exciting props, puppets and toys

Term time classes

NCT Classes Welcome! Classes in Guildford,

Godalming, Wonersh & Cobham

Come and join in the fun - sing, dance, learn and be inspired at 'ZEBEDEE’S MUSIC’

� Term time classes� Classes tailored for individual age groups: 6 Months – 4 Years

� Wide range of children’s percussion instruments� Exciting props, puppets and Toys

Zebedee’s Music also helps in many otherareas of your child’s learning and development

Zebedee’s Music also does children’s Music Parties!

Classes every morning of the week inGUILDFORD, GODALMNG & WONERSHFor more information and a FREE TRIAL

Please call us on 0870 750 2861

For more information and a FREE TRIAL call us on:

Come and join in the fun! sing, dance, learn and be inspired at

‘ZEBEDEE’S MUSIC’

Term time classes

Classes tailored for individual age groups: 6 Months – 4 Years

Wide range of children’s percussion instruments

Exciting props, puppets and Toys

Zebedee’s Music also helps in many

other area’s of your child’slearning and development.

NCT Classes Welcome!Classes in Guildford, Godalming & Wonersh

0870 750 2861

For more information and a FREE TRIAL call us on:

Come and join in the fun! sing, dance, learn and be inspired at

‘ZEBEDEE’S MUSIC’

Term time classes

Classes tailored for individual age groups: 6 Months – 4 Years

Wide range of children’s percussion instruments

Exciting props, puppets and Toys

Zebedee’s Music also helps in many

other area’s of your child’slearning and development.

NCT Classes Welcome!Classes in Guildford, Godalming & Wonersh

0870 750 2861

For more information and a FREE TRIAL call us on:

Come and join in the fun! sing, dance, learn and be inspired at

‘ZEBEDEE’S MUSIC’

Term time classes

Classes tailored for individual age groups: 6 Months – 4 Years

Wide range of children’s percussion instruments

Exciting props, puppets and Toys

Zebedee’s Music also helps in many

other area’s of your child’slearning and development.

NCT Classes Welcome!Classes in Guildford, Godalming & Wonersh

0870 750 2861

For more information and a FREE TRIAL call us on:

Come and join in the fun! sing, dance, learn and be inspired at

‘ZEBEDEE’S MUSIC’

Term time classes

Classes tailored for individual age groups: 6 Months – 4 Years

Wide range of children’s percussion instruments

Exciting props, puppets and Toys

Zebedee’s Music also helps in many

other area’s of your child’slearning and development.

NCT Classes Welcome!Classes in Guildford, Godalming & Wonersh

0870 750 2861

For more information and a FREE TRIAL call us on:

Come and join in the fun! sing, dance, learn and be inspired at

‘ZEBEDEE’S MUSIC’

Term time classes

Classes tailored for individual age groups: 6 Months – 4 Years

Wide range of children’s percussion instruments

Exciting props, puppets and Toys

Zebedee’s Music also helps in many

other area’s of your child’slearning and development.

NCT Classes Welcome!Classes in Guildford, Godalming & Wonersh

0870 750 2861

For more information and a FREE TRIAL call us on:

Come and join in the fun! sing, dance, learn and be inspired at

‘ZEBEDEE’S MUSIC’

Term time classes

Classes tailored for individual age groups: 6 Months – 4 Years

Wide range of children’s percussion instruments

Exciting props, puppets and Toys

Zebedee’s Music also helps in many

other area’s of your child’slearning and development.

NCT Classes Welcome!Classes in Guildford, Godalming & Wonersh

0870 750 2861

NCT Classes Welcome!Classes in Guildford, Godalming,

Wonersh & Cobham

Zebedee’s Musicalso helps in many

other area’s of your child’slearning and development.

zebedee size k 2.indd 1 16/11/2009 16:56:21

Come and join in the fun - sing, dance, learn and be inspired at 'ZEBEDEE’S MUSIC’

� Term time classes� Classes tailored for individual age groups: 6 Months – 4 Years

� Wide range of children’s percussion instruments� Exciting props, puppets and Toys

Zebedee’s Music also helps in many otherareas of your child’s learning and development

Zebedee’s Music also does children’s Music Parties!

Classes every morning of the week inGUILDFORD, GODALMNG & WONERSHFor more information and a FREE TRIAL

Please call us on 0870 750 2861

For more information and a FREE TRIAL call us on:

Come and join in the fun! sing, dance, learn and be inspired at

‘ZEBEDEE’S MUSIC’

Term time classes

Classes tailored for individual age groups: 6 Months – 4 Years

Wide range of children’s percussion instruments

Exciting props, puppets and Toys

Zebedee’s Music also helps in many

other area’s of your child’slearning and development.

NCT Classes Welcome!Classes in Guildford, Godalming & Wonersh

0870 750 2861

For more information and a FREE TRIAL call us on:

Come and join in the fun! sing, dance, learn and be inspired at

‘ZEBEDEE’S MUSIC’

Term time classes

Classes tailored for individual age groups: 6 Months – 4 Years

Wide range of children’s percussion instruments

Exciting props, puppets and Toys

Zebedee’s Music also helps in many

other area’s of your child’slearning and development.

NCT Classes Welcome!Classes in Guildford, Godalming & Wonersh

0870 750 2861

For more information and a FREE TRIAL call us on:

Come and join in the fun! sing, dance, learn and be inspired at

‘ZEBEDEE’S MUSIC’

Term time classes

Classes tailored for individual age groups: 6 Months – 4 Years

Wide range of children’s percussion instruments

Exciting props, puppets and Toys

Zebedee’s Music also helps in many

other area’s of your child’slearning and development.

NCT Classes Welcome!Classes in Guildford, Godalming & Wonersh

0870 750 2861

For more information and a FREE TRIAL call us on:

Come and join in the fun! sing, dance, learn and be inspired at

‘ZEBEDEE’S MUSIC’

Term time classes

Classes tailored for individual age groups: 6 Months – 4 Years

Wide range of children’s percussion instruments

Exciting props, puppets and Toys

Zebedee’s Music also helps in many

other area’s of your child’slearning and development.

NCT Classes Welcome!Classes in Guildford, Godalming & Wonersh

0870 750 2861

For more information and a FREE TRIAL call us on:

Come and join in the fun! sing, dance, learn and be inspired at

‘ZEBEDEE’S MUSIC’

Term time classes

Classes tailored for individual age groups: 6 Months – 4 Years

Wide range of children’s percussion instruments

Exciting props, puppets and Toys

Zebedee’s Music also helps in many

other area’s of your child’slearning and development.

NCT Classes Welcome!Classes in Guildford, Godalming & Wonersh

0870 750 2861

For more information and a FREE TRIAL call us on:

Come and join in the fun! sing, dance, learn and be inspired at

‘ZEBEDEE’S MUSIC’

Term time classes

Classes tailored for individual age groups: 6 Months – 4 Years

Wide range of children’s percussion instruments

Exciting props, puppets and Toys

Zebedee’s Music also helps in many

other area’s of your child’slearning and development.

NCT Classes Welcome!Classes in Guildford, Godalming & Wonersh

0870 750 2861

NCT Classes Welcome!Classes in Guildford, Godalming,

Wonersh & Cobham

Zebedee’s Musicalso helps in many

other area’s of your child’slearning and development.

zebedee size k 2.indd 1 16/11/2009 16:56:21

NOW IN

COBHAM!

zeb may june 2010 2.indd 1 08/06/2010 13:50:57

July-August 2010 FAMILIES UPON THAMES

contents

3

The National Trust Wild Child initiative sums up what summer holidays are about for me, in the broadest possible way. Cast aside the rigid bedtime hour and the uniforms for a few glorious weeks, even (on the odd day) the hairbrush, and embrace the freedom of July and August. Whatever the weather, prepare for late breakfasts, days spent outdoors having adventures together, impromptu picnics and, with luck, balmy evenings soaking up the last of the summer sun.In our Abc of Summer section we provide ideas for fun at home as well as local organised activities which you can sign the children up for.

Look out for us in the fi rst week of September, refreshed, relaxed, tamed and without a hair out of place for the start of the autumn term!

FRANCES LOATES, editorFAMILIES UPON THAMESPO Box 425Walton on ThamesKT12 5AG

01932 254584editor@familiesuponthames.co.uk

Clothes by Frugi www.welovefrugi.com

welcome to Families upon Thames

Families Mag ~ quarter page landscape advert: 60mm x 195mm (180mm PLUS 15mm into margin)

Watch your child’s self-esteem soar with Perform’s unique drama, dance and singingclasses. Our weekly workshops will work wonders for their confidence, concentrationand social skills as well as giving them the best fun they’ll have all week. Book your child’s FREE class today. Call 0845 400 4021 or visit perform.org.uk

B U I L D C O N F I D E N C E • B O O S T C O N C E N T R A T I O N • M A K E N E W F R I E N D S • H A V E F U N

FREE Drama Class

0845 400 4021perform.org.uk

Book now for our brilliantAlice in Wonderlandand Popstar Superstarfive day summer holiday courses!

Perform-SE2010Ad-Fam-QPL.qxd:Perform 1/4/10 11:52 Page 1

4 Competitions

6 News and Views

9 Our Abc of summer

13 Pick Your Own down on the farm

14 The power of plants

16 Breastfeeding in public

17 In time with Tempo Tots

18 Fun with Eleanor and Johnny

20 Parenting

21 Out and about this July and August

4 FAMILIES UPON THAMES July-August 2010

Competition timeWe have three great giveaways: sun protection, a great family day out and sets of name labels for the new term.

WIN TICKETS TO ASCOT Kids go free at the Dubai Duty Free Shergar Cup on Saturday 7th August at Ascot Racecourse. This is Britain’s only jockeys’ competition, where teams of riders from all over the world compete in over six races for the coveted trophy. The teams are Great Britain, Ireland, Europe and Rest of the World.

The day is easy for everyone to follow and you get the chance to meet the jockeys taking part and get their autograph in the racecard. This will take place before racing in the Parade Ring.

Easy2Name Off to School sets to win, plus 10% off even if you don’t!

We have FIVE Easy2Name Off to School sets to give away; each set is worth £16.90 and contains 30 waterproof stickers, 30 iron-on name tapes, 1 set of shoe covers, 1 bag tag and 1 shoe bag.

Please state clearly the name of your child and whether you require the shoe bag in red or blue.

Entries must be in writing on our online form and the closing date is 15th August 2010. Even if you are not lucky enough to win one of these great prizes you will still receive a 10% discount voucher from Easy2Name.

About Families onlineFor the best experience on

the Families Group website, it’s important that you

register. By entering your details, relevant services or companies local to you will appear at the base of any

page you select. It will also make this site much easier

for you to navigate.

Off the track there will be fairground rides, hair braiders and tattoo artists to keep the children entertained. Then, back by popular demand, there will be a 2 hour live ‘80s concert in the Old Paddock after racing,

DELPH FOR SKINThis summer we’ll be using Delph’s skin protection to avoid the miseries of sunburn. The range includes: SPF 30 Kids Trigger Spray (Multi Label) 200ml £6.79SPF 30 Kids On The Go (Multi Label) 100ml £4.99SPF 50 Kids Young & Delicate (Multi Label) 100ml £5.99

We think this range is great because:+ the products are all low price, with no compromise on sun protection+ They rub in easily and are rated as UVA 4* Protection for their superior protection+ they are also one of six sun creams featured on the UK drug tariff+ the SPF 30 Kids On the Go shows up in green to highlight application and adds a fun element for all the family

We have FIVE trigger sprays to give away. To enter our competition please go to: www.familiesonline.co.uk/Locations/Upon-Thames register and click on Competitions in the top panel.

The Delph range is stocked at

independent pharmacies. For stockists, please call

01235 838590.

featuring The ‘Here & Now’ Tour. The line-up is: Boy George, The Christians, Belinda Carlisle, Johnny Hates Jazz, Midge Ure, Captain Sensible and Cutting Crew.Children under 17 go racing for free and adult tickets start from £25 per person in Grandstand Admission. Picnics can be taken into the racecourse or, for an easier option, the children’s nosebag sandwich boxes start from just £4. Racing at Ascot is a great value, fun day out for all the family.

To enter our competition please go to our part of the Families Magazines Group website, at: www.familiesonline.co.uk/Locations/Upon-Thames register and click on Competitions in the top panel.

To book, or for more

information on this unique event call

0870 727 1234 or visit ascot.co.uk

EASY2NAME COMPETITION AND OFFER

To enter the draw simply go to:www.familiesonline.co.uk/Locations/Upon-Thamesregister and click on Competitions in the top panel.

The full Easy2Name

range can be seen at www.easy2name.com

spectacular summer

5

Bee happy

6 FAMILIES UPON THAMES July-August 2010

Unrivalled facilities for families

Excellent low season offers

Studland Bay · Dorset · BH19 3AQs 01929 . 450450

www.knollhouse.co.uk

HOTELKNOLL HOUSE

news and views...Ham House has welcomed some rather industrious and noisy new residents. A nucleus (or colony) of honey bees (donated by Innocent smoothies) has taken residence, as part of a nationwide campaign to raise awareness of the plight of the bee.

The recent huge decline in bee numbers is caused by loss of wildfl ower habitats, the impact of pesticides, disease and recent poor summers.

Ham’s hive is situated in the Fountain Garden, together with a display board of information on its new residents. The site has been carefully chosen because of its wild fl ower planting scheme, currently brimming with daisies, buttercups and clover – all ‘hot favourites’ with bees. Elsewhere in the garden are other food sources, including tree pollen from the formal lime avenues and wall-trained fruit trees, as well as borage and cornfl ower.

Ham’s Orangery restaurant is also doing its bit to raise the profi le of the bee, by serving a delicious honey cake this summer.

Come and visit the Families magazine stand at the London Baby and Toddler Show at Twickenham Stadium on 19th September, 10am to 4.30pm. Meeting us is just one good reason to get the date in your diary now.

Tickets will be available on the day or alternatively each

Advice on beekeeping, together with bee facts and fi gures can be found at

www.nationaltrust.org.uk/beepartofi t

ticket that is purchased online will receive a free entrance ticket to The London Tropical Zoo (worth £6.50).

The Baby and Toddler show tickets are priced at £4.50 for adults, children under 16s go free!

There are also a limited number of free entrance tickets up for grabs for Families Magazine readers. For a chance to win, visit www.familiesonline.co.uk

BROKEN BIKE? The holidays are here at last, you decide on a family bike ride, get them out of the shed only to discover you need some repairs. Fear not – Mountwood cycles and their mobile and fully qualifi ed bicycle mechanic will come to the rescue and get you back on two wheels.Contact Andre on 07973 664529 mountwoodcycles@hotmail.co.uk www.mountwoodcycles.co.uk

Making Surrey a better place

www.surreycc.gov.uk

For more information on what’s happening on the day and other brilliant offers visit: www.thelondonbabyandtoddlershow.co.uk

Meet us at the Baby and Toddler Show

Duck racing At 1.30pm on 5th September 205 000 plastic ducks will be released into the Thames from Molesey Lock near Hampton Court Palace. Follow the ducks as they travel along the 1km course down the river. There will be children’s entertainment, charity stalls and refreshments at the fi nishing line. Adopt a duck at www.thegreatbritishduckrace.co.uk to raise money for charity.

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July-August 2010 FAMILIES UPON THAMES 7

Take off with Space HopTake a giant leap into your local library this summer and join in the fun of Space Hop, this year’s space-themed Summer Reading Challenge. Space Hop is a fun reading challenge for children aged 4 to 11. There are great books to read and stickers, a fridge magnet, a glow-in-the-dark wristband and a rainbow pencil to collect. Children who read 6 books to complete all three stages of their space mission, will be awarded a special medal and a certifi cate. Space Hop blasts off in all Elmbridge, Spelthorne, Richmond and Kingston libraries on Saturday 17th July and it’s free! Libraries will be organising special Space Hop events, activities and competitions throughout the summer holidays. Pop round to your library to fi nd full details or contact them via your local authority website to fi nd out more.

Lost in showbiz?As talent manager for Lily Rose from the Green Balloon Club and Enid (BBC), Gardeners World and various adverts, as well as book tour manager for Jason Bradbury (Channel 5’s Gadget Show host) Elizabeth Blake Thomas has worked extensively with children and adults in this industry for over 15 years. She is constantly approached by parents for help.

Currently taking clients over to the States to break into that market (which has already started successfully) she now offers her knowledge and expertise in this fi eld.

Elizabeth told us, ‘This industry

From 1st to 31st August, Ham House and Garden and Osterley Park and House, together with others in the region, are waiving children’s admission charges. Both properties are planning a host of fun family activities during the month. Here’s just a taster:

� On 29th August Osterley’s ‘magical’ hand-held compass allows families to discover the mythical creatures and beasts hiding within the extravagant 18th-century designs of the house. Visitors can also enjoy audio-visual digital handsets which are just one aspect of Osterley’s exciting ‘new look’, giving visitors an insight into the realities of life both above and below stairs. Osterley Park, Jersey Road, Isleworth, 020 8232 5055.

� At Ham House there are heaps more ‘added extras’ to seek out, from Ham’s huge garden toy box, brimming with building blocks, racket games, dominoes and hula hoops for some hip-swinging exercise. Easy-to-follow garden trails encourage children to explore the beautiful grounds and little summerhouses, while inside the house, a self-guided trail introduces them to Ham’s exciting and exotic past. Hands-on activities reveal more about the dangers of sea-faring in the 17th-century, and the lives of Ham’s many servants. Ham House, Ham, Richmond upon Thames, 020 8439 8231. For further information and a full list of all participating properties, visit www.mynationaltrust.com or call the National Trust’s regional offi ce on 01494 755500.

is such a minefi eld and for some reason parents feel embarrassed to ask questions about it in case they are thought of as pushy. I want to break down these barriers and empower these mothers and give them the knowledge they need to help their child.’

She believes that the acting industry is not so different from the sports world or art world. If you want your child to be a success in any fi eld it takes dedication from the parent. This specifi c industry does appear to be closed unless you know someone and can work via word of mouth.

Please contact Elizabeth for more information on 0794 1800502 or info@essentialbasics.co.uk

Free entry for kids in August at Ham and Osterley

8 FAMILIES UPON THAMES July-August 2010

The NCT (National Childbirth Trust) the UK’s largest parenting charity, is calling on everyone to hold a Cheeky Monkeys Tea Party and help raise funds for the NCT’s Postnatal line.

Cheeky Monkeys Tea Parties are held every summer between May and September. The parties provide a fantastic opportunity for parents and kids across the country to get together with friends, family and the local community and raise money to aid the vital work of the NCT.

This year the NCT Cheeky Monkeys Tea Parties are raising funds to support the development of the NCT Postnatal Line. The helpline has been set up by the NCT to support parents in their early days of parenthood. The helpline is staffed by experienced NCT postnatal leaders and by listening and responding to individual concerns they help parents to see their diffi culties in context, appreciate the positive things that they are achieving and help them to move forward in the best way for themselves and their baby.

Belinda Phipps, the charity’s chief executive, explains why the new helpline is so important. ‘Life with a new baby can be an amazing experience. However, for some it can be quite a daunting whirlwind, leaving new parents feeling nervous or lacking in confi dence. Our new helpline will be open to all parents so they can call us and get support when they need it most.’

Their aim is to raise £50 000 this year which will be used to extend the opening hours of the helpline. Every penny

news and views...

you raise helps. As little as £50 will enable the NCT to help 12 new parents cope with the challenge of becoming a parent; help them to be there for them.

The Cheeky Monkeys Tea Party is open to everyone and it is very easy to run. Your party can be small (get together with a couple of friends and families) or BIG in size (invite the WHOLE town to your party). Some ideas for your party are: a barbecue bash, a picnic party, cream tea or a dress-up themed party but you can make your event as genuinely individual as you want. To help you get started, the NCT provides you with lots of ideas for your party such as quizzes, arts and crafts and monkey-themed games for children, or why not try a cake recipe from www.nct.org.uk/cheekymonkeys ?

All you need to do is register at www.nct.org.uk/cheekymonkeys to receive your party pack.Invite all your friends and family and away you go.See page 22 for a local event on 4th July.

Be Cheeky this summerThe NCT (National Childbirth

IF YOU HAVE ANY QUESTIONS PLEASE FEEL FREE TO CONTACT THE CHEEKY MONKEYS TEA PARTY

COORDINATOR ON 020 8752 2388 OR SEND AN EMAIL TO CHEEKYMONKEYS@NCT.ORG.UK

Richmond NCT ante-natal teacher and breastfeeding counsellor Rachel Langton was a winner at the recent NCT Stars Awards, which recognise the enthusiasm and dedication of those who help the charity. She was named the winner of the Most Supportive Specialist Worker category.

Summer at Museum of RichmondOn 10th July, from 11am to 2pm, take part in a drop-in Badge Making Workshop at Museum of Richmond, Old Town Hall, Whittaker Avenue, Richmond, KT6 4AX. Discover how badges have been used in campaigning and then design and make your very own. This is a drop-in activity, no pre-booking required, £1 donation welcomed.

Glass Painting Workshops take place from 27th to 30th July, 10am to 12 noon. Explore the hidden messages, meanings and symbols in stained glass and then produce your very own using glass paints. Please book on 020 8332 1141, donation of £2.50 welcomed.

The Festival of British Archaeology will feature events for all ages.Discover Richmond’s local archaeology on Saturday, 17th July, 11am

to 3pm with a ‘hands on’, drop-in workshop led by experts from the Richmond Archaeological Society.

Roman Life Discovery Day is on Saturday, 24th July, 11am to 4pm. Explore local Roman archaeology, clothing, armour and food, and discover what it was really like to live in Roman Britain. For more information on any of the events, please call Phillippa Heath on 020 8332 1141 www.museumofrichmond.com

If Rachel has inspired you to train as an ante-natal teacher, post-natal leader or breastfeeding counsellor, call the NCT on 0844 243 6000 for an enquiry pack. Or visit www.nct.org.uk/newdirections

Congratulations to Rachel

In celebration of Richmond Theatre’s 110th anniversary, a group of local young people have written a new play inspired by people’s memories of Richmond Theatre. There will be a performed reading of 110 Project Play’s exciting new work on Thursday 5th August at 7.30pm. Book on 0844 871 7651. Also:Monstrous Myths West End Summer School from 9th to 13th August, 10am to 4pm each day, for ages 8 to 11 years.Inspired by the myths and monsters of English folklore children will create a performance

Happy 110th birthdayusing drama, dance and music to perform at one of ATG’s West End venues, along with groups from the Churchill Theatre, Bromley and New Wimbledon Theatre. Venues will be Monday to Thursday at a local hall and Friday at a venue in the West End.The cost is £110, book on 0870 060 6651.The Gruffalo – Pre-show Family Fun on 2nd August at 12.30 and 3pm and 4th August at 9.30am and 12.30pm. This is a free arts and crafts activity for families before the show.

New in KewJoin Popstars Academy for their Launch Party at Kew Community Centre on 21st September from 4pm to 5.30pm for a FREE dance class and games session. The event is suitable for children aged 4 to 11.

Popstars teach Street, Hip-Hop and Freestyle Dance to students of all abilities. The lessons are a mixture of energising ‘feel good’ routines combined with more challenging choreography.

The ethos is for all children to build in confi dence and most importantly to have lots of fun.Book your space on 020 8568 6886 Lindsay@PopstarsAcademy.com

For masses more this summer, keep reading! More event listings on

pages 21 to 23.

July-August 2010 FAMILIES UPON THAMES 9

spectacular summer

The UK’s Premier Karting Venues

Junior Parties (8-15 year olds) Race School Bambino Karting (5-7 year olds) InKart Racing Championship

Daytona Sandown Park

More Lane, Esher, KT10 8AN Tel 0845 644 5502

www.daytona.co.uk

Summer

– as easy as abc– as easy as abcA is for is for academies, well Sport Academies anyway, running in Ashford and Kingston for 3 to 18 year olds. St James School, Ashford run from 19th July to 13th August Tiffi n Sports Centre, Kingston run from 26th July to 13th August Tiny Tots 9am to 12pm Sport Academies 9am –to 3pm (extra time available 8am to 4pm)To fi nd out more and book your space, go to: www.sportacademies.com

Summer Summer

– as easy as abcholidays

B is for book ahead. Check out our advertisers and get your autumn activities booked now before spaces fi ll up. Stagecoach New Malden are opening a new Friday afternoon session from September. The autumn term will feature a presentation of ‘Rediscov-ering Alice’ (a special module based on Alice in Wonderland’). Early stages children will be presenting ‘Cinderella the Pantomime’. For full details, contact Virginie on 020 8540 7791.

FRANCES LOATES magics up a list of fun and local activities to

keep you busy all summer long.

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spectacular summer

10 FAMILIES UPON THAMES July-August 2010

C is for creativity and a great place to start is Orleans House Gallery in Twickenham which offers a range of creative activities. Activities are run as individual workshops which are linked under an over-arching theme for the week. This makes them ideal as one-off activities or a full week of art workshops this summer.

A CENTURY OF ART: Full day workshops which explore the styles and techniques of some of the most inspiring artists of the last century.10am to 3pm, £25 per day. Week 1: Coach House Club for 5 to 9 year olds:Tuesday 3rd August Joseph CornellWednesday 4th August Rene MagritteThursday 5th August Robert RauschenbergFriday 6th August Rachel Whiteread Week 1: CH2 for 9 to 14 year olds:Tuesday 3rd August Marcel DuchampWednesday 4th August Anthony GormleyThursday 5th August Alberto GiacomettiFriday 6th August Tracy Emin

ART OF THE WORLD: Full day workshops.10am to 3pm, £25 per day.

Week 2: Coach House Club for 5 to 9 year oldsTuesday 17th August China Wednesday 18th August South AfricaThursday 19th August IndonesiaFriday 20th August MexicoWeek 2: CH2 for 9 to 14 Year Olds Tuesday 17th August JapanWednesday 18th August ZimbabweThursday 19th August SwedenFriday 20th August Egypt

EXHIBITION-BASED ACTIVITIES: Half-day practical workshops which use the Orleans House or Stables Gallery exhibitions as an inspirational starting point.10am to 12pm for 5 to 8 year olds and 2pm to 4pm for 8 to 11 year olds, £10 per workshop.Tuesday 10th August Magic Marble RunsWednesday 11th August History in the MakingThursday 12th August Papercraft

ANIMATION SUMMER SCHOOL: Two day workshops working with artist Will Bishop-Stephens to animate something from home or the gallery.10am to 3pm. £40 for the two day workshop. Monday 9th and Tuesday 10th August for 11 to 13 year olds Wednesday 11th and Thursday 12th August for 14 to 16 year olds

Booking essential for all workshops at Orleans House Gallery. Please call 020 8831 6000 or visit www.richmond.gov.uk/arts where you can book online.

D is for dance workshops. Here’s a great one to try:4th July, Hip-Hop Workshops at Kelly’s Dance Studio, Kingston, KT1 4AS for ages 11 to 16 years. Breaking, Locking and New-Wave with Canadian and British choreographers.£6 per class or £15 for all 3. Contact Anna on 0793 9516081 or email vitalsignzdance@hotmail.com for more information or to book.

E is for energy, something our children have in abundance, a fragment of which we may occasionally crave during the holiday weeks. A tried and tested tip from me is to suggest your children and their friends organise a mini-Olympics. This can be something of a project over several days with the making of medals and sourcing of hula hoops, string for the fi nishing line and footballs, etc. Everyone excels at something so devise quirky and fun games such as Throw the ball into the bucket of water (from various distances), Hopping competition and First to fi nd 3 garden objects (snail, leaf from a deciduous tree, plant label). With luck, all you will have to do is make sure allowances are made for all ages, add up the scores and to blow your whistle from time to time!

F is for football and World Cup fever which will have your children making plans to be the England stars of the future.4 Kiddikicks Summer Camps in Brentford and Wimbledon for children up to age 7 is from July 12th to August 6th. Find out more at www.kiddikicks.co.uk or on 0845 602 8276 4 Little Kickers have classes in Teddington from Monday 2nd August to Friday 6th August at the NPL Sports Club, Queens Road, TW11 0LW. Sessions are

for ages 4 to 7 and you can choose morning or afternoon slots. Call 0203 092 1313 or email gware@littlekickers.co.uk

G is for Garsons Farm, Esher where you can pick your own fruit, veg and fl owers – see page 13.

H is for Ham House, celebrating 400 years this year. Highlights this summer will include Family Fun trails which take you on a self-guided tour exploring the House and gardens as well as Family Ghost Hours. For more details, contact 020 8940 1950, hamhouse@nationaltrust.org.uk

I is for ice cream sundaes, the easiest, funnest and most delicious cooking fun you can have in a kitchen this summer! Set the scene by creating your own ice cream parlour with pastel serviettes, long glasses and doyleys. Then let the children’s creativity and imagina-tions run riot as they make their own concoctions by combining ice cream, jelly, chocolate sauces, sweeties and sprinkly bits.

J is for Jurassic Encounters at World of Golf in New Malden, Mechanical dinosaurs move and roar in an 18 hole miniature golf course. Beverley Way, New Malden, KT3 4PH www.worldofgolf.co.uk

Picture from Kiddikicks

Create exciting projects

this summer!

Surbiton assembly rooms week 19-23rd july 10-12pmMalden Centre week 9-13th august 10-12pmbook early limited spaces 07841 151 325www,papercraftclub.co.uk

paper pompoms

origami

Pape

r flip

flops

picture frames

ages 6-10

July-August 2010 FAMILIES UPON THAMES 11

spectacular summerK is for Karting at Daytona Sandown Park where the whole family can learn the art of kart racing. Arrive and Drive sessions are available for children from 5 years upwards, Junior Race School from 8 years upwards. Arrive and Drive is £20 for 1/2 hour session (includes instruction, equipment and insurance). Junior Race School £55 for each 3 hour session (5 modules). To book Arrive and Drive/Children’s Parties/Junior Race School/Bambinos, call Daytona Sandown Park on 0845 644 5502 or online www.daytona.co.uk

L is for learning to cook with Sassy Stirrers’ fun workshops. Their Bake ‘n’ create workshops are on 3rd, 4th and 5th July in Esher/Surbiton. Children will turn their hand to cooking and then tune into their creativity to make garden candles, table decorations and collage painting. Goody bags are packed with their baking and art, plus recipe cards with handy tips. £30 for 1, £55 for 2, or £75 for 3 days. Limited spaces, book on 07789 792676www.sassystirrers.com

M is for mazes and the Daddy of them all at Hampton Court. Perhaps the most famous maze in the world, the Hampton Court Palace Maze was planted in hornbeam in 1690 for William of Orange, probably by royal gardeners London and Wise. It

Where learning’s a ball

Approved football training for kids aged 18 months to 7 years

Kingston020 8286 6038

Richmond020 3092 1313

Weybridge01932 847439www.littlekickers.co.uk

LK Kingston Families Ad.indd 1 4/12/09 14:47:05

Popstar Parties Street Dance Mamma MiaHannah Montana High School Musical Grease

Street Hip Hop Fun Dance ClassesIsleworth Kew Teddington Twickenham

E: Lindsay@PopstarsAcademy.comT: 020 8568 6886 www.PopstarsAcademy.com

E: Lindsay@PopstarsAcademy.comT: 020 8568 6886 www.PopstarsAcademy.com

Street Hip Hop Fun Dance ClassesIsleworth Kew Teddington Twickenham

is the most visited attraction in the gardens at Hampton Court Palace with around 350 000 people getting lost in the maze every year. How long will it take your family to meet up in the middle? www.hrp.org.uk

N is for nature and where better to revel in its wonders than at the London Wetland Centre in Barnes? This year celebrating its 10th anniversary, the centre replicates numerous different habitats such as lakes and pools, wader scrapes, reed beds, grazing marshes and water meadows, combining to create an ecological oasis for numerous different species. Daily activities throughout the summer for children, check wwt.org.uk

O is for organic. You’ve overhauled your veg plot, maybe ordered your regular box or frequent that section in the supermarket but what about clothes? Frugi produce divine summer stuff for children and nursing mothers in organic cotton (see front cover and page 9). Order online at www.welovefrugi.com

P is for Perform’s summer holiday Drama, dance and singing workshops for 4 to 12 year olds. They run a number of themed experiences;Alice in Wonderland in Richmond (26th to 30th July), Kew and Esher and Popstar Superstar in Esher on various dates. For full details call 0845 400 4010 or check perform.org.uk

Q is for quarrelling. Most families have an initial escalation in confl ict among siblings in the fi rst few weeks of the holidays as, tired after the academic year, they adjust to spending prolonged amounts of free time together. One of my lightbulb moments as a parent was when I realised that it’s actually better not to arbitrate and intervene – unless the row gets physical, that is. It’s an important part of children’s development to work out how to resolve confl ict in

an acceptable way. So shut the door, have a peaceful 2 minutes in the garden or turn the music up and let the row fi zzle out!

R is for reading – for the must-read book of the summer, Johnny Swanson by a local author, Eleanor Updale pictured overleaf promoting the launch of the book recently at Kew Bookshop. See pages 18 and 19 for more about Eleanor, why she’s wearing 1920s clothes and all about her latest book.

S is for Spanish (and French). There will be holiday language clubs incorporating drama, games, cooking running from 10

Children at Ham House

Nature at its best at the London Wetland Centre

TIME FOR TEA 19th JULY-27th August10% off Selected ‘tea set’ pottery

free tea for decorators after 3pm

124 Pottery Cafe New 13/6/10 10:43 Page 1

BFP BFP FamilesAd 87x60_BFP 07/06/2010 19:21 Page 1

spectacular summer

12 FAMILIES UPON THAMES July-August 2010

am to 2pm in the following local venues during the holidays:Twickenham 26th to 28th JulyNew Malden 2nd to 4th AugustMolesey 29th to 30th Augustwww.childrensclubs.com or call 020 8979 4586

T is for Thumbs up it’s Thursday offering free activities for children ages 3 to 11 years in Kingston from 29th July to 26th August in various venues. Craft, storytelling, face paining, entertainers and more and it’s all for FREE. Check www.kingstonfi rst.co.uk for full details or call020 8547 1221

U is for uniforms. The children may hate you for it but don’t leave it too late before kitting them out for September! Suppliers often run out of popular sizes by the end of August so make your move early.Local suppliers include:UnismartFive Oakdene ParadeHigh StreetCobhamKT11 2LRwww.unismart.co.ukSchooldays94 High StreetWhittonTwickenhamTW2 7LNwww.schooluniformintwick-enham.co.ukDon’t forget to label – see www.easy2name.com and www.labelsforkids.com

V is for visiting exhibitions and museums. Our suggestion this summer is Childhood in the Past at Chertsey Museum’s Discovery Zone. This new exhibition covers some of the issues facing children through the ages. Its aim is to remind us that up until the 19th century, childhood was a luxury many families could ill afford. For more check www.chertseymuseum.org.uk

W is for workshops, playschemes and camps where we are spoilt for choice. Here’s a selection, for more see our Workshops section on page 23.BackFlip Performers offer Gymnastics, break-dancing, cheerleading and fi tness for ages 4 to 11 years. Venues in Brentford and Petersham. Call Katie on 020 8940 7998 www.backfl ipperformers.comCamp Beaumont is in Richmond and Esher www.campbeaumont.co.uk

Kids Camps This Summer

The UK’s Leading Healthy Lifestyle Activities Provider

This Summer This Summer

Barnes • Ham • Twickenham • Teddington Barnes

BURSTING with healthy activities

For more information or to book our OFSTED registered Activity Camps

Call 0845 456 3233 or visit www.fi tforsport.co.uk

Supercamps run in Hampton www.supercamps.co.ukTheatrebugs are in Kingston and Twickenham www.theatrebugs.co.uk 020 7350 2995Fit For Sport have Kids Camps in Barnes, Ham, Teddington and Twickenham this year. Popular sports, healthy lifestyle sessions, arts and crafts sessions. Book on 0845 456 3233 or visitwww.fi tforsport.co.uk

X is for experiment. If the summer holidays are for one thing, they are for trying out new things (big and small). Year on year their tastes may change so aim to adapt.

Y is for Yoga. Yogabugs summer workshops will run in Teddington and St Margarets this summer. For details contact Samantha on 0845 899 7170 or email Samantha@yogabugs.comTatty Bumpkin will also have yoga-inspired movement classes for little ones (2 to 5 years) and their grown ups on Thursdays 10.15am and 11.15am at Richmond Green United Reformed Church, Quadrant Road, Richmond TW9 1DHDates are 29th July to 26th August and classes cost £40 for 5 weeks. For more please check www.richmond.tattybumpkin.com0845 680 2864.

Z is for the zoo at Chessington with over 1000 animals from the exotic to the endangered. The Children’s Zoo has pygmy goats, Guinea pigs, Kune Kune pigs and lots more animals which your children can meet at close quarters.www.chessington.com

For more about local author, Eleanor Updale, see pages 18 and 19

www.guildfordspectrum.co.ukJust cut out the voucher and bring it with you on your next visit to Spectrum.

Ice Skating, Tenpin bowling or swimming in the leisure pool

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July-August 2010 FAMILIES UPON THAMES 13

spectacular summer

Family fun on the farm

It’s easy to think of our patch as urban and an allotment as your only option for stacks of super-fresh fruit and veg but you don’t even have to travel outside the area to fi nd 150 acres of glorious ripening produce for you and your children to pick, take home and eat. Just think - in one wonderful day out you will have had some exercise, spent time in the countryside, learnt a bit about how things grow, spotted some wildlife and enjoyed some healthy, freshly picked food with minimal food miles – all without travelling too far from home!

The summer holidays are a great time to visit our local Pick your Own (PYO) farm and have a bit of an adventure while you’re at it. Garsons Farm in Esher, probably the largest in the country, has been voted PYO of the year for 2010 and is a perfect day-out destination during July and August.

Picking fruit, vegetables and fl owers in the fi elds is a great family activity. Established in 1871, Garsons’s crops in season include strawberries, raspberries, runner beans, peas and sunfl owers.

The award winning farm shop is known for local produce such as cakes, pies, dairy products, honey and sauces as well as speciality food and drink. Look out for the Food Miles labels that show products from the area.

The restaurant sells home-style lunches, drinks and cakes and there’s a garden centre with quality plants, gifts, children’s toys, books and homewares.

PYO TIPSSave time and decide what you will pick before you leave. Register for the latest PYO updates by email. Simply sign-up at www.garsons.co.uk Regular pickers can take advantage of savings with the Kitchen Garden Card, for a 10% discount on all weekday PYO purchases.

Be sure to take snacks, wipes and plenty of liquids – the shop and café at Garsons provide refreshments before and after heading to the fi eldsDress in old clothes with sensible shoes. You don’t want to be worried about staining or damaging your best holiday clothes or

This summer, plan a day trip to Garsons Farm in Esher and sample its many delights.

getting sore or sodden feet as the fi elds can be wetTake wide-brimmed hats and plenty of sunscreen as you are very exposed when the sun is beating downRemember a camera to capture those magic momentsOn arrival, take the time to show the children how to identify ripe produce. If you’re not sure, ask the staff who will also advise you on the best picking areas Identify a meeting–up point as fi elds are large and people can wander off in their quest for the best goodiesRespect the rules - plants are living things to be cared for and respectedWalk in between the rows of produce – never step on the plantsBe careful not to leave any rubbish in the fi elds

SUMMER EVENTS AT GARSONS4th July - Watch the heavy horses ploughing the fi elds11th July - Vintage tractors recreating farming from bygone days17th and 18th July - Garsons Food Fair for speciality and local food tastings 23rd and 24th July - See the Birds of Prey fl ying and talk to their handlers26th August - Petting Farm. Farmyard animals and ducks in a paddling pool

GARSONS FARM IS AT WINTERDOWN ROAD, WEST END, ESHER, KT10 8LS There’s a large car park at Garsons but why not go greener and travel on public transport?The 218 and 471 buses travel along Lammas Lane to the Princess Alice Hospice Roundabout, a ten minute walk to Garsons. The 515 stops at the end of West End Lane, on the A307, a fi ve minute walk. The K3 passes through Esher High Street, a 20 minute walk to Garsons.Garsons Farm is half way between Esher and Hersham train stations, both a 40 minute walk, or a short taxi ride to Garsons. (Only Esher station has a taxi rank.)

FOOTIE TOTS An introduction to the world of

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Never miss an issue: For a very small charge, you can receive copies of Families upon Thames magazine as they are published ... Just call 01932 254584 to fi nd out how.

Dusty Does Disco

A fun disco for children and their families.

Wednesday 25th August Saturday 18th September

www.dustydoesdisco.co.uk

spectacular summer

14 FAMILIES UPON THAMES July-August 2010

The power ofplantsDaisies as drugs and nettles as nourishment - JO DUNBAR shows us how to concoct delicious treats and remedies from the plants growing all around us this summer.

There are not many of us who have not experienced the sharp buzz of a nettle sting, but

how many families have eaten nettles for their evening meal?

Although rather late in the year now, if you happen to have a nettle patch in your garden you might want to cut it down, then water well, in order to produce a lush growth of leaves, abundant in minerals and health-giving properties. Thrill your guests with a nettle pasta sauce by cutting fresh nettle leaf tips into thin strips, fry in butter, mix with some mushrooms, a little cream and top with crispy bacon and Parmesan cheese.

You can also make a wonderful iced nettle tea for summer tea parties. Again pick the nettle tips, and pop into a tea pot of boiling water with a little fresh ginger, honey and a few slices of lemon. Chill in the fridge, strain and serve on a hot day to children and adults.

On summer days you are likely to spend time relaxing on

a beautifully manicured lawn and hopefully it will still have a few delightful little sprigs of lawn daisies. The word daisy comes from ‘Days Eye’ and refl ects how the fl ower head follows the sun. Another old name for daisies is ‘Bruise Wort’, and these fl owers offer a superb alternative to Arnica for bruises, strains and scrapes. If for instance your child has twisted an ankle, simply whizz outside and pick a handful of daisy fl owers, add to a teapot of boiling water and steep for 20 minutes, then pour into a large bowl and soak the foot in this water for 20 minutes. Do this for a few days running and you will be surprised how quickly the ankle recovers.

Scrapes and bruises can be bathed in the water, or press a compress soaked in the daisy water for a few minutes several times a day.

On a more serious note, the healing of broken bones has historically been aided by comfrey, also known as ‘knitbone’. Comfrey is actually a delicious herb to eat - as a vegetarian option to fried fi sh. Cut a few large leaves (do be absolutely certain that it is comfrey and not foxglove leaf which looks very similar), wash these, then dip in a light batter and fry to golden brown. Serve with lemon juice and a rocket salad.

These days many young children suffer from eczema, and one of our most popular remedies is our home-made chickweed cream. Chickweed is an abundant weed, and much relished by birds - hence its name. If you feel chickweed, you will notice how cool and soothing the leaves feel. Now imagine this on the hot, raw, itchy skin of eczema and you can see how effective it can be. If you have a lot of chickweed in your garden and also happen to be growing calendula, you can pick a good handful of both, again, steep in a large teapot and then add to your baby’s bath with a little almond oil to soothe and moisturize the skin.

New mothers can also benefi t from home herbal help too. Many women drink raspberry leaf tea in the later stages of pregnancy, but don’t realize that when drunk after the birth, this herb helps the uterus to recover its former tone, it also helps to

extraJo Dunbar (MSc Medical Herbalist) owns Botanica Medica herbal apothecary in Claygate and St Margarets, Twickenham, and works with a team of highly qualifi ed medical herbalists. She treats all ages and a wide variety of problems. Jo and her colleagues regularly organise Herbal Walks with one in Claygate woods planned on 8th July and another on 11th July to Petersham Nurseries. For more, please visit www.botanicamedica.co.uk or call 01372 470990, 020 8892 9227.

These days many young children suffer from eczema, and one of our most popular remedies is our home made chickweed cream.

promote breast milk. Another combination which is very helpful for this is nettle and fennel seed tea. As well as promoting milk fl ow, the fennel seeds help to calm the colic. If you have just given birth, and are still torn or bruised, a strong infusion of calendula petals poured onto a sanitary pad, then refrigerated and gently pressed onto the perineum is very soothing. Daisies, when combined with calendula and cooked into an ointment with olive oil and beeswax makes a soothing and healing nipple cream for expectant mothers, and a novel home-made gift.

As autumn approaches, you can prepare for the inevitable coughs and colds by making jams with elderberries and rosehips. Both are rich in vitamin C and elderberries are also powerfully anti-viral. I use it a lot in my clinic for children’s winter illnesses. If you are feeling very wild, you might want to dry a few blackberry leaves and mix with sage leaves to help treat a sore throat. The blackberry leaves are mildly astringent and help to calm the infl ammation, whilst the sage is anti-bacterial, killing the infection. A strong tea is made, then strained and gargled.

July-August 2010 FAMILIES UPON THAMES 15

Chessington – 020 8391 4447Bridge Road, Chessington KT9 2ETEaling – 020 8571 6867

Comer Crescent, Windmill Avenue, Ealing UB2 4XDShepperton – 01932 592525

Shepperton Film Studios, Studios Road, Shepperton TW17 0QD Nurseries also in:

Walton on Thames – 01932 226975 or 252858Ottershaw – 01932 874286, Ripley – 01483 222020

• Safe, secure and loving environment• Preschool education curriculum approved by Ofsted• French lessons and additional sports programmes• Qualified, skilled and caring staff• Full and part time care for children from birth – 5 years• Large outside gardens

To give your child a helping hand in the early years please contact the numbers listed below for more

information or to book a visit

Providers of qualitychildcare

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464 Toad Hall 7/10/07 16:36 Page 1

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16 FAMILIES UPON THAMES July-August 2010

baby page

Breast is bestbut not in public?F

or many of us just the thought of breastfeeding in public makes us feel nervous and stressed. The truth is, most nursing mothers are just not

comfortable. When researching this article, I spoke to

a friend who raised both of her children in Vienna. She was shocked by how prudish we are in the UK when it comes to breast-feeding. While in many countries no one bats an eyelid, why in Britain is it a different story? Attempts to breastfeed in a public space can be met with tutting and rolling of eyes, discreet coughs and dismayed, if not shocked looks. It can be downright intimidating!

Offi cially, breast is best. Breastfeeding will give our children higher IQs, keep them free of ear infections and allergies, obesity, heart disease and diabetes. The World Health Organisation recommends exclusive breastfeeding for the fi rst 6 months of a child’s life but although other countries’ breastfeeding rates are on the up, the UK has one of the lowest in Europe. This may be to do with our confusion over what is best for our babies or a rebellion against over-zealous health visitors demanding we breastfeed on demand day and night but pro-breastfeeding groups, including the National Childbirth Trust, say that anxiety about being stopped in public is putting mothers off.

Photo of Breastfeeding Butterfl y from www.fayeandlou.com.uk, £24.95

JOANNA PARRY investigates why feeding your baby as nature intended remains controversial.

It’s not illegal to breastfeed in public (although a few of the women and some of the men I interviewed believed it was), but it was only last year that England clarifi ed the law on breastfeeding: under the Sexual Discrimination Act a woman breastfeeding a child of any age may not be discriminated against when feeding in places such as restaurants, cafes, surgeries and libraries. If the child is under 6 months old the mother is also protected under the grounds of maternity discrimination.

Sadly this has not stopped some women being told to leave when breastfeeding in a public place. Recently a woman was prevented from feeding her one month old on a park bench by a member of the public, another mother was ordered to stop feeding in a London art gallery, even some doctors’ surgeries banned breastfeeding in their waiting rooms before the law was clarifi ed. Even now that the law has been made clear, the NCT still reports that 63% of breastfeeding women have received ‘unsupportive comments or behaviour from other people’. ‘It was very humiliating,’ says one mother after being thrown out of a restaurant. Only last year Facebook cancelled the accounts of mothers who uploaded photos of themselves breastfeeding their babies, claiming they violated Facebook’s decency code by showing an exposed breast.

‘I was desperate to feed my baby before her wailing started again, so I sat on the station platform and started to feed,’ says Emily. ‘However, a group of schoolboys clocked me and decided to come and sit next to me and harass me. It was humiliating and the more I tried to move further down the platform the more they moved closer to me...in the end I had to button my coat and run out of the station with my bra half done up!’

We’ve all heard people mutter, ‘why can’t mothers fi nd a separate room in which to feed their child, why they can’t do the deed in the (germ-infested!) loo?’ No wonder so many women are uncomfortable feeding in public - the cry is not just, ‘Feed the baby before you leave the house’, it is much, much worse.

Although 84% of people are happy for mothers to breastfeed in public, as long as it is discreet, there are still some for whom public breastfeeding is an unpleasant and unnecessary occupation: ‘I’m fed up of having to go for lunch and be greeted with middle-class women who feel that everybody else should be ok with seeing them breastfeeding in public. Do I have to eat my lunch looking at that?’ says Alec. ‘It just looks common and slatternly,’ echoes Matthew. ‘It’s obscene, illegal and the equivalent of me exposing myself in Café Nero’. One gentleman goes as far as saying: ‘I would compare a breastfeeding mother to a fl asher at the school gate. They both upset me equally and they both have the same motive - self-seeking exhibitionism!’

With these extreme opinions it is unsurprising that women end up feeding in cars or changing rooms, or choose to stay at home. But there is hope. Some women are happy to feed in public: ‘I breastfed in public until a late age,’ says Susie. ‘A lot of people are disapproving if your child is over a year, but this never bothered me. I have fed everywhere from the giraffe house at London Zoo to the London Eye, not to mention trains, parks, coffee shops, supermarkets and restaurants. I think people are very kind - the only negative thing I’ve found is that you can get trapped by well meaning people who want to talk.’

But how do we do it without getting stressed and nervous? With so many cafes and public places devoid of nappy changing facilities and bottle-warming equipment, it’s not surprising so few places offer private, quiet places to feed. And even if they did, who wants to sit on their own while their non-feeding friends are happily enjoying their lattes? Surely breastfeeding in public can be as private as breastfeeding at home and as relaxing?

TOP TIPSIn 2006 a company called Mom’s Breastau-rant was set up to provide shelter, seating and a less-distracting environment for mothers and babies at outdoor events. A fantastic idea, these ‘tents’, complete with heaters, changing tables, sibling areas and refreshments are popping up at festivals all over America, and will soon be making their way over the pond. However if you can’t fi nd one in your local Starbucks (and I’m not holding my breath) try these tips:0 Wear clothes that are designed for easy access.0 Buy a breastfeeding bra with drop-down cups.0 Cover your baby with a muslin/pashmina/nursing blanket. There are some great products on the market that tie around your neck and won’t fall down, such as the Breast-feeding Butterfl y, www.fayeandlou.co.uk and Freedom Babe covers.0 It sounds daft, but practise at home fi rst.0 If you don’t want to breastfeed in public but want to give your baby breast milk, just express it and feed with a bottle. Easy solution!

extra BREASTFEEDING SUPPORTwww.breastfeedingnetwork.org.uk www.breastfeeding.nhs.ukwww.laleche.org.ukwww.thebabycafe.orgwww.nct.org.uk

Lunchboxes • Water BottlesBooks • Uniforms • FootwearBooks • Uniforms • Footwear

T: 01635 298326www.easy2name.com

Lunchboxes • Water Bottles

You name it We label it!

July-August 2010 FAMILIES UPON THAMES 17

baby page

FunWith Music!In Central Richmond

Music Classes for1-5 Year Olds

For more information, call:

020-8332-2275

186 Fun with Music v2 A 2/13/04 9:

Charlotte’s Tempo Tots

WHO?Charlotte has a master’s degree in Music Therapy and a BMus from Trinity College of Music. She has been working for several years as a music therapist, both in mainstream, special education and the NHS. Charlotte is also a children’s entertainer and particularly interested in working with under fi ves. Drawing on her therapeutic skills, which focus on social, emotional and communication development, Tempo Tots classes are fun, engaging and benefi cial for babies, toddlers and parents/carers.

WHERE?The sessions are held at the Hyde Room in York House, Twickenham. Parents and their babies/toddlers, aged three months to fi ve years can attend weekly 30 minute drop-in sessions. The classes aim to facilitate and enhance communication, physical development and bonding between parents and their babies. Each half-hour class is packed with live music, singing, dancing and more, to help little ones develop their social skills, communication, movement and of course singing!

WHAT?Each class includes a variety of musical and physical activities tailored to meet the needs

of the particular group. Charlotte is also on hand to offer her support including advice around child development and physical wellbeing. Following the session, hand outs are available around a variety of areas such as speech development, song booklets, hand and play skill information, etc.

The classes aim to be as interactive as possible to develop the skills of the children while:0 Supporting parents and their children in creative musical engagement. Offering ideas for parents to use at home and help them feel supported and encouraged in their interactions with their children.0 Supporting parents and carers to use music more effectively in realising music’s potential as a key agent for emotional, developmental, social and communication needs and in helping relationships within families grow.0 Building the awareness and importance of tummy time.0 Introducing activities for play to promote physical development.0 Building awareness of the importance of shared attention and turn taking with their children within a fun and creative environment.

0 Supporting parents to help build positive and sensitive bonds with their baby.0 Encouraging parents to learn and relate to their baby’s body language and ‘cries of communication’.0 Encouraging parents to use their voices through singing and making babbling exchanges with their babies.

WHY? Parents and carers have given the following feedback:

‘I feel much more confi dent in being with J - he is so much calmer and I am now really beginning to enjoy being a mum.’

‘We sing at home every day now. We have instruments and play. B loves music and signs, he watches my hands.’

‘ The group has given us so much from developing my son’s confi dence and social ability to enhancing my understanding of the importance of communication through music.’

‘My son now seems able to identify specifi c sounds and he seems confi dent in being able to play, hold objects, using his fi ne and gross motor skills.’

The repetitive nature of the nursery rhymes and songs can help them to develop key social skills like their concentration, antici-pation and sharing, plus the development of language skills. For the older children there is a different educational theme each week (such as trains, jungle, farmyard) linked to the stories, props and songs. The sessions end with a jam on the musical instruments, bubbles and dancing. It also provides an opportunity for the parents, grandparents, nannies and carers to enjoy singing and playing with their little ones.

We discover a new local group which offers music making as a

developmental tool.

Charlotte’s Tempo Tots is a new music making service in Twickenham supporting young children and parents.

extraTempo Tots sessions will be running throughout the summer months. For more information about the session times and fee, please contact Charlotte Miller on 07977 404036 charlottes-tempo-tots@hotmail.com

18 FAMILIES UPON THAMES July-August 2010

Meet the author

WHERE DO YOU LIVE?I’ve lived in Richmond for nine years. I still can’t believe my luck. There is fabulous natural beauty all round us, and it’s wonderful to be able to walk to a choice of theatres, cinemas and more restaurants than anyone could visit in a lifetime. My only regret is that we didn’t move here when my children were younger. They didn’t get the chance to go to primary school here.

WHAT DID YOU DO BEFORE YOU BECAME A CHILDREN’S AUTHOR?After studying history at Oxford University, I became a trainee at the BBC. I went on to work as a producer in both radio and television, on programmes including The World at One and Newsnight. After 15 years doing that, I left to look after my children, and got involved in a range of unpaid activities, most of which I still do. These include being a member of the Clinical Ethics Committee at Great Ormond Street Hospital. A few years ago, I went back into academic history, and did a PhD at Queen Mary, University of London. I ended up writing the

We meet the inspirational local writer ELEANOR UPDALE (author of the highly acclaimed Montmorency series), review her latest book and discuss how it came about. Our converastion also covers her charitable work, her thoughts on the teaching of history in schools and her strong views on homework and its place in family life.

four Montmorency books and studying for my PhD thesis at the same time. Now I am a Royal Literary Fund fellow (also at Queen Mary). I advise people from all subjects, and at all levels, about their academic writing. It is the job from Heaven.

WHAT STARTED YOU OFF WITH YOUR WRITING CAREER?When my children were young, I used to make up stories for them at bedtime. One of their favourites was about a man called Montmorency who got around London through the newly built Victorian sewers. I played around for years with the idea of turning that adventure into a book, and I sporadically did lots of research, but was frequently distracted. In the end, having lost all my research notes in a house move, I just sat down and wrote the fi rst draft very quickly, more or less just for fun. I never really expected to fi nd a publisher, but I did, and the whole thing took off. I know I have been very lucky, but to be honest, actually writing the books is the best part of the business, for all the hard work and constant (almost compulsive) revisions. My advice to

anyone thinking of becoming a writer is not to do it unless you actually enjoy the process of writing. You’d be surprised how many people who say they want to be writers are completely uninterested in the craft of it, and just hope to be well known. Some of them don’t even read.

HOW ARE YOUR CHILDREN AN INFLUENCE IN THE PROCESS?My family are very encouraging, but I never let them see a book until it is more-or-less fi nished. I don’t like the idea of writing a book by committee. Sometimes, something one of the children does or says will fi nd its way into a book. For example, when I was writing the fi rst Montmorency, we were out having a pizza and my youngest started pulling grotesque faces. That set me off creating the character ‘Freakshow’. I would never put a real relative or acquain-tance straight into a book, but little things they do or say, and their funny or annoying habits, can fi nd their way into a fi ctional character’s make-up.

HOW DO YOU SELECT THE HISTORICAL SETTING? One reason I set most of my stories in the past is that it’s much easier to construct situations where the characters are not fully informed about what’s going on. For example, in one of my books someone sets off to do something dramatic on the basis of completely false information. The reader fi nds out almost immediately about this catastrophic mistake, but the character cannot be stopped. These days he’d have had a text message or an email before he even reached the station. I love the freedom a lower-tech society gives a writer.

I don’t go looking for historical settings, but sometimes an idea I already have will settle in a defi nite historical time. Johnny Swanson is about being falsely accused, and about what happens when you try to do something good and accidentally cause harm. That could happen in any era, but the book is set in 1929. It’s a time that has always intrigued me, but which is often ignored. At school, children often lurch straight from the First World War to the Second, without fi nding out what went on in between. I’m particularly interested in the legacy of wars. We always tend to talk in terms of the number of dead, but it’s the survivors, and the injured, who are the long-term victims. There has been a lot of writing about the First World War recently (some of it rather glamorising the awfulness of battle) but not many stories looking ahead to what it was like to be without a father, or coping with disabilities after the fi ghting was over. Having settled on the broad historical setting, I found out that the BCG vaccine was cleared for use in Europe in 1928, which gave me a more precise date in which to anchor the strand of the story concerning tuberculosis. I had already had the idea

summer read

Eleanor dressed in 1920s style promoting her latest book, Johnny Swanson.

July-August 2010 FAMILIES UPON THAMES

summer read

19

extraJohnny Swanson is for ages 10 years and up, is published by David Fickling Books at £10.99 hardback. For more about Eleanor Updale, her other books and projects, go to www.eleanorupdale.com

of using small ads in the book, and went through a great many old newspapers in the British Library to get the tone of them right.

When I am writing, I surround myself with pictures and objects from the time. The very fi rst germ of Johnny Swanson came from a ‘Peace Mug’ given out to celebrate the Armistice, but now I have coins, postal orders, letters, song sheets, railway timetables, postcards and newspapers. I always do far more research than I show in the book. The most important part is deciding what to leave out, resisting the urge to show off and making sure that the story leads the book. Sometimes that means ditching weeks of work.

WILL THERE BE A SEQUEL?I have always said that Johnny Swanson should stand alone, but now I fi nd myself wondering how he is getting on, and what he did next – so you never know. At the moment I am working on a book set in a very different time, and of course I am always thinking about Montmorency, who is more or less part of the family now.

WHAT IS YOUR FAMILY’S REACTION TO YOUR SUCCESS AS A WRITER?I think it’s a mixture of pride and embar-rassment – which is what I feel myself. I remember telling my daughter that her school librarian had invited me to go in to give a talk. Her response was ‘Oh Mum, I feel as if I’ve just been shot!’ At least I don’t write pornography. I wonder what it’s like to the child of someone who writes dirty books. It can’t be much fun at school…

APART FROM WRITING, WHAT ELSE ARE YOU INVOLVED IN?One of the most exciting things that has happened to me recently was being invited to become a governor of the children’s charity, Coram. It’s the modern-day embodiment of the old Foundling Hospital, which was London’s fi rst home for abandoned children. My father was brought up there, having been taken in as a baby in 1913. The education and upbringing he got there gave me, and my siblings, a springboard into the future. It’s wonderful to have the chance to say thank you by putting something back. It’s a tribute to them (and to the much-maligned practices of old-fashioned institutional childcare) that it has been possible to go from inmate to governor in one generation. Coram is now one of the biggest and most successful organisers of adoptions, and is at the forefront of caring for children in diffi cult circumstances.

I am an ambassador for The Prince’s Foundation for Children and the Arts, which aims to give all children the chance to experience artistic excellence, no matter what their backgrounds. And I’m also a trustee of the charity Listening Books which lends audio books to people of all ages who, for whatever reason (such as sight problems, dyslexia or physical disability), can’t manage ordinary print.

Away from the charitable sector, there are various issues I would like to get people talking about. For example, I would like publishers and bookshops to promote ‘family books’ which anyone of any age can appreciate at their own level, apart or together. It’s not as radical a concept as it might seem. After all, we all know what a

‘family fi lm’ is, and yet books like mine (and those of many other authors) are stashed away and labelled as being for only one age group. I know from the emails I get that many adults enjoy my books, once they have found them, even though they are offi cially categorised as ‘children’s’. Some ‘adult’ books would be loved by children, too.

I recently wrote an article in the Times Educational Supplement bemoaning the way homework is taking over family life and causing totally unnecessary anguish. I have had a very positive response.

WHAT ARE YOUR THOUGHTS ON THE TEACHING OF HISTORY?I hope it is getting better, after a period when it was infuriatingly atomised into pre-packaged slabs of time or issues with no surrounding context. If I were in charge of the nation’s education system, I would send someone round every class once a week gradually telling the straightforward narrative history of our land from start to fi nish, as a serial. There would be no exams on it, and no essays to write, but by the time people left school they would have some idea of what happened when. More detailed study of particular times and topics,

Set in 1929, this book has the reader smelling, feeling and breathing the era, as you accompany its hero, Johnny Swanson as he becomes embroiled in a situation which stretches his resources to the limits . The story gallops away at a tremendous pace with Johnny - the weedy, impoverished yet resourceful, and above all, well meaning, child of a single mother who has lost his Dad in World War I. What starts as the tale about his dubious scheme to help out his Mum fi nancially by duping the desperate and naïve with a small ad scam, develops into a book about murder, the introduction of the BCG vaccine and Johnny’s attempt to save his Mum from the gallows. Not only is the storytelling of the most exhilarating standard, Eleanor Updale packs in historical facts and nuances which educate and enthral. Her learned and painstaking research is there behind the scenes but it’s never intrusive and she plays it perfectly with never too much in the way of detail and description to slow down the storyline. By choosing this era she takes us to a time most of us are unfamiliar with, throws light on what we know about earlier and later periods and helps us understand the massive social implications and consequences of World War I. Life is pretty brutal for Johnny; he is bullied

and questioning received historical opinion, would still go on in more formal history lessons – though I hope the fashion for trying to make it all ‘relevant’ to the lives of children today will fade away. I’d like to see that replaced with a more in-depth appreciation of what other times were like: bringing together literature, art, music and science to do it. I would also make it more fun, with fewer exams and tests. Some teachers still manage to convey their enthusiasm despite the constrictions of the National Curriculum - like the fi ne man of whom my daughter said, ‘The thing about Mr Driver is that he doesn’t teach you anything, but you can’t help learning.’ How wonderful it would be if all teachers were free to adopt that style.

at school and when he’s apparently at his lowest ebb, the neighbourhood turns violently against him and Hutch (his guardian and protector when the going gets tough). He even becomes the victim of an over-zealous journalist, eager to trick him into fuelling the demands for the seamier side of the press. We love the moral messages that infuse the book - scary situations and vivid examples of the very worst sides of human nature are overcome in a gently satisfying way which never feels sentimental. A modern reader can relate to all of Johnny’s problems in some way and Eleanor Updale resolves the sadness in a conclusion that is neither patronising nor unbelievable .

A great book for reading out loud together during the summer holidays. However - you have been warned – bedtime could get very late indeed as you will not be able to resist the next chapter, and another, and another…

YOUR ESSENTIAL SUMMER READ - JOHNNY SWANSON

Homework horror? Do you agree that homework gets in the way of family time? Or perhaps you think it’s a necessary discipline? We will be exploring this subject in our next issue. Please send your views to:editor@familiesuponthames.co.uk

or anger, but try mentally standing back and look at their motivation. Are they acting in your best interests? What would be the consequences of ignoring their advice? Is the voice inside of your head that sees criticism in their words reasonable? It is not what is said, but how we perceive what is said.

If you are in a situation where you feel that you cannot face another person for fear of their judgement, look for more impersonal ways of getting help. The internet is a great source of impersonal information (try parentchannel.tv) or you can use telephone helplines. These allow you to receive help and advice, without the other’s physical presence. The disembodied stranger can feel less judgemental than someone standing in front of you. Seeing and being seen, many feel can leave them open to judgement.

Yet ultimately, you need to conquer your fear of other’s judgements, if not conquered then know how to interpreted and question these irrational anxieties. The fi rst step is to step over your fear of judgement and reach out to someone else.

20 FAMILIES UPON THAMES July-August 2010

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Often the fear of the judgement of others will stop us taking action or, even worse, taking an inappro-priate action. This fear of losing

face can be disastrous. The knowledge that you are not coping with your shrieking children can leave you with the extreme discomfort of being pulled in two directions at once. Part of you knows that you will have to reach out for help, but part of you also fears the judgement of the person that you reach out to. Asking your mother for help for a few hours is paramount to telling her that you are a rubbish parent. Asking a profes-sional, like a health visitor, is asking them to judge your parental competence.

For many, asking for help can be seen as a sign of weakness. To be strong is to carry on, seeking the inner strength to do it by yourself. This mistaken belief can be a solitary road, as struggling alone will not improve the situation and you run around in guilty circles, blaming yourself for not managing. The misconception is that you are judging others in the belief that they are going to judge you, as if by magical thinking you know their thoughts and feelings before they do. How reasonable is that faulty thinking? Your mother wants to help and may have been through the same situation when you were a child. She is more likely to offer empathy, not judgement. The health visitor, as a professional, has seen this

During the summer holidays your parenting skills can be stretched to the limit. Here KEVIN RYAN helps you shrug off your anxiety at being watched and judged by others during stressful moments and reminds you you’re not alone.

You’re in the (long) queue for the tills, children in tow, it’s hot and sticky and all of you would rather be in the paddling pool but you just ran our of bread. The youngest is screaming the supermarket down while your other two are doing their best to beat him on the decibel level. You feel that you too want to shout to drown out the sounds of the others. It feels like everyone is watching - you know that you need help if you’re going to get through the coming weeks, but there is something inside stopping you asking …

situation a hundred times before, it does not faze her and she is there to help.

Furthermore, does it really matter what others think? It is you that needs the help now. Ask yourself if the pain of losing a little pride now is better than the pain of the situation growing out of your control? Short-term pain can lead to long-term gain.

This misplaced combination of pride and shame, moreover, leads to a misinterpre-tation of other’s actions. Have you ever left a parents’ evening disheartened, feeling that it has been one long session of criticism of your child and by default, you? The teacher is telling you what areas your child can progress, offering this information as a positive way of developing potential, but you are receiving it as criticism of your parenting. In the space between you and the speaker the words are transformed from positive to negative. That is how your gremlins of losing face, misplaced pride and fear of judgement perceive them. These invisible blocks can lead to useful advice being ignored or, even worse, actively rejected. Here you can become frozen, repeating the same inappro-priate action, while ignoring information that could improve the situation.

If you are with someone who is offering help or helpful advice and you fi nd something within yourself resisting their words, ask yourself, is it them or is it me? This resistance can be embarrassment, shame

extraKevin Ryan, based in Isleworth, is a coach at Moving On Coaching. If you wish to know more you can visit www.movingoncoaching.co.uk email info@movingoncoaching.co.uk or phone 020 8400 9045

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July-August 2010 FAMILIES UPON THAMES 21

FUN INDOORS2nd to 11th JULY, International Youth Arts Festival. Over 100 events in 9 Kingston venues. Details at www.iyafestival.org.uk

10th JULY, Black Cherry Fair Open Day at Chertsey Museum, 33 Windsor Street, Chertsey, KT16 8AT, 10.30am to 4.30pm, 01932 565764. 10th and 11th JULY, The Home Guard returns to Osterley’s Front Lawn, Jersey Road, Isleworth, TW7 4RB, 12 noon to 5pm. Celebrate the 70th anniversary of the fi rst Home Guard School in the country at Osterley. Call 020 8232 5050 for details.

10th JULY to 28th AUGUST, Summer Holiday Exhibition - Ancient Wisdom! at Kingston Museum, Wheatfi eld Way, Kingston, KT1 2PS. Shoot down a castle wall with a Roman catapult and see how the Egyptians locked their doors. Build an aqueduct to guide water to a village and try the Greek way of using the Sun to burn the enemy’s ships. This exhibition will be accompanied by events and workshops for families and children. Check www.kingston.gov.uk/museum

16th JULY, Me Too & Co session with Singing Hands, The CrossWay Centre, 306 Richmond Road, East Twickenham, TW1 2PD, 9.30am to 12 noon. Sing-a-long session for children with additional needs and their carers. Find out more at info@metooandco.org.uk or 07946 646033www.metooandco.org.uk

16th JULY, Museum Monkeys at Chertsey Museum, 33 Windsor Street, Chertsey, KT16 8AT, 9.30 to 11am. Storytelling, sing-a-long and craft activities for under 5s. Book in advance on 01932 565764, £4.50 per child. 17th JULY, Young Archaeology Club at Chertsey Museum, 33 Windsor Street, Chertsey, KT16 8AT, 11am to 12.30pm and 2 to 3.30pm. For 8 to 16 year olds, please book in advance on 01932 565764, £4.50 per child.

18th JULY, Summer Sunday Family Day at the Landmark Arts Centre, Ferry Road, Teddington, TW11 9NN, 1 to 4pm. Music, children’s activities and more Check www.landmarkartscentre.org

19th JULY to 27th AUGUST, Time for Tea at The Pottery Cafe, 322 Richmond Road, East Twickenham, TW1 2DU. Decorate your own Emma Bridgewater tea set. More on 020 8744 3000.

23rd JULY, Family Fun Day with Me Too & Co Arts & Crafts, The CrossWay Centre, 306 Richmond Road, East Twickenham TW1 2PD, 9.30am to 12 noon. For children with additional needs and their carers. Animals, Glitter Tattoo, Henna Tattoo and Spud & Yum will be performing. www.metooandco.org.uk

27th JULY to 27th AUGUST, Bentall Centre, Kingston, KT1 1TP Free activities every Tuesday to Thursdaythebentallcentre-shopping.com

28th to 31st JULY, Fast and Loose Theatre presents The Digger’s

Daughter at Riverhouse, Manor Road, Walton, KT12 2PF, 2.30pm (on Saturday 31st) and 8pm. Based on the true story of The Diggers who arrived from the north to farm the land we now know as St George’s Hill in Weybridge. Book on 01932 253354, tickets £13, www.riverhousebarn.co.uk

2nd to 4th AUGUST, The Gruffalo, Richmond Theatre, The Green , Richmond, TW9 1LZ. Check www.ambassadortickets.com/richmond or book on 020 8940 0088.

2nd AUGUST, Andy and Mike’s Big Bunch of Bananas at The Rose Theatre, 24 to 26 High Street, Kingston, KT1 1HL, 11am and 2pm. CBeebies presenter Andy Day and Mike James bring their much-loved humour to this slapstick comedy show for 4 to 11 year olds and their families. Book on 0871 230 1552.

3rd, 10th and 17th AUGUST, Family Ghost Tours at Ham House, Ham Street, TW10 7RS, 11.30am. Call 020 8940 1950 for details.

25th AUGUST, Dusty Does Disco, Winning Post Function Room, Chertsey Road, Whitton, TW2 6LS, 3 to 5pm. Disco for children and their families. Tickets £5 children, £2 adults, siblings under 1 free. Book to guarantee entry on www.dustydoesdisco.co.uk

1st to 5th SEPTEMBER, Room on the Broom at The Rose Theatre, 24 to 26 High Street, Kingston, KT1 1HL. A spellbinding adventure from the creators of the international hit stage show The Gruffalo. The perfect way to end the summer holidays for everyone aged 3+. Book on 0871 230 1552.

Walton, KT12 2PF, 2.30pm (on Saturday

Andy and Mike’s Big Bunch of Bananas at The

Back By popular demand

0871 230 1552 www.rosetheatrekingston.org Less than half an hour from Waterloo 24-26 High Street, Kingston KT1 1HL

room on the Broom

Monday 2 August 11am & 2pm

Wednesday 1 - Sunday 5 SeptemberWed 2pm & 4.30pm; Thurs 11am & 4.30pm, Fri 11am & 2pm; Sat 11am, 2pm & 4.30pm; Sun 11am & 2pm

andy & mike’s Big Box of Bananas

summer fun for children at the rose

CBeebies presenter Andy Day and Mike James bring their much loved humour to this slapstick comedy show for 4–11 yr olds

This spellbinding adventure returns to the Rose for a second visit. The perfect way to end the summer holidays for everyone 3+

Tickets £8.50/Conc £7.50

Tickets £11 with great group discounts

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22 FAMILIES UPON THAMES July-August 2010

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FUN OUTDOORSUntil 5th SEPTEMBER, PLANTastic Play at Kew Gardens and Family Biodiversity Trail, TW9 3AB. Biodiversity is the theme at Kew this summer with a range of events and activities. Have a biodiversity adventure in the conservation area and get close to nature by scrambling through tunnels, sliding down zip wires and getting lost in a leafy maze at the new natural play area shaped like a plant. When you reach the fl ower head, see how the sweet nectar of the fl ower attracts bugs to help pollinate the plant. kew.org

4th JULY, Cheeky Monkeys Tea Party hosted by Richmond NCT at The Barn Church Hall, St Philips and All Saints, Atwood Avenue, Kew TW9 4HF, 2 to 4pm. Adults £5, children £2, children under 1 go free. £10 group ticket for 2 adults and 2 children. Activities to include family treasure hunt, fancy dress competition, stalls, face painting, children’s games and activities, silent auction, Pimms and grown-up soft drinks and free taster sessions. Tea and a piece of cake included in ticket price. Buy tickets on 07855 171859 or at http:// RichmondNCT.express.iristickets.co.uk

6th to 11th JULY, Hampton Court Flower Show, KT8 9AU. For more details call 0870 752 7777.

9th JULY, Beauty and the Beast at Claremont Landscape Gardens, Portsmouth Road, Esher, KT10 9JG, 7pm. Chapterhouse Theatre Company perform Laura Turner’s interpretation of this classic fairytale. Adults £14, children £7, booking essential on 0844 249 1895.

10th JULY, Barnes Village Fair. For more details check www.barnesvillage.org.uk/fair.htm

10th JULY, Black Cherry Fair, Chertsey, 9am to 5pm. Town procession begins from Free Prae Road at 10.30am. Free entry, stalls, competitions and fairground. Check www.blackcherryfair.moonfruit.com

10th and 11th JULY, Cream Tea Weekend, 33 Malden Hill, New Malden, KT3 4DS, 2.30 to 5pm. Proceeds go to The Lunchbowl Network.

11th JULY, Exotic Reptiles Day at Painshill Park, Cobham, KT11 1JE. See, touch and handle live exotic reptiles from different parts of the world. Find out about these amazing and often colourful creatures as an experienced handler shows you a range of reptiles and answers questions. Visit Fred the Snake handler from 12.30pm to 4pm. No need to book. Call 01932 868113 for more details.

17th JULY, Byfl eet Parish Day, Byfl eet Recreation Ground, KT14 7LZ, 12.30 to 5pm. A traditional parish day with families in mind. Admission £1 or 50p for children and OAPs. Call 01932 406218 for more details.

17th JULY, Fishing Fun for Children at Painshill Park, Cobham, KT11 1JE. The Walton on Thames Angling Society will be showing children how to use a rod and cast a line into

the Painshill lake, in the hope of catching a big fi sh. 30 minute sessions run from 11am until 5pm. This event is suitable for children aged 5+ and is included in the price of normal admission. Advance booking is required, please call 01932 868113.

17th JULY, Claygate Village and Flower Show, Claygate Recreation Ground, Church Road, Claygate, KT10 0HQ, 2 to 6.30pm. Exhibitions of fl owers, fruit and vegetables, photography, art, craft, domestic, fl ower arrangements and junior section. Entertainment all afternoon, arena singing and dancing events, dog show, stilt walkers, fun fair, children’s sports, charity and business stalls. £3.50 adult/50p child pre-bought or £5 adult/£1 child at the gate.

24th and 25th JULY, New France, Old England Re-enactment Camp at Painshill Park, Cobham, KT11 1JE, 10.30am to 5pm. Watch history come alive before your eyes as you discover the adventures of mid-18th century North America. Visit the tented encampments to enjoy a visual feast as you talk to the uniformed soldiers and 18th Century civilians to fi nd out about their daily lives. Remember to keep your eyes open to watch out for the fearsome Native American warriors. No need to book, www.painshill.co.uk

24th JULY, Butterfl y Life Cycle Trail at Bedfont Lakes Country Park, Clockhouse Lane, Bedfont, TW14 8QA, 2 to 4pm. Learn about the life cycle of the butterfl y through fun crafts and games. Suitable for children age 4+. £2 for adults, £1 for children and concessions. All children must be accompanied by a responsible adult. Call 0845 456 2796 for details.

25th JULY, Family Discovery Day at Osterley Park and House, Jersey Road, Isleworth, TW7 4RB, 12 noon to 4pm. Call 020 8232 5050 for more details.

25th JULY, The Tempest at Ham House and Garden, Ham Street, Ham, Richmond, TW10 7RS, 7pm. The gardens provide the setting for a night of deception, love and comedy, as the curtain rises on a performance of authentic Elizabethan theatre. The Lord Chamberlain’s Men are performing one of Shakespeare’s most magical dramas using historically accurate costumes, sparkling prose, and an all-male cast. They tell the story of Prospero and his daughter Miranda, who have been banished to a lonely island, full of magic and strange beasts. Prospero has become a powerful magician and the play opens with a violent storm and shipwreck that bring his enemies on to the island. Adults £16, children £13, book on 0844 249 1895.

26th JULY to 20th AUGUST, Family Craft Workshop and Trail at Painshill Park, Cobham, KT11 1JE. Cut out designs and decorate them with summer leaves, twigs and other amazing things from nature to make a leafy green mask, woodland puppet or a funky natural collage to take home. The craft workshop runs from 2pm until 4pm. You can also have fun in the landscape with the ‘wonderful wildlife’ nature trail, which can be picked-up from the admissions desk on arrival. No need to book www.painshill.co.uk

Balloons – Beautiful & Stunning Colours forChildren’s Birthday Parties & Other Occasions.Affordable Prices. Great alternative to party bags –Please try us first. Delivery to Party Venue Possible.020-8399 5679, www.party-bounce.co.ukPopcorn Machine for your Summer/Beach themeparties.

309 Philpott 19/6/10 08:51

Bouncy Castles, Inflatable slides, Ball Ponds &much more for Birthdays, Holy Communions, Spring/ Summer School Fairs & Other Occasions. Popcorn Machine for your summer & Beach themeparties. Also Tables & Chairs and Balloons available.020-8399 5679, www.party-bounce.co.uk

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July-August 2010 FAMILIES UPON THAMES 23

Please check all events before you leave home as details may have changed.

Tuition

28th JULY to 27th AUGUST, Larks in the Park. Richmond’s annual festival of outdoor performance in the borough’s parks and open spaces. Original tales and classic stories are retold with energy and imagination, for a fun-packed activity that will engage both children and adults www.richmond.gov.uk/larks_in_the_parks

29th JULY to 26th AUGUST, every Thursday, Wild Child at Osterley House and Park, Jersey Road, Isleworth, TW7 4RB,1 to 4pm. Free nature and wildlife themed activities for families in the Park. No booking required. Call 020 8232 5050.

31st JULY, Reptile Day at Claremont Landscape Garden, Portsmouth Road, Esher, KT10 9 JG ,10.30am to 4.30pm. In the 1740s the Duke of Newcastle had a menagerie at Claremont, recreated for the 21st century with a wide range of reptiles on display and events throughout the day. Activities include handling and phobia sessions, snake and lizard feeding and photographic opportunities. Call 01372 467806 for details.

31st JULY to 8th AUGUST, Wild Child at Claremont Gardens, Portsmouth Road, Esher, KT10 9 JG ,10.30am to 5pm. National Trust ‘Wild Child’ week with a range of trails, games and craft activities throughout the week. 50p charge per child for the trail. Call 01372 467806, for details.

4th, 11th, 18th and 25th AUGUST, Wild on Wednesdays at Bedfont Lakes Country Park, Clockhouse Lane, Bedfont, TW14 8QA, 11am to 1pm. Join the Rangers in a range of different activities and get to learn more about the park including pond dipping, mini-beasting, owl pellets, predators and prey. £2 for adults, £1 for children and concessions. All children must be accompanied by a responsible adult. Call 0845 456 2796 for details.

8th AUGUST, Family Archery Day at Painshill Park, Cobham, KT11 1JE, 12.30 to 4pm. Try your hand at the ancient sport of archery. The Archery leader will be on hand to show you how to stand, hold the bow and fi re real arrows. So all you need to do is practice fi ring at the target to see if you can hit gold! This activity is for over 5s. No booking required www.painshill.co.uk

15th AUGUST, Gamegoer Country Display Day at Painshill Park, Cobham, KT11 1JE, 12 noon to 4pm. www.painshill.co.uk

22nd AUGUST, Busy Buzzy Bees at Painshill Park, Cobham, KT11 1JE, 12 noon to 4pm. Honey bees have been on this earth for 25 million years. Find out more about these fascinating insects and what you can do to help them.

You can also discover what bees produce and why are they important to us. Geoff the Beekeeper will be on hand to answer questions, all ages are welcome. www.painshill.co.uk

27th AUGUST, Night Safari at Bedfont Lakes Country Park, Clockhouse Lane, Bedfont, TW14 8QA, 8 to 10pm. Lots of things crawl and creep around at night so take a torch to surprise the shy night animals of Bedfont Lakes. £2 for adults, £1 for children and concessions. All children must be accompanied by a responsible adult. 0845 456 2796.

29th AUGUST, Family Discovery Day at Osterley Park and House, Jersey Road, Isleworth, TW7 4RB, 12 noon to 4pm. Call 020 8232 5050 for more details.

SUMMER SCHEMES19th to 23rd JULY and 9th to 13th AUGUST, Papercraft Workshops at Surbiton Assembly Rooms, 10am to 12 noon. For ages 6 to 10 years. Book on 07841 151325 www.papercraftclub.co.uk

26th JULY to 13th AUGUST, Summer Explorers at Painshill Park, Cobham, KT11 1JE, 9am to 4.30pm. Explore the great outdoors at Painshill Park. Each action-packed day brings a different adventure full of fun and discovery for children aged 8 to 12 years. £35 per day or £150 for 5 consecutive days. Book on 01932 868113.

27th and 29th JULY, Holiday Activities at Chertsey Museum, 33 Windsor Street, Chertsey, KT16 8AT, 11 to 12.30pm. For 5 to 12 year olds. Must be booked in advance 01932 565764, £4.50 per child. 2nd to 6th AUGUST, Stagecoach Staines learn excerpts from Hairspray and Glee, 10am to 4pm. For ages 4 to 17 years. Cost £135, £95 siblings, book on 0845 055 6356.

2nd to 6th AUGUST, Let’s Make a Show at Riverhouse, Manor Road, Walton, KT12 2PF, 10am to 4pm. For 8 to 13 year olds. The theme this year is War and Peace. Performance on fi nal day. Fee £135 (£110 each for siblings) Course run by Celia Andrews. For more details and to book, call 01932 226458 or 07956 974287.

16th AUGUST, Summer Holiday Bible Club at Duke Street Church, Richmond, 10.30am to 12.30pm. Call 020 8940 1551 for more details.

For cooking, drama, football, dance, sport and yoga (and more) summer workshops, please see pages 9 to 12.

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Families upon Thames is designed by Sarah Harmer and printed by Warners, in Lincolnshire. Copyright, Families upon Thames magazine 2010. Colour transparencies and any other original materials submitted for publication are sent at owner’s risk and, while every care is taken, neither Families nor it’s agents accept liability for loss or damage. Families upon Thames is part of the Families Group,

established in 1990 and headed by Families South West. All franchised magazines in the group are independently owned and operated under liscense. We take every care preparing this magazine but the publishers and distributors cannot be held responsible for the claims of the advertisers nor for the accuracy of the contents nor for any consequence.

DUBAI DUTY FREESHERGAR CUP

ASCOT RACECOURSE FAMILY DAY

SATURDAY 7TH AUGUSTFeaturing in concert after racing:

• Boy George • The Christians• Belinda Carlisle • Johnny Hates Jazz

• Midge Ure • Captain Sensible• China Crisis

Plus free family entertainmentthroughout the day.

Tickets from £25 per person. Fine dining packages from

£106 per person (inc. admission).

To book, call 0870 727 1234or visit ascot.co.uk

DUBAI DUTY FREEDUBAI DUTY FREEDUBAI DUTY FREEDUBAI DUTY FREESHERGAR CUPSHERGAR CUPSHERGAR CUP

ASCOT RACECOURSE FAMILY DAYASCOT RACECOURSE FAMILY DAY

SATURDAY 7TH AUGUSTSATURDAY 7TH AUGUSTFeaturing in concert after racing:Featuring in concert after racing:

• Boy George • The Christians• Boy George • The Christians• Boy George • The Christians• Belinda Carlisle • Johnny Hates Jazz• Belinda Carlisle • Johnny Hates Jazz• Belinda Carlisle • Johnny Hates Jazz

• Midge Ure • Captain Sensible• Midge Ure • Captain Sensible• Midge Ure • Captain Sensible• China Crisis • China Crisis

Plus free family entertainmentPlus free family entertainmentPlus free family entertainmentthroughout the day.throughout the day.

Tickets from £25 per person. Tickets from £25 per person. Fine dining packages fromFine dining packages from

£106 per person (inc. admission).£106 per person (inc. admission).

To book, call 0870 727 1234To book, call 0870 727 1234or visit ascot.co.uk

03800W61_80sDAY FamilyUponTham 180x130.indd 1 23/04/2010 10:24