Boo magazine | Winter 09 | Leeds

Issue 2 | Winter 2009 | Leeds

The free lifestyle magazine for you and yours www.boomag.co.uk

Waste not want not Fantastic ideas to kick-start your thrifty new year – great for the planet and your pocket!

Creepies, crawlies and communication All you need to know about I CAN’s Chatterbox Challenge 2010

You time charity special Ways to help others, as well as taking time out for yourself

Festive fun and new year inspiration + Around & about, Baby & toddler weekly planner, Kids’ pages, Competitions...

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Thetake freeone lifestyle magazine for you and yours Please

Take a walk in a winter wonderland.

Yorkshire Sculpture Park Be inspired. Amazing art in 500 acres of historic parkland.

01924 832631 | www.ysp.co.uk J38 off the M1 PAPER CINEMA Sunday 6 December 11.00 & 2.30 Experience enchanting and creative cinema using puppetry and live music to bring shadows to life. ÂŁ2 child / ÂŁ3 adult / 01924 832528

Winter 2009

Contents Winter 2009

6

10

14 28

34

Cover story

Features

Regulars

10 Waste not, want not

12 What’s new? Boo’s news page

5 Boo to you

When Christmas is over and you starting thinking about new year’s resolutions, why not make a positive effort to look at ways of economising, re-using, recycling and mending? We’ve got some fantastic ideas to kick-start your thrifty new year – great for the planet and your pocket!

14 Get set for a feast of Christmas fun: with The National Trust

6 Tickety boo health and fitness

16 Chinese New Year: which animal are you?

26 Competitions: courtesy of Ruby & Ginger and The Little Hen Company 27 A taste of fun: Tiny Bites take a look at balancing savoury and sweet party treats

8 Boo food 15 Dates for your diary 18 Baby and toddler weekly planner 22 After school activities 23 Dad zone 24 You time 30 Boo kids

28 Little Schools’ Birdwatch: the world’s biggest wildlife survey by the RSPB

32 Around and about

29 I CAN’s Chatterbox Challenge: creepies, crawlies and communication!

35 Shop till you drop

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34 What’s on at the theatre

Catch the healthy bug this winter!

YogaBugs classes now available in Otley Adventure-led storytelling and lots of fun!

Simple yoga postures Short relaxation For children aged 2½ years and above More classes coming soon...

Five Week structured course International Association of Infant Massage accredited.

CAN RELIEVE: Colic Trapped Wind Teething Pains Promotes Bonding & much more

Contact Kirsty on:

0113 2261774 or 07933 622850

www.top2toeleeds.co.uk

Rachel Frazer - YogaBugs Yorkshire

Call 0845 899 7245 | email: yorkshire@yogabugs.com | www.yogabugs.com

Would you like to learn French together with your Toddler?

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Exciting games, colourful puppets, catchy songs ... Classes are full of fun and surprises, full of atmosphere making it captivating for young children enabling them to develop their learning and communication skills

1st class FREE + Siblings are welcome to join in as well at no extra cost www.lajolieronde.co.uk/tots Contact Zoë on: 0113 2500809 or zoedooley@hotmail.co.uk

Winter 2009

to you!

Photograph courtesy of Sheffield City Council

been great friends ever since. Now both mothers ourselves, we created Boo to provide fun ideas and useful information for other parents/carers like us.

Please keep sending your comments, contributions and ideas for future editions.

Best wishes to you all over the festive season and for 2010!

Liz & Jo

Firstly, we would like to thank everyone who kindly contributed to, agreed to distribute, and helped us in any shape or form with the successful launch of Boo. You all seem to have enjoyed the first issue – so we’ve got a lot to live up to!

This edition’s You time pages focus on ways you can be charitable, whilst taking time out for yourself.

Due to the popularity of the baby and toddler planner, this has now been extended to three pages. Plus, there are all Boo’s regular features including the After school diary, Kids’ pages, Dad zone and Around and about section. Don’t forget to check out our competitions on page 26, and reader discounts at the back!

A common theme in this issue is ‘food’ with ideas from party catering experts, Tiny Bites, on how to balance savoury and sweet treats for children.

We also include recipes to use up your Christmas leftovers plus how to make perfect pancakes on Shrove Tuesday.

Throughout this season of spend, spend, spend, we look at how to kickstart your thrifty new year, and be more green in the process, in our cover story ‘Waste not, want not.’

Liz and Jo aged three

In this winter edition, there are ideas in abundance to keep everyone happy over the festive season, and beyond into 2010.

For those of you who have asked who we are and how Boo was born - well, we met at the age of three and have

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Boo magazine Ltd PO Box 236 Pudsey LS28 0DR T: (0113) 815 0033 E: liz.rhodes@boomag.co.uk www.boomag.co.uk Editorial, advertising, distribution & production: Liz Rhodes/Jo Hutchinson Printing: Bond Print, Derbyshire.

Boo magazine Ltd (Sheffield): for more information on our sister magazine in Sheffield, please email: jo.hutchinson @boomag.co.uk Subscriptions: the magazine is free but if you want to make sure you never miss a copy, an annual subscription is £10. E: subscriptions@boomag.co.uk Disclaimer: whilst every effort is taken to ensure that all editorial, advertising and directory listings are accurate, the publisher is not liable for any errors, omissions, statements or opinions provided. The publishers accept no liability of any nature arising out of or in connection with the contents of this magazine. © Copyright: all rights reserved. This magazine may not be reproduced without the express permission of the editor.

Tickety boo Health & fitness

Catching the yoga bug Increasingly our lives are becoming more fast paced, which can impact on our children, giving them less time to reflect and daydream. With the pressures of modern living, it is important to offer children a quiet place inside so they have the confidence to be calm and settled.

Rachel Frazer from YogaBugs takes a look at the emotional and physical benefits of participating in an alternative form of exercise.

A specially commissioned report

by Birmingham Educational Psychology Service and Kate Rose, Extended Provision Cluster Coordinator, highlighted that pupils who take part regularly in YogaBugs classes show improved behaviour, participate more actively in school lessons and benefit from increased concentration levels. Children absorb information better when their brainwaves are in a slower pattern; relaxation, and particularly executing balancing postures, help bring a stillness to their minds.

great tool for controlling anger or moments of frustration.

YogaBugs sessions offer children the chance to go on many exciting adventures. The storytelling captures their imagination while each posture can be adapted to the individual’s ability. Their confidence is boosted because every child has the chance to be the hero of their own adventure. Often, the “I don’t want to do this” child can’t resist joining you on ‘the magic carpet’ or ‘rowing down the Nile’. The very energetic child is often the one who loves the relaxation part and wants to keep the ‘magic’ eye bag! The nervous child in the class might become a ferocious lion, enjoying the release that comes from roaring really loudly. Children just want the time and the chance to let what is inside out!

Physically, children are naturally very flexible but they can lose this as they get older and spend more time sitting still; at computers, desks and watching television.

Yoga helps children become more

conscious of their bodies and at the same time their flexibility, strength, posture and joint mobility all improve.

Every YogaBugs class finishes with children lying down, with their eyes covered with ‘magic’ eye bags. They are encouraged to imagine that they are covered in a ‘blanket of peace’ and to recreate for themselves the journey that they have just taken part in. This gives them the opportunity to relax and take time out. Yoga can continue to journey with your child through the different stages of their lives and they may still be doing it when they are 70!

YogaBugs classes for 2½ to 7 year olds have now reached Yorkshire.

Yoga’d Up classes, suitable for 8 to 12 year olds, are also available.

For more details, call Rachel Frazer on 0113 250 6972, email yorkshire@yogabugs.com or visit www.yogabugs.com

We have all been told to “take a deep breath” when it gets too much – astonishingly, in our daily lives, we tend to use as little as a third of our lung capacity. It is therefore important that children are taught how to breathe properly using certain techniques. These can help improve performance and reading out loud, as well as being a

Winter 2009

New Year...

New You With the new year fast upon us, the chances are you – or someone you know – will be making a resolution.

Whether you resolve to lose weight, get in shape, improve eating habits or reduce stress levels, what makes these such difficult resolutions is that you expect to see results quickly.

When you don’t, you tend to give up!

Staying active, maintaining a healthy weight and eating the right foods are lifelong activities. Here are some ideas to help you make ‘living fit’ a part of your life.

1. Seek professional advice Before going full pelt at the gym or running up that steep hill, get yourself checked out by an expert.

If you haven’t done any proper exercise for a while, or have health conditions, seek advice from your GP or a healthcare professional before starting any exercise.

3. Make it routine

4. Reward yourself

One effective way to introduce a new behaviour is to make it part of your day – whether that’s related to exercising or your eating habits.

If you’ve resolved to lose weight, the key is to establish a routine of things you do at specific times.

If you create specific plans for exercise and healthier eating, and you make them part of your daily routine, the chances are you’ll soon start seeing positive results.

Celebrate! You’ve earned it. Why not treat yourself to a nice massage or spa day? And a little pat on the back is a great motivator to keep the good results coming – through the next new year and beyond.

Planning meals in advance, so you are not tempted to snack on unhealthy foods, is especially important if you have a family and want to lose weight. Eating well at breakfast and lunch times is vital to keep up your energy levels throughout the day, then you could have a smaller lower calorie meal in the evening when you’re less active.

For more information, call Esporta Health and Fitness Club, Cookridge Hall, Leeds. T: (0113) 203 0003, or visit www.esporta.com

Release Your True Potential Ready to make a comeback?

Release your true potential and achieve a work-life balance that fits around you and your family’s needs. We help men and women achieve success and gain financial independence by providing effective materials that focus on personal development and life-coaching.

If you’re looking to improve your life or find a flexible home-based business opportunity, call us on 0208 133 8565 / 07775 800960 or email glyn@releaseyourtruepotential.com

2. Be specific The more details you include in your plan, the better your chances of success. If you’ve got ‘exercise’ or ‘eat better’ on your new year’s resolution list, you probably won’t be doing much of either. That’s because these aren’t specific plans. Why not set aside 25 minutes each morning before the kids get up to stretch, walk or jog around the block – whatever.

Just be specific.

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Food Anyone for leftovers?

Turkey, bacon, peas and cream Preparation time: 10 minutes Cooking time: 10-30 minutes

Ingredients 2-3 thick rashers streaky bacon diced olive oil 1 medium onion, chopped 1 clove garlic, chopped Leftover turkey, chopped fairly small 100-200g fresh or frozen peas 30-45ml double cream Salt and pepper Pasta – allow 50g per person

Method 1. In a heavy frying pan fry the bacon until just crispy. Turn the heat down, then add the onions and garlic and sweat until soft but not coloured.

Bubble and squeak

Perfect pancakes

Preparation time: 10-15 minutes Cooking time: 25-30 minutes Serves 4

Preparation time: 5 minutes Cooking time: 5 minutes

Ingredients 1 red onion, finely chopped 4 rashers streaky bacon, cut into small pieces 450g leftover mashed potato 300g leftover mixed cooked vegetables – roast parsnips, green beans, brussel sprouts, cabbage, carrots, cauliflower, broccoli or peas, chopped into small pieces Salt and pepper 25g hard cheese (grated/chopped) 25g butter (melted) Oil, flour, egg

Method

2. Add the peas and a splash of water and allow to bubble for a couple of minutes.

When the pan is almost dry, add the turkey and heat through.

1. Heat the oil in a frying pan and cook the onion for 4-5 minutes until soft.

Add the bacon and cook for a further 3-4 minutes or until it begins to turn a golden colour.

3. Add the cream and season well with salt and black pepper. Allow to bubble until the cream has reduced a little and the sauce has a nice coating consistency.

2. Remove the pan from the heat and transfer the bacon and onions into a large bowl.

4. Serve tossed with your chosen pasta, with plenty of fresh grated parmesan.

Ingredients

100g plain flour 1 egg 275ml milk Pinch of salt Butter (melted)

Method 1. Sieve the flour and salt into a bowl and break in the egg.

3. Add the mashed potato and cooked vegetables, season well. Add the cheese, mix well and divide the mixture into six portions.

2. Use a wooden spoon to beat in the egg.

4. Using your hands, shape each portion into a cake. Put a little flour on a plate and coat each cake in flour on both sides.

4. Heat a 7 inch non-stick frying pan lightly brushed with melted butter. Once the pan is hot, put in two tablespoons of batter and tilt the pan to coat the base evenly.

5. Put onto a greased baking tray and brush with a little melted butter. Bake in a preheated oven (200°C/400°F/Gas mark 6) for 25 minutes or fry on both sides until golden brown.

3. Gently add the milk a bit at a time, continue beating until you form a smooth batter.

5. Cook until the pancake moves freely, then toss or turn until pancake is golden on both sides.

6. Serve with a poached, fried or scrambled egg, and crispy bacon.

Winter 2009

Party snacks from Fruit kebabs with white chocolate drizzle

pesto, leaving a 5cm gap around the edge.

3. Scatter the courgette and cheese over the pesto.

4. Lay the remaining pastry sheet on top and using a rolling pin, gently roll the pastry.

5. Cut in half, and then cut each half into strips around 1cm wide. You should get around 40 strips from the ingredients (enough to feed the grown ups too!).

Preparation time: 10 minutes Cooking time: minimal cooking required!

Ingredients

4. Allow to cool a little, before using your hands to shape the mixture into small puddings. You should get around 10 puddings from the mixture. Be firm with the mixture if it doesn’t seem to come together easily.

5. Once your puddings are made, melt the white chocolate in a bowl over a pan of gently simmering water.

6. Once melted, use a teaspoon to drop a small amount of white chocolate onto each pudding and allow to drizzle down the side.

2. Arrange four kebabs in each bowl 3. Melt the chocolate in a bowl over a pan of gently simmering water.

Ingredients 2 sheets ready rolled puff pastry 40g grated courgette (squeeze out excess moisture using kitchen towel) 40g grated cheddar cheese 4 tbsp red pesto

Method 1. Preheat the oven to 200°C/400°F/Gas mark 6 2. Lay one pastry sheet out on a large chopping board and spread with the

2. Crush the biscuits in a plastic bag using a rolling pin or the back of a wooden spoon.

7. Cook for around 10-15 minutes until golden, and serve either warm or at room temperature.

1. Assemble fruit on cocktail sticks. Allow four kebabs per child.

Preparation time: 5 minutes Cooking time: 10-15 minutes

1. Melt the plain chocolate, butter, and syrup in a pan over a gentle heat.

3. Once the chocolate mixture has melted, add the biscuits and dried fruit.

Method

Italian cheese straws

Method

6. Twist each strip and lay on a large baking tray.

A selection of seasonal/favourite fruit 100g white chocolate You will also need cocktail sticks and small jelly bowls

4. Once melted, drizzle chocolate over the kebabs and chill until required.

red icing (enough to make the holly for 10 puddings). Alternatively, you can use green and red edible icing pens to draw the holly onto each pudding.

Italian cheese straws are great served with a tomato based sauce or a cream cheese and pesto dip. They can be prepared a couple of days in advance and stored in an airtight container. Just pop them in the oven for two minutes to reheat.

7. If you are using the ready made icing, make the holly leaves and berries using the coloured icing and lay on top of each pudding before the chocolate sets. If you are using the edible icing pens, allow the chocolate to set before decorating each pudding.

8. The puddings can be kept in the fridge until you are ready to eat.

Mini chocolate puddings Preparation time: 10-15 minutes Cooking time: minimal cooking required!

Ingredients 100g plain chocolate 25g unsalted butter 1 tbsp golden syrup 100g digestive biscuits 30g sultanas 30g dried apricots (finely chopped) 100g white chocolate Small amount of ready-made green and

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Waste not

by Inga Fairley

The festive season is all about indulgence. Many of us buy too much, eat too much, and ultimately throw away too much.

When Christmas is over and you start thinking about new year’s resolutions, why not make a positive effort to look at ways of economising, re-using, recycling and mending?

The recent economic downturn has brought the old 1940’s ‘make do and mend’ culture back into vogue, but being frugal doesn’t have to mean being dull. With a little bit of creative thinking and an early spring clean, the post-Christmas period is the perfect time to think about using up any leftovers, brushing up your craft techniques and getting rid of old clothes. And what’s good for your pocket is also good for the planet! We’ve come up with a few ideas to kick-start your thrifty new year.

Food A staggering 6.7 million tonnes of food is thrown away by households in the UK every year, most of which could have been eaten. With food waste costing the average family £420 a year, it makes sense to minimise the amount we throw away; smarter shopping and storing, and a little forward planning, can make a huge difference. www.lovefoodhatewaste.com has lots of ideas on reducing food waste, and top tips for turning lefttovers into tasty treats.

This Boxing Day, instead of the inevitable turkey sandwiches, why not try the easy, yet delicious, turkey, bacon, peas and cream recipe on page 8 or use up those leftover sprouts in our great bubble and squeak dish.

Cards and wrapping If Santa has been good to your family this year, you’ll be left with lots of cards and wrapping paper – but they don’t have to go straight into the recycling box. Try to open gifts carefully so you can save the paper and use it to re-wrap presents next year. If that seems a little extreme, there are lots of other ideas for your used wrapping paper. You could save it for the children’s craft sessions or for origami, or shred it and use it to line gift boxes; see our ‘Get Crafty’ column on page 30 for another great idea. And if, after wrapping your presents, you end up with odd scraps of paper – why not stick them all together into neat squares to make a patchwork wrapping for a special present? And don’t forget to save the cardboard tubes so that younger kids can use them as pretend foghorns, binoculars or even light sabers!

turn Christmas cards into gift tags, thank you notes or cards for next year. All those big cardboard boxes that the toys came in can easily be transformed into a fort or a wendy house for the little ones, or just chopped up and used as big scribble pads.

Old clothes We all have some old clothes lurking in the wardrobe that never see the light of day.

Instead of heading to the high street for more, try revamping your old ones. You don’t need to be a whizz with the sewing machine – often just a sewn-on button or a darned hole can make an item wearable again.

Scissors, glue and a bit of imagination are all you need to

Winter 2009

Want not www.make-do-and-mend.org has lots of tips for making clothes last longer and for being more resourceful and creative. And for those garments beyond repair, you could always turn them into doll’s clothes or even rags for doing the dusting!

If the thought of picking up a needle and thread gives you the shivers, then make money from those unwanted clothes. One person’s trash is another person’s treasure: use eBay or www.preloved.co.uk to sell what you don’t want.

For a more fun way of getting rid of clothes – and gaining some in return – throw a swish party! Everyone brings some items of clothing, and

hopefully will leave with some too – see www.swishing.org for the rules of swishing.

See Boo kids (page 31) for details of how to make doll’s dresses.

Toys and books As your kids get older, they’ll probably have some toys and books lying around that they never use anymore. Make room for new ones by getting rid of the old – donate them to charity shops, toy libraries or children’s wards. Or organise a

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mini-swish party where you child can swap toys and books with their friends and walk away with something ‘new’.

Failing that, freecycling (www. freecycle.org) is a great way to reuse any unwanted items by ‘gifting’ them to someone in your community – and you may just find something for yourself in return!

11

What’s new?

Thumbs up for award-winning safety product

The FunPod conforms to all relevant European safety regulations.

An innovative product – The Little Helper FunPod® - not only keeps toddlers out of harms way but also encourages them to get involved in the kitchen. It replaces all of those precarious and unsafe methods that our little ones employ to see what is happening on the work surface. By giving them their own safely constructed platform they can help, interact, learn and play.

Once the child is positioned in the FunPod, they can safely engage with their parent without the danger of toppling over and becoming another hospital statistic.

Invented by UK mum Kim Johnson to keep her daughter safe and entertained whilst she was in the kitchen, the FunPod has been well received by health professionals, dieticians, parents and especially by children.

Clicking onto SlingGuide Now, free, independent and unbiased advice is available for anyone who wants to carry their baby in a sling, with the launch of www.slingguide.co.uk.

Run by unpaid volunteers who are all experienced sling users, the website aims to guide parents through the different types available, demonstrate the advantages for babies and parents, and help them find a carrier which is just right for them.

Are you creative, enthusiastic and do you love working with children?

Sarah is looking for someone to take over the Artybobs North Leeds and Otley franchise. It’s a great opportunity for someone to buy into an already very successful and rapidly growing business.

Booktrust and Blue Peter are delighted to announce the shortlist for the Blue Peter Book Awards 2010. These enormously popular and influential awards have been recognising and celebrating the best children’s authors, the most creative illustrators and the greatest reads for children since 2000.

The shortlist is detailed by category below: Best book with facts: Usborne Lift-the-flap Picture Atlas – Alex Frith & Kate Leake (Usborne) Tail-End Charlie – Mick Manning & Brita Granstrom (Francis Lincoln Children’s Books) Why Eating Bogeys is Good for You – Mitchell Symons (Red Fox)

For further information, please contact Felicity Mitchell at felicity.mitchell@ littlehelper.co.uk or on 0845 230 1538.

Book I couldn’t put down: Cosmic – Frank Cottrell Boyce (Macmillan) The Boy Who Fell Down Exit 43 – Harriet Goodwin (Stripes) Frozen in Time – Ali Sparkes (Oxford)

how the shape of her baby’s head had improved from being carried in a sling, and said she wished more health visitors knew to recommend them.

Most fun story with pictures: Peter the Penguin Pioneer – Daren King (Quercus) Spells – Emily Gravett (Macmillan) Dinkin Dings and the Frightening Things – Guy Bass & Pete Williamson (Stripes)

The panel of adult judges comprised Tim Levell, Editor of Blue Peter (Chair), children’s librarian Debra Conway and author Matt Haig, who won the ultimate accolade of Blue Peter Book of the Year in 2009 with his novel Shadow Forest.

SlingGuide was the brainchild of a mother whose baby suffered from a form of flat-head syndrome. The physiotherapist treating her little girl commented on

Looking for a new challenge?

Shortlist revealed for CBBC’s Blue Peter Book Awards 2010

Running Artybobs is very rewarding and great fun! It’s also ideal for someone who wants to fit a business around a young family. For more information, or an initial chat, please email sarah@artybobs.co.uk, call 07725 092759 or email the head office at enquiries@artybobs.co.uk

The final nine books will now be judged by a selection of young Blue Peter viewers.

They will decide both the winners in each category, and the overall winner of Blue Peter Book of the Year 2010. The Book Awards show will be broadcast on Blue Peter in March 2010 to coincide with World Book Day. An extract from each of the nine shortlisted titles will be dramatised for the show.

The reading charity Booktrust was awarded administration for the Blue Peter Book Awards in May 2008.

Look out for Boo’s feature on World Book Day in our Spring issue, out March 2010.

Winter 2009

What’s that saying….when the going gets tough?

Ever worry about losing baby’s favourite toy when you’re out and about? Well, no need – this clever but simple toy tie allows you to secure just about anything to just about anything!

When two local mums were recently hit with redundancy, they decided to go against the odds and set up their own business. And so Ruby and GINGER Ltd was born!

All products are available in exclusive Ruby and GINGER designs.

For further details, visit www. rubyandginger.co.uk or check out local baby boutiques.

The brand new baby accessory company, Ruby and GINGER has just launched two products with many more to come!

Each item will offer a stylish solution to an everyday problem!

Mums sacrifice a lot but do we really have to give up our gorgeous handbags too? When the time comes (and it will!) that a few nappies and wipes is all you need for a trip out, then mums, it’s time to reclaim your handbags! This original nappy purse and free Ruby and GINGER wipes case will keep all those baby essentials neat, clean and hygienic …..ready to just ‘grab and go’.

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Why not enter our Ruby and GINGER competition on page 26 for a chance to win one of five gorgeous gift sets comprising of an original nappy purse and matching toy tie?

13

Get set for a feast of Christmas fun with

With Christmas just around the corner, the National Trust has been working hard to ensure your festive season goes with a swing – on all fronts.

© Photograph courtesy of The National Trust (Andy Tryner)

An exciting range of activities are planned this yuletide from meeting Santa Claus, seasonal food offerings, taking gentle winter walks, and music evenings, to discovering what a Victorian Christmas was really like.

Why not bring all the family to enjoy some of these events: 5, 6, 12, 13 & 19-31 December & 1-3 January Fountains Abbey & Studley Royal, nr Ripon T: 01765 608888 Normal admission rates apply.

Christmas Sparkle, 11.00-15.00 Come and make your Christmas decorations. Drop-in session with selfled activities for children.

5, 6, 12 & 13 December East Riddlesden Hall, Keighley T: 01535 683800 Victorian Christmas Grotto, 12.00-15.45 Christmas grotto visits for children with storytelling and traditional Victorian music.

Grotto visits must be pre-booked, £10.

12,13 & 27 December Fountains Abbey & Studley Royal, nr Ripon T: 01765 608888 On the Hoof, 10.45-12.30 Enjoy the sight of 500 wild deer munching through their winter feed. 15 minute walk from the Visitor Centre, by St Mary’s Church.

12, 13, 19 & 20 December Nostell Priory, nr Wakefield T: 01924 863892 Normal admission rates apply, no booking needed.

Santa’s Grotto, 11.00-15.30 Come and find Santa in his winter wonderland. £5 per child.

Most of our properties have restaurants serving traditional festive fayre, so after all the activities and shopping you can reward yourself with an early Christmas dinner! There will also be a range of hearty casseroles, delicious pies and traditional puddings.

After all the Christmas festivities, there are lots of opportunities to get out and about. So, why not come and walk off all the Christmas pudding, turkey and other treats at a National Trust place near you?

13 February Swanley Grange, Fountains Abbey & Studley Royal, nr Ripon T: 01765 608888 Booking essential Normal admission charges apply.

Bird box making, 13.30-15.30 Make a bird box and discover the many ways you can attract birds to your garden. Children must be accompanied by adults. £5 per box.

15 February Swanley Grange, Fountains Abbey & Studley Royal, nr Ripon T: 01765 608888 Booking essential.

Normal admission charges apply.

Storytelling in the Hayloft – Woodland Creatures, 14.00-15.00 Lots of stories for 4 to 9 year olds at Swanley Learning Centre. Children must be accompanied by an adult. Tickets £1.50.

Admission charges apply at some properties/events. Before attending, please contact venues directly for bookings and further details. For more information on all winter and Christmas activities, visit www.nationaltrust.org. uk/yorkshire

© Photograph courtesy of The National Trust

Winter 2009

Shrove Tuesday

Dates for your diary

16 February What is Shrove Tuesday?

Shrove Tuesday is now commonly called ‘Pancake day’ and is the last day before the period that Christians call Lent – the day when, traditionally, many people in the UK eat pancakes.

The name Shrove comes from the old word ‘shrive’ which means to confess.

On Shrove Tuesday, in the Middle Ages, people used to confess their sins so that they were forgiven before the season of Lent began; a bell used to be rung to call people to church to be ‘shriven’ and mark the start of a half day holiday!

Why pancakes?

Lent is a time of abstinence; of giving things up. So, Shrove Tuesday is the last chance to indulge yourself, and to use up the foods that aren’t allowed in Lent.

Pancakes are eaten on this day because they contain fat, butter and eggs which were traditionally forbidden during Lent.

Fun facts The world record for cooking the biggest pancake was set in Rochdale, Lancashire, in 1994. The super-pancake measured 15 metres in diameter and weighed three tonnes.

Pancake Day is known as ‘Fat Tuesday’ in countries such as France, Brazil and Sweden.

Pancake races take place across the UK on Shrove Tuesday. These are said to originate from 1445 in Olney, Buckinghamshire. A housewife was allegedly cooking Lenten pancakes and heard the Shriving bell. Keen not to miss absolution for her sins, she ran to church with her pan in hand.

14 December International Children’s Day of Broadcasting

14 February St Valentine’s Day

25 December Christmas Day

16 February Shrove Tuesday Page 15

1 January New Year’s Day 17 February Ash Wednesday 18 January-1 February Little Schools’ Birdwatch www.rspb.org.uk Page 28

22 February World Thinking Day www.worldthinkingday.org

25 January Burn’s night 25-29 January Food Allergy and Intolerance Week www.allergyuk.org 30 January-6 February National Storytelling Week www.sfs.org.uk/national_storytelling_week

2-8 February Chatterbox Challenge www.ican.org.uk Page 29

5 February UNICEF Day for Change www.unicef.org.uk For more information contact

14 February Chinese New Year Page 16

0845 108 5303

www.chatterboxchallenge.co.uk

See Boo food (page 8) for a perfect pancake recipe.

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15

Chinese New Year 14 February

Chinese New Year, the most important of the Chinese holidays. is celebrated on 14 February in 2010. Lasting 15 days, it is a time to watch fireworks, give presents and feast with friends and family. Based on the lunar calendar, the date changes each year. The celebrations begin with the first day of the new moon and end with a Lantern festival celebrating the appearance of the full moon.

The Chinese calendar follows a 12 year pattern where each year is named after an animal. It is believed that once upon a time Buddha invited all the animals in the land to a new year celebration but only 12 came to the party. So, to reward those that turned up Buddha named a year after each of them in the order that they arrived. This started with the Rat, followed by the Ox, Tiger, Rabbit, Dragon, Snake, Horse, Sheep/Goat,

then Monkey, Rooster, Dog and Pig. Legend has it that people are believed to take on the character traits of the animal in the year they were born. So, why not look at our chart and see if your child really is a cheeky monkey?

Which animal are you like?

Birth year 2010 2009 2008 2007 2006 2005 2004 2003 2002 2001 2000 1999 1998

Animal Tiger Ox Rat Pig Dog Rooster Monkey Sheep/Goat Horse Snake Dragon Rabbit Tiger

Winter 2009

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17

Weekly planner

Baby & toddler activities

Monday Horsforth Children’s Centre Stay and Play Horsforth Children’s Centre, North Broadgate Lane, Horsforth, LS18 T: (0113) 259 1786 09.00-10.30 Calverley Toddler Group Methodist Church Hall, Carr Rd, Calverley, LS28 09.30-11.30 Tots Galore St Margaret’s Church Hall, Lower Hall, Hall Lane, Horsforth, LS18 T: (0113) 258 6467 (Sue Lewis) 09.30-11.30 La Jolie Ronde (B) Gingerbread Cottage Play Centre, 2a Clayton Wood Bank, LS16 T: (0113) 250 0809 (Zoe Dooley) www.lajolieronde.co.uk 09.40-10.10 Umbrella Group Jubilee Hall, Layton Ave, Rawdon, LS19 T: (0113) 229 4080 (Sandra) 09.45-11.30 Artybobs (B) Adel and Ireland Wood Community Centre, New Adel Lane, Adel, LS16 T: 07725 092759 (Sarah) www.artybobs.co.uk 10.00-11.00 Music Bugs (B) Otley Clifton Village Hall, Newall Road, Otley, LS21 T: 0844 578 1043 (Nicola Lawlor) www.musicbugs.co.uk 10.00-11.00 Mums and Tots Group South Parade Baptist Church, Kirkstall Lane, Headingley, LS6 T: (0113) 275 4989 10.00-11.30 (0-2 years) Roundhay NCT Postnatal Group Various locations T: 0870 421 4548 10.00-12.00 Yogabugs (B) Otley Courthouse, Courthouse St, Otley, LS21 T: (0113) 250 6972 E: yorkshire@yogabugs.com 10.00-10.40 Beechtree Steiner Parent & Child Group Meanwood Parochial Hall , Leeds, LS6 T: (0113) 269 0262 E: enquiries@leeds-steiner.org.uk www.leeds-steiner.org.uk 10.00-12.00 Enjoy-a-Ball (B) Rawdon Trinity Church, New Road Side, Rawdon, LS19 T: 07766 712711 (Gill McDermott) www.enjoy-a-ball.com 13.15-13.45 (age 3-3½ years) 13.45-14.45 (age 3½-4½ years)

Bright Starters (B) The Old Stables, Back Church Lane, Adel, LS16 T: 07725 338473 (Sonal) www.brightstarters.co.uk 14.00 -14.50 (2½-5 years) La Jolie Ronde (B) Gingerbread Cottage Play Centre, 2a Clayton Wood Bank, LS16 T: (0113) 250 0809 (Zoe Dooley) www.lajolieronde.co.uk 14.00-14.30 Otley Library Story and Rhymetime Nelson Street, Otley, LS21 T: 01943 466572 14.00-14.30 Pudsey Library Story and Rhymetime Church Lane, Pudsey, LS28 T: (0113) 214 6035 14.15-14.45 Headingley Library Story and Rhymetime North Lane, Headingley, LS6 T: (0113) 214 4525 14.15-14.45 Oakwood Library Story and Rhymetime 1 Oakwood Lane, Leeds, LS8 T: (0113) 214 4192 14.15-14.45

Tuesday Rodley Young Ones The Church in Rodley, Wesley Street, Rodley, LS13 09.00-11.00 Farsley Playgroup and Toddler Group Methodist Church, Back Lane, Farsley, LS28 T: (0113) 229 9464 09.00-11.30 Farsley Parents and Toddlers St John’s Church Hall, New Street, Farsley, LS28 T: (0113) 255 5211 (Jo Reilly) 09.15-11.15 Gymboree (B) St Wilfrid’s Church Hall, Duchy Rd, Harrogate, HG1 T: 07702 048391 www.gymboree-uk.com 09.30-10.15 Explorers 1 (2-3 years) 10.30-11.15 Runners (18 months-2 years) 11.30-12.15 Explorers 2 (2½-4 years) 12.30-13.15 Baby Play (0-9 months) Trinity Toddlers Trinity Church, New Road Side, Rawdon, LS19 T: (0113) 250 5200 (Christine Moffat) 09.30-11.30 Tuesday Tots Cookridge Village Hall, Moseley Wood Lane, LS16 T: (0113) 226 8525 (Karen) 09.30-11.30

Artybobs (B) Adel and Ireland Wood Community Centre, New Adel Lane, Adel, LS16 T: 07725 092759 (Sarah) www.artybobs.co.uk 10.00-11.00 Music Bugs (B) Horsforth Children’s Centre, North Broadgate Lane, Horsforth, LS18 T: 0844 578 1043 (Nicola Lawlor) www.musicbugs.co.uk 10.00-11.00 (6-24 months) 11.00-12.00 (mixed ages) Mums and Tots Group South Parade Baptist Church, Kirkstall Lane, Headingley, LS6 T: (0113) 275 4989 10.00-11.30 (2-5 years) Bright Starters (B) St Edmund’s Church, Lidgett Park Rd/North Park Ave, Roundhay, LS8 T: 07725 338473 (Sonal) www.brightstarters.co.uk 10.00-10.45 (2½+ years) Beechtree Steiner Parent & Child group Stainbeck Community Hall, Leeds, LS7 T: (0113) 269 0262 E: enquiries@leeds-steiner.org.uk www.leeds-steiner.org.uk 10.00-12.00 Guiseley Library Story and Rhymetime Otley Road, Guiseley, LS20 T: 01943 872675 10.30-11.00 Baby Cafe Horsforth Children’s Centre, orth Broadgate Lane, Horsforth, LS18 T: (0113) 259 1786 13.00-14.30 Enjoy-a-Ball (B) Calverley Methodist Church Hall, Carr Rd, Calverley, LS28 T: 07766 712711 (Gill McDermott) www.enjoy-a-ball.com 13.30-14.00 (age 3-3½ years) 14.00-15.00 (age 3½-4½ years) Bright Starters (B) Quakers Meeting Room, 136 Street Lane, Roundhay, LS8 T: 07725 338473 (Sonal) www.brightstarters.co.uk 13.30-14.15 (1½ -3 years) 14.30-15.15 (2½+ years) Gymboree (B) St Wilfrid’s Church Hall, Duchy Rd, Harrogate, HG1 T: 07702 048391 www.gymboree-uk.com 13.30-14.15 Explorers 1 (2 -3 years) 14.30-15.15 Crawlers (6-12 months) 15.30-16.15 Walkers (10-18 months)

Winter 2009

Holt Park Community Library Story and Rhymetime Ralph Thoresby High School, Holtdale Approach, LS16 T: (0113) 336 8188 14.15-14.45 Bramhope Parents and Toddlers Breary Lane, Bramhope, LS16 T: (0113) 395 0311 14.30-15.30

Wednesday Farsley Baby and Toddler Group Farsley Farfield Primary School, North Building, Cote Lane, Farsley, LS28 T: (0113) 336 8532 (Sarah Sykes) 09.00-10.50 St Giles Baby & Toddler Group St Giles Church, Church Hill, Bramhope, LS16 T: (0113) 230 0522 (Victoria) 09.30-11.30 St Matthias Toddler Group St Matthias Church Centre, St Matthias Street (off Burley Rd), LS4 T: (0113) 278 4859 (Claire) 09.30-11.30 Bright Starters (B) The Old Stables, Back Church Lane, Adel, LS16 T: 07725 338473 (Sonal) www.brightstarters.co.uk 09.45 -10.35 (2-3 years)

Bright Starters (B) Jubilee Hall, Layton Ave, Rawdon, LS19 T: 07917 025914 (Sandra) www.brightstarters.co.uk 10.00-10.50 (2½-4½ years) 11.00-11.50 (1-3 years) Beechtree Steiner Parent & Child group Stainbeck Community Hall, Leeds, LS7 T: (0113) 269 0262 E: enquiries@leeds-steiner.org.uk www.leeds-steiner.org.uk 10.00-12.00 Top 2 Toe Baby Massage (B) Roundhay Methodist Church, Springwood Rd, Roundhay, LS8 T: 07933 622850 (Kirsty) www.top2toeleeds.co.uk 10.15-11.15 Music Bugs (B) Nunroyd Sports Association Club (Green Lane Cricket Club), Guiseley, LS20 T: 0844 578 1043 (Nicola Lawlor) www.musicbugs.co.uk 10.00-11.00 Mums and Tots Group South Parade Baptist Church, Kirkstall Lane, Headingley, LS6 T: (0113) 275 4989 10.00-11.30 (0-5 years) Alwoodley Parents and Toddlers Alwoodley Park Methodist Church, The Lane, Alwoodley Park, Leeds, LS17 T: (0113) 268 2928 10.00-11.45 Roundhay NCT Postnatal group Various locations T: 0870 421 4548 10.00-12.00

Music & Fun from 0 to 5

Saturday mornings - Morley Refreshments included New classes coming to Pudsey and Morley soon Taught by local musician

Kat Brown

Free trial & sibling discount available (0113) 236 3119 or 07800 976614 http://tunetots.katbrown.co.uk

Gymboree (B) Moortown RUFC, Far Moss, Alwoodley, LS17 T: 07702 048391 www.gymboree-uk.com 10.30-11.15 Crawlers/Walkers (8-18 months) 11.30-12.15 Baby Play (0-9 months) NCT Next Steps Toddler Group Chapel Allerton Children’s Centre, Blake Grove, Chapel Allerton, LS7 E: nextsteps@nctleeds.org 10.30-12.30 Moor Allerton Library Story and Rhymetime Moor Allerton Centre, King Lane, LS17 T: (0113) 214 5624 11.15-11.45 Top 2 Toe Baby Massage (B) St Theresa’s RC Church, Station Rd, Crossgates, LS15 T: 07933 622850 (Kirsty) www.top2toeleeds.co.uk 12.30-13.30

Bright Starters (B) Playdays, 2 Westgate Arcade, Otley, LS21 T: 07917 025914 (Sandra) www.brightstarters.co.uk 13.00-13.50 (2½-4½ years) 14.00-14.50 (1-3 years)

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Enjoy-a-Ball (B) Rawdon Trinity Church, New Road Side, Rawdon, LS19 T: 07766 712711 (Gill McDermott) www.enjoy-a-ball.com 13.15-13.45 (3-3½ years) 13.45-14.45 (3½-4½ years) Immaculate Heart Parents and Toddlers The Immaculate Heart of Mary Catholic Church, 294 Harrogate Road, Leeds, LS17 T: (0113) 395 0311 13.30-15.00 Horsforth Library Story and Rhymetime Town Street, Horsforth, LS18 T: (0113) 214 4801 14.15-14.45

Thursday Farsley Playgroup and Toddler Group Methodist Church, Back Lane, Farsley, LS28 T: (0113) 229 9464 09.00-11.30 Rodley Young Ones The Church in Rodley, Wesley Street, Rodley, LS13 09.00-11.00 St Paul’s Parents and Toddlers St Paul the Apostle Church, Buckstone Crescent, Alwoodley, LS17 T: (0113) 395 0311 09.30-11.00 School Street Toddlers United Reformed Church, School Street, Pudsey, LS28 T: (0113) 236 1400 (Christine) 09.30-11.00 Gymboree (B) Jubilee Hall, Layton Ave, Rawdon, LS19 T: 07702 048391 www.gymboree-uk.com 09.30-10.15 Explorers 1 (2-3 years) 10.30-11.15 Runners (18 months-2 years) 11.30-12.15 Explorers 2 (2½-4 years) 12.30-13.15 Baby Play (0-9 months) Artybobs (B) Clifton Village Hall, Otley, LS21 T: 07725 092759 (Sarah) www.artybobs.co.uk 09.45-10.45 Lidgett Park Toddler Group Lidgett Park Methodist Church, Lidgett Place, Leeds, LS8 09.45-11.45 Music Bugs (B) St Edmund’s Church Hall, Lidgett Park Rd, Leeds, LS8 T: 0844 578 1043 (Nicola Lawlor) www.musicbugs.co.uk 10.00-11.00 Oakwood NCT postnatal group Various locations T: 0870 421 4548 10.00-12.00 Beechtree Steiner Parent & Child group Stainbeck Community Hall, Leeds, LS7 T: (0113) 269 0262 E: enquiries@leeds-steiner.org.uk www.leeds-steiner.org.uk 10.00-12.00

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Calverley Library Story and Rhymetime Thornhill Street, Calverley, LS28 T: (0113) 214 6043 14.45-15.15

Friday Wobblers and Toddlers Playgroup Lowtown Pudsey Primary School, Kent Rd, Pudsey, LS28 T: (0113) 256 7303 09.15-11.00 Alwoodley Children’s Centre Play and Stay Group (for parents/carers with under 5’s) Alwoodley Children’s Centre, c/o Allerton CE Primary School, Lingfield Approach, Leeds, Ls17 T: (0113) 217 0134 (Sadie) 09.30-11.30 Enjoy-a-Ball (B) Calverley Methodist Church Hall, Carr Rd, Calverley, LS28 T: 07766 712711 (Gill McDermott) www.enjoy-a-ball.com 09.30-10.00 (3-3½ years) 10.15-11.15 (3½-4½ years) Gymboree (B) St Mary’s Parish Centre, 43 Station Rd, Burley in Wharfedale, LS29 T: 07702 048391 www.gymboree-uk.com 09.30-10.15 Toddler Music (10 months- 2 years) 10.30-11.15 Baby Play (0-10 months)

Chapel Allerton Library Story and Rhymetime 106 Harrogate Road, Leeds, LS7 T: (0113) 214 5812 10.30-11.00 Central Library Story and Rhymetime and Activities Municipal Buildings, Calverley Street, Leeds, LS1 T: (0113) 247 6016 14.45-15.15 Alwoodley Children’s Centre Bumps and Babes group (for mums to be and babies under 1 year) Alwoodley Children’s Centre, c/o Allerton CE Primary School, Lingfield Approach, Leeds, Ls17 T: (0113) 217 0134 (Sadie) 13.00-14.30 Bright Starters (B) Gingerbread Cottage, 2a Clayton Wood Bank, LS16 T: 07725 338473 (Sonal) www.brightstarters.co.uk 13.00-14.20 (2½-5 years) SHARE Horsforth Children’s Centre, North Broadgate Lane, Horsforth, LS18 T: (0113) 259 1786 13.30-15.00 Gymboree (B) Jubilee Hall, Layton Ave, Rawdon, LS19 T: 07702 048391 www.gymboree-uk.com 13.30-14.15 Baby Play (0-9 months) 14.30-15.15 Crawlers (6-12 months) 15.30-16.15 walkers (10-9 months)

Trinity Toddlers Trinity Church, New Road Side, Rawdon, LS19 T: (01274) 612858 (Rachel Harrison) 09.30-11.30 Stanhope Tots Horsforth Children’s Centre, North Broadgate Lane, Horsforth, LS18 T: (0113) 259 0801 (Clare) 09.30-11.30 Gymboree (B) Brackenwood Community Centre, Lidgett Lane, LS17 T: 07702 048391 www.gymboree-uk.com 09.30-10.15 Walkers (10-18 months) 10.30-11.15 Runners (18 months - 2 years) 11.30-12.15 Crawlers (6-12 months) 12.30-13.15 Baby Play (0-9 months)

Bright Starters (B) Cottonbudz, 54A Oaklands Road, Rodley, LS13 T: 07917 025914 (Sandra) www.brightstarters.co.uk 10.00-10.50 (2½-4 ½ years) 11.00-11.50 (1-3 years) Rawdon Library Story and Rhymetime Micklefield Park, Rawdon, LS19 T: (0113) 247 7621 10.15-10.45 Garforth Library Story and Rhymetime Lidgett Lane, Garforth, LS25 T: (0113) 224 3291 10.30-11.00 Halton Library Story and Rhymetime 273 Selby Road, Leeds, LS15 T: (0113) 214 1320 10.30-11.30 Parents and Toddlers Cookridge Village Hall, Moseley Wood Lane, Cookridge, LS16 13.30-15.00 Gymboree (B) Brackenwood Community Centre, Lidgett Lane, LS17 T: 07702 048391 www.gymboree-uk.com 13.30-14.15 Crawlers (6-12 months) 14.30-15.15 Explorers 1 (2-3 years) 15.30-16.15 Explorers 2 (2 1/2-4 years) Farsley Library Story and Rhymetime Old Road, Farsley, LS28 T: (0113) 214 6038 14.00-14.30

Saturday Tune Tots (B) Community Room, Morley Newlands Primary School, LS27 T: (0113) 236 3119 (Kat Brown) www.tunetots.katbrown.co.uk 09.30-10.30 Gymboree (B) Brackenwood Community Centre, Lidgett Lane, LS17 T: 07702 048391 www.gymboree-uk.com 10.30-11.15 Crawlers/Walkers (8-18 months) 11.30-12.15 Family Class (All mobile children under 5)

Adel and Ireland Wood Toddler Group Adel and Ireland Wood Community Centre, New Adel Lane, LS16 T: 07932 711414 (Emma)/07908 259451 (Sharon) 09.45-11.30

Burley Library Story and Rhymetime Cardigan Road, Leeds, LS6 T: (0113) 214 4528 12.45-13.15

Umbrella Group Jubilee Hall, Layton Ave, Rawdon, LS19 T: (0113) 229 4080 (Sandra) 09.45-11.30

Dads and Tots Group South Parade Baptist Church, Kirkstall Lane, Headingley, LS6 T: (0113) 275 4989 10.00-11.30 (0-5 years) 1st Saturday of the month only

Little Jim’s St James Woodside Parish Church, Low Lane, Horsforth, LS18 www.stjameswoodside.org/index.htm 10.00-12.00 Weetwood and Far Headingley NCT postnatal group Various locations T: 0870 421 4548 E: weetwood@nctleeds.org 10.00-12.30

(B): pre-book classes.

Please note: most groups/classes take place during term times only. Whilst every effort is taken to ensure that all information is accurate, the publisher is not liable for any errors or omissions.

Please contact the organisers directly for more information and availability of places. If you would like to be included in the baby and toddler weekly planner, please email: liz.rhodes@boomag.co.uk

Winter 2009

We started a very busy autumn term celebrating the completion of two years of building work. Huge balloons were released, and along with our families and friends, we hugged the school! Our impressive entrance hall leads the way to a new state of the art Key Stage 2 block, a child centered Foundation Stage area with an extensive outdoor classroom.

There are also redesigned Key Stage 1 classrooms with outdoor facilities.

Allerton C of E School is fortunate enough to have a full sized Multi Use Games Area – highly unusual for a primary school –alongside our excellent sports facilities, outdoor spaces and well resourced classrooms. We also continue to develop our extensive grounds, allowing us to make the children’s

exemplary relationships throughout the school. Curricular enhancement, and the contribution it makes to the wider range of subject skills, is outstanding.”

school experience as varied and engaging as possible. Alwoodley Children’s Centre, housed within the same building, enables us to extend support to families in our community.

Recent Ofsted and SIAS Inspections for Allerton C of E School said that our strengths are: “the pupils’ outstanding behaviour, pastoral care of all pupils and the excellent and

The ‘Dragons’ themed Arts Week gave all the children the chance to create the most amazing pieces, working alongside a sculptor and Mrs Johnston, our very talented teacher of Visual Arts. The results are on show in our school and at www. allertonceprimary.com We can’t wait for the ‘Dragon Hanging’ to go up in our fabulous new entrance!

Why not come and see what we have to offer? www.allertonceprimary.com

Sure Start Children's Centres

offer children under five and their families the services they need, including information and access to childcare integrated with early education, health services, advice for parents and help to access training and work.

For more information on what is on offer at Alwoodley Children's Centre please contact us on 0113 2170134 or come along and visit us to view the facilities.

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21

After school Activities

Uniformed organisations

Academic tuition

Others

For safety reasons some uniformed organisations ask that you contact them directly to find out details of exactly where and when your local groups are. So, here we take a quick look at some of the groups on offer throughout Leeds:

Kumon Maths and English tuition Age: 2+ years Multiple locations T: 0800 854 714 www.kumon.co.uk

RSPB Wildlife Explorer Group Age: up to 18 years Leeds branch T: (0113) 243 0815 www.rspb.org.uk/youth

Girl Guiding UK Age: 5-adult T: 0800 169 5901 Girl Guides provides a safe, girl-only space to explore the activities, issues and possibilities that are available to girls today.

Rainbows age: 5-7 years Brownies age: 7-10 years Guides age: 10-14 years www.girlguiding.org.uk

La Jolie Ronde French and Spanish tuition Age: 3-11 years Multiple locations T:(0113) 250 0809 Zoe Dooley www.lajolieronde.co.uk

The Scouts Association Age: 6-adult T: 0845 300 1818 The Aim of Scouting is to promote the development of young people in achieving their full physical, intellectual, social and spiritual potential, as individuals, as responsible citizens and as members of their local, national and international communities.

Beaver Scouts age: 6-8 years Cub Scouts age: 8-10½ years Scouts age: 10½-14 years www.scouts.org.uk The Boys’ Brigade Age: 5-adult T: 01442 231681 The Boys’ Brigade has been around for 125 years providing a balanced Christian based programme of activities for young people with the aim of making a positive contribution to young people’s lives.

Anchor Boys age: 5-8 years Junior Section age: 8-11 years Company Section age: 11-15 years www.boys-brigade.org.uk The Girls’ Brigade Age: 4-adult T: 01235 510425 The Girls’ Brigade (GB) is a Christian, international charity working alongside girls and young women of every background, ability and culture.

Explorers age: 4-8 years Juniors age: 8-11 years Seniors age: 11-14 years www.girlsbrigade.org.uk

Sport

Please note, most groups/classes take place during term times only. Whilst every effort is taken to ensure that all information is accurate, the publisher is not liable for any errors or omissions provided. Please contact the organisers directly for more information, or to check availability.

If you would like to be included in Boo’s after school activity diary, please email: liz.rhodes@boomag.co.uk

Enjoy-a-Ball Sport coaching programme Age: 3-9 years Locations: Rawdon, Calverley, Harrogate T: 07766 712711 (Gill McDermott) www.enjoy-a-ball.com Leeds Esprit Gymnastics Club Gymnastics classes Age: 0-adult Hough Top Court, Hough Top, Pudsey, LS13 T: (0113) 285 3392 www.leedsesprit.com Striker 9 Football skills training programme Age: 5-16 years Multiple leisure centre locations including: Guiseley, Oakwood, Holt Park, Chapel Allerton, Pudsey http://www.leeds.gov.uk/striker Judo Club Martial arts Age: 7+ years Aireborough Leisure Centre, The Green, Guiseley, Leeds, LS20 T: 01943 873790 E: lsp.aireborough.sport@leeds.gov.uk

Dance/drama Elev8dance Dance, Drama, Cheerleading, Street Dance, Musical Theatre, Tap, Ballet Age: 2½+ years T: (0113) 210 9060 www.elev8dance.com StageCoach Theatre School Performing arts - Dance, Drama and Singing classes Age: 6-16 years Locations: Horsforth, Roundhay, Morley, Kippax, Selby, Alwoodley www.stagecoach.co.uk

Winter 2009

Dad zone

Thanks to one of our Boo readers who has sent in a festive-themed article for this winter’s edition of the Dad zone! If you would like to have your say and contribute to this page, please email liz.rhodes@boomag.co.uk

I, for one, feel incredibly fortunate to have a beautiful little girl to help us put baubles on the tree, bake mince pies and provide the pre-breakfast entertainment on Christmas Day. In the interim, rest assured, by mid-December, I will be at our local greengrocers trying to persuade my long-suffering wife that a 10 foot tree will fit underneath our eight foot ceiling!

Bah humbug? ...not me!

Clive lives in Sheffield with his wife Rebecca and 21 month old daughter, Elspeth.

by Clive, Boo reader

Firstly, a confession; my name is Clive and I love Christmas!

I love the festive season so much that in the months of October and November, my wife, Rebecca, has banned me from singing Christmas songs. She has the unenviable task of trying to keep a lid on my excitement rather like an owner might battle to maintain control of a dog placed in a room full of squeaky toys. There is a very real possibility this year that, if Rebecca does not harness my enthusiasm into something more constructive, I might explode in a colourful display of Christmas lights before the first advent calendar door is ajar. The arrival of our first child in March 2008 has merely served to push my Yuletide obsession-ometer off the scale.

With our daughter Elspeth now walking and nearly talking, I have already placed her on an intensive training regime to ensure she

recognises traditional figures like Father Christmas, his reindeer and, er, Cliff Richard in readiness for the festivities. Some fathers might swell with pride as their child utters ‘dada’ as their first discernable word but I’ll be expecting nothing less than a fully choreographed singing and dancing routine to ‘Mistletoe and Wine’ from my daughter on Christmas morning!

Yet because I relish it so much I find the idea of creating the magic of Christmas around Elspeth quite intimidating. I want her to look forward to the festive period with the same wide-eyed excitement as I still do. Will she get bored of it all given we have been watching ‘Peppa Pig’s Christmas’ twice a week since the first week in September? I sincerely hope not because when you strip away the commercialisation aspects of Christmas it remains, at its core, a time for children and families.

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23

You time For you and for charity

Photography courtesy of Cancer Research UK

by Inga Fairley

Over 700,000 people are currently living with dementia in the UK, and this number is expected to reach over a million by 2015. More than 15,000 of those affected are under 65.

Alzheimer’s Society is a membership organisation, which works to improve the quality of life of people affected by dementia in England, Wales and Northern Ireland and is always looking for both volunteers in local branches and participants in their fundraising events.

Most of us, especially busy parents, think of ‘me time’ as something indulgent: whether it’s a long bath, a night out, or just reading a book. But it could also be about doing something for someone else.

If you have a bit of time to spare, why not think about volunteering?

It’s rewarding of course, but it can also be a great way to meet new people, learn new skills and gain experience. www.do-it.org. uk has over a million volunteering opportunities throughout the UK.

One of the most popular events is Race For Life, a women-only 5km walk, jog or run in aid of Cancer Research UK. See www.raceforlife. org for details of how to enter for 2010, then persuade some friends to join you and get training!

Another great way to have fun and help others is to raise money for charity. There are thousands of ways you can do this, from having a jumble sale, doing a sponsored walk or run, or for the more adventurous, perhaps a parachute jump or even climbing Kilimanjaro!

Photograph courtesy of Macmillan

There are many volunteering opportunities such as helping out at luncheon clubs, dementia cafes and drop in centres as well as offering administrative support, befriending services, and campaigning. Have a look at www.alzheimers.org.uk for more details or contact the Leeds branch on 0113 231 1727.

Why not take part in one of the following Alzheimer’s Society fundraising events?

Ben Nevis Challenge 28-30 May 2010

The important thing is to choose something that you’ll enjoy. That way, you can think of it as ‘you time’ but with an added feelgood factor.

Here are a few ideas from both local and national charities who would appreciate your time and support:

London to Paris bike ride 15-19 September 2010 London Marathon 25 April 2010 Mount Kilimanjaro Trek 11-21 June 2010 Parachuting Available throughout the year

Winter 2009

Aireborough Voluntary Services to the Elderly with Disabilities (AVSED) is an organisation managed and run by registered volunteers in the areas of Rawdon, Yeadon and Guiseley.

Hundreds of events will take place across the UK this winter in support of Macmillan. From Christmas fairs to Santa dashes, candlelight walks to winter balls, there’s something for everyone.

The main aim of the organisation is to help physically disabled and frail people over 60 who are socially isolated in the community and to enhance the quality of their lives.

Here are a couple of ideas to get you started: Morrisons collections 7-13 December If you can spare an hour or two to help Macmillan with their collections at Morrisons, please get in touch!

Donations in Lieu of Christmas cards

We are always looking for new volunteers to help at our groups, befriend local elderly people, take them shopping or even do the Friday fish and chip run.

If you have any spare time to help in your local community, please contact Tessa for more information on 0113 250 1702.

Be a star this Christmas! Instead of sending cards to your colleagues, post a festive message on Macmillan’s A1 poster and offer support by making a donation.

For more information on any of these events, please call 01924 232440, or visit www.macmillan. org.uk/westyorkshire

‘Little Legs for Life’ is a new sponsored charity race designed for children. The first event took place this summer when a group of mums in Surrey ran ‘Race for Life’ and realised that their children also wanted to support Cancer Research UK! The mums are aiming for communities all over the country to hold their own ‘Little Legs for Life’ events, following the same basic format, but adapted to the local community.

Your local Cancer Research UK representative will offer advice and support but all aspects of the event, from finding a venue to handing out medals at the finish line, will be organised and managed by the local group of volunteers.

If you would like more information on organising this fantastic new event in your local community then please contact Simon Moran 07918 034954 or email simon.moran@ cancer.org.uk.

For cancer support at home, over the phone, call free on 0808 808 00 00 (Monday to Friday, 09.00-20.00).

The free lifestyle magazine for you and yours

25

Competitions

Netmums.com

is a dedicated website for local

Ruby and GINGER are offering you the chance to win one of five gorgeous gift sets comprising of an original nappy purse and handy toy tie. To enter, answer the following:

parents offering thousands of places to go and things to do in your area, as well as support on parenting, postnatal depression, relationships and more.

GINGER is a shade of...? a. green b. red c. blue

For further information visit www.netmums.com/leeds

Closing date for entries: 8 January 2010.

Simply email your answer (including your name, address and telephone number) to rubyandgingercomp@ boomag.co.uk or post your entry to:

This space will get looked at more than 15,000 times!

Boo magazine Ltd Ruby and GINGER competition PO Box 236 Pudsey LS28 0DR

If you would like to advertise in Boo, please contact us: T: 0113 815 0033 E: liz.rhodes@boomag.co.uk

See www.boomag.co.uk for full terms and conditions.

The Little Hen Company The Little Hen Company are offering you the chance to win a calendar in this great new year’s competition – to enter, just answer the following simple question.

The Little Hen Competition Answer Name Address

When will the next leap year be? a. 2010 b. 2011 c. 2012 Closing date for entries: 8 January 2010.

Simply email your answer (including your name, address and telephone number) to: littlehencompetition@ boomag.co.uk or fill in the entry form and post to:

Keep track of 2010 with this gorgeous ‘My Calendar’ wall hanging – the soft moveable pieces provide a great way to learn about days, dates, seasons and the weather.

Boo magazine Ltd The Little Hen competition PO Box 236 Pudsey LS28 0DR

Postcode Telephone Mobile Competition terms and conditions The winning entry will be the first correct answer drawn after 8 January 2010. The winner will receive a ‘My Calendar’ in Blue, Pink or Green. Children under 16 must have the permission of a parent or guardian before entering. No correspondence can be entered into. No cash alternative can be offered.

See www.boomag.co.uk for full terms and conditions. Code: TLHBOO1

Winter 2009

A taste of fun with

Here, Emma Walker, owner of Tiny Bites, takes a look at balancing savoury with sweet treats at parties I recently took my little boy to a children’s party at a play centre and was faced with an uninspiring table of deep fried everything, with some token carrot sticks bang in the middle of the table, out of reach!

Despite our best efforts, you can guess what the kids headed for!

Collective deep breaths all round, we reassured ourselves; “it’s just a one off, we’ll give them some fruit for tea tonight.”

As a busy parent with a billion things to juggle, I know that trying to find a balance between healthy and fun party food can feel challenging. Often it’s a good idea to keep the sweet treats away from the table until the savoury has been demolished; we can live in hope!

However, try not to go over the top with the healthy stuff if you don’t think it’s going to get eaten; there’s nothing worse than seeing your efforts go to waste. Try to be a little more inventive with traditional party food, using cookie cutters can make sandwiches look more appealing, for example.

Organising a children’s party can be time consuming; what with sending out the invitations, organising games, and decorating the party venue. And that’s all before you get to think about feeding everyone!

If you can prepare one thing that hasn’t come from a packet, then well done! Even better, let your children get involved – a great treat for them. On page 9 I’ve shared a few simple but tasty party snacks that little hands can help with, and also an extra special Christmas treat. Enjoy!

Emma Walker is a mum of one, and owner of Tiny Bites: children’s party planning and catering. Visit www.tinybites. co.uk for more information.

“” Often it’s a good idea

to keep the sweet treats away from the table until the savoury has been demolished.

The free lifestyle magazine for you and yours

27

Little Schools’ Birdwatchthis bonfire night 18 January - 1 February

For the first time, early years children are being given a special invitation to join in with the UK’s biggest birdwatch. Running from 18 January – 1 February, the Little Schools’ Birdwatch encourages young children and their teachers to look for and count the birds that share their outdoor space.

To get everyone involved, the RSPB has teamed up with 3rd & Bird, the award winning CBeebies preschool show and BBC Worldwide to produce the first Little Schools’ Birdwatch pack. Especially designed to complement the learning and curriculum for Early Years groups, the pack contains everything a teacher will need to plan a fantastic birdwatch.

Experiencing nature first hand is a vital part of a child’s education, and research has found that such activities can benefit their health both mentally and physically. Little Schools’ Birdwatch helps bring the wonder of nature to the classroom.

– now in its ninth year. In 2009, almost 90,000 children and teachers from over 2,000 schools took part in the survey. Results revealed that the blackbird was the most common bird visitor to school grounds with an average of 5.03 seen per school.

Play areas are turned into bird hides, bird cake and binoculars are made, and children excitedly get into position with their noses pressed up against the window with hushed silence. Teachers have also commented that children as young as three are amazed by the simple activity of observing the different ways birds hop, peck, waddle and swoop around birdfeeders.

For further information about Little Schools’ Birdwatch and Big Schools’ Birdwatch, visit www.rspb.org.uk/ schoolswatch or ring 0300 456 8340 (calls charged at standard rate) for a free teachers’ pack which includes guidance notes, identification cards, counting charts, 3rd & Bird branded activities and even a karaoke DVD. The hotline number will be operational until 28 January 2010.

Little Schools’ Birdwatch is part of the RSPB’s Big Schools’ Birdwatch

Boo’s autumn competition winners Winner of a £50 Polka Dotty Baby voucher: Jane Fairbank, Leeds Family passes to The Tropical Butterfly House, Wildlife and Falcontry Centre have been won by: Lucy Peers - Horsforth Pauline Garczynski - Kirkstall Claire Norris - Farsley Janine Bailey-Hague - South Milford Claire Welsh - Adel Thank you to all our entrants and look out for more exciting competitions in this issue.

Winter 2009

Chatterbox Challenge Creepies, crawlies and communication 2 - 8 February

February 2010 will see the return of Chatterbox Challenge, the annual fundraising activity for nurseries, primary schools and children’s groups. Supported by Openreach, a BT Group Business, this year’s theme is ‘minibeasts and the garden.’ So, why not grab your little ‘beasts’, join in the fun and raise money for children’s communication charity I CAN? I CAN Chief Executive, Virginia Beardshaw, says, “Chatterbox Challenge 2010 is a fantastic fundraising initiative that has become a firm favourite in the calendar. Thousands of children get involved singing songs and playing games for those who struggle to communicate, whilst learning about the world around us. Whether taking part at nursery, within a primary school, with a childminder or at home, all the activities and song sheets in the free pack have been specifically designed by teachers and I CAN speech and language therapists.”

“Communication difficulties are not life threatening, but they are life limiting. Over one million children in the UK today are struggling with a communication difficulty. Games,

songs and rhymes are a brilliant way of fostering speech and language by helping to build vocabulary and encourage conversation. The primary aged activities directly underpin the National Curriculum. By taking part in Chatterbox Challenge, all children benefit from a fun and educational activity and at the same time support I CAN’s vital work.”

By registering for a free Chatterbox Challenge pack, you receive everything you need to run a successful event, including ‘minibeasts and the garden’ themed songs and activities, stickers and certificates, a detailed guide to organising your event, sponsorship forms and ideas to make fundraising easy.

For more information or to register for your free Chatterbox Challenge activity pack, go to www. chatterboxchallenge.co.uk or call 0845 108 5303.

The free lifestyle magazine for you and yours

29

Kids Wintery arts & crafts, puzzles and games

Get crafty Do you find that after Christmas Day you have lots of used wrapping paper and cards, but are not sure what to do with them? Why not try making these great personalised collage thank you cards – a fantastic way to recycle your Christmas waste and bring a smile to someone special at the same time.

Sudoku 5

2

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Each row, column and box needs to contain the numbers 1 to 6 but only once – can you solve the puzzle?

1 2

What you need: A4 card, glue, used Christmas cards, used wrapping paper.

How to do it:

Christmas Sudoku

Pre-draw a Christmas tree, star or snowman onto a piece of A4 card. Cut out the shape. Next, take your used wrapping paper and rip into small squares. Then stick the squares onto the shape. You can also use bits of old tinsel or bows from presents for a lovely collage effect.

Or: Use an A4 piece of card folded in half. On the front of your card glue on shapes and characters cut from your old Christmas cards along with your own drawings and glitter to create a winter scene.

Top tip: these make lovely keepsakes for grandparents. Make sure the writing for the thank you cards is written before the gluing takes place.

See if you can you fit the following Christmas words in the Sudoku grid:

santa

tree

tree

gift

Fairy Gift Tree Santa

gift

fairy

These craft ideas were provided by Artybobs offering art and crafts classes and Arty Party birthday party packages for children aged 12 months plus. For more information, call 07725 092759. E: sarah@artybobs.co.uk or visit www.artybobs.co.uk

Winter 2009

Festive Franglais wordsearch

Doll’s dress pattern

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Can you find all 14 festive words; 7 in English and 7 in French?

Why not make your doll the belle of the ball with this glamorous dress designed

by Peak Princess?

English Winter Christmas Snow Presents Reindeer Holly Tree French Hiver Noel Neige Cadeaux Renne Houx Arbre

To download a PDF version of the pattern and instructions, visit www.boomag. co.uk/kids/dollsdresspattern.pdf This information was provided by Peak Princess - liberty print childrenswear handmade in the High Peak. For more information, visit www. peakprincess.co.uk

Spot the difference There are 7 to find. Good luck!

Answers to puzzles can be found on our website at www.boomag.co.uk/kids/winter09answers.pdf

The free lifestyle magazine for you and yours

31

Around and about Festive family-friendly days out Shibden Hall Lister’s Road Halifax HX3 6XG T: 01422 352246 Open Monday-Saturday 10.00-16.00 Sunday 12.00-16.00 Adults £3.50, children (5 -16 years) £2.50, family ticket £10.00 Set in 90 acres of rolling parkland with a range of attractions including woodland, walks, an orienteering course, children’s rides, miniature railway, pitch and putt and a boating lake, Shibden is the perfect venue for a family day out.

Christmas Craft Fair Friday 4 December, Saturday 5 December, Sunday 6 December. 10.00-16.00 The perfect place to find those special gifts for your loved ones (or yourself!). Look no further for a unique blend of modern and traditional gifts and crafts. Special reduced admission rates for this weekend.

Christmas at Shibden Sunday 20 December 12.00-16.00 Christmas at Shibden Hall is a special occasion.

See the Hall decked with holly and ivy, enjoy live music, listen to Christmas stories and make traditional decorations. Included in the admission price of Shibden Hall.

The Christmas Adventure at Stockeld Park, Wetherby T: 01937 586333 www.thechristmasadventure.com Open daily, 11.30-20.30 Santa’s Grotto open weekdays 15.0019.00, weekends 12.00-19.00 Open until Sunday 3 January Entry to Stockeld Park is free, simply pay per attraction visited.

Where do we start? Attractions include an Enchanted Wood, Nordic Skiing trail, Skating rink, Snowflake maze, Christmas Shop and of course Santa’s Grotto.

Grassington Dickensian Festival, Grassington

Santa at Shibden

Friday 4, Saturday 5, 12 & 19 December

Saturday 12 and Sunday 13 December, 10.0016.00 at Mereside Visitor Centre

Grassington is transported back to the time of Charles Dickens. See the Christmas lights, the village square and the streets transformed into a traditional market with shopkeepers, villagers and visitors dressed in Victorian costume. With carols, morris men, Punch and Judy, Santa and Nativity Processions there is lots to keep children of all ages full of festive spirit

Saturday 19 and Sunday 20 December, 10.0016.00 at Shibden Hall Santa will be making an appearance at Shibden Hall, Shibden Mereside and around the park.

Take a ride on the Grotto Special and meet Santa.

T: 01422 352246. Cost £3, including gift.

Cinderella Magic Wand Wednesday 30 December and Saturday 30 January, 10.30-12.15

Kirkstall Abbey

Meet Cinderella and her fairy godmother in this magical costumed workshop. Help Cinderella with her chores and discover old toys. Create your own magic wand and cast a spell to send Cinderella to the ball. Suitable for children 3-6 years. Adults £4, children £3. Booking essential on 01422 392756.

Includes admission to the hall.

Abbey Rd, Kirkstall, Leeds,LS5 3EH T: 0113 274 8041 www.leeds.gov.uk/kirkstallabbey Saturday 19 December Carols in the Abbey 14.00-15.00 Join the Heritage singers for an afternoon of festive favourites in wonderful surroundings.

Visitor Centre open Tue–Sun, 11.00-15.00 (Oct-Mar). Free admission.

Winter 2009

Once the festivities are over .....

Wentworth Castle Gardens Wentworth Castle and Stainborough Park Heritage Trust, Wentworth Castle, Lowe Lane, Stainborough, Barnsley S75 3ET T: 01226 776040 www.wentworthcastle.org Gardens open daily 10.00-16.00 (last admission, 14.45) Adults £4.50, children (over 5s) £2.50, children (under 5s) free.

Family tickets available. See website for details.

‘Christmas at the castle’, 10.00-16.00, 5, 6, 12, 13, 19-24 December; meet Santa in his grotto, plus reindeer trails through the gardens. Mulled wine and mince pie for all adult visitors, and a quality gift for children visiting Santa. £5.50 per person. Booking essential for Santa visits – please call 01226 776040.

Climb the castle tower and marvel at the dramatic views, explore the gardens, or enjoy lunch or a drink in the café. A new adventure playground has been recently opened. Plus, explore Stainborough Castle – a mock castle built on the highest point of the estate – a favourite with children!

Lotherton Hall

Elmsleys Farmshop and Activity Centre

Yorkshire Sculpture Park

Lotherton Lane, Aberford, Leeds, LS25 3EB

Greenside Farm, Warm Lane, Yeadon, Leeds LS19 7DW www.emsleys-farmshop.co.uk T: 0113 250 3060 Open Mon–Sat 10.00-17.00, Sun 10.00-16.00. Free admission to farm and visitors centre, activity barn £1.50 (0-18 months) £3.00 (18+ months)

West Bretton, Wakefield, WF4 4LG

www.leeds.gov.uk/lothertonhall T: 0113 281 3259 Opening times: Hall; (1 April-31 Oct) Tues-Sat 10.00-17.00, Sun 13.00-17.00 Closed Mondays, except Bank Holidays.

Bird garden; daily 10.00-17.00.

Café; daily 09.30-17.00 Free admission to bird garden, grounds and playground.

Hall admission; adult £2.93, child £0.98. Leeds/Breeze Card holders 20% discount.

Enjoy a great day out at Lotherton Hall and Estate and explore the fine country home within extensive grounds, including a red deer park, bird garden, nature trails, cafe and extensive family play area.

Farm shop, trail and visitors centre, large indoor children’s play barn.

www.ysp.co.uk T: 01924 832631 Open daily 10.00-18.00 Free admission. Car park £4/day.

YSP is an extraordinary place that sets out to challenge, inspire, inform and delight.

With four indoor galleries and 500 acres of 18th century parkland, it is an international centre for modern and contemporary art.

Although every effort has been made to ensure that these details are correct, Boo magazine Ltd cannot be held liable for any errors or omissions. It is strongly recommended that you check the information with the relevant organisations before setting off. For some special events, it may also be necessary to pre-book.

The free lifestyle magazine for you and yours

33

What’s on at the theatre The Secret Garden West Yorkshire Playhouse, Leeds 28 November 2009-23 January 2010 Matinees 13.30 Evening performances 19.00 Tickets: £17.00-£29.50 Box Office: 0113 213 7700 www.wyp.org.uk

At imposing Misselthwaite Manor, in the heart of the Yorkshire Moors, there’s a door that once led to a magical garden, a door that’s been locked for many years, the key buried and all but forgotten.

Following in the footsteps of his acclaimed production of The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe, Ian Brown directs a spellbinding brand new musical adaptation of Frances Hodgson Burnett’s classic children’s novel that’s guaranteed to blossom in the imaginations of children young and old!

Jack and the Beanstalk Alhambra Theatre, Bradford 12 December 2009-31 January 2010 Tickets: £7.50-£22.50 Box Office: 01274 432 000 www.bradford-theatres.co.uk

With all the elements of traditional pantomime and much more, Jack and the Beanstalk is set to enchant and excite audiences of all ages with this classic adventure story for all the family.

Featuring the hapless Jack (Billy Pearce), Dame Trot, their beloved cow, a handful of magic beans, a larger than life beanstalk and a very mean giant at the top of it! Fee, Fi, Foe, Fum - it’s going to be a lot of panto fun!

The world’s most famous circus collides with the legendary Russian folklore figure Rasputin to create a sensational show that combines contemporary & classical circus at its very best.

The Chinese State Circus The Grand Theatre, Leeds

Dick Whittington Theatre Royal, Wakefield

The Moscow State Circus Legenda Once in a life time Alhambra Theatre,Bradford

9-10 February 2010 Performances at 17.00 and 20.00 Tickets: £12.00-£25.00, Concessions available Box Office: 01274 432 000 www.bradford-theatres.co.uk

the Yorkshire countryside, to the nation’s fabled capital, from the high seas to mystical islands and ancient treasure. But watch out for pantomime’s most evil villain - the rotten revolting rodent...

King Rat! There to thwart our hero at every turn! Can Dick defeat King Rat? Can he find the treasure and win the hand of his one true love?

Will the bells of London ring out at last to prove our hero’s prophecy true? There is only one way to find out.

30 November 2009-3 January 2010 Tickets: £13-£20 Box Office: 01924 211311 www.theatreroyalwakefield.co.uk Join Dick and his famous feline friend, on their wondrous adventures which take them from

28 December-3 January 2010 Tickets: £12.00 - £30.00 Box Office: 0844 848 2076 www.leedsgrandtheatre.com Bringing a brand new spectacular to the UK featuring world-class acrobatics, gymnasts and Martial Arts warriors this show really stretches the limits of human achievement

Win a family ticket to see The Secret Garden Boo has teamed up with West Yorkshire Playhouse to offer you the chance to win a family ticket for The Secret Garden, on Thursday 21 January at 19.00. To enter, just answer the following question: What is the name of the manor house where the Secret Garden can be found? a. Mischief Manor b. Morley Manor c. Misselthwaite Manor Simply email your answer and contact details to: secretgardencomp@boomag. co.uk or fill in the entry form and post to: The Secret Garden Competition Boo magazine Ltd PO Box 236 Pudsey LS28 0DR

Answer Name Address

Postcode Telephone Mobile Competition terms and conditions The winning entry will be the first correct answer drawn after 8 January 2010. The winner will receive a ticket to admit 4 people (the party may have a maximum of 2 adults) on Thursday 21 January 2010. The free ticket cannot be used in conjunction with any other offer and the date is non transferable. Children under 16 must have the permission of a parent or guardian before entering. No correspondence can be entered into. No cash alternative can be offered.

Code: TSGBOO1

Winter 2009

Shop till you drop Great discount offers for

Reading and writing activity classes from 6 months - 6 years Free trial with this voucher please call 07725 338473 or 07917 025914 or visit www.brightstarters.co.uk Offer valid from 01.12.09 to 31.01.10. This voucher has no monetary value. One voucher only per customer. Not to be used in conjunction with any other offer.

Voucher code: BSBOO02

10% discount

readers

Please call Gill on 07766 712711 for a FREE trial lesson

5% discount

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Offer valid from 01.12.09 to 31.01.10. This voucher has no monetary value. One voucher only per customer. Not to be used in conjunction with any other offer.

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www.rubyandginger.co.uk

when you sign up at your free trial session

Call 0770 204 8391 Offer valid from 01.12.09 to 31.01.10. This voucher has no monetary value. One voucher only per customer. Not to be used in conjunction with any other offer.

Voucher code: BOOEAB02

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10% discount

ÂŁ10 off joining fee

For a FREE trial lesson Please contact Zoe on 0113 250 0809

Offer valid from 01.12.09 to 31.01.10. This voucher has no monetary value. One voucher only per customer. Not to be used in conjunction with any other offer.

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For a FREE trial session contact Nicola on 0844 578 1043 Offer valid from 01.12.09 to 31.01.10. This voucher has no monetary value. One voucher only per customer. Not to be used in conjunction with any other offer.

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This space will get looked at more than 15,000 times!

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The free lifestyle magazine for you and yours

If you would like to advertise in Boo, please contact us: T: 0113 815 0033 E: liz.rhodes@boomag.co.uk

35

Winter 2009