Boo magazine | Autumn 09 | Leeds by Jo Hutchinson

Issue 1 | Autumn 2009 | Leeds

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

Back to school Thinking of alternative education for your child? We take a look at the options

Comeback kid

Expert advice for parents returning to work after having children

Creeping about On the autumn trail with The National Trust

Halloween & bonfire night special

+ Around & about, Baby & toddler weekly planner, Kidsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; pages, You time...

The free lifestyle magazine for you and yours FREE

Autumn 2009

Contents Autumn 2009

4 28

Cover story

Features

Regulars

0 Back to school: what’s the alternative?

2 Creeping about: on the autumn trail with The National Trust

5 Boo to you

It’s one of the biggest parenting decisions you’ll make – choosing your child’s school. And with increasing numbers opting out of mainstream education, the alternatives have never been more important. But if you don’t want to use the state sector, where do you go? We take a back to school look at some of the options...

4 Comeback kid: expert advice for parents returning to work after having children

6 Tickety boo 8 Boo food 7 Dates for your diary

6 Being safe in cyberspace: AntiBullying Week

8 Baby and toddler weekly planner

26 Children’s Book Week: highlights and book reviews

22 Dad zone

28 Safety first this bonfire night: helpful advice from West Yorkshire Fire & Rescue Service 29 ¿Qué dices? Celebrating European Day of Languages

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20 After school activities

24 You time 0 Boo kids 2 Around and about 5 Shop till you drop

This space will get looked at more than 15,000 times! If you would like to advertise in Boo, please contact us: T: 0113 815 0033 E: liz.rhodes@boomag.co.uk

Autumn 2009

to you!

Photograph courtesy of Kiss Katch

For parents, we’ve included a dedicated ‘You time’ page to give inspirational ideas on finding time for yourself, plus a ‘Dad zone’ dedicated to all you fathers out there. If you would like to comment on anything featured in Boo, or are interested in contributing to our winter edition, please get in touch. We hope you enjoy the first of many issues! Liz & Jo

A very warm welcome to the first ever issue of Boo – the free, quarterly lifestyle magazine aimed at anyone who looks after or cares for children. In this Halloween and bonfire night special, we have got something for everyone, whether you are a parent, grandparent, childminder, teacher, health visitor or a child yourself. With great competitions, features, and details of what to do and where to go in Leeds, you need look no further to keep your little angels – no matter how big or small – entertained this autumn. Hopefully, by the time you read this, you will have enjoyed a nice long summer break. Now, it’s back to nursery/school routines, fresh autumnal days and shorter daylight hours. In this issue, we highlight one of the biggest parenting decisions you will make – choosing your child’s

school. With an increasing number of parents opting out of mainstream education, we take a look at some of the alternatives. On page 2, The National Trust provides ideas on exploring the great outdoors – to avoid you going into hibernation during the colder months! There is also expert advice on returning to work from workingmums.co.uk, plus helpful tips from the West Yorkshire Fire & Rescue Service to ensure a safe bonfire night. Our regular diary pages provide an overview of groups, classes and activities in your area – whether it’s for your baby, toddler or school-aged children. Boo’s handy size means that you can keep a copy in your bag, and read it whenever you have a spare moment – so you don’t miss out on any activities in your area.

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Boo magazine Ltd PO Box 2 6 Pudsey LS28 0DR T: (0 ) 8 5 00 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 £ 0. 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

Ready… steady… go! If, like many parents with young families, you have great intentions to get fit but lack the motivation, Boo has teamed up with Esporta’s Exercise and Lifestyle Expert – Mark Hodgkinson – to give you some advice on kick-starting your exercise routine. Whether you are just beginning to work-out, or returning after a long lay-off, it’s important that you continue to feel you are progressing and avoid giving up at the first hurdle. The high drop-out rates for many people can usually be attributed to injury, lack of progress, unrealistic expectations, and even burn-out. Here are some top tips to get your routine going and encourage you to stay motivated: ● Start off with a conservative, flexible and realistic plan that will fit around you, your family and your work commitments. ● Write down your schedule for the week to come, rather than just trying to ‘fit your work-outs in’.

Meeting your goal each week is a great way to motivate yourself for the next week.

doing the little things right, day after day. So, why not make today the day that it all starts for you?

● Go slowly to begin with. If you have been inactive for years, you will not be able to run the London Marathon after two weeks of training.

For more information, contact Esporta Health and Fitness Club, Cookridge Hall, Leeds. T: 0 20 000 , or visit: www.esporta.com

● Always warm up, take your workouts at an easy pace to begin with, and let your body adapt to the new strains you are putting it through. ● Gradually build up the frequency, time, and intensity of your work-outs. ● Find someone else to work-out with; it’s more fun, and you’re less likely to skip a session if you have a friend training with you. ● Follow a varied programme. The more interest and variety you have in your programme, the more likely you are to stick with it. ● Attend an exercise class; this is not only an opportunity to keep fit but also to socialise with others, making it more fun and encouraging you to return each week. ● Work towards an event – whether it’s a 5k fun run or a competitive triathlon, having a goal will keep you focused and provide a sense of achievement at the finishing line!

Challenges in Leeds Leeds Tree-Athlon 2009 Temple Newsam, Leeds, LS 5 0AE 27 September £ 0 for registration For event details and to register, visit: www.tree-athlon.org Participants run a 5k race, make a tree wish and will receive a tree sapling of their very own! Music, entertainment, picnic brunches, tree themed activities and workshops for the whole family. Run 10k for Cancer Research Harewood House, Leeds, LS17 9LG 8 October, starts .00 For event details and to register: www.cancerresearchuk.org/ 0k

There is no magic formula to working out regularly; it’s simply a case of

Autumn 2009

‘Kicking-0ff’: getting active with ball games Over the last 0 years, children’s physical activity has decreased by 70 per cent. They are spending an average of 5.5 hours a day in front of a television or computer screen, and 27.7 per cent of children in England aged between two and 0 are overweight. With these statistics in mind, the need to encourage children to take up exercise early on in their lives is crucial to their physical and emotional well-being.

“” 27.7 per cent of

children in England aged between two and 0 are overweight

By playing many types of ball sports, a wide range of gross motor skills can be developed, for example bouncing, catching, throwing, balance and timing. Once children start participating in matches, they benefit from spatial perception, teamwork, and life skills. Gill McDermott, a fully-qualified coach for Enjoy-a-Ball, says: “In the early years, we introduce children to fun, creative games to progress gross motor skills and hand/eye coordination. As they develop through the stages, we gradually tailor their specific skills across the full range of sports in a nurturing environment.”

tennis, football, rugby, volleyball, cricket, baseball and hockey. Based on a unique approach to sports development, children have fun while they learn in a structured, disciplined and sociable environment. For more information on Enjoy-aBall please contact Gill McDermott. Email: gill.mcdermott@enjoy-a-ball. com or visit: www.enjoy-a-ball.com

Enjoy-a-Ball is a non-competitive coaching programme teaching children aged three to nine a variety of team games and eight different ball sports. These are basketball,

By introducing a range of sports at an early age, children can get fit as well as improve their confidence, self-esteem, concentration, teamwork and social skills. Many children who enjoy sports and exercise tend to stay physically active throughout their adult lives too. Being fit not only helps maintain a healthy weight and decrease the risk of serious illnesses later in life, it can also help children sleep better and handle physical and emotional challenges.

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CONFIDENCE, COORDINATION, CONCENTRATION,

...It’s more than fun!

• For children aged 3 – 9 • Eight ball sports • Small class sizes • Qualified instructors

• Classes at local venues • 1 lesson weekly for 1 hour • Childrens parties also available • Caring, positive, fun environment

For more info on Enjoy-a-Ball ™ or to book a FREE trial call 08452 26 26 94

• For child • Eight bal • Small cla • Qualified • Classes a • 1 lesson • Childrens • Caring, p

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200x133 advert

Food

Tasty treats for bonfire night

Yorkshire parkin

7. Mix well together. 8. Pour into the greased baking tin. 9. Bake for 45 to 50 minutes in the centre of the oven or until firm. Allow to cool before removing from tin. 0. When cold, cut into squares. This simple, sticky gingerbread cake tastes best when left to mature for two to three days. It lasts up to 0 days in an airtight container. Why not try it with some tasty Lancashire cheese!

Preparation time: 20- 0 minutes Cooking time: 45-50 minutes

teaspoon of the mix into a cup of cold water. If it sets hard, it is done, if it is still soft and chewy, cook a little longer, then test again. 6. Pour into a greased baking tin and allow to set. 7. If desired, mark into squares when partially set.

Method 1. Preheat the oven to 180C/350F/Gas mark 4. Grease a rectangular deep baking tin: 28 x 8cm/ x 7 in. 2. Place the butter, sugar, treacle and golden syrup in a pan and melt over a low heat until the sugar is just dissolved. Allow to cool slightly. . Beat the egg well with half of the milk and stir into the syrup mixture. 4. Sieve the flour, ginger and mixed spice into a mixing bowl and stir in the oatmeal. 5. Pour the syrup mixture into the dry ingredients. 6. Dissolve the bicarbonate of soda into the remainder of the milk and add to the rest of the mixture.

8. Break into pieces when completely set.

Spider cookies

Bonfire toffee

Ingredients 00g/4oz butter 00g/4oz soft brown sugar 00g/4oz treacle 00g/4oz golden syrup egg 150ml/5 fl oz milk 225g/8oz plain flour ½ level teaspoon ground ginger ½ level teaspoon mixed spice ½ level teaspoon bicarbonate of soda 225g/8oz oatmeal

o e Preparation time: 0- 5 minutes Cooking time: no cooking required! Preparation time: 0 minutes Cooking time: 20- 0 minutes

Ingredients 450g/ lb demerara sugar 80ml/⅓ pint of water 75g/ ¼ oz butter 2 level tablespoons of black treacle or golden syrup teaspoon vinegar

Ingredients • 1 packet cream filled chocolate sandwich biscuits • ready made icing pen • packet of mini Smarties or similar • packet of liquorice straws

Method

. For each spider, cut eight pieces of liquorice for legs. Insert four pieces into the filling on each side of the biscuit.

. Place water, butter, and vinegar into a heavy based saucepan.

2. Use the icing pen to secure, place two chocolates on top of each biscuit for eyes.

2. Over a steady heat, add sugar and syrup/treacle slowly (to avoid burning).

This is a quick, easy and safe recipe to make with young children as there is no hot cooking involved.

. Stir until all the sugar has dissolved.

4. Bring to the boil and cook slowly. 5. To test if it is ready, drop half a

Autumn 2009

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Back to school What’s the alternative?

It can be an exciting – but daunting – time. As the new school year begins, deciding how and where to educate your child is at the forefront of everyone’s minds. Whether you’re sending them off for their first day or just planning for the future, selecting the right type of schooling is one of the biggest parenting decisions you’ll make. We all want to get it right first time but with state, private and stay-athome options to consider, choosing what’s best isn’t easy. Finding out what’s on offer – and how much it might cost – is a vital first step. Freelance journalist, Claire Donnelly takes a look at some of the alternative options available .

Montessori Devised by Italian philanthropist, Maria Montessori, the system has been practising a child-centred approach to learning – valuing personal growth and development – since 900. Less structured than other teaching methods, supporters argue it produces able, ‘well-rounded’, emotionally-skilled children. And the government seems to agree. Following the success of the first state-funded school in Manchester, it is paying for more research into the Montessori way and looking at bankrolling other centres. With ‘directresses’ rather than teachers supervising classes, children are actively encouraged to take control of their own time – choosing what they study and how long for. Alongside more traditional subjects like maths and English,

they learn practical life skills such as knitting or carpentry, as well as being exposed to art and culture. Testing, competitive grading and textbooks are all discouraged, although in maintained schools, the National Curriculum is studied too. How much does it cost? Between £500 and £ ,500 per term. How many schools are there? 600 UK schools offer Montessori learning but so far only one is statefunded – Gorton Mount Primary, in Manchester. Want to know more? For a full list of schools and more details visit www.montessoriuk.org/school.htm or contact: The Montessori Society, 26 Lyndhurst Gardens, London NW3 5NW T: 020 74 5 7874

Autumn 2009

Steiner In use since 9 9, the Steiner method, based on the philosophies of Austrian thinker, Rudolf Steiner, offers a holistic approach to learning, aiming to educate ‘the whole child’. All schools offer science, humanities and arts subjects – music and movement are especially important and are studied by everyone – with languages introduced as early as possible. Children have the same teacher until they are 2 and learn by engaging in active dialogue with them rather than using textbooks. Unlike in the state sector, Steiner pupils do not undergo SATS testing at seven and , but can study for GCSEs and A levels – working towards the examinations alongside their own in-house curriculum. Any exams taken are spread over a longer period though – starting earlier and finishing later – to avoid ‘cramming’. Fans say this gentle approach is an antidote to the pressures of the state system. How much does it cost? Between £ ,000 and £4,000 per term - fees rise as pupils get older and need more specialist teaching. How many schools are there? There are schools operating in the UK - all of them private. The government is looking at state funding for Steiner teaching in the future.

Where can I find out more? More information and a full list of schools is available at www.steinerwaldorf.org or via Steiner Waldorf Schools Fellowship Ltd, Kidbrooke Park, Forest Row, East Sussex, RH 8 5JA T: 0 42 822 5

arrange home visits to monitor progress.

Home schooling

How many home school families are there? There are currently between 50,000 and 150,000 five to 16 year-olds being educated at home in the UK.

They say charity begins at home and for some parents, education does too. Unhappiness with the state sector, worries about over-testing and school bullying are just some of the reasons more British families than ever are choosing to teach their children themselves. Critics say pupils who don’t attend school miss out on the social activity that mainstream education brings. Others say mixing with friends and wider family offers ample opportunity to forge real relationships and practise life skills. Whatever your thoughts, there is no legal requirement for you to send your child into a classroom – only to make sure they are in full-time education of some kind from the age of five. You don’t have to be a qualified teacher, or even follow the National Curriculum, to opt out but you do have to ensure your child is being offered learning deemed ‘suitable’ for their ability. Families outside of Scotland must register with their local authority. As a result of the government’s recent review, the compulsory registration scheme will give LEAs a statutory right to

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How much does it cost? There is no state funding available for parents who educate their own children so you will have to meet running costs yourself.

Where can I find out more? The government offers a comprehensive guide to home schooling at: www.direct.gov.uk Practical help and support is also available from the Home Education Advisory Service at: www.heas.org.uk or PO Box 98, Welwyn Garden City, Herts, AL8 6AN T: 0 707 7 854 Claire Donnelly is a freelance writer and mumof-two. A regular commentator on family and parenting issues, her recent work has been published in The Times, The Daily Mirror and The Sunday Mirror. For more articles by the same author, email: clairedonnellyfeatures@ yahoo.co.uk

We’d like to hear from you... If you have any comments about this, or other articles in Boo, please email us at: letters@boomag.co.uk

Creeping about On the autumn trail with

A National Trust survey this year identified that 30 per cent of children in Yorkshire and the Humber have never been pond dipping or looking for wildlife while a further 5 per cent have never flown a kite. Most surprisingly, however, is the fact that 5 per cent of parents asked said that their children had never played games in the garden or park.

With summer coming to a close and the autumn months drawing near, The National Trust want to encourage families to take to the outdoors. Not only can families benefit by enjoying quality time together, but they can also appreciate the changing colours of our countryside and wildlife in autumn.

24 October to November Fountains Abbey and Studley Royal Water Garden Fountains, Ripon, North Yorkshire T: 0 765 608888 School Holiday Fun – Spiders and Webs, .00- 5.00 Free trails and drop in self-led activities for children in Swanley Grange. 24 October & October East Riddlesden Hall, Keighley, West Yorkshire T: 0 5 5 68 800 Spooky Supper, 8.00 A night of thrills and chills for Halloween, followed by a supper. Booking essential. 29 October Nostell Priory & Parkland, Near Wakefield, West Yorkshire T: 0 924 86 892 Scavenger Hunt, .00- 4.00 Explore the park and gardens for signs of autumn. 0 October Nostell Priory & Parkland, Near Wakefield, West Yorkshire T: 0 924 86 892 Halloween, 6.00- 9.00 Another scary evening of fun in the garden.

These simple childhood experiences that form some of the most treasured childhood for adults today, are being replaced by time in front of the television or on computer games.

“” 0 per cent of

children in Yorkshire and the Humber have never been pond dipping or looking for wildlife

Imagine exploring the parkland at Fountains Abbey, home to over 500 deer, collecting fallen red and golden leaves, or simply enjoying adventure play and running freely in the great outdoors. There is plenty for families to enjoy with The National Trust on a day visit or at specific events.

Autumn highlights include: October Nostell Priory & Parkland, Near Wakefield, West Yorkshire T: 0 924 86 892 Seed Gathering Day, 11.00-15.00 Find seeds in the grounds and learn how to identify them.

October Hardcastle Crags, Hebden Bridge, West Yorkshire T: 0 422 8445 8 Jack O’Lantern A scary walk through the deep, dark, pitch black woods at Hardcastle Crags down to Gibson Mill. Fancy dress recommended. Bring along a lantern or pumpkin. Booking essential. October Malham Tarn Estate, Near Settle and Skipton, Yorkshire Dales T: 0 729 8 04 6 Halloween Crafts and Walk, 4.00- 6.00 Craft activities Admission charges apply at some properties/events. Before attending, please contact venues directly for further details and bookings. For a full list of autumn events or suggestions for great family days out with The National Trust visit: www.nationaltrust.org.uk

Autumn 2009

Discover a wild family day out... ...and win a family ticket in our fabulous competition

Tropical Butterfly House Wildlife & Falconry Centre

in. The Baby Bunkhouse has also had a makeover this year, with new enclosures designed to provide the centre’s cutest residents with natural habitats. Visit during October and you can expect the centre to get busier, as its annual Halloween Spooktacular takes place every weekend and daily during the half-term (24- October).

North Anston’s popular Tropical Butterfly House, Wildlife and Falconry Centre has once again been bursting at the seams with visitors this summer. Now that September is here, it is the perfect time for a relaxed visit without the crowds. Get close to lots of free-roaming animals, handle exotic snakes, magnificent birds of prey and feed marmoset monkeys, lorikeets and many more amazing creatures. Relax with a coffee while the kids dig in the sandpit, take to the wheel of a pedal car and try out the aerial glide.

Win one of five Family Explorer passes worth £27 each by answering the following question: Name the annual Halloween event which takes place at the Tropical Butterfly House, Wildlife & Falconry Centre: a. Halloween Spectacular b. Halloween Spookathon c. Halloween Spooktacular Closing date for entries: 9 October 2009. To enter, please fill in the form and post to the address below or email your answer and contact details to: tropicalcomp@boomag.co.uk

Come face to face with animated ghosts and ghouls in the haunted house. Take a haunted hayride round the Freaky Forest, and play trick or treat on the Witch in the Wood. Carve a pumpkin, join in creepy crafts and enjoy witches brews and spooky snacks. There is free admission for every child wearing Halloween attire when accompanied by a full paying adult. The event is suitable for children of all ages and there is no need to book. The Tropical Butterfly House, Wildlife and Falconry Centre is open daily and just five minutes drive from the M , junction .

Call at Meerkat Mansion and the other new outdoor enclosures to see how the residents have settled

Competition

For further information, visit: www.butterflyhouse.co.uk or T: 0 909 5694 6.

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Boo magazine competition Tropical Butterfly House, Wildlife & Falconry Centre Woodsetts Road North Anston Near Sheffield S25 4EQ Answer Name Address

Postcode Telephone Mobile The Tropical Butterfly House, Wildlife and Falconry Centre would like to keep you informed of offers and events. If you do not wish to receive details, please tick this box Competition terms and conditions The winners will be randomly selected from the first correct answers drawn after 9 October 2009. A Family Explorer pass admits two adults and two children and can be used during all normal opening times, except Bank Holidays. Tickets cannot be used in conjunction with any other offer. Children under 6 must have the permission of a parent or guardian before entering. No correspondence can be entered into. No cash alternative can be offered. BOO(L)Sept09.

Comeback kid Expert advice for parents returning to work after having children

Negotiation skills: ability to ‘make deals’ with children so they’ll eat their dinner or go to bed on time. Event management: experienced coordinator of children’s birthday parties, running jumble sales at the local school and holding the position of official family social secretary. “Parenting itself is like a crash course in management training. If you can deal with toddler tantrums and getting to school on time with two or more small people, you can consider yourself a master of diplomacy and negotiation,” says Mandy Garner. After a number of years out in the baby wilderness, taking the plunge back into the workplace can seem like a daunting experience. With recent research finding that many stay-at-home mothers are returning to work earlier than planned due to the current economic climate, it’s imperative that you consider your options, plan carefully and stand out from the crowd.

“As the recession bites, more women may be thinking about returning to work. Confidence is key. Sit down and think of all the skills you have acquired in your life, including parenting skills and any voluntary work you may have done. Many people’s CVs have gaps where they have taken time out. To avoid them, it’s best to present your CV in terms of skills rather than chronologically.”

Whether you are looking to return to the same job or change careers completely, taking time away to raise children can often give you a fresh outlook. The truth is you have probably gained a lot of invaluable skills while you were away which can be brought back into the workplace.

Take a look at a typical parent’s CV:

Mandy Garner, from the online recruitment specialist www. workingmums.co.uk recognises this:

Multi-tasking: proficient at cooking a meal, while sorting the washing and helping with homework.

Time management: responsible for coordinating the daily military operation of getting everybody fed and watered, washed and dressed (not forgetting yourself!), out of the door and at nursery or school before 9 o’clock.

“” Whether you are

looking to return to the same job or change careers completely, taking time away to raise children can often give you a fresh outlook. Try following these top tips to help make returning to work easier: . Make sure you want to go back to work, and are ready. 2. If you plan to return to an existing job or profession, have a

Autumn 2009

chat with human resources, or other colleagues/friends before returning. Learn from their experiences.

specification with a fine tooth comb so that you know what they want. Ensure that this fits with your skills.

. Consider the type of work that you are prepared to do and what your ideal hours would be. For example, do you want full- or parttime hours? Would you like to be office- or home-based?

7. Don’t worry about career gaps in your CV. Think about what you have done away from the office place. For example, organising fundraising or coffee mornings for local parent groups. These all add valuable skills to your CV in terms of networking, planning and communication.

4. Be flexible and realistic about hours. Consider the organisation’s needs as well as your own. 5. Organise childcare and have a contingency plan for emergencies. Good childcare is critical for parents returning to work but is often in great demand. Nurseries and childminders get booked up months in advance so make sure you start looking around, checking rates and figuring out what you feel most comfortable with before you start applying for jobs. 6. Research the companies you apply for and go through the job

8. If you have been out of the workplace for a significant amount of time, you might feel out of touch with the latest technology. Consider doing a course at a nearby college to brush up your skills.

to turn up. It might be possible to reschedule. 0. Prepare intelligent questions to ask at the end of the interview. This may be about the job itself or the way the office runs. You may also want to ask about the company’s flexible working policy at this point. Whatever your circumstances, the world of work need not be as daunting as you might think. So long as you plan well and have the right childcare in place, you can aim to achieve the right work-life balance to fit around you and your family’s needs. Useful links

9. Be professional about the interview. Look smart, allow plenty of time to get to the interview to avoid arriving flustered and stressed. If you have an emergency child-related problem on the day of the interview, ring up and explain the situation rather than failing

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Check out the following recruitment specialists: www.workingmums.co.uk www.jobs4mothers.com www.totaljobs.com www.areturntowork.co.uk For more information visit: www.direct.gov.uk. www.jobcentreplus.gov.uk

Being safe in cyberspace Anti-Bullying Week 6 - 20 November

Every year the Anti-Bullying Alliance (ABA) runs Anti-Bullying Week – a national campaign to increase awareness of bullying and the damage it can cause. The ABA wants to ensure that the whole community – teachers, parents, children and young people – have the skills and knowledge to address bullying effectively.

National Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Children (NSPCC) in 2002, and is hosted by the NCB. ABA is made up of around 60 organisations which work together to prevent and respond to bullying. Its aim is to create safer environments in which children and young people can live, grow, play and learn.

This year’s theme is cyberbullying, the use of Information and Communication Technologies (ICT) – particularly mobile phones and the internet – to deliberately upset someone else. Under the campaign slogan, ‘Be safe in cyberspace’, every school in England will be sent a special pack from the ABA to help them get ready for, and join in with, the week’s activities. The pack, which includes stickers and a poster, will give teachers ideas on how to work with children and young people in school to overcome bullying.

To get involved with Anti-Bullying Week and for information on events in Leeds, visit: www.anti-bullyingalliance.org.uk For resources and advice on cyberbullying, visit: www.digizen. org.uk/cyberbullying

Young ABA – a group of young people who make sure that government, schools, parents and the community hear the experience and views of children and young people on bullying – is at the heart of ABA’s work. Young ABA members – who have all won Diana Anti-Bullying Awards – work in Sheffield and Leeds, as well as throughout the rest of England to help spread the anti-bullying message.

If you need to speak to someone about bullying you can contact these ABA members:

For children and young people ChildLine T: 0800 1111 For parents/carers Parentlineplus T: 0808 800 2222

The following tips can help children to stay safe from cyberbullying: Don’t give out personal details such as your mobile number, address or email online. Regularly check and clean your ‘friends’ lists on social networking sites. Keep evidence – callers and mailers can be traced. Remember that sites you have created and emails you have sent can be traced back to you months or years later. If you are being bullied in any way, you must tell someone who can help – a parent/carer, teacher, friend, sister/brother or other relative.

The Anti-Bullying Alliance (ABA) was founded by the National Children’s Bureau (NCB) and the Special edition T-shirts from Kiss Katch

Autumn 2009

Kiss Katch supports Bullying UK

Dates for your diary

Online children’s clothes shop, Kiss Katch, has teamed up with the anti-bullying charity, Bullying UK, and designed two gorgeous special edition T-shirts to raise awareness of the charity’s work. Celebrating its 0th anniversary this year, Bullying UK marks the occasion with a ‘Blue for Bullying’ themed campaign.

September

- October

Roald Dahl Day www.roalddahlday.info

International Walk to School Month www.iwalktoschool.org

9-26 September

0 October

Children’s Hospice Week www.childhospice.org.uk

Big Draw Day www.thebigdraw.org.uk

2 September-2 October

October

Seed Gathering Season www.treecouncil.org.uk

Halloween

In support, Kiss Katch has agreed to donate 20 per cent of the total profit of its special edition T-shirts to Bullying UK. Available in funky colours of cool candy and inky purple, the garments sport the popular characters Kiss and Katch. Featuring bold statements; ‘It’s cool to be kind’; and ‘Be true, be you’ on the T-shirts, they communicate a message of unity, friendship and consideration for others. The clothing aims to encourage children to value each other for their differences as well as their similarities. Kiss Katch was launched in February 2009 as a fun, high quality and easy to wear children’s label. It is aimed at girls from two to 0 years. From September 2009, the Kiss Katch special edition Bullying UK T-shirts will be available to buy online at: www.kisskatch.co.uk Boo readers can get a 10% discount using the voucher on page 35.

24- 0 September National Dyspraxia Awareness Week www.dyspraxiafoundation.org.uk

5 November Guy Fawkes and bonfire night November Remembrance day

25 September Macmillan Cancer Support World’s biggest coffee morning www.macmillan.org.uk

6-20 November Anti-Bullying Week www.anti-bullyingalliance.org.uk Page 16

26 September European Day of Languages www.cilt.org.uk/edl Page 29

2 -29 November Road Safety Week www.roadsafetyweek.org 25 November-6 December

2 October Jeans for Genes Day www.jeansforgenes.com

National Tree Week www.treecouncil.org.uk

5- October Children’s Book Week www.booktrust.org.uk Page 26

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Weekly planner

Baby & toddler activities

Monday Horsforth Children’s Centre Parent and Toddler Group Horsforth Children’s Centre, C/O Broadgate Primary School, North Broadgate Lane, Horsforth, LS 8 T: (0 ) 259 786 09.00- .00 Calverley Toddler Group Methodist Church Hall, Carr Rd, Calverley, LS28 09. 0- . 0 Tots Galore St Margaret’s Church Hall, Lower Hall, Hall Lane, Horsforth, LS 8 T: (0 ) 258 6467 (Sue Lewis) 09. 0- . 0 Umbrella Group Jubilee Hall, Layton Ave, Rawdon, LS 9 T: (0 ) 229 4080 (Sandra) 09.45- . 0 Artybobs (B) Adel and Ireland Wood Community Centre, New Adel Lane, Adel, LS 6 T: 07775 9 990 (Fiona) www.artybobs.co.uk 0.00- .00 Music Bugs (B) Otley Clifton Village Hall, Newall Road, Otley, LS2 T: 0844 578 04 (Nicola Lawlor) www.musicbugs.co.uk 0.00- .00 Mums and Tots Group South Parade Baptist Church, Kirkstall Lane, Headingley, LS6 T: (0 ) 275 4989 0.00- . 0 (0-2 years) Roundhay NCT Postnatal group Various locations T: 0870 42 4548 0.00- 2.00 Enjoy-a-Ball (B) Rawdon Trinity Church, New Road Side, Rawdon, LS 9 T: 07766 712711 (Gill McDermott) www.enjoy-a-ball.com . 5- .45 (age - ½ years) .45- 4.45 (age ½-4 ½ years) Bright Starters (B) The Old Stables, Back Church Lane, Adel, LS 6 T: 07725 847 (Sonal) www.brightstarters.co.uk 4.00 - 4.50 (2½ -5 years) Otley Library Story and Rhymetime Nelson Street, Otley, LS2 T: 0 94 466572 4.00- 4. 0 Pudsey Library Story and Rhymetime Church Lane, Pudsey, LS28 T: (0 ) 2 4 60 5 4. 5- 4.45

Headingley Library Story and Rhymetime North Lane, Headingley, LS6 T: (0 ) 2 4 4525 4. 5- 4.45 Oakwood Library Story and Rhymetime Oakwood Lane, Leeds, LS8 T: (0 ) 2 4 4 92 4. 5- 4.45

Tuesday Rodley Young Ones The Church in Rodley, Wesley Street, Rodley, LS 09.00- .00

Enjoy-a-Ball (B) Calverley Methodist Church Hall, Carr Rd, Calverley, LS28 T: 07766 712711 (Gill McDermott) www.enjoy-a-ball.com . 0- 4.00 (age - ½ years) 4.00- 5.00 (age ½-4½ years) Bright Starters (B) Quakers Meeting Room, 6 Street Lane, Roundhay, LS8 T: 07725 847 (Sonal) www.brightstarters.co.uk . 0- 4. 5 ( ½ - years) 4. 0- 5. 5 (2½+ years)

Farsley Playgroup and Toddler Group Methodist Church, Back Lane, Farsley, LS28 T: (0 ) 229 9464 09.00- . 0

Holt Park Community Library Story and Rhymetime Ralph Thoresby High School, Holtdale Approach, LS 6 T: (0 ) 6 8 88 4. 5- 4.45

Farsley Parents and Toddlers St John’s Church Hall, New Street, Farsley, LS28 T: (0 ) 255 52 (Jo Reilly) 09. 5- . 5

Bramhope Parents and Toddlers Breary Lane, Bramhope, LS 6 T: (0 ) 95 0 4. 0- 5. 0

Trinity Toddlers Trinity Church, New Road Side, Rawdon, LS 9 T: (0 ) 250 5200 (Christine Moffat) 09. 0- . 0 Tuesday Tots Cookridge Village Hall, Moseley Wood Lane, LS 6 T: (0 ) 226 8525 (Karen) 09. 0- . 0 Artybobs (B) Adel and Ireland Wood Community Centre, New Adel Lane, Adel, LS 6 T: 07775 9 990 (Fiona) 0.00- .00 www.artybobs.co.uk Music Bugs (B) The Grove Methodist Church, Town Street, Horsforth, LS 8 T: 0844 578 04 (Nicola Lawlor) www.musicbugs.co.uk 0.00- .00 (6-24 months) .00- 2.00 (mixed ages) Mums and Tots Group South Parade Baptist Church, Kirkstall Lane, Headingley, LS6 T: (0 ) 275 4989 0.00- . 0 (2-5 years) Bright Starters (B) St Edmunds Church,Lidget Park Rd/North Park Ave Roundhay, LS T: 07725 847 (Sonal) www.brightstarters.co.uk 0.00- 0.45 (2½+ years) Guiseley Library Story and Rhymetime Otley Road, Guiseley, LS20 T: 0 94 872675 0. 0- .00

Wednesday Farsley Baby and Toddler Group Farsley Farfield Primary School, North Building, Cote Lane, Farsley, LS28 T: (0 ) 6 85 2 (Sarah Sykes) 09.00- 0.50 St Giles Baby & Toddler Group St Giles Church, Church Hill, Bramhope, LS16 T: (0 ) 2 0 0522 (Victoria) 09. 0- . 0 Bright Starters (B) The Old Stables, Back Church Lane, Adel, LS 6 T: 07725 847 (Sonal) www.brightstarters.co.uk 09.45 - 0. 5 (2- years) Bright Starters (B) Jubilee Hall, Layton Ave, Rawdon, LS 9 T: 079 7 0259 4 (Sandra) www.brightstarters.co.uk 0.00- 0.50 (2½-4½ years) .00- .50 ( - years) Oakwood Toddler Group Roundhay Parochial Hall, Fitzroy Drive, Leeds, LS8 E: susanstebbing@hotmail.com 0.00- . 0 Music Bugs (B) Nunroyd Sports Association Club (Green Lane Cricket Club), Guiseley, LS20 T: 0844 578 04 (Nicola Lawlor) www.musicbugs.co.uk 0.00- .00 Mums and Tots Group South Parade Baptist Church, Kirkstall Lane, Headingley, LS6 T: (0 ) 275 4989 0.00- . 0 (0-5 years)

Autumn 2009

Alwoodley Parents and Toddlers Alwoodley Park Methodist Church, The Lane, Alwoodley Park, Leeds, LS 7 T: (0 ) 268 2928 0.00- .45 Roundhay NCT Postnatal group Various locations T: 0870 42 4548 0.00- 2.00 NCT Next Steps Toddler Group Chapel Allerton Children’s Centre, Blake Grove, Chapel Allerton, LS7 E: nextsteps@nctleeds.org 0. 0- 2. 0 Moor Allerton Library Story and Rhymetime Moor Allerton Centre, King Lane, LS 7 T: (0 ) 2 4 5624 . 5- .45 Bright Starters (B) Playdays, 2 Westgate Arcade, Otley, LS2 T: 079 7 0259 4 (Sandra) www.brightstarters.co.uk .00- .50 (2½-4½ years) 4.00- 4.50 ( - years) Enjoy-a-Ball (B) Rawdon Trinity Church, New Road Side, Rawdon, LS 9 T: 07766 712711 (Gill McDermott) www.enjoy-a-ball.com . 5- .45 ( - ½ years) .45- 4.45 ( ½-4½ years) Immaculate Heart Parents and Toddlers The Immaculate Heart of Mary Catholic Church, 294 Harrogate Road, Leeds, LS 7 T: (0 ) 95 0 . 0- 5.00 Horsforth Library Story and Rhymetime Town Street, Horsforth, LS 8 T: (0 ) 2 4 480 4. 5- 4.45

Thursday Farsley Playgroup and Toddler Group Methodist Church, Back Lane, Farsley, LS28 T: (0 ) 229 9464 09.00- . 0 Rodley Young Ones The Church in Rodley, Wesley Street, Rodley, LS 09.00- .00 St Paul’s Parents and Toddlers St Paul the Apostle Church, Buckstone Crescent, Alwoodley, LS 7 T: (0 ) 95 0 09. 0- .00

Music Bugs (B) Function Room, The Queens Arms, 20 Harrogate Road, Chapel Allerton, LS7 T: 0844 578 04 (Nicola Lawlor) www.musicbugs.co.uk 0.00- .00 Oakwood NCT postnatal group Various locations T: 0870 42 4548 0.00- 2.00 Chapel Allerton Library Story and Rhymetime 06 Harrogate Road, Leeds, LS7 T: (0 ) 2 4 58 2 0. 0- .00 Central Library Story and Rhymetime and Activities Municipal Buildings, Calverley Street, Leeds, LS T: (0 ) 247 60 6 4.45- 5. 5 Horsforth Children’s Centre Parent and Toddler Group Horsforth Children’s Centre, C/O Broadgate Primary School, North Broadgate Lane, Horsforth, LS 8 T: (0 ) 259 786 2.00- 4.00 Bright Starters (B) Gingerbread Cottage, 29 Clayton Wood Bank, LS 6 T: 07725 847 (Sonal) www.brightstarters.co.uk .00- 4.20 (2½-5 years) Calverley Library Story and Rhymetime Thornhill Street, Calverley, LS28 T: (0 ) 2 4 604 4.45- 5. 5

Friday Wobblers and Toddlers Playgroup Lowtown Pudsey Primary School, Kent Rd, Pudsey, LS28 T: (0 ) 256 7 0 09. 5- .00 Enjoy-a-Ball (B) Calverley Methodist Church Hall, Carr Rd, Calverley, LS28 T: 07766 712711 (Gill McDermott) www.enjoy-a-ball.com 09. 0- 0.00 ( - ½ years) 0. 5- . 5 ( ½-4½ years) Trinity Toddlers Trinity Church, New Road Side, Rawdon, LS 9 T: (0 274) 6 2858 (Rachel Harrison) 09. 0- . 0

School Street Toddlers United Reformed Church, School Street, Pudsey, LS28 T: (0 ) 2 6 400 (Christine) 09. 0- .00

Stanhope Tots Horsforth Children’s Centre, C/O Broadgate Primary School, North Broadgate Lane, Horsforth, LS 8 T: (0 ) 259 080 (Clare) 09. 0- . 0

Artybobs (B) Adel and Ireland Wood Community Centre, New Adel Lane, Adel, LS 6 T: 07775 9 990 (Fiona) www.artybobs.co.uk 09.45- 0.45

Adel and Ireland Wood Toddler Group Adel and Ireland Wood Community Centre, New Adel Lane, LS 6 T: 079 2 7 4 4 (Emma)/07908 25945 (Sharon) 09.45- . 0

Lidgett Park Toddler Group Lidgett Park Methodist Church, Lidgett Place, Leeds, LS8 09.45- .45

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Umbrella Group Jubilee Hall, Layton Ave, Rawdon, LS 9 T: (0 ) 229 4080 (Sandra) 09.45- . 0 Little Jim’s St James Woodside Parish Church, Low Lane, Horsforth, LS 8 www.stjameswoodside.org/index.htm 0.00- 2.00 Weetwood and Far Headingley NCT postnatal group Various locations T: 0870 42 4548 E: weetwood@nctleeds.org 0.00- 2. 0 Bright Starters (B) Cottonbudz, 54A Oaklands Road, Rodley, LS T: 079 7 0259 4 (Sandra) www.brightstarters.co.uk 0.00- 0.50 (2½-4 ½ years) .00- .50 ( - years) Rawdon Library Story and Rhymetime Micklefield Park, Rawdon, LS19 T: (0 ) 247 762 0. 5- 0.45 Garforth Library Story and Rhymetime Lidgett Lane, Garforth, LS25 T: (0 ) 224 29 0. 0- .00 Halton Library Story and Rhymetime 27 Selby Road, Leeds, LS 5 T: (0 ) 2 4 20 0. 0- . 0 Parents and Toddlers Cookridge Village Hall, Moseley Wood Lane, Cookridge, LS 6 . 0- 5.00 Farsley Library Story and Rhymetime Old Road, Farsley, LS28 T: (0 ) 2 4 60 8 4.00- 4. 0

Saturday Artybobs (B) The Stables, Back Church Lane, Adel, LS 6 T: 07775 9 990 (Fiona) 09. 0- 0. 0 www.artybobs.co.uk Burley Library Story and Rhymetime Cardigan Road, Leeds, LS6 T: (0 ) 2 4 4528 2.45- . 5 Dads and Tots Group South Parade Baptist Church, Kirkstall Lane, Headingley, LS6 T: (0 ) 275 4989 0.00- . 0 (0-5 years) st Saturday of the month only (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

After school Activities

Sport

Music

Art and crafts

Enjoy-a-Ball Sport coaching programme Age: -9 years Locations: Rawdon, Calverley, Harrogate T: 07766 712711 (Gill McDermott) www.enjoy-a-ball.com

Leeds Music Centres Music for all Age: + years Multiple locations including Guiseley, Horsforth, North Leeds, West Leeds www.artformsleeds.co.uk

Rory’s Saturday Club Art and craft club relating to museum displays Age: all Leeds City Museum, Millennium Square, LS2 T: (0 ) 224 7 2 E: city.museum@leeds.gov.uk

Leeds Esprit Gymnastics Club Gymnastics classes Age: 0-adult Hough Top Court, Hough Top, Pudsey, LS T: (0 ) 285 92 www.leedsesprit.com

Bee Sharp Rhythm, tempo and music dynamics Age: -7 years Lidgett Park Methodist Church, North Park Ave, Roundhay, LS8 www.beesharp.co.uk

Saturday Art Stars Art and craft club Age: 4- 2 years Otley Courthouse, Courthouse Street, Otley, LS2 T: 0 94 466256

Derek Munro’s Tennis School Tennis coaching Age: - 8 years Chapel Allerton Lawn Tennis & Squash Club, Wensley Ave, LS7 T: (0 ) 226 6622 www.munrotennis.co.uk Striker 9 Football skills training programme Age: 5- 6 years Multiple leisure centre locations including: Guiseley, Oakwood, Holt Park, Chapel Allerton, Pudsey http://www.leeds.gov.uk/Leisure_and_ culture/Sports_clubs_and_centres/Sports_ coaching/Striker_Football.aspx Judo Club Martial arts Age: 7+ years Aireborough Leisure Centre, The Green, Guiseley, Leeds, LS20 T: 0 94 87 790 E: lsp.aireborough.sport@leeds.gov.uk

Academic tuition Kumon Maths and English tuition Age: 2+ years Multiple locations T: 0800 854 7 4 www.kumon.co.uk La Jolie Ronde French and Spanish tuition Age: - years Multiple locations see website for details www.lajolieronde.co.uk

Dance/drama Performance Drama School Drama classes Age: 4+ years Otley Courthouse, Courthouse Street, Otley, LS2 T: 0 94 602265 Beyond Expressive Arts Team (BEAT) Drama Company Drama classes Age: 6- 8 years St Margarets Hall Horsforth, Church Road, Horsforth, LS 8 T: 07780 527 47 (Matthew) TheatreTrain Performing arts Age: 6- 8 years Abbey Grange High School, Butcher Hill, LS16 T: 0 274 6 4 9 www.theatretrain.co.uk

Others RSPB Wildlife Explorer Group Age: up to 8 years Leeds branch T: (0 ) 24 08 5 www.rspb.org.uk/youth 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

Cornell School of Dance Ballet, tap, musical theatre, teen street dance Age: 2+ years St Paul’s Church Hall,Raynel Drive, off Otley Old Road, Ireland Wood, LS 6 T: 077 9 0 44 www.cornellschoolofdance.co.uk Deborah Coultish School of Dance Ballet, tap, modern dance, theatre craft, musical theatre and street dance Age: 2+ years Alwoodley Park Methodist Church Hall, The Lane, Alwoodley, LS 7 T: (0 ) 2 7 687 www.dcdanceschool.co.uk

Autumn 2009

• For children aged 3 – 9 • Eight ball sports • Small class sizes • Qualified instructors • Classes at local venues • 1 lesson weekly for 1 hour • Childrens parties also available • Caring, positive, fun environment For more info on Enjoy-a-Ball ™ or to book a FREE trial call 08452 26 26 94

www.enjoy-a-ball.com

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Every child can shine

Dad zone

Although you play an equally important role as mums in bringing up children, the role of ‘dad’ is sometimes overlooked. Boo’s ‘Dad zone’ gives you a chance to have your say. If you would like to contribute to this page, please email: liz.rhodes@boomag.co.uk

Dads do it differently by Sam Shepherd One of the first things I read about fatherhood was that dads have a tendency towards more rough and tumble, physical play than mums. I remember reading this dismissively. After all, I thought, I’m not a blokey bloke. I’m quite easy-going, generally get on well with women and I’m not especially sporty or active; I’d even go so far as to say I’m pretty sensitive, so surely I’ll be different?

How wrong can you be? No sooner was our daughter old enough than I was throwing her in the air (and catching her, obviously), jumping around, playing ‘climb on daddy’, and our current favourite, bouncing on the bed. This begins at a startlingly early age. Some studies have shown that dads tend to stimulate babies more, both physically and verbally, pretty much from day one. Between the ages of one and two, fathers tend to engage in more physical play, whereas mothers often prefer

conventional games like ‘peek-aboo’, or reading with their child. As children get older they quite often see dad as the one to offer unpredictable, stimulating and exciting interaction. This is borne out by research carried out over several decades and different fashions of parenting. You can read a good summary online here: www.civitas.org.uk/hwu/ FatherFactsheet.pdf

hands. This can help a child develop problem solving skills as well as all sorts of useful emotional skills like dealing with frustration. Of course, the ways in which mums interact with their child teaches important skills too, and we all know that sometimes, only mum will do. When our daughter is tired, hungry, or teething, she always turns to mummy. Although this is hard, because you want to be the one to give her security and comfort, I always console myself with the fact that once she’s woken up properly, or eaten something, or had a bit of a cry, then the games will begin again, and so will the cuddles. And the games are just as important as the cuddles, for both of us. It’s all about balance.

“” Some studies have

shown that dads tend to stimulate babies more, both physically and verbally, pretty much from day one.

V k

This type of play is not just entertaining, it also teaches children important skills. For instance, holding an object just out of reach, or very tightly so that the child has to wrestle it out of dad’s

Autumn 2009

kidsunlimited nurseries At kidsunlimited we care for children from 3 months to 5 years. We have friendly, experienced staff and a warm environment. Children have access to a wide variety of stimulating activities; both indoor and outdoor.

Visit your local kidsunlimited nursery:

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You time Finding time for yourself! by Inga Fairley

Ever fancied taking up a new interest? Then, why not expand your horizons by enrolling on a course or setting up your own group?

you meet once a month to discuss it. You can use the group to debate a topic, expand your literary knowledge or just have a gossip.

Many local colleges offer evening courses so you can fit them in around your family and/or work. If the classes in your area don’t appeal, or if you’re reluctant to commit to a weekly session, why not set up your own group? All you need to do is pick an interest, find some like-minded people and a suitable venue, and you’re away!

Knitting is cool again. Madonna, Sarah Jessica Parker, Cameron Diaz – even Russell Crowe! – have allegedly all been seen knitting. Or if knitting groups aren’t your thing, how about setting up a food and wine club? You could try a new eatery each month, sample each other’s cooking, swap recipes or review the latest cook book over a glass of wine.

Book clubs are increasingly popular: everyone agrees to read the same book in advance, then

try putting up a notice in the local library, book shop, café or play centre; or post a message on your favourite parenting website to advertise your group. You should aim for around six to 0 people; small enough to be manageable but large enough to cope with a few absentees. Choose an easy-to-get-to venue for your group – a local bar, café or library – or take turns hosting in each other’s houses, and provide nibbles and drinks. Then relax and enjoy a couple of hours of welldeserved kiddie-free ‘You time’!

You can start a group on your own or with friends, but since it’s always good to meet new people,

Autumn 2009

You time activities Some suggestions for warm and cosy groups this autumn Knitting group Borders (Starbucks), 94-96 Briggate,Leeds, LS T: (0 ) 242 4400. 8. 0 (Wednesday) 6 Sept, 2 Oct, 8 Nov Come and improve your knitting in a relaxed atmosphere

Cookridge needlework group Cookridge Village Hall, Cookridge T: (0 ) 267 248 (Evi) 4.00- 6.00 (every Tuesday)

Cookridge camera Club Cookridge Village Hall, Moseley Wood Lane, Cookridge T: (0 ) 267 6958 (Secretary) From 9. 0 (every Wednesday) A programme of visiting speakers and competitions for both film and digital images

Spanish conversation Borders, 94-96 Briggate, Leeds, LS T: (0 ) 242 4400 9.00 (Wednesday) 7 Oct, 4 Nov Come and improve your Spanish in a relaxed and friendly atmosphere

BookChat Horsforth, LS 8 Contact: Dawn W:http://www.bookgroup.info/04 205/ directory_groupinfo.php?id=262

Creative writing group

Horsforth arts & crafts society

Wine Australia

The Studio, 5 Back Lane (off Fink Hill), Horsforth, LS 8 T: (0 ) 256 6005 (Rita Smith) From 9. 0 (every Wednesday) Demonstrations and practical work

Various locations and times For fantastic wine tasting and discussion, visit: www.wineaustralia.com/uk to find a club near you

Chapel Allerton book group Contact Sam W:http://www.bookgroup.info/04 205/ directory_groupinfo.php?id=64

Italian conversation Borders, 94-96 Briggate, Leeds, LS T: (0 ) 242 4400. 9.00 (every Wednesday) 2 Sept, 28 Oct Come and improve your Italian in a relaxed and friendly atmosphere with your guide MammaLingua!

There are also many evening courses available across Leeds (too many to list here) in all manner of subjects from wine tasting to pottery to A levels visit: www.leedscitycollege.ac.uk for more details of what’s on near you. 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 You time diary, please email: liz.rhodes@boomag.co.uk

‘How To Lose 12lbs In 12 Weeks’

Borders (basement), 94-96 Briggate, Leeds, LS T: (0 ) 242 4400 8. 0 (fortnightly on Mondays) Come and meet other creative writers and discuss your work at this friendly meeting group

Book group Borders (Starbucks), 94-96 Briggate, Leeds, LS T: (0 ) 242 4400 8. 0 (fortnightly on Thursdays) Come and join a friendly group of readers where we will be discussing a variety of books chosen by the group

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Download your free weightloss guide today at: 12in12weeks.co.uk/guide

5 - October Now in its 78th year, Children’s Book Week aims to celebrate reading for pleasure, and encourages children to discover, talk about and share books, explore libraries and bookshops, and do their own creative writing.

Check out your local library or bookshop for details of any special rhyme times, nursery rhyme themed adventures or other activities on offer during Children’s Book Week. You can see regular story and rhyme times at a library near you in Boo’s Baby and Toddler activity diary on pages 8 and 9.

So make sure that your child gets involved in Children’s Book Week, and starts fostering a lifelong love of books now! Children’s Book Week and Bookstart* are both run by Booktrust, an independent national charity dedicated to encouraging

This year’s theme is ‘Words and Pictures.’ There are lots of games and activities for primary school children to take part in. Why not ask your child’s teacher how they plan to celebrate Children’s Book Week? For babies, toddlers and preschool children, National Bookstart Day takes place on 9 October. This year’s theme is My Favourite Rhyme. Rosemary Clarke, Director of Bookgifting, Booktrust, says: “Rhymes are a great way to involve all the family in songs and stories and to get children excited about books.” Singing nursery rhymes with your child is not just fun, it’s educational too! Professor Peter Bryant from the University of Oxford, says: “Children learn a lot about rhyming sounds through nursery rhymes and this eventually helps them when they learn how alphabetic letters represent spoken sounds.”

a love of books in all. For more information on Booktrust please visit: www.booktrust.org.uk and www.childrensbookweek.co.uk. *Bookstart gives free books to children at around eight months, 8 months and three years. To receive your latest pack, contact your local library or speak to your health visitor.

Books in the limelight Here, Richard Welsh who runs Sheffield’s independent booksellers, Rhyme & Reason, outlines new book launches this autumn. During September and October, many exciting and beautiful children’s books are published in advance of the giftgiving season. Hot on the heels of her most recent book, Trolls, best-selling author Julia Donaldson has collaborated with illustrator Axel Scheffler to produce Tabby McTat, a delightful rhyming story about Tabby McTat the busker’s cat. Axel Scheffler must have been preoccupied with cats, as he has also illustrated a new edition of TS Eliot’s Old Possum’s Book of Practical Cats, to be published in November Other highlights this autumn are Anthony Horowitz’s eighth Alex Ryder story, Crocodile Tears and Carol Ann Duffy’s New and Collected Poems for Children, which will include poems written since she was appointed Poet Laureate. For more information, or book recommendations, contact: Rhyme & Reason, Sheffield, S11 8TG T: (0 4) 266 950 E: enquires@rhyme-reason.co.uk

Autumn 2009

To enter, please fill in the form and post to the address below or email your answer and contact details to: polkadottycomp@boomag.co.uk Polkadotty Baby competition Boo magazine Ltd PO Box 236 Pudsey LS28 0DR Answer Name Address

Postcode Telephone Mobile

Win a £50 Polkadotty Baby voucher by answering this simple question: Which member of the band Bon Jovi has designed and created Rock Star Baby? a) Jon Bon Jovi b) Richie Sambora c) Tico Torres

Polkadotty Baby would like to keep you informed of offers and events. If you do not wish to receive details, please tick this box Competition terms and conditions The winner will be randomly selected from the first correct answer drawn after the closing date on 9 October 2009. Code BOOPolk01. See www.boomag.co.uk for full terms and conditions.

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Peak Princess meets Peak Prince The Peak Princess debut collection of handmade Liberty frocks is proving such a big hit with little girls that designer, Lissa Cook is launching a new boys’ range. Individually handmade at her home in the Peak District, the new ‘Peak Prince’ collection will include shorts and

Natural skincare for pregnancy, birth and beyond from Mambino Organics

mommy and baby™ calming aromatherapy oil Pure organic essential oils of lavender and chamomile, promote calmness and relaxation.

Created by LA’s top Aesthetician, Maki Maodus, Mambino Organics is a new range of 00 per cent natural skin care for pregnancy, birth and beyond. Trusted for her specialist expertise in skincare, Maki has created products that are blended without the use of chemicals or additives so safe and effective to use during pregnancy. Key products include: oh baby! Belly Butter™ Contains Calendula infused oil and Shea Butter to regenerate torn skin tissue while strengthening and firming connective tissue.

dungarees in Liberty prints for boys aged six months to two years. For more details, check out: www.peakprincess.co.uk

Moisture Me Body toning oil™ Ingredients include Pomegranate oil and Sea Buckthorn Fruit oil to restore the skin’s elasticity. Rich avocado and jojoba oil promote deep hydration and seal in moisture to ensure skin is soft and supple.

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Pumpkin puzzle answers: A – Oli, aged 9. B – Millie, aged 0. C – Ruby, aged . D – Ben, aged 2. Spot the difference answers: . Colour of band on witch’s hat 2. Door number and letter box 3. Rib on skeleton outfit 4. Patch on trousers 5. Button on witch’s cloak 6. Pumpkin nose 7. Bat missing 8. Vampire’s teeth.

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Safety first this bonfire night

West Yorkshire Fire & Rescue understands that having bonfires and fireworks at home can be great fun, as long as they are used safely and properly. If you are putting on a home display, West Yorkshire Fire & Rescue recommends you follow the simple steps below to ensure a happy and safe bonfire night:

Bonfires

Fireworks

• Before lighting the fire, check that no pets or children are hiding inside it.

• Always buy fireworks from a reputable shop to make sure that they conform to British Standards. This means that they should have BS 7 4 on the box. • One person should be in charge of the fireworks. If that is you, make sure you take all the necessary precautions. Read the instructions carefully and don’t drink any alcohol until they have all been discharged. • Keep fireworks in a closed box. • Never go near a firework that has been lit. Even if it hasn’t gone off, it could still explode. • Always supervise children around fireworks. • Light sparklers one at a time and wear gloves. Never give them to children under five.

• Site away from houses, garages, sheds, fences, trees, shrubs and fireworks.

• NEVER use flammable liquids (paraffin or petrol) to light the fire. • Don’t burn foam-filled furniture, aerosols, tins of paint or bottles.

Bonfire night events

• Make sure everyone is at a safe distance away from the fire – especially children.

5 November 2009. A huge bonfire is lit at around 19.30, followed by fireworks at 20.00.

• For an emergency keep buckets of water ready. • Pour water on the embers before leaving.

Roundhay Park

Other venues 5 November 2009. Middleton Park, East End, Springhead, Bramley and Woodhouse Moor parks. Bonfires are lit at 19.00, followed by firework displays at 19.30. The displays attract more than 80,000 visitors from all over the region.

Leeds Lights Festival Switch On For further information on fire safety see: www.westyorksfire.gov.uk

6 November 2009, Victoria Gardens (outside Leeds Art Gallery), Leeds. Entertainment starts from 9.00. This event marks the official start of the city’s festive season. There is free live entertainment with chart topping acts, guest celebrity presenters, favourite TV characters and theatrical performances, a special guest appearance by Santa, and an aerial firework display.

• Keep pets indoors.

Autumn 2009

¿Qué dices? Celebrating European Day of Languages 26 September

Introducing languages to primary schools isn’t just about learning words – although children will certainly pick up a lot of them! It’s about developing an interest in the culture of other nations, understanding how our values and identities differ from those of people in different countries, and recognising the rich diversity of our world. That’s why more and more teachers are being encouraged to teach languages, and why the government is making them compulsory in all English primary schools in 20 . Languages improve literacy and make it easier to pick up other foreign languages at secondary school or later in life. They give children the option of travelling in the future, or developing an impressive international career. Most importantly, learning languages at primary school provides a huge amount of fun and enjoyment. And that’s what the European Day of Languages is all about.

“” Languages improve

literacy and make it easier to pick up other foreign languages at secondary school or later in life. Celebrated annually on 26 September, it’s the perfect day to kick-start language learning in the classroom, or to get children to show off their new language skills. CILT, the National Centre for Languages, is in charge of coordinating the day in the UK, and is keen to get as many schools taking part as possible. CILT’s website is full of fun events, activities and resources to give you ideas on how to celebrate it: www.cilt.org.uk/edl. Last year, all sorts of activities took place in primary schools around the country: competitions, music contests, food markets, world fashion shows,

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quizzes and games. It’s a chance for schools to have some great fun with languages, and involve the whole school as well as the wider community. The European Day of Languages is an opportunity to give language learning a bit of a push. But remember, languages are something that can be enjoyed all year round. Teachers can introduce small elements to their classroom activity – like taking the register in Spanish, or having a French quiz every now and again. Same with parents; why not read your bedtime story from a dual language picture book? Or play some games to help your child build confidence in speaking other languages. Then, next time you go on holiday, you might have a little helper! There are loads of ideas about how you can introduce languages at home in ‘Bringing it Home’, by Anne Farren and Richard Smith, published by CILT.

Kids Spooky arts & crafts, puzzles and games

Get crafty Bonfire night is fast approaching – why not try making these D sparkly firework pictures?

What you will need: A piece of black card or paper (stiff paper or card works best), PVA glue, glitter, wool (optional). How to do it: Paint some firework shapes like starbursts or fountains onto the card using the glue – you can squeeze it straight from the bottle or use a paintbrush or cotton wool bud. Be generous with the glue, leaving thick lines.

Wordsearch P

Pumpkin puzzle Four friends, aged 9, 0, and 2 have each made a Halloween lantern out of a pumpkin. Using the clues below can you work out who made each lantern and how old they are?

See if you can hunt out all 0 of these seasonal words BOnFIRE COnKER HALLOWEEn HARvEST HEDgEHOg HIBERnATIOn LEAvES nEST PInECOnE SquIRREL

Can you help Incy find her way out of the web?

Sprinkle the glitter onto the glue to make your fireworks sparkle – shake off any excess glitter. Try using different coloured glitters. You could also make some sparkly Catherine Wheels by sticking wool onto the card in a coil shape and adding a bit of glitter for extra sparkle! These craft ideas were provided by Artybobs offering art and crafts classes and Arty Party birthday party packages for children aged 2 months plus. For more information, call: 07775 9 990. E: fiona@artybobs.co.uk or visit: www.artybobs.co.uk

. Lantern A was made by a 9 year old boy. 2. Lantern C was made by Ruby who is not the oldest. . Oli made one of the big lanterns. 4. Millie’s lantern is between the youngest child’s and the year old’s lantern. 5. The oldest child is called Ben.

Autumn 2009

Join the dots ...and colour me in

Spot the difference There are 8 to find. Good luck!

Answers to puzzles can be found on page 27

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Puzzles by Marion Cole

Around and about Family friendly days out

Leeds City Museum

dig for fossils in the ‘Life on Earth’ gallery.

Millennium Square, Leeds, LS2 8BH T: (0 ) 224 7 2 www.leeds.gov.uk/citymuseum

Leeds City Museum’s st birthday, 2 & Sep. Take part in museum events and activities and visit the special exhibition ‘A Game of Two Halves’.

Closed Mon except bank holidays ( .00 6.00), open Tues, Wed, Fri .00- 8.00, Thur .00-20.00, Sat and Sun .00- 7.00. Free admission Come face-to-face with the Leeds Tiger, step into ‘Ancient Worlds’ and see the final resting place of the Leeds Mummy and even

Ghoulish Tales for Cold Nights, 1 Oct (17.30-18.30). Scary stories inspired by objects in the museum. Light Night, 9 Oct ( 8.00-22.00). Join the Light Night spectacular. Dangerous Dinosaurs and Fantastic Fossils, 27 & 29 Oct ( .00- 5. 0). Arts and crafts - fun for all the family!

Magna Science Adventure Centre

Keighley and Worth valley Steam Railway

Elmsleys Farmshop and Activity Centre

Sheffield Road, Rotherham, S60 1DX T: 0 709 720002 www.visitmagna.co.uk Open daily 0.00- 7.00 (except selected Mondays) See website for admission charges

www.kwvr.co.uk

Greenside Farm, Warm Lane, Yeadon, Leeds LS 9 7DW T: (0 ) 250 060 www.emsleys-farmshop.co.uk Open Mon-Sat 0.00- 7.00, Sun 0.00- 6.00 Free admission to farm and visitors centre, activity barn £ .50 (0- 8 months) £ .00 ( 8 months plus).

A unique, interactive day out at one of the most awe-inspiring indoor attractions, combined with one of the UK’s largest outdoor play areas and high tech playgrounds.

T: 0 5 5 6452 4 Step back in time and enjoy a train ride through the heart of Brontë country. Book now for Santa steam special trains throughout Nov-Dec

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

Tropical Butterfly House, Wildlife and Falconry Centre Woodsetts Road, North Anston, Near Sheffield, S25 4EQ T: 0 909 569 4 6 www.butterflyhouse.co.uk Open Mon-Fri .00-dusk, Sat-Sun & holidays 0.00- 7.00 See website for admission prices Discover a wild family day out, catch a glimpse into a far-away world and make friends with creatures great and small.

The Big Draw, - Oct, 0.00- 7.00

Halloween Spooktacular: haunted house, hay ride around the Freaky Forest, Trick or Treat in the Woods, carve pumpkins, enjoy witches brews and spooky snacks. Free admission for every child in Halloween fancy dress when accompanied by a full paying adult.

Spooky Oct half-term, 26- 0 Oct, 0.00 7.00

Weekends in Oct and daily during half term (24- Oct).

Spooky Halloween Sleepover, Oct- Nov, 9.00- 0.00.

Winter Wonderland: 28-29 Nov, 5-6, 2- , 9-20 Dec. Meet Santa’s little helpers in enchanted grotto.

Heritage open days, 4 Sep, 0.00- 7.00

Abbey House Museum Abbey Road, Kirkstall, Leeds, LS5 EH T: (0 ) 2 0 5492 www.leeds.gov.uk/abbeyhouse Open Tues-Fri 0.00- 7.00, Sat 2.00- 7.00, Sun 0.00- 7.00 Touch tours Wed & Thur 4.00. See website for admission charges (20% discount for Leeds/Breeze card holders). Wander through the streets, shops and workplaces of Victorian Leeds and experience life in the 9th century.

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.

Autumn 2009

Eureka! The national Children’s Museum

Kirkstall Abbey Abbey Rd, Kirkstall, Leeds, LS5 EH T: (0 ) 274 804 www.leeds.gov.uk/kirkstallabbey

Discovery Road, Halifax,West Yorkshire, HX 2NE T: 0 422 0069 www.eureka.org.uk Open daily, 0.00- 7.00 (except 24-26 Dec). See website for admission charges.

Visitors centre open Tues–Sun .00- 6.00 (Apr–Sep), .00- 5.00 (Oct – Mar) Free admission Kirkstall Abbey consists of 2 .5 hectares of historical grounds, landscaped walks and open grassland. There is something for all visitors including restored Abbey ruins, visitor centre, tennis courts, children’s play area, rugby union and football pitches.

Bolton Abbey Skipton, North Yorkshire, BD2 6EX T: 0 756 7 8009 www.boltonabbey.com Open daily from 09.00 Free admission Bolton Abbey is in the heart of the Yorkshire Dales on the banks of the River Wharfe, with just under 0,000 acres of beautiful countryside and over 80 miles of footpaths. The World’s Largest Coffee Morning supporting Macmillan Cancer Support: 25 Sep 0.00- 2. 0 Kite Festival: -4 Oct Priory Pumpkin Trail: 26- 0 Oct

Yorkshire Sculpture Park West Bretton, Wakefield, WF4 4LG T: 0 924 8 26 www.ysp.co.uk Open daily 0.00- 8.00 Free admission

Diwali Extravaganza! 8 Oct, from 2.00. Take part in an interactive extravaganza featuring South Asian culture, live music and rangoli art. Henna art only £ . Free admission. Half-term workshops: Man in the Moon, 27-29 Oct, 0. 0- 2. 0, . 0- 5. 0. £ admission. Join YSP artists for National Moonwatch Week. Use drawing, collage and plaster to explore the craters and mountains that make the man in the moon come to life!

Eureka! is designed for children aged 0- years, with over 400 hands-on exhibits inspiring them to learn about themselves and the world around them through imagination, play and discovery. Grandparents weekend, 3-4 Oct. Come and celebrate Grandparents’ Day with a weekend of music and dance through the ages. Free entry for grandparents. School for witches and wizards, every weekend from 0- Oct, and daily from 26- Oct. Spooky fun with wand making, magic tricks and owl spotting. Free entry for children dressed up as witches and wizards (when accompanied by a full paying adult). See www.eureka.org.uk for terms and conditions.

Harewood House Yorkshire Sculpture Park is an international centre for modern and contemporary art. It has four indoor galleries and 500 acres of 8th century parkland. Rare Earth in Autumn, 26 & 27 Sep, .00- 2. 0, . 0- 5.00. Drop-in to discover the fun and fascinating natural world at YSP through exploration, stories and art. Free admission. The Big Draw Family Weekend, 0 & Oct, 0. 0- 2. 0, . 0- 5. 0. £ admission. To book, call: 0 924 8 2528 or email education@ysp.co.uk. Discover nature’s amazing patterns and transform them into larger than life drawings.

Harewood, Leeds, LS17 9LG T: (0 ) 2 8 0 0 www.harewood.org Open 0.00- 8.00 (state rooms from 2.00 - 6.00 daily until Nov, then weekends only until Dec) See website for admission charges A beautiful home and grounds including an adventure playground, ‘Below stairs’ exhibition, state rooms and a fantastic bird garden with daily penguin feedings at 4.00. Autumn Glory Celebrate the half term with a week long event of walks, talks, educational activities and craft demonstrations, 25 Oct- Nov, 0.00- 8.00. 25 Oct- Nov 0.00- 8.00

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USE OF 55 ESPORTA CLUBS NATIONWIDE

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Autumn 2009