A to Z

*Please note, lots of these activities and services I haven't personally checked out so don't take the entries as automatic endorsements. Buyer beware!

Golders Hill Park: North End Rd. This lovely park is on the edge of Hampstead and Golders Green and while it is possible to walk from Belsize Park/Hampstead, the 268 bus lands you at the front gates. As well as open spaces, the park also has formal flower gardens, a little zoo, butterfly house, duck ponds, a well-maintained playground/sandpit and very nice cafe. Their ice cream is the best in North London. (NB butterfly house currently shut for lack of inmates.)

Kentish Town Farm: 1 Cressfield Close, NW5 4BN. 0207 916 5421. Open 9-5, seven days a week. Visit the pigs, cows, chickens, horses, ducks etc. in their (sort of) natural setting. The numerous train tracks are also a big plus. Pony rides on Saturday and Sunday at 1pm. About a 20 minute walk from Belsize Park Tube station (C11 drops you not far off) and it's a bit tricky to find so consult a map before setting off.

London Zoo: Regent's Park www.zsl.org. Opens at 10 am and closes either at 4:30 or 5:30 depending on the season. The zoo also has a good-size play-park, a merry-go-round and other amusements when children tire of looking at animals. Bouncy castle every day during the summer. The indoor reptile house, the web-of-life insect room and the small aquarium are also good choices when the weather is not cooperating. Not cheap but if you think you'll go more than 3 times in a year (you probably will), inquire about the yearly pass. Public transport a bit of a toughie from Belsize Park but it is walkable.

Airplanes: The Royal Airforce Museum (www.rafmuseum.org.uk). I have lost count how many times I've visited the RAF Museum in Hendon. Hundreds of jet fighters, bi-planes, helicopters and a whole area dedicated to children. It's about a 15 minute drive from NW3 or a 7 minute walk from Colindale Underground station on the Edgware branch of the Northern Line, (5 stops from Belsize Park tube station.) They have special half-term activities -- check the website for details and directions.

Ante-Natal Classes:

Juliet Albert: private ante-natal and breastfeeding classes. A local mum and a midwife for 15 years; at Queen Charlotte's hospital 3 days a week. www.midwifeonline.co.uk or call 07730 970 738.

Ruth Tamir, a National Childbirth Trust-trained advisor and Lactation Consultant (IBCLC), runs 6-week "Birth and Beyond Childbirth Education" and labour workshops from her home on Lawn Road. Contact her on ruth.tamir@virgin.net about five months before you're due. Ruth also runs breastfeeding workshops. www.birthandbeyondbirth.com

Surestart (surestart.kentishtown@camden.gov.uk, 0207 974 8961) also runs ante-natal classes.

Art classes and art activities:

Crafty Kids: (Debbie@dbourne.wanadoo.co.uk or 0207 483 1550 or 079101 24359) Art workshops for ages 2-4 on Tuesday and Thursday mornings 9:30 -1 pm and Wednesday afternoons at 3:45- 6:15 up to aged 6. Run by Ofsted-approved childcare provider. Debbie builds rockets and paints with toothbrushes, makes glove monsters and pasta jewelry. Also has holiday and half-term club.

Creativewizkids: (www.creativewizkids.com) St Lukes Church Kidderpore Ave. NW3 7SU. Playgroups, mother and toddler groups, birthday parties, after-school activites and holiday clubs, focusing on painting and music.

Culture Kids: (www.culture-kids.com) Mia Holman
Telephone: 020 8540 4203. Arts and crafts -- small classes held at the Pizza Express on Heath Street in Hampstead. Babies to 4. My sons really enjoyed it and if you have a baby and a toddler, it's one of the few activities you can all do together. Term-time only. The 46 and the 268 stop close by.

Gymboree: (O2 Centre, Finchley Rd. 0207 794 8719) Art, music and movement classes for children and parents from birth to 5. 268, C11 and 46 busses drop you close by or right in front. Classes throughout the year.

Sunshine Play Group (www.sunshineplaygroup.com) 37A Broadhurst Gardens, NW6 3QT: Not far from O2 center on the Finchley Rd. (C11 bus stop 2 minutes away.) 12 months and up. Has 2 hour sessions that combine free play with arts and crafts and music. Drop off or drop in depending on age. Also runs baking sessions and holiday sessions. Contact Agnieszka at info@sunshineplaygroup.com or 0207 7328 0713

Associations and Organisations:

The Anna Freud Centre: (21 Maresfield Gardens, London Nw3 5SD) Research centre for childrens' development. They're always looking for volunteers for various projects, like infants' interpretation of facial expressions. While I've never been, friends have said they enjoyed participating -- and the Centre has great toys. Call 0207 443 2208 for information.

Hampstead Women's Club (www.hwcinlondon.co.uk) Not-for-profit group that organizes activities and interest groups. A good place to meet people, particularly from North America, if you just arrived from out-of-town or are new to this neighbourhood.

Surestart (surestart.kentishtown@camden.gov.uk, 0207 974 8961): Government organization that supports families with children under 3 with play groups, creches, activies and other services. Has a Dad playgroup. Particularly good if you live near or in Kentish Town or Camden. surestartkentishtown@camden.gov.uk

Tufnell Park Parents Support Group (www.tppsg.org) Great resource for people living in that area. Their website has lots of good articles on childcare.

Ballet: also see "Dance"

First Steps Dance: ( www.firststepsdance.info ) Recommended by one mother for not being too "angelina-ballerina like." Pre-school ballet held at the Royal Free Hospital Recreation Club on Fleet Rd. Phone Miss Kit or Miss Sue on 07904 93166 or 0208 926 4012.

Pleasing School of Ballet: Jo Wellings, pleasingdevelopments@supanet.com or 0207 722 1829.

Rona Hart School of Dance and Drama: Rosslyn Hall , Willoughby Rd, NW3 Phone 020-7435 7073

Hampstead Ballet School: Ballet classes for kids 3+ as well as adults at various venues in NW3. Particularly recommended by one mother. For more info, call Ana on 0207 794 8107 or 0776458 7851 or balletballet@hotmail.com.

Solomons School of Performing Arts: 25 Pond Street Street "The Armory" Ballet, jaz, tap from age 3. www.solomonsschoolofperformingarts.com 07780550161 amisolomons@aol.co.uk. Classes start in September.

Swiss Cottage School of Dance: Ballet classes for ages 2 and up at the Swiss Cottage Community Centre on Saturdays. Call Angelina 01932 350 444

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Beauty Massage and Fitness services that come straight to you. Professional massage, facials, manicures & pedicures, hair and makeup in your home. Reserve your well deserved me-time. www.returntoglory.co.uk 0207 7993 8063

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Birthdays:

Bouncy Castles: Bouncy castles, soft play gym and ball pits, gladiator duals (for children and adults over the age of 10) and giant garden games including Connect 4 and Jenga. Hampstead-based. For further info please log onto our website at www.kids-rule.co.uk, email us at kidsrule2007@yahoo.co.uk or phone 07949 454048/07908 368685.

Helpers and party planners: Dream Catchers: For themed parties, face painting, balloons, cakes, artwork, dancing, singing and all-around helping at reasonable rates, call Iva and Nadia to take some of the stress out of the party. nadand19@hotmail.com or 07870 568334.

Entertainers: There are pages and pages of clowns, magicians etc... on the web (www.familiesonline.co.uk has lots of stuff). The following entertainers I've either seen or hired or have come recommended by other parents.

Active:kids: (Greg Dryer 0207 281 2604) For those who are tired of clowns, magicians and genies. Greg mainly runs a holiday sports club for kids but also does birthday parties that involve lots of jumping, running and games. Not really for young ones but the 4 year-olds have fun.

Ali do Lali: (01494 774 300). I quote a mother: "he came, he ate fire, induced laughter, and handed out an enormous number of sweets and presents.

Jenty the gentle clown: 0208 527 4855 or 07957 121764. Jenty does face-painting, singing, puppets etc...Particularly good for the under-3 crowd.

Mia Holman: 020 8540 4203. Mia, who runs a music/play class in Hampstead, will tailor her activites, songs, stories to the birthday child's interests. A good choice if you have little ones and big ones.

Tony Macaroni: 0208 442 0122.Games, puppets etc.. entertainer from age 3 to 13.

Venues: Not all places allow bouncy castles or amplified entertainment so ask beforehand.

Castlehaven Community Centre (www.castlehaven.org.uk 0207 485 3386 21 Castlehaven Rd. NW1 8RU) Just around the corner from Camden Market and on the 168 bus route. Very good indoor/outdoor space but you would need an entertainer of some sort.

Kentish Town Farm: 1 Cressfield Close, NW5 4BN. 0207 916 5421. Has a smallish room that can be rented.

Gospel Oak Methodist Church: Agincourt Rd, NW3 2NT (10-15 minute walk from Belsize Tube). Contact Jane Ramsey on 0207 586 4436. Nice, bright space with parking; £55 pounds for 4 hours (includes one hour to set up and one hour to clean up) plus 10 pounds for the caretaker. Bouncy castles welcome.

Hampstead Town Hall Interchange Studios: Haverstock Hill. Can't beat the location but no parking.

Highgate Newtown Community Centre: 25 Bertram Street, N19 5DQ 0207 272 7201 www.hncc.freeuk.com. Big room, parking and use of a kitchen.

Mystical Fairies: 12 Flask Walk, NW3 1HE 0207 431 1888. www.mysticalfairies.co.uk. As a mother of two boys, I can only imagine what this is like but friends tell me the fairy grotto is a pretty good place to have a party if you're really into pink!

"Rascals" at Swiss Cottage Leisure Centre Soft Play. Soft play climbing frame.They also do a separate room with all sorts of soft toys and small bouncy castle. Great place to have a party but the lack of space for post jumping around cake and snacks is a real problem. Cafe next door can accomodate but no separate room. Adelaide Road, 0207 974 2012 also try 0207 482 2834 www.camdenswisscottage.co.uk ).

Sunshine Play Group 37a Broadhurst Gardens, NW6 3QT: Not far from O2 center on the Finchley Rd. (C11 bus stop 2 minutes away.) Good for little ones and the artistically-minded. Contact Agnieszka at info@sunshineplaygroup.com or 0207 7328 0713

Talacre Sports Centre Dalby Street 0207 9748765 : It's possible to rent part or all of the Treetops climbing frame, though I don't recommend it for under 3s. You can also hold a "sports party:" football, trampoline, gymnastics. Food and birthday cake can be catered. Best to show up at the Sports Centre to talk to them and book it.

---Swimming Parties

Archway Pool: (www.aquaterra.org 0207 281 4105) Birthday parties for up to 30 children. Both the tube and the C11 stops right in front of this wave pool with bubbles and slides. Water is quite cold so summer time parties are best.

Swiss Cottage Pool (Swiss Cottage Leisure Centre, Adelaide Road, 0207 974 2012 (Leisure Centre) also try 0207 974 5440 for Swim Club www.camdenswisscottage.co.uk ). Brand-new facilites make this a very popular choice. You can book up to three months in advance. NB There is no party room and cancellations due to faulty pool are not uncomon (I speak from experience.)

Party bags, Party hats etc... ---

Party-Party: 11 Southhampton Rd. NW5 4JS 0207 267 9084. Everything you need for your darling's special day: party bags, paper plates and cups, baloons, games and costumes.

Woolworths (Finchley Road, near Waitrose): Toys, decorations etc...at reasonable prices.

Hampstead Group Practice (75 Fleet Rd.) Breastfeeding support group meets during the baby clinic on Thursday 1:30-4 pm.

Gospel Oak Health Centre (Lismore Circus NW5 4RA) Many will know this place from infant's hearing tests. Tuesday 1-3 pm drop-in sessions.

Juliet Albert, a local mum and a midwife at Queen Charlotte. Private emergency breastfeeding visits at home, as well as antenatal and parental information classes in Acton. www.midwifeonline.co.uk or call 07730 970 738. See "free ads" section for more information.

Ruth Tamir, a National Childbirth Trust-trained advisor and Lactation Consultant (IBCLC) does private consultations at clients' homes as well as local workshops. Contact her on ruth.tamir@virgin.net. Ruth also runs ante-natal classes. www.birthandbeyondbirth.com

Daunt Books (two shops: Haverstock Hill and South End Green) has nice little reading nooks with childrens' books. Well worth supporting! My son loves Story Hour on Thursdays at 4pm at the South End Green branch.

Tales on Moon Lane: New children's bookstore in Primrose Hill (9 Princess Rd. 0207 722 1800 www.talesonmoonlane.co.uk ) that is planning lots of book signing and events.

June 28th Lauren Child (creator of Charlie and Lola) will be signing at Tales on Moon Lane Primrose Hill on Saturday 28th June at 11am. All profits from the sale of a new version of Lauren's award winning picture book 'That Pesky Rat' will go to UNESCO to help street children and children living in poverty throughout the world. Please call 0207 7221 800 to book your place.

Waterstones (68-69 Hampstead High Street Nw3 1QP, 0207 794 1098) Relatively new story time on Tuesdays 4-4:30 up to age 5-6. Four books and a little song and dance at the end.

Cafes and Restaurants: Most places in this area are used to children so there's lots to recommend. The following list is where I tend to end up but I welcome suggestions.

ASK Pizza or Pizza Express: (Haverstock Hill, a few minutes from Belsize Park Tube station) A good selection of pasta and pizza.

The Cafe at the Heath: Very close to the tennis courts on the Dartmouth Park side. The pasta is delicous but on a beautiful weekend day it can be a bit of a zoo and you don't always get your food at the same time. Picnic tables outside as well as indoor seating.

The Cafe at Swiss Cottage Leisure Centre (Del Aziz): Lovely spot and the food is supposed to be quite good but don't expect solitude or quiet on the weekend. Packed with children, particularly if they're hosting a birthday party.

The Cafe at Swiss Cottage Community Centre: On the other side of the football pitch. On the weekend, an oasis of calm compared to the cafe at the leisure centre. Standard caf (diner) food -- chips, pasta, fishfingers, etc...

Giraffe (46 Rosslyn Hill): Staff are friendly at this chain, food is good and nobody seems to mind screaming children but it's a bit of a squash during busy periods.

Starbucks: The branches at the end of England's Lane and in South End Green are particularly spacious and child-friendly and you will meet lots of post school-run mothers and Caroline's singalong refugees on Thursday morning. Ask for a free baby-cinos - small cups of foam milk to which you can add chocolate powder.

Village Cafe: Opening hours are 7am – 5pm Monday to Friday & 8.30am – 5pm Saturday . 92 Belsize Lane: Home-made food in a cafe that positively welcomes children. Crayons, drawing paper, etc. Drop-in club 3-5 pm with art materials and special snacks.

Zara (South End Green, next to Starbucks, 0207 794 5498): Very good, unfussy Turkish food that children enjoy; reasonable prices, wonderful staff and plenty of space. My favorite, especially after a Heath walk.

The Cafe at the Heath: Very close to the tennis courts on the Dartmouth Park side. The pasta is delicous but on a beautiful weekend day it can be a bit of a zoo and you don't always get your food at the same time. Picnic tables outside as well as indoor seating.

Childminders: Childminders take care of children in their homes and are regulated and inspected by local authorities. On the plus side, they tend to be more ecomical than nannies (particularly if you only have one child) and replicate the home environmnet more than a nursery. But they won't be as flexible as a nanny and they do get ill/need holidays etc... For the record, everyone I've known who have used this service, including me, had a great experience. Get in touch with Camden Children's Information on 0207 974-1679 for an up-to-date-list.

NB: The Tufnell Park Parents Support Group website (www.tppsg.org) has a few interesting articles on finding an au-pair and childcare-related issues like nanny taxes.

Clowns: see "Birthdays"

Cooking:

Cooking with Karen: Children's creative cooking classes in your own home -- ages 3-5. Nurtures interest in healthy eating; classes tailor-made. Three-hour classes for up to 4 children. Call Karen for more details on 07792013274.

Sunshine Play Group 37a Broadhurst Gardens, NW6 3QT: Not far from O2 center on the Finchley Rd. (C11 bus stop 2 minutes away.) Has 2 hour sessions that combine free play with arts and crafts and music. Drop off or drop in depending on age. Also runs baking sessions and holiday sessions. Contact Agnieszka at info@sunshineplaygroup.com or 0207 7328 0713

Dance and Drama: also see "Ballet"

Centrestage School: (www.centrestageschool.co.uk): 0207 328 0788 Saturday and holiday classes in drama, singing and acting held at Trinity Walk, Maresfield Gardens, NW3 5SQ) for 3 to seven year-olds.

Culture Kids: (www.culture-kids.com) Mia Holman
Telephone: 020 8540 4203. Music, singing, dance and lots and lots of toys/instruments from all over the world. Small classes held at thePizza Express on Heath Street. Particularly good if you have a baby and a toddler/preschooler. Term-time only.

Creative Movements: 6/8 Kemplay Rd.020 7435 8217(www.creativemovements.co.uk). From 10 months, classes incorporate dance (i.e. running around for the wee ones) with storytelling. Weekly classes as well as holiday and half-term classes.

Dance Your Child: (Kheli 07973 315950) Phone before you go to see if there are any changes. Wednesday at Fleet Community Centre on Fleet Rd. from 4-6 and Saint Saviours Chruch, Eton Rd. Tuesday 4-5 . Show up when you want for some free-form dancing. Be prepared to participate. £7 per child per adult/£10 for 2.

Debutots- Interactive storytelling and dramatic play classes. Parent/carer
and child classes in Hampstead on Monday mornings at Friends Meeting House,
Heath Street. FREE TRIAL SESSION. Early Years Drama for 2-4 year olds from
10.00-10.45 and Baby Story Play for 6 months-2 year olds from 10.50-11.45
(includes coffee and chat time!). Contact Jennifer on 020 8442 2380 or jennifer@debutots.co.uk and visit www.debutots.co.uk. My son does the program at his school and enjoys it.

Dramarama, Dramatots: (www.dramarama.co.uk) 0208 4460891. Holiday and half-term drama courses for 3-4 year-olds 10 am-1 pm (pack a lunch), held at South Hampstead High School. Mainly girls but my son enjoyed it too. Saturday classes at 15 Netherhall Gardens 10am-11am.

Perform: (www.perform.org.uk) Saturday venues at The Hall School on Eton Avenue and Tuesday and Thursday sessions at the Friends Meeting House at 120 Heath Street. Music, movement and play sessions for children from 0 to 4.

Solomons School of Performing Arts: 25 Pond Street Street "The Armory" Ballet, jaz, tap, acting from age 3. www.solomonsschoolofperformingarts.com 07780550161 amisolomons@aol.co.uk. Classes start in September.

Dentist: Mr. Dentist, aka Jeremy Kaufman, 0208 458 4455 (www.mrdentist.co.uk) 7 North End Rd. Two minutes from Golders Green station or 10-20 minutes on the 268 bus from Belsize Park Tube. DVDs and toys in the waiting room and a friendly dentist who knows all the tricks.

Depression: See your general practitioner, health visitor or midwife if you suspect you may have post-natal depression. In addition, The Anna Freud Centre 21 Maresfield Gardens - London NW3 5SD 020 7794 2313 info@annafreud.org, www.annafreudcentre.org) also offers help and support.

Entertainers: (see birthday)

Environmental activities: Camden Street Natural Park (12 Camley Street, NW1 0PW, 0207 833 2311.) Not really in this neighbourhood but interesting enough (and close enough) to mention. I'm told buggies are difficult to bring,as are very little ones, so best leave toddlers home unless supervised one-to-one.

Exercise: Also see "Gyms"

FitnGiggles: One-hour fifteen minute classes (with baby, of course 0-15 months) also includes relaxation and weekly discussion topics on health and fitness. Monday 11-12:15 St Lukes Church Kidderpore Ave. (other venues as well). call 07977 092134 or fitngiggles@hotmail.co.uk.

Mums With Tots (www.mumswithtots.co.uk) offers Pilates classes at the Swiss Cottage Community Centre (£10 per session, paid in advance.) The class is taught by Sara Dixter on Wednesday 10:30 to 11:30 am. Call 07943 953850. Crèche provided.

Pushymothers (www.pushymothers.com): A buggy work-out fitness program for postnatal moms in Hampstead and Primrose Hill. Lots of praise from all around!

FIRST AID COURSES: Mums with Tots (www.mumswithtots.co.uk) offers first aid courses for mothers Mondays at 1.30pm- crèche provided. at Swiss cottage community centre. The course is taught by Julia Douglas , a qualified certified paramedic. Please contact Pamela on 07943 953850 or email pamelaorji@yahoo.co.uk

League One Summer Holiday Football/Sports Courses: (0208 446 0891 or www.leagueone.co.uk) Held at South Hampstead High School at Maresfield Gardens, NW3.

Little Kickers: (www.littlekickers.co.uk) Little Kickers classes enable pre-school children to develop theor co-ordination, balance and agility through football. At the Swiss Cottage Community Centre on Tuesdays 2:45pm - 3:30pm Junior Kickers ages 2 - 3 1/2, Tuesdays 3:35pm - 4:20pm Mighty Kickers ages 3 1/2 to 5th birthday. At the Swiss Cottage Community Centre on Thursdays 3.15pm - 4:00pm Junior Kickers ages 2 - 3 1/2, Thursdays 4:10pm - 4:55pm Mighty Kickers ages 3 1/2 to 5th birthday. At the Quakers Meeting House in Hampstead on Fridays 2:15pm - 3:00pm Junior Kickers ages 2 - 3 1/2, Fridays 3:15pm - 4:00pm Junior Kickers ages 2 - 3 1/2, Fridays 4:10pm - 4.55pm Mighty Kickers ages 3 1/2 to 5th birthday. Please phone Julia or Nikki on 0208 201 1084 for details and how to enrol as advance booking is necessary.

Sports Galore (www.sportsgalore.co.uk) 01285 656098.

Talacre Community Sports Centre: Dalby Street 0207 9748765 (www.camden.gov.uk/sport). A variety of football classes during the week and on Saturdays from age 3 and up.

Jolie Ronde: small classes, role play, songs and conversation for 3-11 year-olds taught by local nursery teacher - recommended by one mother as being gentle and fun. Call Vivien Chappell on 0207 435 7812 or 07817 181686 for location times etc...

Gyms (with childcare):

Esporta: (0207 644 2424) O2 centre on the Finchley Rd. Health club with all mod cons plus swimming pool, creche and childrens' activities. C11, 268 go near or past.

Springhealth Leisure: (0207 483 6800). Creche available from six weeks on. Everyone agrees the ladies at the creche are wonderful. I kept my membership up for years purely to dump the kids for a couple of hours, take a shower and read the paper over a cup of coffee.

Swiss Cottage Leisure Centre (Adelade Rd 0207 974 2012) Creche available and quite reasonably priced. C11, 46 stop close by.

The Armoury: 25 Pond Street, nw3 2PN (0207 431 2263) Opposite the Royal Free Hospital. Fitness club that also has gymnastics for 3-4, 5-6 and 7 to 12 year-olds on Wednesdays and Thursdays. Baby session on Thursdays 10:30-11:30 and toddler session 11:30- 12:30 but it's not a drop-in. The 168, C11 and 46 go past. (Added Sept. 19)

Gymboree: (O2 Centre, Finchley Rd. 0207 794 8719) Art, music and movement classes for children and parents from birth to 5.

Talacre Community Sports Centre: Dalby Street, NW5 0207 9748765 (www.camden.gov.uk/sport). Gymnastics classes, which start at age 3, are so wonderful that parents (including me, dear reader) queued for hours in the dark, cold winter to get a spot. (NB My son refuses to go now.) There is also a wildly popular 9:30 am and 10:30 am "baby gym" program, where the child/ren attend with parent/carer, parituclarly good if you have two kids to look after. Four-year olds even like it. Get there in plenty of time as it sells out quickly.

Toddlers World: Swiss Cottage Leisure Centre (Adelade Rd 0207 974 2012) Drop-in gym sessions from walking age to 5. Inflatables, rockers and soft-play equipment. Monday, Wednesday 10:15 to 11, 11 to 11:45. Sunday 9:15 to 10 and 10:45 to 11:30.

Swiss Cottage Leisure Centre (Adelade Rd 0207 974 2012) Gymnastics program. At the moment, they're planning on Tuesday only sessions for 3-4 year-olds 1:15-2 pm. 2 to 2:45 pm and 2:45 to 3:30 pm but may start a Thursday session if it proves to be popular.

Bianca at Daniel Adams (209 Haverstock Hill, NW3 4QG, 0207 794 4034) She did a lovely job on my wiggly 3 year-old and was very cheerful to boot. £15 without tip during the week and £26 on Saturday.

The staff at Identity (0207 722 8003 England's Lane) are good with little ones and actually use scissors to cut hair as opposed to a razor, which is what you tend to get if you go to a barber. With tip about £15.

Recommended by one mother with 4 children, Tracy will cut children's and babies' hair in the comfort of your own home! Call 07973504552. Under 4s, £13 and 4+ £15.

Holiday Programs: The following tend to have half-term and holiday clubs. ALSO SEE SUMMER 2008 SECTION

Crafty Kids: (Debbie@dbourne.wanadoo.co.uk or 0207 483 155) Art workshops for ages 2-4 run by Ofsted-approved childcare provider, Debbie plans to build rockets and paint with toothbrushes, make glove monsters and pasta jewelry. June half-term might be full but it's worth calling her about summer.

Creativewizkids: (www.creativewizkids.com) St Lukes Church Kidderpore Ave. NW3. Playgroups, mother and toddler groups, birthday parties, after-school activites and holiday clubs, focusing on painting and music. Drop-off holiday club for kids 3-7.

Centerstage School: (www.centrestageschool.co.uk): 0207 328 0788 Saturday and holiday classes in drama, singing and acting held at Trinity Walk, Maresfield Gardens, NW3 5SQ) for 3 to seven year-olds.

Creative Movements: 6/8 Kemplay Rd.020 7435 8217(www.creativemovements.co.uk). From 10 months, classes incorporate dance (i.e. running around for the wee ones) with storytelling. Weekly classes as well as holiday and half-term classes. October half term topic is Curious George.

League One Summer Holiday Football/Sports Courses: (0208 446 0891 or www.leagueone.co.uk) Held at South Hampstead High School at Maresfield Gardens, NW3.

Lemon Jelly Arts (www.lemonjellyarts.co.uk 02084493155) Drama, songs and prop-making ending in a performance on Friday. My son loved it.

Sports Galore (www.sportsgalore.co.uk) 01285 656098. Particularly good if you have a child who never tires, I am told by one mother. Lots of sports (of course) with drama and arts and crafts.

Royal Airforce Museum (www.rafmuseum.org.uk). I have lost count how many times I've visited the RAF Museum in Hendon. Hundreds of jet fighters, bi-planes, helicopters and a whole area dedicated to children. It's about a 15 minute drive from NW3 or a 7 minute walk from Colindale Underground station on the Edgware branch of the Northern Line, (5 stops from Belsize Park tube station.) They have special half-term activities -- check the website for details.

Sunshine Play Group 37a Broadhurst Gardens, NW6 3QT: Not far from O2 center on the Finchley Rd. (C11 bus stop 2 minutes away.) Has 2 hour sessions that combine free play with arts and crafts and music. Drop off or drop in depending on age. Also runs baking sessions and holiday sessions. Contact Agnieszka at info@sunshineplaygroup.com or 0207 7328 0713

Three Acres Community Play Project: 29-31 Parkhill Rd. Nw3 2YH 0207 722 0331/3812. Open 8:30-6 pm for 5-12 year-olds. On-site football pitch, tennis court, large hall, art room. There's also an after school club as well as a parent and toddler club on Thursdays at 1:30.

Homeopathic medicines, services:

Belsize Health: (16 England's Lane NW3 4TG, 0207 483 2345). Children's homeopathic drop-in clinic from 4pm to 5pm: 15-minute consultation for 10 pounds.

House of Mistry in South End Green (close to the Starbucks) also has everything you could possibly want in this category.

Nicky Lee RS Hom, PG Dip Nutrition Homoeopath and Nutritionist for pregnant women, newborns, infants and children. breast-feeding problems, colic, reflux, teething and recurrent infections. www.nickylee-homoeopath.co.uk or 020 7794 7753. Recommended by a local parent.

HORSES: Kentish Town Farm: 1 Cressfield Close, NW5 4BN. 0207 916 5421. Horse-back rides on Saturday and Sunday at 1pm -- a pound buys you two trips around the track. About a 20 minute walk from Belsize Park Tube station (C11 drops you not far off) and it's a bit tricky to find so consult a map before setting off.

Indoor activities: The following list includes drop-in indoor facilities:

Libraries: For a full list, see www.camden.gov.uk/libraries. The following are NW3 libraries.

Belsize Library: Antrim Rd. NW3 4XN. Open Tuesday, Wednesday and Saturday.

Heath Library: Keats Grove NW3 2RR.

Swiss Cottage Central Library: Avenue Rd, NW3 3HA. Open Monday-Saturday.

Belsize Health: (16 England's Lane NW3 4TG, 0207 483 2345). Belsize Health offers many different types of therapies, for children and adults, as well as a range of organic baby products. Massage classes available on a group or individual basis.

Hampstead Group Practice: 77 Fleet Rd. Baby massage class run by Lisa, a health visitor. Call Lisa on 0207 530 4637 for information.

Music: also see "singing"

Gymboree: (O2 Centre 0207 794 8719) Art, music and movement classes for children and parents from birth to 5.

Culture Kids: (www.culture-kids.com) Mia Holman
Telephone: 020 8540 4203. Music, singing, dance and lots and lots of toys/instruments from all over the world. Small classes held at the Pizza Express on Heath Street Tuesday and Wednesday. Particularly good if you have a baby and a toddler/preschooler.

Caroline's Singalong "Minibeat": A very, very popular Belsize Park institution, Caroline entertains babies and pre-schoolers alike with her guitar-accompanied singalongs. Caroline holds court for 45 minutes at the annex next to St. Dominic's Church on Malden Rd. on Thurdays (9:30, 10:30 and 11:30) and at the Royal Free Recreation Centre on Fridays at the same times. Pay as you go. See www.greenmeansgo.co.uk for information about Neal and Caroline's childrens' music CDs.

Monkey Music run classes from age 3 months to 4 years in Primrose Hill,
Belsize Park, Hampstead Village, West Hampstead, Queens Park, Notting
Hill, Holland Park and Kensington Church Street. For further
information and to book your free trial session please contact Helen
Beach on 020 8451 7626.

Songsters with Neal: Fleet Community Centre on Fleet Rd. Guitar-accompanied old favorites. (Tuesday Wednesday morning sessions 9:30 am and 11 am). See www.greenmeansgo.co.uk for information about Neal and Caroline's childrens' music CDs. Pay as you go.

Belsize Bunnies, the One o'clock club and the Hampstead Community Centre (see "Playgroups") all hold pay-as-you-go or free sing-alongs at different times.

Organic children's products:

Blue Daisy (South End Green -- next to Starbucks, 0207 681 4144) Brand-new high-end shop that specializes in rather useful stuff like all-in-one bathing suits, backpacks, wooden toys, organic baby products crayons etc... Good for new baby presents and for difficult-to-find items. C11, 46, 24, 168, 268 -- all go through South End Green.www.blue-daisy.com

Pomona: (179 Haverstock Hill, opposite Belsize Park tube, 0207 916 2676.) Organic baby food, soaps, sunblock etc.

Belsize Health: (16 England's Lane NW3 4TG, 0207 483 2345). Belsize Health offers many different types of therapists, for children and adults, as well as a range of organic baby products.

House of Mistry (South End Green): Organic and homeopathic medicines and products.

Parks and playgrounds:

Antrim Gardens: Opposite Belsize Library on Antrim Rd. A lovely little local park with a two swings and a climbing frame. It's of no interest to the over-five crowd so it's perfect for the little ones. A very good place to meet local mothers/nannies with babies and toddlers. Unstaffed and no toilets but the library opposite (not open every day) will let you use theirs if you look sufficiently desperate. NB: very, very hot when the sun shines.

The Heath: there are two large enclosed areas for children: Parliament Hill, which is close to the running track, and one near the Heath parking lot at the corner of Willow road and Devonshire Hill.

Parliament Hill: Fabulous new playground with lots for all different age groups and shaded areas for picnics There are toilets and it's staffed. The paddling pool (it's a about a foot high in the middle, with a gentle slope) is a must during the summer.

Willow Road: There are swings (both bucket-style for babies and regular), a large sandpit, balance beam and climbing frame. The green-space is lovely but if it's been raining a lot it turns into a swamp as drainage is almost non-existant. A good place to meet other mothers/carers. No toilets and unstaffed. During the spring/summer, icecream truck hangs out outside the gate.

Primrose Hill Playground: (Opens at 10 am and closing time depends on the month. There are toilets and it's staffed.) Lots of swings, climbing frames, merry-go-rounds and slides, which means lots and lots of older children. It can get pretty manic on weekends and after school but it's well worth visiting in the morning.

Pilates (also see Exercise or gyms) Mums With Tots (www.mumswithtots.co.uk) offers Pilates classes at the Swiss Cottage Community Centre (£10 per session, paid in advance.) The class is taught by Biba Singh, a pilates foundation teacher. Mondays at 10-11am. Call 07943 953850. Crèche provided.

Playgroups: By playgroup, I mean drop-in centres, where parents and carers stay with their children and make use of the toys and facilites. Pay as you go. There are many more in Primrose Hill and Kentish Town (see Surestart).

Belsize Bunnies: (51 Belsize Square, NW3 4HX, 0207 794 3949. Usually open 9:30-11:30 weekdays. Run by the Belsize Park Synagogue; all are welcome. The room is very sunny, they toys are well-maintained and children can use the garden. Juice and a snack are included in £3-fee and there is a special Shabbat session on Friday, when available. Term-time only.

Hampstead Community Centre: 78 Hampstead High Street, 0207 794 8313. Opens Tuesday-Thursday 10-12 TERM-TIME ONLY. No outdoor space but lots of toys and activites -- music on Tuesday and crafts on Wednesday. Term-time only.

Thursday mornings - Mini mischief at St. John's Church, Downshire Hill NW3 1NU. Playgroup for 2s and under. Lovely rooms and good location. Please contact Isobel Mott at 0207 099 9360 if you would like to attend. Close to 46 and 268 bus stop opposite police station on Rosslyn Hill.

One O'Clock Club: (In the Heath just down from the playground. Opens 10-12 and 1-3:45 weekdays; also open half-terms and summer time.) Indoor-outdoor toys, sandpit, painting, crafts and singing. The train track opposite the centre provides endless entertainment. For £1, it's a bargain.

Swiss Cottage Community Centre: 19 Winchester Rd. NW3 3NR. 0207 586 5272. Monday, Wednesday and Friday 1-3. Term-time. Baby corner, arts and crafts, playdough. Term-time only.

Pools: also see "Swimming"

Archway Pool: (www.aquaterra.org 0207 281 4105) Public, pay-as-you-go. Both the tube and the C11 stops right in front of this wave pool with bubbles and slides. Very cold water on occasion.

Esporta: (0207 644 2424) O2 centre on the Finchley Rd. Private health club with all mod cons plus swimming pool, creche and childrens' activities. C11, 268 go near or past.

Marriott Hotel : (0207 722 7711) Both adults and children need to take out a membership to use the pool.

Paddling Pool and Lido: The free paddling pool next to the playground in Parliament Hill (in the Heath) is a God-send on hot summer days and the planned shady areas are a welcome addition. It's about a foot-and-a half at its deepest and slopes down gradually. Do not assume you will be alone. The outdoor pool (Lido) is near the running track.

Swiss Cottage Pool (Swiss Cottage Leisure Centre, Adelaide Road, 0207 974 2012 (Leisure Centre) also try 0207 974 5440 for Swim Club www.camdenswisscottage.co.uk ). Brand-new facilites make this a very popular choice. At the moment, the warm (and fairly shallow) teaching pool is open to the public Mon.- Fri. 3:30 to 4:30. Better ring before going as teaching pool distressingly is broken quite often. Main pool is very cold and unless your children can swim laps to keep warm, they'll probably not last long before they want to come out!

Swiss Cottage Fountains: (Behind the Leisure Centre) Water jets and sloping cement fountain provide some relief from summer heat but it's often not working. Call the parks and open spaces (Camden) department to find out: 0207 974 1693.

Russian: Russian playgroup from age 1-5 Olga (karpeko@googlemail.com).

Meets on Friday at 10:15.

Schools: The complete list of primary schools, preschools, nurseries and nursery schools can be found at www.camden.gov.uk (look under the "education" then "schools" section.) The Camden Information Under 5s booklet (phone 0207 974 1679 for a copy) also contains information about nurseries. See www.ofsted.gov.uk for reports on the various nurseries and preschools.

Singing: also see "Music"

Rhyme Time at Camden Libraries: Free singing and rhymes organized by the librarians. Good for under-twos and when it's raining. Belsize Library (Tuesday 11am-12), Swiss Cottage Central Library (Friday 10:30-11:30). See "Libraries" for address. Also see "Term-time Day Planner."

Sing and Sign: (www.singandsign.co.uk) fun, educational baby signing music groups. For more information or to book your free trial class, contact Vesna on 020 7639 8038 or vesnaguzina@singandsign.co.uk. Ages 7-24months.

Ski: If you have an under-5, i have one word for you: DON'T. Five is about the earliest you want to start them unless he/she has an older sibling. Tears, tantrums and worse await the over-eager parent unless you have a particularly sturdy child. If you want to ski and are looking for full-time childcare, avoid the chains and go for small family-run hotels that are not staffed by very young (poorly paid, possibly hung-over) teenagers. I can personally recommend Hotel Alphubel in Saas Fee, Switzerland www.hotelalphubel.ch. Look at www.mumsnet.com for other suggestions on family ski places. Feel free to email me with your favorites.

Belsize Library (Antrim Rd): New story session 11-11:30 on Wednesdays.

Daunt Books (South End Green) has nice little reading nooks with childrens' books. Story Hour on Thursdays at 4pm.

Waterstones (68-69 Hampstead High Street Nw3 1QP, 0207 794 1098) Story time on Tuesdays 4-4:30 up to age 5-6. Four books and a little song and dance at the end.

Swimming (see also "Pools"):

Aquababies: (www.aquababies-co.uk) Held at the Marriot in Swiss Cottage (128 King Henry's Way, NW3 3ST), swimming class for parents and babies on Tuesdays. Can start from about 6 weeks but most around 3 months. 01273 833101. C11 goes past.

Aquatots at Swiss Cottage Leisure Centre 0207 974 2012, Adelaide Rd: Registration starts on July 28 for this new swimming class on Mondays. For babies and children 0-4. C11 goes past, 46 and 268 not very far.

Camden Swiss Cottage Swimming Club (Swiss Cottage Leisure Centre, Adelaide Road, 0207 974 2012 also try 0207 482 2834 www.camdenswisscottage.co.uk ). Brand-new facilites so already pretty booked up. Non-parent attended swimming lessons from age 4.

Swiss Cottage Leisure Centre Baby Swim, Adelaide Road, 0207 974 2012 Baby swimming class from September, details TBA

Marriott Hotel : 0207 722 7711-- Adelaide Rd., Swiss Cottage) Both adults and children need to take out a membership to use the pool for regular use. I am told that you can pay £10 pp to use the pool but sometimes that's not possible so you may want to call in advance. Rules change so let me know if pay-as-you go is no longer an option.

UCS Active (www.ucsactive.org.uk) Frognal, NW3 6XH 0207 433 2121 On the University College School campus. Lessons and kids' splash time for members.

Travel:

Tots Too: www.totstoo.com : The director of this travel service, which specializes in spa resorts with facilities for babies and children, is a local mother. . You'll get a 5% discount if you mention this website. If anyone uses Tots Too, I'd be curious to hear about it.

Taxis (with built-in car seats):

Addison Lee: 0207387 8888. They have people carriers available with built-in car seats for over ones, but you must tell them your requirements when booking. Very good for airport runs.

Capital Radio Cars 0207 813 8888. A Primrose Hill minicab company, Capital Radio will provide an under-one car seat for a whopping £15 on top of their usual fare. Might still be less expensive than a black taxi for airport runs. If anyone knows of other taxi companies with seats for under ones, please let me know.

Globe Tennis Club: 190 Haverstock Hill, NW3 2AL (next door to Belsize Park Tube Station.) www.londontennisacademy.com .Very popular half-hour to hour-long classes for 3 1/2 to 5 year-olds. Call Gaddo Guidotti on 07837 720736 or gaddo9@hotmail.com. Has a summer camp, details TBA.

Tennis at Talacre Sports Centre: New classes on Friday afternoons for 3s and older. Dalby Street NW5 0207 9748765. Term-time.

Hwarang Academy holds classes at the Swiss Cottage Community Centre on Winchester Rd. See www.taekwondo-London-2012.com or call Daniel 079410 81009 or 0845 157 1168 or for details. Martial arts from age 5. Has summer camp.

Taekwan-Do: Martial arts from age 5 Juniors Tuesday 5-6 Studio 2 at the Swiss Cottage Leisure Centre. Call 07949 612 706 or tkd@writeme.com or http://welcome.to/taekwondo.

Trampoline: at Talacre Community Sports Centre: Dalby Street, NW5 0207 9748765 (www.camden.gov.uk/sport). Drop-in Thursday 4-5pm from age 5. Usually term-time only.

Yoga (Mum, baby and Kids):

Belsize Health: (16 England's Lane NW3 4TG, 0207 483 2345). Belsize Health offers many different types of therapists, for children and adults, including individual yoga classes where you can bring baby.

Triyoga: www.triyoga.co.uk 0207 483 3344) 6 Erskine Rd. NW3 3AJ. One of the best in Europe, from what I hear. Various pregnancy and new mum yoga classes as well as a kids class from 4+.

YogaBugs: www.yogabugs.com, classes for 3 to 5 and 5 to 7 year-olds at Swiss Cottage Community Centre, 19 Winchester Road, NW3 3NP. Tuesdays from 4pm. To book a place please call Eva 077 47 01 64 69.

Yoga at Swiss Cottage Leisure Centre Adelaide Road, 0207 974 2012: drop-in classes for 2 1/2 year-olds to 4 on Fridays at 11 and for 5-7 year-olds at 4:15 on Fridays. Classes with run throughout the summer. If anyone has an opinion on this let me know.


				NW3Kids



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