melv

I have done quite a bit of research on creative dance classes for children in London (I have a dance background and was fortunate to study dance at a very progressive dance school in the US that emphasised the creative process and age appropriate class structures). There are actually very few options in London if you don't want to go the regular route which I have found often stresses training for recitals or an exam rather than movement for fun and development. The Laban Centre and The Place both have a children's Saturday program but I know the Laban centre has a long waiting list. Not to mention the commute! The Place is a direct train from Herne Hill to St Pancras then a short walk. I am actually looking for a local venue to start a creative movement program locally but I would be starting with a parent/infant class and a parent/toddler class. I can recommend two great books that are very accessible and could help you with ideas for your daughter to try at home. They are: 1. Creative Dance For All Ages and 2. Brain-Compatible Dance Education, both by Anne Green Gilbert. They are published in the US, if you would just like to look at my copies PM me. This is a topic I am really interested in so happy to share what resources I have!

My 2.5 year old has been attending half day sessions at Little Fingers Montessori on Burbage Road (there is also one on Barry Road which I know nothing about) since April and I am very pleased with it. It is a very calm environment (no babies, they only take 2-4 year olds) and the staff are great and have helped her make a smooth transition(she had never been to a nursery setting before). She literally skips into the building in the morning. Lots of painting/reading stories/puzzles/playing outside (no iPads or any IT element). It is a convenient setting as it has its own parking lot so if you need to go by car that is a big help around this area. I also visited Dulwich Village Preschool but in the end Little Fingers seemed a little less hectic and slightly more structured which my child seems to like. Similar setting as it is in a rugby club surrounded by playing fields. The admin isn't great but the staff are excellent and every time I pick my daughter up they give me a detailed run through of the day and what I especially appreciate is that they aren't afraid to tell me when things didn't go so well (e.g. homesick, toddler tantrums) whereas I feel with babysitters/nannies they often say 'everything was great' as that is easier than going into the detail of what really happened. On the admin side there is a new manager answering emails so hopefully that improves. Happy to PM if more questions.

Thanks for the recommendations...I used batransfer and they had the seat (correctly installed) and I will definitely use them again.

Am in need of a Heathrow transfer service that provides child seats...anyone have a recommendation? Was recently let down at 5:30am by a local company that promised they would have one (and I called to confirm the night before). Thanks!

Hi--I've been trying to volunteer with the guides but all the people the Guides connect me to eventually end up at the same local number which is never answered. Does anyone know of any current Guides leader/volunteer I could email about how to get involved? Thanks, Melanie