Families London-Surrey Borders May/June 2024 issue

Brand-new nursery at Little Downsend Ashtead from September 2023, for babies and children aged 6 months - 2 years

Monthly payments and ‘pay as you go’ holiday club

Outstanding academic results, exceeding National averages by 18% for Writing, and 17% in Maths

Qualified and Specialist teachers providing creative, innovative teaching for even our littlest people

Shortlisted for Independent Pre-Prep of the Year 2022, and Finalist in the ISA Awards 2022 for Innovation in Independent Education

All four schools in the Downsend family recently rated ‘excellent in all areas’ by the Independent Schools Inspectorate

Our Little Downsend Schools, for children aged 6 months to 7 years, are located in Ashtead, Epsom and Leatherhead

Talk to our team to find out which school is right for your child or book a tour of our award winning nursery and pre-prep. Call 01372 372311, email admissions@downsend.co.uk or visit www.downsend.co.uk to find out more.

In this issue Contact us

Editor: Tamar Pearson

07537 141 998

tamar@families-lsb.co.uk

Design: Rebecca Carr rebecca@familiesmagazine.co.uk

Printed by: Buxton Press Ltd

Next issue: July/August

Booking deadline: 7 June

Families is a registered trademark of LCMB Ltd, Remenham House, Regatta Place, Marlow Road, Bourne End, Bucks SL8 5TD. The contents of this magazine are fully protected by copyright and none of the editorial or photographic matter may be reproduced in any form without prior consent of Families Print Ltd. Every care is taken in the preparation of this magazine but Families Print Ltd, its distributors, franchisees and LCMB Ltd cannot be held responsible for the claims of advertisers nor for the accuracy of the contents, or any consequences thereof.

From the editor...

Summer is on its way, along with all the colours that this time of year brings.

In this issue our What’s On is packed with half-term entertainment ideas from fun on the farm at Godstone Farm to Sutton S.T.E.A.M Fair taking place in June. We have a great selection of local family theatre for kids of all ages.

Summer holiday camps bookings are beginning to open, so we have selected a few of our favourites to share with you.

Swim England tells us about water safety and how to ensure your children are ready for the summer.

Happy reading and enjoy the warming weather.

Tamar

Navigating the ‘big little leap’ to school

No matter how well children are prepared for school, their transition to the classroom during the first few months plays a key role in their success, a new study suggests.

Researchers found that kids who made a more successful transition in the first ten to fourteen weeks of school scored higher than others on tests of academic and social-behavioural skills at the end of the school year.

Important parts of the transition - what the researchers called a ‘big little leap’ - included making new friends, learning to work with others and adapting to new academic demands.And a crucial finding was that this transition was important for all kids. ‘Transition difficulties hurt children’s development, regardless of the initial readiness skills that they entered with,’ said Jing Sun, lead author of the study from Ohio State University.

More info: www.bit.ly/BigLittleLeap

Walk to School Week

A generation ago, seventy percent of us walked to school – now it’s less than half. So, Walk to School Week was started to encourage more kids to get out of the car and walk to school.

Walk to School Week is held from 20 to 24 May and is organised by the UK charity Living Streets to celebrate the health and wellbeing benefits of walking.

Families will be encouraged to walk, cycle, scoot or Park and Stride to see the big differences that can come from small steps - from healthier and happier children who arrive refreshed, fit and ready to learn - to less congestion and fewer cars outside the school gates.

Download the Family Walk to School Kit, designed to help parents, carers and children make the walk to school work for them, by visiting www.livingstreets.org.uk/walk-to-school

The Children’s Trust School Parent Tours

Join The Children’s Trust School for a school tour and learn more the school and the support for children and young people aged 2-19 with a range of profound and multiple learning disabilities (PMLD) and complex education, health, therapy and care needs join us for a school tour.

Join The Children’s Trust School for a school tour and learn more the school and the support for children and young people aged 2-19 with a range of profound and multiple learning disabilities (PMLD) and complex education, health, therapy and care needs join us for a school tour.

Tours are with the headmistress, Launda Randles and are suitable for parents and carers interested in both day and residential school placements.

Tours are every half-term. The next tour is on Monday 13 May from 10.30am until 12pm. Places are limited so reserve your space now.

www.thechildrenstrust.org.uk/events

NHS to open new specialist clinics for obese children

Thousands more children and young people who are severely obese will receive intensive support from the NHS, with ten new specialist clinics set to open across England.

The new services will launch this year, bringing the total to thirty clinics able to provide expert help to children and their families which can prevent long term conditions including Type 2 diabetes.

Around three thousand obese children and young people aged between 2 and 18, will receive help to lose weight, treatment for complications as well as tailored care packages developed with their family, which could include diet plans, mental health care and coaching.

‘Obesity can lead to a string of serious illnesses such as cancer and diabetes – bringing a terrible human cost and also a real pressure on the NHS’ according to NHS Chief Executive Amanda Pritchard.

More info: www.england.nhs.uk

The Sleep Nanny Expert in Baby & Child Sleep

Tailor-made holistic solutions combining science with soul to support the development of healthy sleep.

You don’t need to muddle through parenthood in a haze. We are here to help guide you at every stage.

Contact us: 07391 501589

vickyscott@sleepnanny.co.uk vickyscott.sleepnanny.co.uk

Clean Air Day

Participating in National Clean Air Day on 20 June allows your family to contribute to the collective effort of improving air quality and creating a healthier environment.

Here are some impactful ways to get involved: Reduce Vehicle Emissions: Choose alternative modes of transportation such as walking, cycling, or using public transport whenever possible.

Support Clean Energy: Advocate for and support the transition to cleaner energy sources. Use energy-efficient appliances, promote renewable energy options and explore opportunities to reduce energy consumption in your home.

Plant Trees and Green Spaces: Participate in tree-planting initiatives or support organisations that focus on creating and maintaining green spaces in urban areas. Trees act as natural filters, absorbing pollutants and improving air quality.

Raise Awareness: Spread the word about National Clean Air Day through social media, local community groups and schools.

For FREE resources to help you get involved visit www.bit.ly/CleanAirDayUK

Family fun with National Children’s Gardening Week

This summer, why not get involved in National Children’s Gardening week?

Taking place from 25 May to 2 June, in the ‘warm’ half term at the end of May means that pretty much throughout the UK, children can plant all their favourite plants with less fear of weather damage or the need for complicated protective growing.

As well as simply good outdoor fun, gardening has been shown to have many benefits to health and wellbeing including being more physically active and feeling happier and more connected with the natural world.

There are many ways to get involved with National Children’s Gardening Week from DIY activities at home, to attending an event at a local garden centre.

More info: www.childrensgardeningweek.co.uk

Ashtead Ballet

One of the best things we can give to our children is confidence and attending a dance class is a great way to build it!

Maxine, principal of Ashtead Ballets comments, ‘’We’ve seen so many children who used to be shy develop into confident and able little dancers whilst having great fun, exercising and learning self-expression into the bargain. The biggest test of this newfound confidence is taking an exam or being part of our whole-school shows. It’s normal to be nervous but the sense of achievement afterwards is huge and a delight to see!‘’

Dancing is wonderful for boys and girls of all ages. Get in touch to find out what Ashtead Ballet can do for your child. FREE trial class and £5 off the first invoice with this ad.

To find out more, email maxine@ashteadballetschool.co.uk, call 07947 920343 or visit www.ashteadballetschool.co.uk

Open Farm Sunday

Open Farm Sunday on 9 June provides a unique opportunity for families to explore real working farms and learn more about the countryside.

Managed by LEAF (Linking Environment And Farming), this annual event allows families and individuals to witness daily farm activities, engage with passionate farmers and learn about sustainable practices.

Visitors can enjoy tractor-trailer rides, farm tours, nature trails, bug hunts, and even shop at farmers’ markets. The event bridges the gap between consumers and farmers, emphasising the importance of British agriculture.

To find a farm visit www.farmsunday.org

Meet your local nursery

September 2024 availability at Little Oak Pre-School

Little Oaks Pre-School, which is based in Hurst Green Community Centre are very pleased to announce that in their most recent Ofsted inspection, which took place in March 2024, were rated GOOD in the following areas:

Overall effectiveness; the quality of education; behaviour and attitudes; personal development and leadership and management.

Pupils attending Little Oaks enjoy is a large environment to play and learn in, both inside and outside and Forest School sessions take place every Friday.

Little Oaks are open 8.30am-3pm Monday to Friday (38 weeks per year) and take children from ages 2 to 4 years. They are based in Hurst Green Community Centre very close to the train station and have fully funded places (no top up fee).

For more information Email Sarah at Littleoaksunderfives1@gmail. com, call 07887527542 or visit www.littleoakshurstgreen.co.uk

Spaces available at Birdhurst Day Nursery

South Croydon based Birdhurst Day Nursery is blessed with a wonderful amount of outside space and have recently been developing a large Forest School area.

With the help of the trained practitioner, Birdhurst Day Nursery agree with the FSA that their weekly Forest School sessions develop ‘confidence and self-esteem through learner inspired, hands-on experiences in a natural setting’.

Children at Birdhurst love cooking marshmallows over the fire pit and helping plant herbs in the kitchen garden ready for their in-house chef to use in their tasty meals!

Birdhurst Day Nursery would love to welcome you to find out more and book a visit, so please contact them on birdhurst@ christianfamilyconcern.org.uk or 020 8681 3187.

Location: Pick-ups & drop-offs in the Putney, Southfields &

Email: Emily at admissions@ewellcastle.co.uk for

Embark on an enchanting journey with Little Elms

At Little Elms, you are joining a learning experience that fosters respect and compassion including a deeper appreciation for the wonders of nature.

Their early gardening club and Into the Woods Forest School programme guide children to explore, discover and learn from the outdoors. Budding botanists cultivate their green thumbs, nurturing flowers and harvesting vegetables like carrots and tomatoes. Through hands-on activities and playful adventures, little ones develop a connection with the environment, fostering curiosity, resilience and an appreciation for the natural world.

It’s not just about planting seeds - it’s about enquiring young minds and fostering a lifelong love for gardening and sustainability.

Elmhurst believe in providing a rounded education, where children thrive in a nurturing environment. Join them in creating cherished memories and laying the foundation for a bright and flourishing future.

Banstead Prep Nursery and Pre-School

The early years centre is where the educational journey begins for children at Banstead Prep. The youngest children fully embrace the freedom of independent learning through play within the structure of the prep school day.

Pre-school learning follows Banstead Prep’s future focussed curriculum, developed in partnership with Kingson University, designed to spark curiosity, support child led learning and develop future skills.

Each class is led by a qualified Early Years teacher, supported by a learning assistant providing bespoke support, stretch and challenge. The children also benefit from the full range of subject specialist teaching and facilities for which Banstead Prep is renowned, with the core timetable including PE, Music, Languages, STEM and Outdoor Learning.

For more information, contact Adrienne Forster, Head of Marketing and Admissions, email admissions@bansteadprep. com, call 01737 363600 or visit www.bansteadprep.com/visit

The Children’s Trust School is a non-maintained special school.

We support children and young people aged 2-19 with a range of profound and multiple learning disabilities and complex education, health, therapy and care needs.

School tour dates every half term

At Downsend, you’re never too young to be ‘Future Ready’

Downsend School is an independent nursery and through-school, providing an innovative and future-focused education to boys and girls from 6 months through to 16 years old, at their four sites in Ashtead, Epsom and Leatherhead.

Feeding into the main school, children from 6 months to 7 years can attend one of three Little Downsend schools, which provide a nurturing and stimulating educational start for little people with big ideas. Built on the ethos of nurture, innovation, and high standards, and supported by experienced and passionate teachers, these schools are tied together by the Downsend vision;

‘To inspire a generation to embrace the future, shaping incredible people who will make change in our world’.

All four schools in the Downsend family have recently been rated ‘excellent in all areas’ by the Independent Schools Inspectorate.

Visit www.downsend.co.uk to find out more or call 01372 372311 to arrange a tour.

Birdhurst Day Nursery

Birdhurst Day Nursery is run by Christian Family Concern, a registered Charity Founded in 1893.

At Birdhurst Day Nursery we care for children aged between 3 months – 5 years and follow the government’s Early Years Foundation stage curriculum, enabling every child to progress.

Our Christian values underpin our outlook, ethos and the care given to everyone that comes through our doors.

We offer:

“Pupils

flourish at this school.”

Ofsted, September 2023

Visit our website to find out more and book your place 01737 365 000 thechildrenstrust.org.uk/school Tadworth Court, Surrey KT20 5RU

• Open 51 weeks of the year (except bank holidays) 8am–6pm

• Child initiated learning encouraged

• Daily updates via Family App

• Large fully equipped garden with forest school area

• Sensory room

• Weekly extracurricular activities

• Fully qualified staff with regular training

• Freshly cooked meals prepared by our onsite Chef

Contact us on 020 8688 0251 www.christianfamilyconcern.org.uk

Involving your kids in social action

By Anoushka Freeman

In a world where compassion and empathy are invaluable qualities, parents play a crucial role in shaping their children into responsible and caring individuals. Engaging in social action with your children helps to instil these lifelong values and more. Plus it can be a great way to spend quality family time. Here’s how you can meaningfully involve your kids in social action.

Never too young to talk

Start conversations early. While young children might not grasp complex global issues, introducing the concept of kindness, empathy and helping others sets the foundation for a compassionate mindset. Use age-appropriate language and share stories that illustrate the power of positive actions.

Maximise everyday kindness

Use everyday activities. Teach your children the significance of small acts that make a difference, like picking up litter or turning off lights. These simple actions help normalise active citizenship.

Lead by example

Children learn best through example. Showcase the values you want to instil by actively participating in social action yourself. Whether giving to a charity, helping a neighbour or volunteering your time, your actions provide a powerful model for your kids to emulate. Wherever possible, take the opportunity to include your children in the activity. For example, if you are donating to charity, explain why you chose the charity and what impact your donation may have.

Explore different ways to help

Expose your children to a variety of social action opportunities such as going on litter picks or writing to MPs about causes they care about. This not only broadens their understanding of societal needs but also allows them to discover where their passions lie in making a positive impact.

Empower children to choose

Invite your children to choose a cause that resonates with them. Support them in researching, investigating and exploring different areas of interest. This empowers them to take ownership of their social action and enhances their critical thinking skills.

Commit to it

Establish a dedicated time for social action in your family routine. This commitment can be reinforced through accountability

measures, such as creating a charity jar that accumulates funds in response to helping with chores around the house. This encourages consistency and also reinforces the value of sharing one’s time, treasure and talent to help others.

Make traditions

Incorporate social action into family traditions. Whether it’s creating Christmas shoeboxes, donating to a food bank or including a charity birthday wish list, these traditions instil a sense of purpose and giving that extends beyond individual actions.

Reflect and celebrate

Social action should not be a one-off event. Keep the conversation alive by discussing ongoing initiatives and celebrating their impact. This continuous dialogue helps children understand the long-term impact of their actions.

Spending time working towards a shared goal is a brilliant way to strengthen family connection. When that shared goal helps others, such as in the case of social action, you are also helping to nurture compassionate, responsible and socially aware individuals. These values will last for life; research shows that young people who engage in meaningful social action are twice as habitually philanthropic in later life.

So by following these practical steps, you are actively shaping the next generation of change-makers!

Anoushka Freeman represents www.superkind.org, the social action and charity platform for young people who want to be change-makers. Find free resources to help young people learn, be inspired and get empowered to make a positive difference to their communities and the world.

Learning to swim

Learning to swim is the only physical activity which can save your life.

In recognition of this, all schools must provide swimming lessons in Key Stage 1 or 2 (ages 5 to 11), as a statutory sport within the Physical Education (PE) curriculum.

In particular, pupils should be taught to perform safe self-rescue in different water-based situations; swim competently, confidently and proficiently over a distance of AT LEAST 25 metres and use a range of strokes effectively, for example, front crawl, backstroke and breaststroke.

However, Swim England recommends that your child doesn’t give up on regular private swimming lessons once they start swimming with school as these are crucial to their continued development and ultimately safety.

The aim of school swimming and water safety lessons during PE are to teach your child to be safe in and around water, with the emphasis on water safety.

At private lessons, your child will be taught more in-depth skills and techniques than they will at school. Regular private lessons progress way past the minimum national curriculum requirements and your child continues their aquatic education towards an active and healthy future.

What will my child learn during school swimming?

As well as learning to swim the basic strokes, your child will learn how to be safe around different water environments eg beaches, lakes, canals. Your child will be taught how the skills they learn in their swimming lessons can be used in an emergency situation.

Your role

As a parent, guardian or carer you play a vital role in encouraging your child to swim and learn about water safety, survival and lifesaving. You can help

your child grow their water confidence through enjoying fun family swimming sessions together and also talking about water safety know-how.

Make sure your child has everything they need to take part in their swimming lessons and also find out what their current attainment level is and what they should be achieving.

Do you home school your children? According to latest BBC figures, homeschooling in the UK has increased forty percent in the past three years.

Swim England recommends your child completes the Swim England School Swimming and Water Safety Charter, to be competent and confident in all water environments and proficient in all the swimming strokes.

This will ensure they can swim the minimum required twenty-five metres by the time they would normally leave primary school. Swim England also suggests enrolling them on regular lessons that follow the Swim England Learn to Swim Programme, as well as participating in water safety campaigns such as Swim Safe. Talk to your local lesson providers about the potential for taking part in bespoke school swimming lessons.

Visit www.swimming.org or www.gov. uk/national-curriculum for further information.

Hello from PoolSchools

Since 2006, we’ve been dedicated to teaching essential water skills to children and adults. With 12 pools and over 3000 swimmers, we are a big family of water lovers!

The qualified team ensures each lesson is safe and enjoyable. Our AquaQuack swim scheme focuses on safety, confidence, breathing and techniquenot just distance. We offer small class sizes, themed lessons and teachers in the water in non-swimmer levels. With term-time lessons, short courses and holiday crash courses available.

Whether you’re a beginner or aiming for perfect strokes, PoolSchools welcomes you to dive in and learn with us.

Find out more at poolschools.co.uk/ contact

Term time and holiday crash courses!

Small classes, teachers in the water, FREE parking & fun, themed lessons!

We have pools in Reigate, Epsom, Esher, Oxted and Worcester Park.

Summer Holiday Camp Bookings NOW Open

London TKD Fast Track Summer Camps

29 July–9 August

Coulsdon and Epsom www.london-tkd.co.uk

Every aspect of the camp day is designed to have kids play, meet new friends, socialize, sweat, and have fun, as well as have some of the benefits about learning about some of the mental and physical benefits of martial arts.

“London TKD’s holiday camp was more than just martial arts training; it was a journey of growth for our children. They gained a new belt and invaluable life skills in discipline and perseverance. Our daughter and son came home smiling every day!”

Phil Worsfield - Parent

The Zone Holiday Club

15 July–16 August

Banstead Prep School

www.thezonebanstead.co.uk

Are your kids ready to get into The Zone? This action-packed holiday club is the place to be in Banstead! Led by school staff, you can rest assured your children will be safe while you work or have a ‘me’ day! Children from all schools are welcome.

“My 9 and 7-year-olds said this camp was the best they have been to. This was despite not knowing any other children attending. They particularly loved swimming every day, the bouncy castles and making cakes” Katy B – Parent.

Camp Glide, Surrey’s favourite action-packed multi-activity day camp

Venues across Surrey www.campglide.co.uk

Camp Glide’s multi-activity day camps provide fun-filled and affordable childcare during the school holidays for school-aged children. A typical day includes free play, a range of clinics for campers to choose from, swimming and one of our exciting all-camp activities, so you can be safe in the knowledge that your child is having a great time!

‘’My son loves it! The staff are fantastic with him and the children have a really varied programme to choose from.” Holiday Club Parent.

LCA’s Musical Theatre Summer Workshop

29 July–2 August

Oxted School, Eden Hall https://bit.ly/3UB2lEd

Split into age groups, performers who join for the 5-day workshop learn songs, scenes and dances form different musicals, ending with a demonstration performance for friends and family on the final day. Suitable for ages 6-18.

“Amazing teachers who work incredibly hard to get the best out of the young people they work with! The passion and commitment they bring to every session is reflected in each and every youngster there. So glad we found our LCA family!”

Summer Music School Holiday Camps

8 July–24 August

Kingswood Surrey Music, Tadworth www.kingswoodsurreymusic.co.uk/ ksm-camp-enrol

Learn to play musical instruments, sing, and create songs.

Group Music lessons: Designed for children aged 4-6, introducing basic musical concepts and instrument handling in small groups of 3-5 children covering Ukulele, Violin, Keyboard, Recorder and Drums on different days.

FREE 1-1 Music Lessons: Customised for children aged 7 and above.

Engage in Dance, Drama and Performing Arts on stage.

Band and Choir opportunities.

Friday Field Trips.

£35 per day and 50% sibling discounts.

Animal School Holiday Camps

See website for available dates

Betchworth www.kidscritters.co.uk

Experience a holiday camp like no other! Critters from across the globe with a forest school theme in a safe private country setting. Come along for cuddles, to chillout and learn something new!

Swimming Crash Courses

24 July & 24 August

Reigate, Epsom and Worcester Park www.poolschools.co.uk

Find out more about 4-day swimming Crash Courses - a perfect activity for the summer holidays, especially in our outdoor pools! Have fun and boost your confidence in the water! 4 x Sessions from £45.00

Centre Manager Salome Ozgoli

First Class Learning Carshalton 07957 966 316 carshalton@firstclasslearning.co.uk www.firstclasslearning.co.uk/carshalton

Centre Manager Hima Thatavarty First Class Learning Morden 07766 837 379 morden@firstclasslearning.co.uk www.firstclasslearning.co.uk/morden

Dunottar Saturday Music Academ

Calling all young aspiring musicians aged 5 -18

All abilities welcome from beginners to more experienced musicians.

The Academy operates from 8.30am to 3.00pm on Saturdays. Lesson times are arranged between the teacher and pupil. Music Tuition

Strings: Violin, Viola and Cello

Woodwind: Flute, Clarinet and Saxophone

Piano, Voice and Music Theory

What's On Your family guide to

Weekends and Holidays

Kids for a Quid and Family Events

Bluebell Railway, TN22 3QL www.bluebell-railway.com

Fantastic value for all the family at The Bluebell Railway who will be running Kids for A Quid Travel Offer to all of their services during weekends and school holidays throughout 2024. Any child (3-15 years) can travel on the railway for just £1 with any fare paying Adult. May Half Term Events – Go online for more details.

25-26 May Circus Skills

27 May Sparkel Day

8–9 June Paw Patrol

15–16 June Dinosaurs

Every Fri & Wed Trails and Tales

Gatton Park, RH2 0TW www.gattonpark.co.uk

Enjoy the story and go for a walk in the park to bring the story to life. Return to create artwork linked to the story.

5 May-Sep

Park Yoga at Box Hill Box Hill, KT20 7LB www.nationaltrust.org.uk/boxhill

The National Trust and Park Yoga are delighted to bring Park Yoga to Box Hill every Sunday throughout the summer. Park Yoga aims to connect people to the natural outdoors through relaxing, energising yoga sessions. Everyone is welcome, no registration required, accompanied children welcome. All sessions are led by a qualified local instructor. FREE.

9.30-10.30am

13 May, 3 Jun & 1 Jul

Little Explorers Kew Gardens, Richmond, TW9 3AE www.kew.org

Fun, hands-on ninety minute learning session. Ages 2-5.

18 May

Plant Swap and Sale

Manor Park, SM1 4AF

The Friends of Sutton Parks are holding a Plant Swap & Sale from 10.30am to 1.30pm. There will also be fun family activities and free wildlife gardening advice on offer.

Sat 18 May, 10am-4pm

Wellbeing and Artisan Market

Hindhead Commons and the Devil’s Punch Bowl, GU26 6AB www.nationaltrust.org.uk/ hindhead-commons-and-thedevils-punch-bowl

In collaboration with Surrey Hills Enterprises, enjoy a day of wellbeing and connection with nature. Try yoga and mindfulness sessions and browse the artisan stalls selling a selection of food, drink and arts and crafts. FREE.

18 May

Cheam Charter Fair Whitehall Historic House, SM3 8QD www.events.sutton.gov.uk

Uncover the secrets and history of Cheam Village with guided tours by passionate volunteers and visit Lumley Chapel to find out more about its captivating history. FREE.

19 May

Back to Baby - Spring to Spring Henrietta Wayne, Violin & Karen Glen, Harpsichord

Redhill URC, RH1 6AU www.bachtobaby.com

Bach to Baby is the acclaimed

Dig, plant and play at at RHS Garden Wisley

From 25 May to 2 June, the Royal Horticultural Society (RHS) plans to plant a lifelong adventure with gardening by inviting young visitors to RHS Garden Wisley in Surrey to dig, plant and play at the Family Gardening Festival.

In collaboration with Burgon & Ball and their ‘Growing Gardeners’ range of tools and accessories for family gardening, there will be a mix of fun activities for young visitors, including crafts, planting sessions and a garden adventure trail.

Find out more at www.bit.ly/RHSFamily

Family Gardening Festival at RHS Wisley

concert series for the whole family to enjoy together. Featuring outstanding musicians and exhilarating performances in inspiring venues.

24 May–21 July

Adventure Cinema Polesden Lacey, KT23 4PZ www.nationaltrust.org.uk/ polesdenlacey

24 May Top Gun (12A)

25 May Grease Sing-along (PG)

26 May Bridget Jones Diary (15)

19 July Dirty Dancing (12)

20 July Mamma Mia! (PG);

21 July Back to the Future (PG). Gates open 8pm. Film starts 9:30pm

25–27 May

Medieval Festival – A Skirmish Arundel Castle, BN18 9AB www.arundelcastle.org

Set during the 15th century, the Royal Family of Plantagenets have split the country into a civil war, known to history as The Wars of the Roses. This three-day event portrays a Lancastrian raiding party engaging with Yorkist forces beneath the mighty castle at Arundel.

25–30 May

Spring Holiday Trail & Crafts: The Mole and The Mushroom Penshurst Place & Gardens, TN11 8DG www.penshurstplace.com

Follow the story of the Mole and

the Mushroom on a storyboard walk through a Woodland Trail, before heading to The Old Coach House to have a go at some woodland-themed crafts!

25 May-2 June

Family Gardening Festival RHS Wisley, GU23 6QB www.bit.ly/RHSFamily

This May half term plant a lifelong adventure with gardening by visiting the Family Gardening Festival at RHS Garden Wisley, in collaboration with Burgon & Ball. There will be a mix of fun activities including crafts, planting sessions and a garden adventure trail. Normal garden admission applies – FREE for RHS Members.

25 May–Sun 2 June

May Half-Term Butterfly Trail

Hatchlands Park, GU4 7RT www.nationaltrust.org.uk/ hatchlands-park

Pick up your free spotting sheet and see how many butterflies you can see dancing in the meadow and parkland. There’ll also be some colourful wooden butterflies to spot too! NAA.

25 May

Children’s Storytelling Leith Hill Place, RH5 6LU www.nationaltrust.org.uk/visit/ surrey/leith-hill

Join local author Marielle Bayliss in the library at Leith Hill Place and hear all about Frogs Bogs.

Experience the ultimate backto-nature adventure!

Immerse yourself in the great outdoors with natural crafts, a barefoot walk and the chance to create your very own worm farm to take home at Godstone Farm.

Encounter a variety of animals, from furry friends to feathered companions and explore both indoor and outdoor play areas. Enjoy hands-on activities whilst reconnecting with the beauty of the natural world. Enjoy an unforgettable experience that celebrates the wonder of farm life and nature.

Find out more at www.godstonefarm.co.uk

A fun session aimed at 2-6 years with lots of jokes, activities and laughter! NAA

25 May–2 June

Mini Golf

Polesden Lacey, KT23 4PZ www.nationaltrust.org.uk/ polesdenlacey

Just over 100 years ago, in 1923, Bertie and Elizabeth (later King George VI and Queen Elizabeth) began their honeymoon at Polesden Lacey and enjoyed a game of golf in the gardens. Try your hand at a real game of pop-up honeymoon inspired minigolf.

25 May-Sun 2 June

Garden Friends Half-Term Trail Claremont Landscape Garden, KT10 9JG www.nationaltrust.org.uk/ claremont-landscape-garden Claremont have teamed up with local children’s author, Rachel Lawston, to create a gardenthemed nature trail. They’ll be bringing Rachel’s beautifully illustrated books, Finn’s Garden Friends and Mia Makes a Meadow, to life with fun games and activities around the lake that will help inspire and form deeper connections with nature. £3 per trail including a specially branded Finn’s Garden Friends Kabloom seedbomb to take home. On 2 June enjoy Garden Friends Storytelling with Rachel Lawston at 10.30am, 11.30am & 2pm.

25 May–1 June

Horrible Histories – Rotten

Royals

Hampton Court Palace KT8 9AU

www.hrp.org.uk/hampton-courtpalace

See the much-loved books brought to life at Henry VIII’s famous palace.

25 May–2 June

Superhero’s Week Bocketts Farm, KT22 9BS www.bockettsfarm.co.uk

Brush up your Superhero skills at Bocketts Superhero Academy this half term. Meet Spider-man and the Ice Queen and Complete your superhero look with a visit to our fab face painters whilst enjoying all the farm animals and farmyard activities.

25 May–2 June

Art Week

Hever Castle & Gardens, TN8 7NG

www.hevercastle.co.uk

Become an artist for the day and depict the Castle or gardens in any style, take part in a free art challenge or be inspired by the artists in the grounds.

25 May–23 June

Bugs and Butterflies Trail Painshill, KT11 1JE www.painshill.co.uk

Be a nature explorer and find all bugs and butterflies hidden around Painshill.

26 May, 11am, 1pm & 3pm

Clay Workshops

Leith Hill Place, RH5 6LU www.nationaltrust.org.uk/visit/ surrey/leith-hill

Local artist Karen Pearson will guide you in creating your own little clay bird, a perfect addition to any garden or windowsill. £16 adult, £11 child (5 yrs + and accompanied by an adult). Booking essential.

27 May

Fairy Tale Treasure Hunt Gatton Park, RH2 0TW www.gattonpark.co.uk

Join characters from well-known fairy tales and children’s favourites and follow their clues in a treasure hunt around the magical grounds of Gatton Park. Ideal for families and younger children – the route through the park is easy for pushchairs.

27–31 May, 11am-5pm

Celebrating Surrey Stars Dapdune Wharf, GU1 4RR www.nationaltrust.org.uk/riverwey-and-godalming-navigationsand-dapdune-wharf

From E.H.Shepherd and Winniethe-Pooh to Alan Turing and Steve Backshall and even Dame Judi Dench, these are just some of the talented people with Surrey connections. Follow in their footsteps this half term as you take part in challenges, solve puzzles and enjoy themed arts and crafts in the boat house. FREE.

27 May & 9 June

Surrey S.M.E Open Day

Leatherhead www.ssme.co.uk

Join Surrey S.M.E for their open day and enjoy rides on their steam & electric.

From 31 May

The Paddington Bear Experience Southbank SE1 7PB www.paddingtonbearexperience. com

Help Paddington and the Brown family prepare for a very special Marmalade Day Festival! Board the full-sized train carriage to start a journey filled with the sights and sounds of London, fairground games, dancing and marmalade!

1 June

Mayfield Lavender Farm

1 Carshalton Road, SM7 3JA www.mayfieldlavender.com

Mayfield lavender farm in Banstead will open in June and the flowers will bloom from mid/ end of June to the mid/end of Aug, weather dependent.

1 & 29 June, 11-11.30am

Children’s Storytelling Leith Hill Place, RH5 6LU www.nationaltrust.org.uk/visit/ surrey/leith-hill

Join local author, Tina Talbot, for a reading from her book, ‘The Powerful Pollinators: Day and Night’ aimed at 7-10 year olds. Tina has written a series of books that she hopes will engage children in nature and inspire a lifelong reverence for our planet. NAA.

Family Gardening Festival

Dive

2 June

Picnic in the Park Gatton Park, RH2 0TW www.gattonpark.co.uk

Celebrate the start of summer with a picnic on the parterre, or take your hamper to the lakeside or Japanese garden. Children’s activities including croquet, skipping, hoops, Jenga and other traditional games. The park will be fully open to explore, with walks around the rock garden, Japanese garden, lakes and more. Refreshments including tea, coffee and cake available in Gatton Hall, or to take away. There will also be a small plant sale. Guided tours.

3, 12, 19, 26 June & 3, 10, 17 July

Story Explorers

Polesden Lacey, KT23 4PZ

www.nationaltrust.org.uk/ polesdenlacey

Story Explorers’ aims to engage your little ones with nature through stories and fun activities. The session is in the tipi in Crab Apple Orchard and finishes by 12 at the latest.

7-9 June

South of England Show

South England Show Ground, RH17 6TL

www.seas.org.uk

A non-stop programme of agricultural and equestrian displays, country pursuits, live entertainment, rural crafts and a variety of food, drink and shopping.

15-16 June

Father’s Day Weekend and Cars at the Castle

Hever Castle & Gardens, TN8 7NG

www.hevercastle.co.uk

Come along to Hever Castle’s Car Event ‘Cars at the Castle ‘on Father’s Day weekend and you will discover a variety of cars.

22-23 June

Home Front

Hever Castle & Gardens, TN8 7NG

www.hevercastle.co.uk

Meet reenactors from the US Army, get up close to a replica Spitfire and find out more about the food from the 1940s when rationing was in place. Enjoy toe tapping music from DJ Jivin Jim Dandy in the dance tent, join in with singer Stephanie Bell or browse stalls selling vintage wares. Visit the Kent Model boat display stand or watch them sail around the Inner Moat.

22-23 June

Barnes Literature Festival

Barnes Green, SW13

www.barneskidslitfest.org

London’s largest kids’ books party is returning in real life this June. Don’t miss this excellent event!

23 June

London Bus Museum Summer Festival

Brooklands Museum, KT13 0SL www.londonbusmuseum.com

Fun and entertainment for families with rides, activities and food.

29-30 June & 6-7 July

Carshalton Artists Open Streets www.carshaltonartists.com

Carshalton Artists is a fantastic event showcasing local artists work, a chance to purchase original art works and activities for the kids.

30 June

Oxted Pram Race

www.oxtedpramrace.co.uk

Help raise money for local causes and have lot’s fun in the process. Dress in fancy dress and push a pram from Master Park to The Bell in Old Oxted High Street, whilst stopping at seven licensed premises on the way and down a drink as fast as you can.

6 July

6–7 July

Medieval Festival Weekend

Arundel Castle, BN18 9AB www.arundelcastle.org

Family-friendly weekend event will be set in 1474. The festival takes place in the grounds of Arundel Castle, where visitors can explore a tented encampment and see demonstrations of historical crafts, including forging, cooking, leather work, as well as combat, falconry and the Knights and archery tournament.

7 July Gatton Country Fair

Gatton Park, RH2 0TW

www.gattonpark.co.uk

Banstead Rotary Village Fair Bantead, SM7 2NG

A community fair for local charities and organisations to meet the public, network with each other and raise funds for their organisations.

WEEK

The highlight of our calendar, and a great day out for the whole family. Enjoy animal displays including falconry, water rescue dogs and reptiles, a fun dog show, live music, pony and tractor rides, country crafts, circus skills, Punch and Judy and small children’s fairground rides. A wide range of market stalls and food and drink concessions – including BBQ and Pilgrim beer tent.

Would you like to advertise your business in our next issue? BOOK TODAY Email tamar@families-LSB.co.uk

Family fun day atSutton S.T.E.A.M Fair this June

Sutton S.T.E.A.M Fair is back on Saturday 22 June from 11am.

Get back in touch with nature this half term with natural crafts, barefoot walks, painting with nature, plus make and take home your very own worm farm!

Enjoy a host of science, technology, engineering, arts/culture and Mathematics exhibitors on Sutton High Street and in Manor Park. With performances, experiments, building, floristry, zorbing, BMX Display team, pottery, live PA from The Marsden Radio, food stalls and The Northend Market there are FREE activities for all ages.

For more information visit www.enjoysutton.co.uk or follow on social media @enjoysutton

What's On Your family guide to Children’s Theatre

The Horton KT19 8NP www.thehortonepsom.org

30 May Coogh, Coogh

Choogh Choogh is a family-friendly show inspired by the joy for travelling through India on a train. It combines classical Indian dance with contemporary movement, theatre and play, sharing with audiences a world full of colour, invention and flow.

18 June

The Giraffe Who Wouldn’t Bath Adventure with Gerald on his hilarious sticky-icky journey while he discovers what happens when you don’t have a bath. Inventive, interactive and above all, creative play for your little ones to enjoy. 0-5s.

Dorking Halls RH4 1SG www.dorkinghalls.co.uk

27 May

Fireman Sam: The Great Camping Adventure

When two famous animal explorers arrive in Pontypandy, Norman decides to follow them into the mountains. But when Norman discovers a rare red squirrel, one of the explorers decides to take the glory for themselves, leaving Norman stranded in a cave.

29 May

Comedy Club 4 Kids

Since 2005, the Comedy Club 4 Kids has been getting the best stand-ups and sketch acts from the international circuit to do their thing for an audience of children and their families… but without the rude bits!

Epsom Playhouse KT18 5AL www.epsomplayhouse.co.uk

29 May Nick Cope Family Show

Nick sings his uniquely crafted songs while playing his guitar accompanied by a backdrop of Nick’s beautifully animated projections. Nick has a way of reaching into people’s hearts with songs of the everyday, igniting children’s imagination in an organic, unpatronizing, educational and fun way.

2 June

Science Museum Live

Join London’s world-renowned Science Museum as they bring you this brand-new stage production aimed at igniting your curiosity, fuelling your imagination,and inspiring you in new and exciting ways.

The Leatherhead Theatre KT22 8DN www.theleatherheadtheatre.com

26 May

Amazing Animals

If you love animals, then you are going to love this show. A show dedicated to and celebrating all creatures great and small. The only show around that you get to see Life sized crocodiles, Sloths, Reindeer, dinosaurs, penguins, Orangutans and maybe even a spraying skunk bursting out onto the stage right before your very eyes.

The heart-warming show packed full of music, comedy and amazing animal effects is suited to all ages from toddlers to older grownups. The perfect family show for all ages to enjoy.

Fairfeild Halls CR9 1DG www.fairfield.co.uk

1 June

Exiting Science

This brand new, exciting and educational show will amaze and astound all ages from 4 years and upwards, as we put the ‘Exciting’ back into ‘Science’. With fun and fact filled experiments, watch in amazement as we recreate a volcanic eruption; turn a vacuum cleaner into a missile launcher or take aim at you with our smoke blaster!

8–9 June

Peppa Pig’s Fun Day Out

Prepare to sing and dance with colourful scarecrows, feed the penguins, build big sandcastles, and even swim in the sea! Packed full of songs, dance and muddy puddles, Peppa’s Fun Day Out guarantees giggles and snorts for all Peppa fans.

Polka Theatre SW19 1SB www.polkatheatre.com

11 May–9 June

The Colour of Dinosaurs

A rip-roaring, prehistoric science pop gig for curious humans of all ages. Join five amazing musicians and famous palaeontologist Dr Jakob Vinther as they enter the multicoloured world of the dinosaurs with soaring music, catchy songs and mind-blowing science. P.S. Bring your own dinosaur! Ages 6–12.

15–19 May

Claytime

Come to a place where the earth’s natural material meets with children’s imaginations: a world of fabulous forms, amazing animals and morphing monsters. Each Claytime is totally unique - creating its own world, characters and stories drawn directly from its young audience. Truly, interactive theatre at its most engaging. Ages 3–6.