Families Pennines Issue 5 November-December 2011

FREE Issue 5

November/December 2011 www.familiespennines.co.uk

Pennines

Enter our £1000 competition See Shrek the musical in London

Stay sane this Christmas With our do’s and don’ts

Where’s Santa?

A great Grotto guide

The really useful magazine for parents in the boroughs of Calderdale, Kirklees, Oldham, Tameside and Littleborough

COMPETITION

Win a New Year treat for your family!

One lucky family will win a fairy tale weekend in London worth over ÂŁ1,000! Your weekend will include four fantastic tickets to see Shrek The Musical, an overnight stay in the 4* Holiday Inn, Bloomsbury, four London Passes - giving you access to over 50 London attractions, so you can take in the sights. Then finish it all off with a meal at the world famous Rainforest Cafe.

To enter, go to www.familiesonline.co.uk/competitions and use the code: TRIP-SHREK Full terms and conditions: www.familiesonline.co.uk/competitions

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tel: 01457 870112

Welcome to Families Pennines

CONTENTS

Here at Families Pennines we’ve teamed up with our sister magazines around the country to bring you a fantastic competition - win a weekend in London, tickets to Shrek the Musical, stay in a top hotel, have free entry to lots of attractions and a meal at the Rainforest Café. Only one family in the whole country can win this prize – worth over £1,000 – and I would love it to be a Pennines reader! So please, give yourself a chance and enter our fantastic competition at www.familiespennines.co.uk/competitions There you’ll also be able to try and win a delightful set of Peter’s & Little Peter’s Railway books that are exclusive to Families Pennines readers.

Page 4 & 5

Good luck,

Louise Bennett Editor

Page 6 & 7

Sleep – a precious gift for any family Page 8

Seek him here – our Grotto guide Pages 10 & 11

Contact us editor@familiespennines.co.uk Tel: 01457 870112 www.familiespennines.co.uk Next issue: January/February Families Pennines is free to our readers thanks to our advertisers.

Design by Russell Finneran 01457 873300 www.stonehousecreativeservices.co.uk Printed by Warwick Printing Tel: 01926 883355 www.war wickprinting.co.uk Cover by Deborah Davies Tel: 01457 87 8337 www.tigerphoto.co.uk Copyright Families Pennines November/December 2011 Families Pennines is one of a group of magazines established in 1990. It is a Families Franchise independently owned and operated under licence. We take every care preparing this magazine, but the publishers and distributors cannot be held responsible for the claims of advertisers nor for the accuracy of the contents nor for any consequences. Any original materials submitted for publication are sent at owner’s own risk and, while every care is taken, neither Families not its agents accept liability for loss or damage.

Pennines

News – what’s happening near you

Gift guide – lots of ideas Page 12 & 13

Stay sane – our Christmas do’s & don’ts Pages 14 & 15

What’s On – November & December 27th November 3rd & 4th December 10th & 11th December 17th & 18th December 21st – 24th December

COMPETITION

Visit www.familiespennines.co.uk to win

Win a set of Peter’s Railway & Little Peter’s Railway Books

16th December 21st & 22nd December To book call

01484 865727 Park Mill Way, Clayton West Huddersfield HD8 9XJ For up to date availability visit

www.kirkleeslightrailway.com

K

20130 K

A perfect stocking filler for any child.

Families Pennines has 3 sets of books for you to win before Christmas.

To enter, visit www.familiespennines.co.uk/competitions Terms & conditions apply.

Closing date for the competition is Friday 9 December 2011

Congratulations to the winner of our July-August competition Adele from Mossley

Please say you saw us in Families Pennines

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News

What'shappening happeningnear nearyou you What's

Award winning drama comes to Uppermill

the work of my teachers, the support of parents and the contribution of local schools with which we work very closely – indeed one school has integrated the programme into its curriculum!”

Founded in Australia, the Helen O’Grady system has developed over 30 years and is designed to use drama to help children aged 5-17 develop key life skills, such as enthusiasm, confidence, self-esteem, communication, team work and creativity – and have lots of fun!

There are plans in the pipeline for Kindy Drama, specially designed for pre-school children –so watch this space.

Drama students in Hebden Bridge, Littleborough, Ashton, Stalybridge and Shaw know that Uppermill is in for a treat this month. Wendy Orrell, the awardwinning Principal of the Helen O’Grady Drama Academy in the Pennines, is opening a new studio in the Saddleworth village on Thursdays from 3 November.

Wendy, a former schoolteacher, has just received the Academy’s 2011 UK Franchisee of the Year Award after just seven years building up her studios.

The award recognises outstanding work with students.

The Uppermill studio will take place on Thursdays, 4-5pm at the Civic Hall on Lee Street.

“Working with the children is a delight,” says Wendy. “The Award recognises

Ring her on 01706 810164 to book or visit the website www.helenogrady.co.uk

Huddersfield Canal goes Cue Ball Crazy and visitors enjoyed the opportunity to take a trip into the Tunnel itself. Diggle Band provided musical entertainment.

Huddersfield Canal Society celebrated the 200th anniversary of the historic waterway recently with a fantastic Family Fun Day at the Diggle end of the famous Standedge Tunnel.

The canal’s history was brought to life through a specially commissioned performance by Oldham Theatre Workshop 4

www.familiespennines.co.uk

Amongst the stalls and entertainments on offer was Cue Ball Crazy, the popular pool-based game which appeals to young and old alike. Cue Ball’s Tony Coyne was delighted with the event, “It was great to see so many people of different ages take part at a family event like this.”

Wendy is offering a FREE first lesson to readers of Families Pennines at any of her studios.

participants. “There’s no hanging around!” says Tony. “It’s good fun, everyone can take part and there’s always at least one trophy.”

Families Pennines readers will get a 15% discount if they book a party or event by 1st January. Just quote PFCBC1.

To find out more visit www.cueballcrazy.co.uk or ring Tony on 07811 338749.

Cue Ball Crazy offer party packages as well as event entertainment. They can operate indoors or out and are able to tailor the games to the needs and skills of the

tel: 01457 870112

BENETTON

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Receive 10% on production of this advertisement throughout September. Not to be used in conjuction with any other offer

Royal Ballet beckons for talented Tino

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0-12 and “It’s great being in class with Ladies other boys,” says Santino. TheStore

Eight-year-old Santino Guarino from Saddleworth is one of the youngest members of an elite squad of ballet students – The Royal Ballet Associate Scheme.

He auditioned last Easter – despite being poorly the day before – and then had to wait until summer to find out if he had been successful.

“He almost didn’t go to the audition, so we were thrilled when we got the letter saying he had been accepted,” says delighted mum Rachel.

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www.benetton-h YOUR CHILDREN ARE Department Benetton at Peters “Santino has to attend 24Store HuddersfieldALREADY. AMAZING 10 sessions a year and has lots of 25-31 King Street 10% discount throughout THEM Dis physio exercises to doHuddersfield atWE home JUST NovemberHELP & December. See advert voucher on page 9. to develop his strength and PROVE IT. www.benetton-huddersfield.com flexibility – though it seems

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to be homework he enjoys,” explains Rachel, who is a dance teacher herself at Ashton School of Dancing where, aged two, he first showed a flair for dance.

Santino ready to train

Santino is in his first term as a Junior Associate at the Manchester centre. The programme is specially designed and run

by The Royal Ballet to nurture talented young students between the ages of 8-15.

The programme has a track record of students progressing through to the Royal Ballet Companies.

Tumble Tots on the move

Since then he’s progressed in tap, modern theatre, jazz, drama, singing and is a member of the ASD Junior All Stars Cheerleading Squad – but ballet is now his favourite.

Tumble Tots classes will include all Tumble

)+ Helen O’Grady Drama Course First lesson free. See advert on back cover for details.  Kiss it Better First Aid Courses & English

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ring Rachel on 0161 628 0772 or email s setting achievable goals and numberworksnwords.com missrachel@ashtonschoolofdancing.com Works’nWords monitoring theirNumber progress Huddersfield Ph 01484 487911 s developing our own programmes Free maths using only qualified Maths and English experts & English s following the national curriculum assessment. s teaching Verbal Reasoning skills on page 2 for contact details.

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Shy Violet. Half-price session & free 7x5 print. See advert on back cover for details.

Tumble Tots have moved their Thursday classes from Holmbridge to the North Light Gallery in Armitage Bridge.

Tumble Tots' Monique Brennan explains, "The North Light Gallery provides an ideal venue for Tumble Tots classes, with the added bonus of a cafe for parents.

It's still within easy travelling distance of Holmfirth and Honley, but is closer for parents coming from other areas, such as Netherton and Meltham."

Cue Ball Crazy 15% discount for parties or events booked by 1st January 2012.

See advert on page 3 Quote PFCBC1

Tumble Tots £1 off when you book a trial session.

See advert on page 9 for contact details.

Tots age groups, up to school age and Gymbabes, which is great for giving mums a special time to thoroughly enjoy seeing their babies develop all sorts of physical skills in that crucial 6-18 month stage.

Contact Monique on 01484 689467 to book a trial class. Mention Families Pennines and you’ll get £1 off.

Please say you saw us in Families Pennines

Do you have a story to share with our readers?

Email the details to editor@familiespennines.co.uk or ring 01457 870112 5

Go to sleep, please…

Sleep is such a precious gift – we often don’t realise just how precious until we have our first child! Joanna Parry offers some good ideas on how to help your baby appreciate the joy of a good night’s sleep – for you and them.

“The moment I put him down, he just howls!” We have all, at some time or other, rocked our baby to sleep, pushed them up and down the hall, put them in the pram and pounded the pavements to get them to sleep. But it doesn’t have to be like this. Here are our top tips to encourage your baby to sleep.

How can I get my baby to sleep through the night?

Every baby is different. Some sleep through from the start, others won't sleep more than an hour or two at a time. You can’t force a baby to sleep through the night, but you can take steps that can help baby not only sleep through sooner, but also establish healthy sleep habits for life. l Establish a bedtime routine. This provides babies with security, comfort and can encourage them to sleep for longer spells. Your baby will be more relaxed if they know what's coming. The more relaxed they are, the more likely they’ll fall asleep easily. Before bedtime

let your baby get any pent-up energy out of their system with tummy time or a kickabout, then follow it up with a bath and lullaby. Dim the light when you’re feeding and put on a CD of children's favourites. Whatever you do, do the same thing every night. l Learn the signs that your baby is tired.

If they’re fussing, grizzling, crying, pulling their ears, rubbing eyes or especially clingy, they’re probably sleepy. l Teach the difference between day and night. In the daytime, play with your baby. Chat and sing to them, keep their room light and bright. Don't try to cut out the radio or washing machine.

At night, stay quiet when you feed, keep lights and noise low and hopefully your baby will work out that night-time is for sleeping! l Give your baby a security object. A great way to make a teddy or blanket a favourite is to keep it near you so it becomes mum-scented. Stretch one of

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your t-shirts over baby’s mattress - when they startle awake the smell of mum can calm them. l Put your baby down awake. If they’ve become sleepy on the breast or bottle, rouse them slightly before putting them in their cot. How to put your baby to sleep is a matter of debate but whether you use controlled crying or co-sleeping, it’s important to find the way that works for you. I suggest giving your baby a chance to fall asleep on their own. It might be OK to rock them to sleep in the middle of the day but not so much fun at 3am! If in the first few weeks your baby is allowed to fall asleep during a feed or stroked until they are asleep, they’ll soon depend on it. l Teach your baby to settle itself. If your baby cries, allow them to cry for 3 minutes, then comfort them but don't pick them up. Let them cry for 5 more minutes and return again. Extend the time you wait before returning each time and your baby will learn to soothe itself

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and fall asleep without assistance. It’s difficult listening to your baby cry but this method does usually work, although it may take a few days. l Stay by the cot. Some parents choose to stay with their child as they fall asleep but unless you want to do this forever, gradually move further away. After a week you're sitting by the door and, finally, you need no longer stay. If your baby is upset, go to them and say "night, night", then go back to your place in the room. l Be consistent. Whichever approach you take, it's no good doing it one night and not bothering the next. l You're not just doing it for you.

'Training' your baby to self-settle at night will have positive effects on their

Sleepy time products

l Remember the advice on cot death.

SIDS is rare and the exact cause isn't known, but researchers think there are likely to be a number of factors that can affect a baby at a vulnerable stage of development. The helpful website http://fsid.org.uk advises placing baby on their back to sleep (not on the front or side). Don’t let your baby get too hot, and keep their head uncovered. Place your baby with their feet to the foot of the cot or use a baby sleeping bag. Don’t use a duvet or pillow until baby is over one year old. Never sleep with your baby on a sofa or armchair and don’t let anyone smoke in your home.

Once you’ve got it sorted, it goes wrong…

l Install blackout blinds if your baby wakes early. If they still wake early, don’t turn on the lights, settle and leave them as if it was still the middle of the night. It might take a while but they’ll get the message! l Get in the professionals. If nothing’s working it might be time to call in the cavalry. Sleep deprivation can seriously affect the health of both mother and baby and there are agencies that offer specialist help with sleep problems.

Sometimes referred to as ‘sleep trainers’, these night nannies will observe sleep patterns and implement routines to help baby sleep.

Ring the Cr y-sis helpline on 08451 228669 (9am to 10pm, seven days a week) or tr y one of these helpful websites: www.cr y-sis.org.uk www.babysleepanswers.co.uk www.cocoon.uk.com

Sometimes when a baby is around six to nine months old, even if they’ve never had sleep problems, they may start waking up at night. This could be due to separation anxiety, teething or reaching milestones in physical and mental development.

Grobag Baby Sleep Bag £26 www.gro.co.uk (Superb – used them for my son. Ed)

Magic Blackout Blind £35.99 www.magicblackoutblind.co.uk (Wish I’d had a roll. Ed) Cuski Baby Comforters £16.25 www.cuski.co.uk (Ingenious – you sleep with Cuski, pass it to baby & they sleep feeling close to you.)

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general outlook during waking hours.

Letting your baby settle themselves gives independence, confidence and security.

l If your baby wakes in the night to practise their exciting new skill of sitting up, teach them how to lie down again. Then stick to your chosen routine for getting them back to sleep. The sudden burst in development isn't the same as a growth spurt, so feeding them during the night won't help them sleep better.

l They may sleep through if you move bedtime earlier. Also try moving their afternoon nap earlier & making it shorter. 

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Where will you find Father Christmas?

Father Christmas isn’t just clever about getting round the world in one night every year – he pops up in all sorts of places so you can tell him what presents you’d like to receive … Here’s a helpful guide to four of the best places to find him in the Pennines this year.

Enter the toybox

Santa was very busy at Kirklees Light Railway last year – a recordbreaking 10,500 passengers rode to Shelley Station to see him in his Grotto. His sleigh will park up at Shelley station, full of presents for the children who come to visit him. Some say his reindeers have been spotted grazing there already. Adults can look forward to mince pies and sherry. For an extra magical feel, climb aboard the Twilight Santa Express to enjoy a floodlit train ride to Santa’s Grotto. Booking essential. See page 3 advert for full date and contact details.

giftshop.bhf.org.uk

Let the train take the strain

This year Father Christmas has a regular home in Saddleworth. From Saturday 12 November he’ll be at Countryside Kids in Uppermill every Saturday 12-5pm and Thursday 12-6pm. It costs £3 to visit Santa & receive a gift, £6 if you’d also like a framed photo. You can choose a candy cane from their real Christmas tree too and drop a letter to Santa in the mailbox. The popular Uppermill shop will be full of high quality, competitively priced gift ideas. It will open every day in December and is running a Christmas club to help spread the cost. See their advert opposite for full contact details.

Huddersfield’s Cathedral House – home to Fizzy Lizard play gym, Cathedral Mice, plus some of the best coffee & cakes in the Pennines – is the venue for a spectacular Winter Wonderland on Saturday 3 December 10am-4pm. Father Christmas will be there & you’re allowed to feed his reindeer up to 2pm. Entry is free, though it costs £3.00 to meet Father Christmas, receive a gift & photo - £8.50 for a family up to 4 children.

There’ll be lots of free things for children to do – including puppet shows, Christmas story time, face painting, bouncy castle and explore a real fire engine. For parents there are over 50 stalls in the Christmas market and food & drink options include a hog roast. It’s all happening on St Thomas Road, HD1 3LG. For details, ring 01484 514088 or visit www.huddersfieldchristianfellowship.com

North Pole expedition Eureka! invite you to head to the North Pole via Halifax. You’ll be able to discover Father Christmas and his helpers in his polar Grotto every weekend from Saturday 3-Sunday 18 December, then daily from Monday 19-Friday 23 December. Grotto visit not included in standard admission. For details, ring 01422 330069 or visit www.eureka.org.uk 8

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Hand painted murals for children’s bedrooms & playrooms Personalised canvases, perfect for Christmas - Any design you want

Ring

01457 873103 or

07773 036593 www.kidswallcompany.co.uk tel: 01457 870112

Paint a Pot Studio Christmas stock now ready for painting. Choose from a selection of baubles/tree ornaments, figurines, plates, mugs & bowls.

tel:01457 878222 30 High St Uppermill

Paint a Pot Studio Teacher the pool Pots ofinFun Small Groups for allfor the Lessons ages 3mths plus Family Fartown, Hudds Sun 8.30am to 12pm

tel:01457 Crossley Heath Halifax 878222 6pmHigh St Mon & Weds 4pm to 30

Skills for Life

The Leading National Physical Play Programme ● Structured 45 minute sessions ● Jumping, rolling, climbing, balancing ● Fun songs and rhymes ● Specially designed children’s equipment ● Separate classes for ages 7 months to 7 yrs ● Tuesday – Northowram, Halifax Uppermill ● Wednesday and Saturday – Huddersfield ● Thursday – Holme Valley ● Friday – Denby Dale

Fri 4pm to 6.30pm www.jazzypipkins.co.uk

To book, phone 01484 689467 or visit www.tumbletots.com/huddersfield

www.jazzypipkins.co.uk

Luca & Maya make stained glass windows 21 Court Street Uppermill Saddleworth TELEPHONE

01457 810566

Supplier of Prams, Nursery Furniture and Toys to the Pennines Exciting Range of Traditional, Wooden and Branded Toys 21 Court St, Uppermill, Saddleworth

www.countrysidekids.co.uk

Suppliers of Prams & Nursery Goods Traditional & Branded Toys Books & New Baby Gifts

www.countrysidekids.co.uk

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Gift guide

Children and adults have so many things these days, it can be a real struggle to find the elusive gift that is treasured, appreciated and used. Families Pennines’ Louise Bennett offers some ideas that won’t break the bank and may become part of your family’s Christmas traditions.

Make it personal My son painted his own ceramic Christmas bauble last year. It had pride of place on the tree and will soon be emerging from its protective cocoon to star once again in our festive decorations. Making time to step away from the commercial rush and visit somewhere like Messy Rascals or Jazzy Pipkins to spend time being creative as a family can be a great highlight in the buildup to Christmas. Collecting your Father Christmas, special plate, reindeer or hand

At the Kids Wall Company, Carl Hurst is branching out into canvases which can be personalised for your child.

Prices start at £15. Individual wall art remains his speciality as you can see from the mural he recently did for Messy Rascals which features in their advert on the back cover. To see more examples of Carl’s work visit www.kidswallcompany.co.uk Relatives will often appreciate something that you and yours have spent some time on more than a pre-packaged gift box from the High Street or the internet. Another personal option is a stunning photograph.

It may be that your family album contains just the right image – but if you’re looking for something fun and inventive then finding the right professional photographer can make for a fantastic gift.

tiger tiger photography photography

print a few days later adds to the excitement – but don’t leave it till Christmas Eve, kilns don’t work that fast!

Two of the best are based in the Pennines.

Gaynor at Shy Violet Photography says she, “likes to Shy Violet add fun to the contemporary side of photography.”

She’s offering Families Pennines readers a festive half-price session at £28.50 with a free 7x5" print or a digital image to make your very own family Christmas cards.

See www.shyvioletphotography.co.uk or ring Gaynor on 07810 533533 for details.

Over at Tiger Photography, Deborah has been producing fun & creative images for over 15 years. “Christmas is magical in the studio with plenty of festive atmosphere,” she says.

You can win photography worth over £200 in Tiger’s Christmas competition. To enter visit www.tigerphoto.co.uk or ring Deborah on 01457 878337 for more details.

A toy to treasure Lots of girls like to receive a doll they can lavish their attention on, that becomes a firm favourite for years. A new contender for that coveted role is ‘A Girl for All Time’.

Only launched in September, it has already won the Best Doll Award at the ToyTalk Awards this year. Aimed at girls aged 8+, the beautifully crafted dolls are brought to life through accompanying novels set in different eras of English history but

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still reflecting contemporary issues – friendships, fitting in, fashion and family. At £89.99 they’re not cheap but they do offer something extra for older girls. The first doll is the Tudor, Matilda and you can find out more at www.agirlforalltime.com

tel: 01457 870112

The beauty of books Cuddling up with a good book, warm and snug, is an idyllic way to spend a winter afternoon – and again, something that can lift you and yours out of the commercial Christmas clamour. There are classics such as Mog’s Christmas by Judith Kerr, The Night Before Christmas by Clement C Moore, or the superb contemporary version by poet laureate, Carol Ann Duffy, Another Night Before Christmas with lines like:

The story of Peter and his grandfather building a miniature railway across farm fields to link their two homes had just the right mix of strong storyline, technical information and glorious watercolour

“The shadows of reindeer were patterns on snow which gift-wrapped the garden, three storeys below.”

A book that could join them is Little Peter’s Railway - Christmas Steam by Christopher Vine. This isn’t just for rail enthusiasts (big & small) – central to the Peter books is the grandchild/grandparent relationship, which in Christmas Steam ensures Peter and his grandfather save the day when Council cuts threaten to leave the local children without their traditional Christmas Grotto.

The Little Peter books are aimed at 3-6 year olds following the success of the Peter’s Railway series for the 6-12 year age range. My son recently read the original story, Peter’s Railway and said it was, “inspirational.”

illustrations – and the picture at the back of the book of ‘The author at speed’ riding Bongo, a miniature steam locomotive he’s built, offers the hope that you never really have to grow up!

as easily. Each tune comes with a short explanation of its musical background.

If you want a preview, you can listen at www.usborne-quicklinks.com - just type in ‘Christmas tunes’. The book costs £12.99 and is a really good way to spend some family time together and have some fun.

Dear Santa by Amy Husband will appeal to 4-6 year olds. It’s designed as an envelope addressed to Santa – though the book starts with a letter from Santa asking children if they’ve been good and what they would like for Christmas. A series of funny letters follow from a boy called Michael asking for presents and trying to explain various mishaps involving

The Little Peter’s books are £2.99; the hardback Peter books are £11.99. You can get signed & dedicated copies direct from www.petersrailway.com. The books are also available in transport museum gift shops, bookshops and Amazon. And remember, 3 lucky readers have the chance to win sets in time for Christmas – to enter, just visit www.familiespennines.co.uk/competitions If music is important to your family then Christmas Tunes

by Anthony Marks is a great way to get everyone joining in.

It has 37 simple to play Christmas carols, songs and seasonal music. It’s arranged for voice and piano but can be played by recorders, violins, guitars etc just

Please say you saw us in Families Pennines

his pet dog Bruno. What Michael can’t explain is why his mother is painting the nursery pink and is feeling tired all the time. Will there be a mysterious addition to Christmas? Dear Santa is published by Meadowside Childrens Books, £5.99, available through Amazon.

Whatever you find in your Christmas stocking, Families Pennines wishes you a Happy Christmas.

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The DOs and DON’Ts of a Happy Family Christmas DON’T expect it to be perfect Like it or not, your Christmas will not be perfect. You will over- cook the turkey, under-cook the pudding and end up sobbing into a huge glass of Sauvignon Blanc because your mother-in-law has criticized your gravy. But because you’ve put so much time and effort into hosting the perfect Christmas, the disappointment at the odd hiccup is overwhelming. Start the festive period accepting you’re not Nigella and it won’t be perfect and you’ll enjoy the parts that go well.

DO try and relax By the time Christmas Day arrives, most of us are exhausted. You’ve probably spent the weeks prior to the big day panic shopping, baking everything that Jamie suggested in his Christmas special and ferrying the family from one festive event to the next. Earmark some time for you. It’s supposed to be a holiday!

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DO get out and about You are not under house arrest over the festive period. We shouldn’t be surprised that if you fill your home with relatives you rarely see and then lock the door, there will be arguments. Add some wine and the results are anything but festive.

Don’t be afraid of getting wrapped up and heading out for a bracing walk. It will clear the house and let the little ones run off some steam.

DON’T expect your children to be angels They’ve broken up from school about to burst with excitement about the arrival of Santa. You’ve been using ‘if you’re not good, Santa won’t come’ since Easter and then the presents are opened and your little angels turn into little devils.

Rules and routine are thrown out of the window so relatives

www.tch.net

Every family has its own way of celebrating.

Now you have your own children it’s time for you to make your own traditions.

Whether it’s a trip to the local crib service on Christmas Eve, or a day of Christmas baking on the Sunday before the festivities begin, it’s up to YOU to create your traditions. A great idea I’ve taken from a friend is the Christmas Eve hamper. This is a basket, left by one of Santa’s helpers, filled with goodies to enjoy on the night before Christmas. In it are festive pyjamas for the children, new toothbrushes, a mug to make hot chocolate and a DVD for the family to watch. It’s the perfect kit to help kick start Christmas.

www.heatonsstores.com

DO make your own traditions

tel: 01457 870112

We all know Christmas can be a headache.

Sarah Butters gives her top tips for keeping it happy. www.thelastdetail.co.uk

DO laugh!

can be entertained and trips can be taken. Combine that with too many treats and lots of attention from well-meaning visitors and the magic of Christmas can disappear pretty quickly. Try not to let all discipline go out of the window and if you sense that there’s a tantrum on the way, remove your child from the mayhem.

During your time out, remind them that Santa can take gifts back from children who don’t behave!

Forget the stress of present buying and preparing a feast fit for royalty and take a minute to laugh.

Remember, when you strip away all the tinsel and tat this is about preparing one meal, on one day with decorations and a gift or two.

And if you’re finding smiling hard, try using our favourite Christmas Cracker joke to cheer you up.

What’s Santa’s favourite pizza?

DO give out jobs

One that’s deep, and crisp and even.

DON’T stress about the presents

DON'T waste money Let’s face it, this is going to be a tough year for all of us. We want to give our children everything on their list, but won’t be able to. Most of us will be celebrating making it to the 25th December with a job and a roof over our heads. However, you can still enjoy the festivities while being frugal. Swop traditional cards for an email including a festive photo. Organise a secret Santa for adult family members with a spending limit. Or simply suggest that you only buy for the family’s children. Keep reminding yourself that it’s not about the money you spend on each other, it’s about the time you spend with each other.

DO enjoy the preparation If you’re not careful, baking the cake, decorating the house and dressing the tree can begin to feel like a chore. Don’t let it become hard work. Give yourself the time to enjoy it and accept that with a little help from your little ones you can create some lovely Christmas memories. Ok, you won’t have a cake fit for Delia. There’ll be precious few needles left on the tree and your house will resemble the aftermath of a children’s birthday party. But despite the imperfections you’ll have happy children and you won’t have spent a penny. Now that’s a happy Christmas.

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So you haven’t been able to find the latest Transformer or bag a Buzz Lightyear doll. Before you beat yourself up, ask yourself this.

Do you remember the presents you didn’t get when you were a child? Or do you remember the experiences you had? My Christmas memories are preparing lunch with my wonderful Nana and attempting to wake my King Charles Cavalier after he’d drunk the best part of a bottle of Blue Nun. Your kids will remember the laughter and the love and when you wake up in January, so will you. Happy Christmas!

Debenhams

www.heatonsstores.com

A resentful host is not a happy host so when you do your pre-Christmas shopping list, make sure you also write a list of jobs you’ll need doing on the big day. If you know your mother-in-law has a view about your Yorkshire Puddings, set her to work making some better ones.

Remember, a busy cook is often a quiet cook!

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What's On November & December Tuesday 1 November – Friday 24 February Beatrix Potter Exhibition – a delightful selection of original paintings, including the manuscript for The Tailor of Gloucester. Daily 11am-3pm. Normal admission charges apply.

NT members free. Ring 01663 762023 Lyme Park, Disley, Stockport SK12 2NR

Tuesdays 1,8,15,22,29 November

One stop shop & health visitor drop in Baby clinic available every week for weighing your child. Health advice plus help and support from visiting team. Huddersfield Salvation Army, New Hey Road, Oakes Huddersfield HD3 4BZ Contact joanne.jennings@kirklees.gov.uk or ring 01484 234287

Wednesday 3 November

Funfair & Fireworks – plus live music & food.

Gates open 6pm. Adults £2; Under 12s £1.

Cathedral House, St Thomas Road, Huddersfield HD1 3LG. Ring 01484 514088 www.hudersfieldchristianfellowship.com

Mondays 7,14,21,28 November Tuesdays 1,8,15,22,29 November Wednesdays 2,9,16,23,30 November

Cathedral Mice Baby & toddler group – lots of toys, healthy snacks, themed song time, outdoor play when dry! 9.30-11.30am 1st visit free – then £1.50 for 1 adult + 3 children.

Cathedral House, St Thomas Road, Huddersfield HD1 3LG

Saturday 12 November

Hebden Bridge craft fair Local craft workers & designers selling handmade goods – with vegetarian café. Free admission 10am-4pm Holme Street Arts Centre, Holme Street, Hebden Bridge HX7 8EE

Saturday 12 & Sunday 13 November

Christmas Craft Fair - Quarry Bank Mill. 11am4pm. Normal admission charges, NT members free. Ring 01625 445896

Sunday 6 November

BBC Children in Need concert Brass and voices support Pudsey at Huddersfield Town Hall, 6pm. Tickets £7.50-12. Ramsden Street, Huddersfield HD1 2TA Ring 01484 223200

Mondays 7,14,21,28 November

Rhymetime – enjoy songs, rhymes and activities with your children. Lindley Librar y, Lidget St, Lindley HD3 3JP Ring 01484 234287

Something new and exciting to experience this Christmas...

Monday 14 – Sunday 20 November

Robinson’s Fun Fair – all the fun of the fair in the Eureka! car park. 6-9.30pm Mon-Fri; noon-9pm Sat & Sun. Eureka! Discover y Way, Halifax HX1 2NE Ring 01422 330069 www.eureka.org.uk

Tuesday 15 November

Christmas shopping evening – Stalyhill PTA invite you to browse their stalls of handmade crafts, jewellery, greetings cards, bags etc. £2 entrance fee includes tea/ coffee & mince pie. To book a stall ring Christine Dolan 0161 304 0735. Stalyhill Junior School, Hereford Way, Stalybridge SK15 2TD

...bring your child to a winter wonderland at Oldham Hulme Kindergarten Winter Wonderland

Saturday 10th December 11 - 12 p.m.

www.ohgs.co.uk tel: 0161 624 4497

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Friday 18-Sunday 20 November

Shibden Hall Craft Fair Find those special Christmas gifts in this unique blend of contemporary & traditional gifts, crafts & skills.

Admission: adult £2.50; child £2. Shibden Hall, Lister’s Road, Halifax HX3 6XG 01422 352246

Saturday 19 November

Huddersfield Christmas Lights Switch On Pulse Radio Roadshow from 4.30pm, with CBeebies presenter, Alex Winters, pressing the big red button to light up the town at 6.20pm.

Grassed area of Huddersfield Piazza, Princess Alexandra Walk, HD1 2RS Contact jayne.pearson@ kirklees.gov.uk or ring 01484 221677

Saturday 19 November

The Buried Moon – The Maiden of the Moon looks after the village folk, brightly guiding them away from the Things who would gobble them up! But who looks after her? What would happen if she disappeared? For children aged 4-11. Tickets: £4.50 child; £6 adult. 11am & 2pm. Lawrence Batley Theatre, Queen’s Square, Huddersfield HD1 2SP 01484 430528 www.thelbt.org

Saturday 26 November – Saturday 14 January

Dick Whittington – a traditional pantomime. Dick & his cat are off to seek fame & fortune in London - but can he defeat the evil King Rat, marry Alice & become Mayor? And what will the Dame wear? Peak tickets: adult £18; child £13.50; family (2+2) £55; Off-Peak: adult £15.50; child £11.50; family (2+2) £48.

Performance times vary. Oldham Coliseum, Fairbottom Street, Oldham OL1 3SW  Box office 0161 624 2829 www.coliseum.org.uk

Saturday 26 & Sunday 27 November

Kiss It Better First Aid for Parents Learn how to feel confident in a first aid situation with your child.

10am-2pm-6pm both days. £50, including first aid manual.

Booking essential – ring Emerald Brook 07903 655195 QUOTE FAMILIES PENNINES & RECEIVE A 10% DISCOUNT.

Sunday 27 November

Kiss it Better Baby First Aid Workshop For expectant & new parents (newborns welcome!).

3-5pm £12.50. Booking essential – ring Emerald Brook 07903 655195 FOR 10% DISCOUNT QUOTE FAMILIES PENNINES. Cote Royd House, 7 Halifax Road, Edgerton, Huddersfield HD 3AN www.kissitbetter firstaid.co.uk

Sunday 27 November

Santa Express – Kirklees Light Railway.

Booking essential. Ring 01484 865727 www. kirkleeslightrailway.co.uk

Saturday 26 & Sunday 27 November

A Victorian kitchen at Christmas – make pomanders, crackers, traditional decorations & bake buns to enjoy with mulled wine in Dunham Massey’s historic kitchen. 1.30-3.30pm Tickets £15. Booking essential. Ring 0844 2491895. Dunham Massey, Altrincham WA14 4SJ

tel: 01457 870112

For more events visit www.familiespennines.co.uk/whatson Friday 2 December

Carols & Brass with Halifax Choral Society & the Black Dyke Band Family night with visit from Santa. 7.30pm Tickets: adult £22-10; child £18-8. Victoria Theatre, Fountain Street, Halifax HX1 1BP

Mondays 5,12,19 December Tuesdays 6,13,20 December Wednesdays 7,14,21 December

Saturday 10 & Sunday 11 December

Mondays 5,12,19,December

Carols in Marsden Park – festive carol concert featuring Marsden Concert Brass & local schoolchildren. Free songsheets so everyone can join in. Mulled wine & mince pies for sale.

Starts 3pm, free admission. Marsden Park, Manchester Road, Marsden HD7 6LY

Cathedral Mice Baby & toddler group – lots of toys, healthy snacks, themed song time, outdoor play when dry! 9.30-11.30am 1st visit free – then £1.50 for 1 adult + 3 children.

Cathedral House, St Thomas Road, Huddersfield HD1 3LG Rhymetime – enjoy songs, rhymes and activities with your children. Lindley Librar y, Lidget St, Lindley HD3 3JP Ring 01484 234287

Tuesday 6 December

Saturdays 3,10,17 & Sundays 4,11,18 & Thursday 22-Saturday 24 December

Santa Express – Kirklees Light Railway transports you to Santa’s Grotto for a memorable start to Christmas. Booking essential. Price range £13-£5. Ring 01484 865727.

KLR, Park Mill Way, Clayton West, HD8 9XJ www.kirkleeslightrailway.com

Shibden Pram Walks Meet at Shibden Mereside for a rhyme time session & walk 10.30-12 noon. Please ring Shelley Bullas for more information on 01422 392638. Shibden Park, Lister’s Road, Halifax HX3 6XG

A Victorian Christmas at the Mill – find out what Christmas was like for the Quarry Bank Mill apprentices, enjoy Christmas carols, stories, shopping and warm mince pies. 11am-3pm.

Normal charges apply, NT members free. Ring 01625 445845. Quarr y Bank Mill, Styal, Wilmslow SK9 4LA

Sunday 11 December 2011

Monday 12-Saturday 24 December

The Snow Queen – a magical mirror is broken into a thousand pieces; Kay is betwitched by the Snow Queen; can his friend Gerda break the evil spell? For ages 4+ Tickets: adult £12; child £10; family 5 ticket £45 (max 2 full price). Various times – for details contact: Lawrence Batley Theatre, Queen’s Square, Huddersfield HD1 2SP 01484 430528 www.thelbt.org

Friday 16, Wednesday 21 & Thursday 22 December

Saturday 10 December – Monday 2 January

Saturdays 3,10,17 & Sundays 4,11,18 & Monday 19-Friday 23 December

Journey to the North Pole – explore your way to meet Santa & his helpers. Additional charges apply. Eureka! Discover y Way, Halifax HX1 2NE Ring 01422 330069 www.eureka.org.uk

Aladdin – with Neil Hurst as Wishee-Washee An enchanting mix of music, magic, adventure – pantomime fun for all the family. Families: £14.50 per person @ Green performances; £10.50 @ Red ones. Victoria Theatre, Fountain Street, Halifax HX1 1BP Box office 01422 351158 www.victoriatheatre.co.uk

Saturday 10 December

Hare and Tortoise – meet two competing friends in this fantastic adaptation of Aesop’s fable. For ages 3-7. Tickets: adult £6; child £4.50 11am & 2pm. Lawrence Batley Theatre, Queen’s Square, Huddersfield HD1 2SP 01484 430528 www.thelbt.org

Saturday 3 December

Winter Wonderland – meet Father Christmas, feed his reindeer, explore over 50 gift stalls, enjoy the Christmas storytime, puppet shows, bouncy castle, real fire engine & a hog roast.

Free entry. £3 to meet Father Christmas. 10-4pm Cathedral House, St Thomas Road, Huddersfield HD1 3LG Ring 01484 514088 or visit www.huddersfieldchristianfellowship.com

Sunday 4,11,18 December

Father Christmas at Lyme Park - £6 per child.

Normal admission charges apply. NT members free. Ring 01663 762023 Lyme Park, Disley, Stockport SK12 2NR

Hebden Bridge craft fair Local craft workers & designers selling handmade goods – with vegetarian café. Free admission 10am-4pm Holme Street Arts Centre, Holme Street, Hebden Bridge HX7 8EE Winter Wonderland @ Oldham Hulme Kindergarten Bring your wellies & waterproofs to explore the school’s Winter Wonderland woodland. 11am-12 noon.

Oldham Hulme Kindergarten, Thornycroft, Newport Street, Oldham OL8 1RE Ring 0161 630 6255 www.ohgs.sch.uk

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Twilight Santa Express - Kirklees Light Railway offers a spotlit ride to Santa’s Grotto for a memorable start to Christmas. Booking essential. Price range £13-£5. Ring 01484 865727.

KLR, Park Mill Way, Clayton West, HD8 9XJ www. kirkleeslightrailway.com

Saturday 17 December

Santa at Shibden – get on board the Santa Express, decorated for Santa’s arrival and visit his Grotto at Shibden Mereside. Tours 11am-4pm.

Tickets: Child £6 for tour, grotto & gift; adults £2.

Booking essential: 01422 352246. Shibden Park, Lister’s Road, Halifax HX3 6XG

Sunday 18 December

Christmas at Shibden – see the Hall in seasonal glory, with craft activities, storytelling & Christmas song. 12noon-3pm Normal admission charges: family £10; adult £3.50; child £2.50; + small charge for activities. 01422 352246.

Shibden Park, Lister’s Road, Halifax HX3 6XG

Saturday 31 December

Noon Year’s Eve Party – countdown to 2012 in the Eureka!

Town Square as the clock strikes midnight around the globe. Enjoy games, songs & the thrills of a New Year’s Eve party without needing a nap! Free with standard admission. Eureka!

Discover y Way, Halifax HX1 2NE Ring 01422 330069 www.eureka.org.uk

Families Pennines tries to get the details right – but sometimes things change so please check before you travel.

Want your event listing? email the details to editor@familiespennines.co.uk

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“It will soon be Christmas ... and we Elves are already getting prepared.... and so should you! ”

Play Sessions and Parties

Photo Sessions only £28.50 plus FREE 7x5 or Digital Image to make your own Christmas Cards

‘Capture the moment’ for that extra special gift

Call Gaynor on 07810 533533

NEW UPPERMILL STUDIO

tel:07852336328

96-98 Rochdale Road, Royton, Oldham

www.messyrascals.co.uk )+< 67?

Play Sessions & Parties

Messy Rascals has great ideas for personal and unique Christmas gifts.

What our customers say about us....

Thank you. I really enjoyed Messy Rascals. It was great. I would love to come back, it is lovely. From Shannon Excellent play place. Lots of variety of crafts every visit. Lovely staff. I have booked a party for Joshua and can’t wait!! :O) One Word “FANTASTIC!” Elliot loved his session. Well Done x “A Fantastic Place” A great place to express through creativity.

Fun for all, a calming setting, everyone entertained. Great interactive staff. Jacqui”

We have everything from decorating baubles for the tree, cups, canvases, poems, etc to snowman tealight holders and much, much more.

Don’t forget we also have play sessions and parties, please book to avoid disappointment.

tel:07852336328

96-98 Rochdale Road, Royton, Oldham

www.messyrascals.co.uk

Please say you saw us in Families Pennines