Families Leeds and West Yorkshire March/April 2025
Editor Claire Bottomley
Editor@familiesleeds.co.uk 07799 667041
Printed by: Buxton Press Ltd
Design: Rebecca Carr
First of all, I want to say a huge thank you to everyone who entered last issue’s colouring competition. Congratulations to our winner, Billy (pictured). His fabulously colourful version of Leeds City Museum and those of the runners up can be seen on page 12.
The next edition of the magazine is our 100th issue! To celebrate, there’ll be a bumper crop of competitions and giveaways - your chance to win some fab prizes - so look out for the extra special May/ June edition.
Meanwhile, Spring is round the corner and Easter is on its way! This issue is packed with information about what’s on for families – from theatre productions, festivals, Easter events and activities, to holiday camps, new classes and more.
I hope you find it useful and that you have a fun-packed March and April. Good luck ‘finding’ those mini eggs – don’t let the kids get them all first!
An exciting opportunity to purchase an established and successful Toddler Sense Franchise. Would you love being your own boss? Love being the face of an award-winning programme; running fun, educational and engaging classes for families? Massive potential to grow the existing business with a loyal and established customer base. Contact Lou for a sales pack.
Harewood’s new Adventure Playscape open at Easter
Harewood’s brand-new Adventure Playscape is set to open in time for Easter, offering an exciting, nature inspired play experience for children aged 2 to 12.
The Adventure Playscape features multiple play zones tailored to different age groups, with towers, bridges, slides, hideouts, climbing tunnels, swings and a zip wire, offering a mixture of physical and sensory play.
This permanent outdoor family facility is designed with accessibility at heart, ensuring children of all abilities, including neurodiverse and physically disabled visitors, can play together.
The new Adventure Playscape is the first phase of ambitious plans to Reimagine Harewood’s historic landscapes. Working with award-winning designers and architects, inspiring new spaces are being created around the play area, the Courtyard and South Garden and the Bakehouse will be transformed into a new visitor centre. www.harewood.org
Franchise opportunity: Toddler Sense
Fancy a career change to suit your family? Fancy being your own boss, choosing your own hours, and having fun everyday you go to work?
Toddler Sense North Leeds is an established franchise with the most amazing customer base needing YOU to take over!
Either follow the existing business model or have the freedom to extend/shorten your hours - with opportunities to run classes, parties and specials to boost your income.
Contact Lou on 07870275916 or email northleeds@ toddlersense.co.uk for a sales pack.
Do you know someone who would make a great foster carer?
Leeds City Council is working to ensure vulnerable children in Leeds can stay close to their birth families, friends and schools wherever possible. There’s a fantastic community of over 700 carers already, but more people are desperately needed.
Foster4Leeds has launched 'Refer a Friend and Family' scheme, offering £500 to anyone who refers a friend who then becomes an approved foster carer.
How does it work?
• Speak to a friend or family member who you think would make a great foster carer. Tell them about the refer a friend scheme and say you want to refer them.
• The person(s) you are referring to become a foster carer should then fill out a form to show their interest. When contacted by the fostering team, they will need to confirm that they were referred and give your details when asked.
• They will go through the normal process of being approved as a foster carer by Leeds City Council, which can take six to nine months.
• Once the person is approved, you will receive the payment of £500. No payment is made if they are not approved as a foster carer for Leeds City Council. You can make more than one referral, and more information is available at foster4leeds@leeds.gov.uk. Or you can call 0113 3783538.
Did you know?
• You do not have to give up work to become a foster carer
• There are different types of caring roles available, including short and long term, supported lodgings and parent and child as well as short breaks and support carer roles
• Anyone over the age of 21 with a spare room and the willingness to love and care for a child could become a foster carer
• Foster4Leeds is 100% not for profit
Springtime Storytelling in Bradford City Centre
Go down to Bradford City Centre on Saturday, April 19 and experience an on-street spectacular storytelling event with children’s favourites from Beatrix Potter and Alice in Wonderland. It’s a FREE event for the whole family to enjoy.
There will be Beatrix Potter Shows, Tweedle’s Rose Garden Grand Prix Assault Course, Jemima Puddleduck and Mr McGregor Egg and Spoon Race, Alice and Queen of Hearts Croquet, Storytelling and Story Birds Workshop.
Share your images on socials, tagging in @BradfordBID for a chance to win a £100 Bradford Gift Card.
Further details are on the Bradford BID website: www.bradfordbid.co.uk
Action: Leeds Young Film Fest
Leeds Young Film Festival returns this Easter with a packed programme of family films, hands-on workshops and immersive VR experiences.
Young filmmakers aged from eight to 12 can explore sound, costume, make-up, camera, directing and even prosthetic skills in hands-on workshops led by industry professionals. Families can also enjoy a fantastic selection of short films and for the first time, young film fans can take part in the FREE LYFF Giant Jury where they’ll watch, review and vote for their favourite films. Find out more and book tickets at leedsfilm.com
WIN a Pup-tacular Family Adventure with PAW Patrol Live!
Shiver me timBARKS! One lucky family has the chance to win four tickets to see PAW Patrol Live! The Great Pirate Adventure at the First Direct Arena in Leeds on Saturday, August 9.
Your favourite Pirate Patrol are hitting the stage for an actionpacked performance that will have the whole family howling with excitement.
The winner also receives an exclusive bundle of piratethemed PAW Patrol goodies, so your little adventurers can join the fun in style.
Enter at www.bit.ly/familiespp or use QR code for your chance to win.
Closing date: April 18, 2025
T&Cs at www.bit.ly/PPLTCS
ChatGPT and your child
By Erin Miller
An increasing area of concern for both schools and parents is how children are incorporating AI into their learning, particularly when they are learning independently.
While AI offers tremendous opportunities to enhance learning, it is also essential to be aware of the potential negative impacts that AI may have. This article explores some of the risks of children using AI in their learning but also provides some guidance for when and how children can use AI in a productive and useful way.
As a teacher, I now frequently use AI tools to assist me in my lesson planning and they have been hugely beneficial in saving my time.
The reason why I am confident in using AI tools is because when AI produces a response, I am able to fact-check it myself. After over ten years of teaching, it is clear to me when AI has produced erroneous information or not responded to my prompt with the information I’m looking for.
However, children, especially younger children, will not have developed this critical faculty as they do not yet have subject expertise. Therefore, children blindly relying on information produced by AI is not conducive to learning.
The main lesson that I impart to my students surrounding the use of AI is: AI cannot do your thinking for you.
Children at all ages need to understand that AI provides a great platform for researching factual information but using AI to come
Discover
up with ideas in creative tasks puts a stop to thinking.
The same applies to tasks where children are being asked to make interpretations or give their opinions on something. There is no viable shortcut for thinking, as the process of deep thought is invaluable in forming neural pathways, which is how children remember information.
AI tools are a part of our present and future and children should engage with them, where appropriate. But schools and parents should be aligned in how to introduce children to AI and help them engage with it safely and responsibly.
Your child’s school may have an AI policy in place, which is worth reviewing if you have any concerns. As this technology continues to evolve, schools are likely to be open to hearing your thoughts and feedback on their AI policies and usage. So don’t hesitate to reach out to your child’s school to continue this important conversation!
Erin Miller is a teacher with a keen interest in how research can be used in the classroom to improve learning.
Further guidance for AI use
If your child is using AI tools in their independent learning, try the following to help them to use AI effectively and responsibly:
Encourage your child to go into the sources referenced by the AI and read the full source to check that the information given by the AI tool is accurate.
Start conversations about plagiarism early. Unfortunately, AI has provided a way for children to plagiarise and disguise this plagiarisation. AI is able to produce whole essays or examples of creative writing and these can be put through ‘humanising’ tools, which give the essays a more human voice, making plagiarism harder to detect. Conversations at home about plagiarism will go a long way in helping your child understand the seriousness of academic dishonesty and the harm it will do their own learning in the long term.
Discuss with your child whether AI will help them in their learning task. AI is unlikely to help genuine learning in creative tasks that require imagination but is a fantastic tool for factual research.
Clubs & Classes Directory
Debutots
Providing interactive storytelling and dramatic play sessions for ages six months to seven years.
Fun, exciting classes develop children's language skills, promote their confidence and creativity.
Friday afternoons at the Beehub Farsley during term time and Monthly Sunday mornings in Pudsey. Call 0113 8591130
debutots.co.uk/leedswestandcentral
Music Bugs
Sensory, play-based music and singing classes for babies, toddlers and preschoolers.
The 40 minute sessions provide your children with a lovely opportunity to socialise and develop in a creative and stimulating environment.
Call 0844 5781043
Musicbugs.co.uk
Razzamataz
A unique blend of dance, singing and acting classes.
Razz Minis (4-5 years), Razz Juniors (6-8 years), Razz Inters (9-11 years) and Razz Seniors (12 years and up). Saturdays during term-time at excellent Carr Manor Community facilities.
Call 07788 646029
Aiden
leeds.razzamataz.co.uk
Toddler Sense
Classes are available for children from 13 months to five years. Explore adventure play time on bouncy castles, soft play, rides and more. Enjoy themed sensory activities with puppet shows, interactive games and light shows. Different equipment and theme each week.
Text Lou on 07870265916 or email northleeds@toddlersense.co.uk
Baby Sensory North Leeds
Helping you to make memories with your baby whilst supporting their cognitive development. Baby Sensory stimulates all of the senses with different weekly themes, set in a fantastic Baby Sensory Centre, the perfect place to meet others and have fun with your baby.
Call 07841437205 northleeds@babysensory.co.uk
babysensory.com/north-leeds
Star Theatre Academy
Performing Arts classes fostering creativity and confidence. Saturday schools in Headingley and Farsley. Classes for Diddy Stars (ages 3-4) Rising Stars (ages 5-7) and Shooting Stars (age 8 plus).
Holiday camp in Alwoodley for age 8 plus. Elevate your child’s passion for performing arts in an inclusive, supportive environment.
startheatre.co.uk
Little Seedlings
A warm, welcoming, open-ended playspace for children from 0-5, offering something for everyone, in addition to structured separate baby sessions.
All sessions include messy and non messy play, hot drinks and support from external providers. lucy@littleseedlingsuk.com littleseedlingsuk.com
Number Train
Number Train is a fun and interactive introduction to maths for preschool children designed and delivered by an experienced primary maths specialist. With a different theme each week, sessions keep your child engaged with games, action songs, art and craft.
Call 07852 989523 numbertrain@hotmail.com
numbertrain.co.uk
Babyballet® Leeds North
Fun and informal dance classes for ages 18 months to 6 years.
Through an imaginative syllabus children are taught basic ballet steps but will have fun expressing themselves whilst developing skills such as balance, co-ordination, rhythm and more! Classes in Alwoodley, Yeadon, Bramhope and Rawdon. leedsnorth@babyballet.co.uk
babyballet.co.uk
with Julia Bradbury, Gemma Hunt and Gina Bradbury-Fox of The Outdoor Guide
Local babyballet® stars danced to save babies’ lives
Children from Leeds North babyballet® classes showcased their dancing skills in February with a ‘Danceathon’ fundraiser for the pregnancy and baby charity, Tommy’s.
Dancers from 18 months to six years old were sponsored to dress up and complete dancing challenges around the theme When I Grow Up.
Together with 30,000 babyballet® dancers from across the UK, the Leeds North Danceathon raised £3,500 for Tommys, contributing to a national total of almost £430,000.
Miss Laura, Franchise Owner and Teacher at babyballet® Leeds North said: “We had such a fun week taking part in the Danceathon. Tommys is a charity to close to our hearts and it was wonderful seeing the children enjoy our themed classes whilst raising money to help save babies lives.”
Find out more at www.babyballet.co.uk
Do you run kids' clubs or classes?
Feature in our next issue and reach 1,000s of local parents.
Email Claire at editor@ familiesleeds.co.uk for more information.
Baby Swimmers & Swimmers Academy
Through fun and games at Baby Swimmers see your little one progress to a confident little swimmer! Swimmers Academy lessons take children from beginner to advanced. Whatever their age and ability. Survival skills, stamina and stroke techniques. Call 0333 3355388
babyswimmers.co.uk
Numbertrain on track to new destinations
Popular pre-school maths class Number Train has expanded its network to include Bradford and York, allowing even more children to gain confidence and approach maths with a smile.
Number Train came about when founder and former primary teacher Annette noticed that, of all the pre-school classes available, there was nothing out there about numbers. Maths is a compulsory subject throughout the majority of our education system, and it begins at an early age.
Through dynamic, fun, creative sessions, Number Train encourages children to explore numeracy through play and a wide range of activities. Singing, dancing, art, games and stories make sessions an engaging and inspiring introduction to maths.
“I could see after just a few sessions that my son had become much more interested in numbers outside the class, and the skills that he built up at Number Train have helped him fit into the school routine and given him confidence,” explained one happy parent.
The success of Number Train speaks for itself. Annette initially taught a few sessions a week in Horsforth, Leeds.
Now the high demand for Number Train has meant there’s a team of enthusiastic train drivers - all former teachers - on board. And it is reaching new destinations, through Leeds to Wetherby, Otley and Ilkley, Harrogate and beyond.
To find out more about Number Train and to find your nearest class, visit www.numbertrain.co.uk
Leak Free Mums
Pelvic floor and core classes in Leeds specifically for mums experiencing bladder leaks.
Combining pelvic floor and core exercises, resistance training and lowimpact movements. Rehabilitate your pelvic floor and strengthen so you can exercise and do daily activities without worrying.
leakfreemums.kit.com/leedsclasses
Adventure Camps: For fun-filled school holiday experiences
School holidays should be a time for fun, exploration, and new experiences - not just endless screen time or cries of 'I’m bored!'
Adventure Camps are designed for children aged 4 to 14, offering a wide range of activities to keep kids active, engaged and full of confidence. They take place in Alwoodley and Headingley, Leeds, as well as locations in North Yorkshire and are available during the Easter, summer and half term holidays.
What makes Adventure Camps special?
Adventure Camps believe children learn best through play. That’s why every day is packed with exciting experiences, from team challenges and outdoor survival skills to sports, performing arts, creative arts, and even tech-based activities. Whether your child is an aspiring athlete, a budding artist, a future scientist, or just loves to run around and explore, there’s something for them to enjoy.
More than just a camp – a confidence building experience Camps aren’t just about keeping kids entertainedthey’re designed to help them grow. Through teamwork, problem-solving, and hands-on activities, children develop independence, resilience, and self-belief. Parents often say that their children return home from Adventure Camps more confident, social, and willing to try new things.
Why parents love adventure camps
• A safe, welcoming environment with highly trained staff.
• A mix of sports, creativity, adventure, and tech activities to suit every interest.
• A great way for kids to make new friends and develop essential life skills.
• Flexible booking options to fit holiday plans. Find out more at www.adventure-camps.co.uk
Books bring mythology to life for children
A Leeds author has launched an exciting series of books introducing classical mythology to children from an early age.
Liam Formaniuk’s The Little Pantheons collection is aimed at 4 to 8-year-olds, and gives an overview of groups of gods from different civilisations. Its combination of unique artwork and informative descriptions are proving to be a hit with young readers.
Liam initially wrote Gods of Rome for his daughter, Pia Kaur. After seeing her reaction to the book, he decided to expand the project. He explained: "Classical mythology is a truly fascinating subject and the best place to start is by learning about the gods and goddesses who feature in these stories. There has been a resurgence of these characters in popular culture, so now is a great time to take advantage if your child's interest has been sparked.”
He added, “Mythology influences so many aspects of our daily lives, from the words and phrases we use to the names we give to months of the year and days of the week. Above all, this area can really help to develop children's imaginations."
Liam recently ran a workshop for pupils at Allerton CofE Primary School in Leeds, where children designed their own gods and their work will be published. He is planning to offer more school workshops across West Yorkshire.
The first four titles in the series can be purchased from www.littlepantheons.com. Readers of this magazine can use the code FAM20 for a 20% discount on their order.
GIVEAWAY
National Geographic Build Your Own Volcano Kits
Changing the narrative for mums suffering with postpartum bladder leaks
A postnatal fitness trainer and certified pelvic floor coach is empowering mums to challenge the idea that bladder leaks are an inevitable consequence of childbirth that must be endured.
Victoria Wood, who is based in Leeds, is offering targeted support to mums. She helps them regain confidence and show them that wearing incontinence pads during exercise, or simply to cough, laugh or sneeze, is not a life ling necessity.
“It is a postpartum challenge that can be improved with the right approach,” she explained.
“With 15 years of experience in the fitness industry as a femaleonly personal trainer and founder of a dedicated fitness studio for women, I understand the unique challenges of the female body and the complexities of postpartum recovery.”
Whether it’s two months, two years, or even 20 years since giving birth, Victoria offers both virtual and in-person one-to-one coaching, as well as group classes, to provide expert support for mums experiencing bladder leaks.
A mum of one who also experienced her own bladder issues after having her daughter, Victoria is committed to helping other mums overcome these challenges with tailored, effective solutions.
“As a new mum, I personally experienced the lack of information available about pelvic floor health after childbirth. Sadly, many mums are left to navigate this on their own, often without proper guidance on how to correctly engage their pelvic floor. While Kegels are commonly recommended, they alone aren’t always enough. To truly see results, a full-body approach is essential. I’m passionate about changing this and ensuring that every mum receives the education and support she deserves for optimal pelvic health.”
For more information about how Victoria can support you visit and follow her on Instagram @leakfreemums, or visit www.leakfreemums.kit.com/coaching
Eye tests for children
Not all parents are aware that eye tests are especially essential for children. It’s also important for parents to watch out for signs of any vision problems such as eye turns, lazy eyes, or any difficulties in recognising colours, shapes, letters and numbers.
Children have an eye test at the age of 3 years and then just before they start school at age 5, then yearly after that.
Eye tests are FREE for children under 16 and young people under 19 in full-time education.
A few tips on booking an eye test with your optician: Book a time when your child is quite bright and alert.
Let children know to be honest during an eye check, they may see their friends wearing glasses want some too! The optometrist will have ways of cross-checking but it makes it easier if the child doesn’t unintentionally distort the testing process.
Let the optician know of any concerns you may have and of any eye problems there may be in the family history.
NHS urges families to think Pharmacies First
Parents of young children are being encouraged by the NHS to take advantage of services offered by their local pharmacies when they require help with minor illnesses or ailments instead of their GP.
The NHS Pharmacy First campaign aims to increase the public awareness of the breadth of support now offered by pharmacies on their doorstep.
The Pharmacy First service allows pharmacists to provide prescription medication for common conditions, including sinusitis (for those aged 12 and over), sore throat (for those aged 5 years and over), earache (for those aged between 1 and 17 years) and infected insect bite (for those aged 1 year and over) without the need for a GP appointment.
By expanding the services community pharmacies offer, the NHS is aiming to help free up GP appointments and give people more choice in how and where they access care.
More info: nhs.uk/thinkpharmacyfirst
Meet the Head: Anna Coulson of The Froebelian School
Families talks to Anna Coulson who is the Headteacher of The Froebelian School, in Horsforth
Froebelian School is reputed to be a particularly happy school. Why do you think this is?
Our school’s joyful reputation is rooted in our unique ability to balance rigorous academic standards with genuine holistic care.
We pride ourselves on challenging students intellectually through a demanding curriculum that promotes critical thinking and scholarly excellence, while simultaneously nurturing their social, emotional, and creative development.
This dual emphasis creates an environment where academic curiosity and personal well-being reinforce one another, leading to a vibrant community in which every child feels valued, supported, and inspired. We know each and every child and their families inside and out.
What recent developments are you particularly excited about?
I'm particularly excited about the launch of our community group for busy working parents and extended family members. Recognising that working families rarely have time to linger at the school gates, these gatherings offer precious opportunities to connect, support one another, and share in our school’s vibrant community life.
Equally thrilling is our ongoing commitment to recognizing each child’s unique learning style - a commitment that has helped us maintain a 100% success rate in securing entry to their first choice of Senior School.
King's Magna launches
Academic Stretch options
King's Magna School at Queen Ethelburga’s has this year launched an advanced option for science and mathematics to further enrich pupils’ learning in years 6 to 9.
In science, students design space experiments, compete in robotics and work towards a Higher Project Qualification (HPQ) and national CREST Silver award. In mathematics, pupils learn finance, modelling, estimation, critical path analysis, and cost-benefit analysis for their Level 3 Certificates in Mathematical Studies.
The options are part of the school’s study skills programmes, to help students excel in GCSEs and A Levels. Pupils in years 6 to 9 select two subjects each term, and four specialisms in Year 9.
The school invests heavily in core subjects with daily Mathematics, English and Science lessons. It offers a support mathematics option.
For more information, visit qe.org/kings-magna
Additionally, we're exploring financially forward-thinking initiatives that ensure every investment in our children translates into positive, long-term outcomes. Together, these developments reinforce our dedication to both academic excellence and holistic wellbeing.
What initiatives does the school embrace to promote the selfesteem and emotional well-being of pupils?
At our school, we believe that nurturing self-esteem and emotional well-being is as vital as academic achievement. We implement a variety of initiatives including mindfulness sessions, peer mentoring, regular well-being workshops, and engaging activities that encourage self-expression and resilience.
I am particularly passionate about this area, and I have written my own children's journal alongside a series of books featuring a little fawn called Roxie. These stories are carefully crafted to address key themes such as empathy, courage, and selfdiscovery. My hope is that these narratives will resonate with our pupils, providing them with relatable characters and valuable life lessons.
What is your most useless skill?
Predicting exactly when a child is about lose to a tooth – years of experience give you this superpower.
What is your real-life superpower?
I’d say my superpower is my ability to connect with others. I can tune into the needs and feelings of both children and colleagues, creating genuine relationships that foster trust, creativity, and a supportive learning environment.
Early bird or night owl?
I’m definitely an early bird. I love the quiet, reflective energy of the morning, which gives me time to prepare and set a positive tone for the day ahead.
The Froebelian School is for children aged from 2 to 11 years. It is hosting an Open Morning on April 25, 9.30am to 11am. Email openevents@froebelian.co.uk or call 0113 2583047 to register.
www.froebelian.com
Colouring Competition Winners!
Last issue we asked readers to enter our colouring competition, with a picture of Leeds City Museum from the Amazing Leeds Colouring Book as the starting point.
We were overwhelmed by all the fabulous designs that came in and it was very hard to choose an overall winner.
The prize goes to Billy Riley, Aged 5. I think you’ll agree he did an amazing job! Congratulations to Billy and to our three runners up (Maddie, Matilda and Megan), who are also pictured above with their designs.
Billy received family tickets Abbey House Museum, Kirkstall Abbey and Leeds Industrial Museum as well as an annual pass to Thackray Museum of Medicine. Billy also received an Amazing
Easter Word Search
Help the Easter Bunny find the lost words
Leeds Colouring Book, as did the runners up.
Thank you to our competition sponsor, Leeds Museums and Galleries.
Amazing Leeds Colouring Books are available to buy at: www.numonday.com/shop/city-nonagon-store
Find out what’s going on at Leeds Museums and Galleries this spring at www.museumsandgalleries.leeds.gov.uk
Look out for more competitions in our upcoming issues!
Friday 25 April 2025
9.30-11am
Come along and find out more about The Froebelian School, Horsforth
For all children aged 2-11 years (with funded places available)
“We are delighted to announce that 100% of our children have been offered a place at their first-choice independent senior school.” Mrs Coulson, Headteacher
What's On
ONGOING
Ongoing
Local Library Events at Leeds, Bradford, Calderdale, Kirklees and Wakefield Libraries
Check the website for various ongoing FREE events for children and families at libraries across West Yorkshire, including Story and Rhyme, Coding Club, LEGO Club, Comic Club and more.
Museums for Play and Growth at Bradford Museums and Galleries
FREE drop-in sessions for children 0–5 years old, held on: First Saturday of the month in Bradford Industrial Museum, second Friday of the month in Cartwright Hall, third Wednesday of the month in Bolling Hall and fourth Thursday of the month in Cliffe Castle.
First Tuesday of the Month Toddler Tuesdays at The Hepworth Wakefield For families with children aged 1-4. Enjoy a playful morning with your little ones and join specialist early years artists to explore The Hepworth Wakefield. 10.30am-12pm.
First Tuesday of the Month during term time Storytime at the Little Bookshop Chapel Allerton FREE, monthly community storytime. Listen to some stories, chat with local parents and enjoy a free tea or coffee. No need to book and suitable for babies and toddlers up. 10am.
Second Thursday of the Month
Mums Meander in Roundhay Park
Meet 7pm at the Lakeside Café. Enjoy a chat with other mums.
Fridays
Tiny Tigers at Leeds City Museum
Creative, messy sessions for under 5s and their carers. Babies, toddlers and pre-schoolers welcome. FREE, drop in, no need to book. 10am to 11.45am.
Saturdays
Family Fun at Wakefield Museum, Castleford Museum and Pontefract Museum
Come rain or shine enjoy FREE, fun crafts every Saturday. With different themed activities each week. All activities and materials are provided and they’ll even tidy up afterwards! 11am to 3pm.
We took every care in preparing these entries but sometimes events are cancelled or times change. Please double check with the organiser to avoid disappointment.
Rory’s Saturday Club at Leeds City Museum Looking for something creative to do with kids in the city? Head to Leeds City Museum for Rory’s Saturday Club craft sessions for families with children of all ages. FREE. Drop-in. 11am to 12.15pm.
Sundays Junior Parkrun at 15 parks across Leeds and West Yorkshire Fun, 2k run for 4 to 14-year-olds and their families. Check website for details. FREE event. Register online.
Friday to Sunday until March 23, open daily from March 24
Servants’ Hall Family Fun Space at Harewood House
The Servants’ Hall Family Fun Space is the perfect place for families to unwind together. Find a book area for quiet reading, colouring and activity sheets to spark creativity, dressing-up station for imaginative play and family-friendly games to enjoy together. Open 10.30am to 3pm.
MARCH
March 7 and 11
Change and Adaptation at Temple Newsam Celebrating Change and Adaptation on the Farm as part of British Science Week 2025. How has the farm changed over the years? What seasonal changes happen on the farm and estate? What adaptations can be seen in the animals and the wildlife around the estate? Included in general admission.
March 8
International Women’s Day at Temple Newsam Find out about the role female figures have played in Temple Newsam's rich heritage. There will be costumed characters in the Farm who will tell you their stories and impact they had on Temple Newsam during their time.
March 18 and 19
Persephone: A Tale of the Seasons at Leeds Playhouse
A gentle sensory exploration of the seasons, perfect for babies and toddlers.
March 20
Home Education Workshop: Stone Age to Iron Age at Leeds Discovery Centre
Learn about changes in technology and lifestyle in Britain from the stone age through to the invasion of the Romans. Recommended ages six to 14 years. Pre-booking essential.
March 22 and 23
Room On The Broom at Carriageworks Theatre Jump on board the broom with the witch and her cat in Tall Stories’ fun-filled adaptation of Room on the Broom, the best-selling picture book by Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler.
March 27 to 30
The Jungle Book at Carriageworks Theatre Leeds children’s theatre brings vividly to life, a unique retelling of one of literature’s most enduring classics, The Jungle Book.
March 29
Mother's Day Crafts at Temple Newsam
Enjoy a family day at Temple Newsam and make a craft to celebrate Mother's Day. Explore the beautiful house and make your mum feel like a queen for the day.
April 1 to 3
APRIL
The Gruffalo at Carriageworks Theatre
Join Mouse on a daring adventure through the deep, dark wood in Tall Stories’ magical, musical adaptation of the classic picture book by Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler.
April 5
Meet the Farmer – lambing focus at Temple Newsam
It's lambing season on Home Farm and the Farmer, Oliver, is busy making sure that the rare breed sheep are comfortable and ready for their new flocks to arrive. Lambs are one of the farm’s most popular animals and are very entertaining to watch bound around their pens as they get used to a brand new world.
April 5 and 6
Bing's Birthday at St George’s Hall Bradford
Get ready for an amazing celebration with a brand-new live stage show packed with fun, laughter and surprises.
April 5 to 21
Easter at Harewood
Embark on an unforgettable Easter adventure at Harewood. Wander along vibrant wildflower trails, set off on a thrilling nature safari, get creative with hands-on crafts, and join the excitement of Harewood’s Great Easter Egg Hunt. With magical moments and surprises around every corner, there’s fun for the whole family to enjoy. Open daily, 10am-5pm.
April 5 to 21
Where's Woolly? At Temple Newsam
Some of the springtime babies from Home Farm have escaped into the House! Help find the missing sheep! Lots of family fun themed around sheep and wool, including crafts, trails and activities in the House and Farm and of course plenty of springtime babies to meet on at Home Farm. The House is closed on Mondays.
April 5 to 21
Easter Egg Trail at Nostell
Make your way along the trail and find natureinspired activities for the whole family. There are 10 fun trail points to discover as you make your way around the garden. Trails are £3.50 per child and include a chocolate egg at the end (or dairy free alternative). Normal admission charges apply.
April 5 to 24
Easter Trail at East Riddlesden Hall
Make your way along the trail and find natureinspired activities for the whole family. There are 10 fun trail points to discover as you make your way around the garden. Trails are £3.50 per child and include a bunny ears and a chocolate egg at the end (or dairy free alternative). Normal admission charges apply.
April 5 to 27
Easter Adventure Quest at Brodsworth Hall Crack the clues hidden around the grounds and enjoy a delicious chocolate reward.
April 6
Arty Facts at Leeds City Museum
A unique opportunity to look closely at objects from the Natural History collection, whilst trying out fun, experimental drawing techniques. Still life drawings depict objects that are ‘still’ and don’t move. Still life artwork often shows inanimate objects from the natural or man-made world, such as fruit, flowers, and vessels like baskets or bowls. This session will feature an object from the Natural History collection, not usually on display. Drop-in. All ages.
April 7
Teach Rex LIVE
Get up close and personal with life-like dinosaurs and let Teach Rex take you on an immersive, prehistoric journey into the anatomy of the most amazing creatures that have ever roamed our planet.
April 8 to 21
Leeds Young Film Festival
Celebrating family-friendly cinema with screenings, workshops, and VR experiences to inspire young talent.
April 9
Pumpkin Sewing at Temple Newsam
Visit the Walled Gardens and pot two pumpkin seeds this Spring. Pot one to take and grow at home and one for the gardeners to grow on for you to collect or carve at Halloween. 1pm to 3pm.
April 9 to 12
The Story Forge: Make your own Myth at Leeds Playhouse
Help shape the stories, and even become the hero yourself (if you want, no pressure) in this epic interactive experience. The renowned Rubbish Shakespeare Company and Silly History Boys present a hilarious hour of high-octane adventure for children and childish adults.
April 10
Rude Science at Leeds Playhouse
BBC Gastronaut Stefan Gates’ revolutionary, high-tech, highly-explosive new show, packed with outrageous science stunts. On the surface it’s a riot of disgusting experiments built to delight young audiences but under the bonnet it’s a brilliantly-constructed curriculum-driven adventure.
April 12
Dawn Chorus Walk at Temple Newsam
Join this family-friendly dawn chorus walk to learn about birdsong and enjoy the historic landscape of Temple Newsam. Focus on using birdsong to identify mostly woodland and parkland birds. 6am to 9am. Booking essential.
April 16 to 19
The Smartest Giant In Town at Carriageworks Theatre
A Little Angel Theatre and Fierylight coproduction, based on the bestselling book by Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler. This heartwarming tale about friendship and helping those in need is brought to life in a musical, puppet-filled adventure.
April 18
Easter Trail at Skelton Grange Environment Centre
A glorious outdoor trail wandering through the woods and gardens at Skelton Grange. Complete a treasure hunt along the way and trade in your trove for a chocolatey Easter surprise at the end. Tickets required for children. 11am to 2pm.
April 19
Springtime Storytelling in Bradford City Centre
Experience an on-street spectacular storytelling event with children’s favourites from Beatrix Potter and Alice in Wonderland. A free event hosted by Bradford BID for the whole family to experience. Shows, stories, workshops, meet and greets, and activities.
April 20
Nick Cope: I've Lost My Bobble Hat at City Varieties Music Hall
Help Nick find his beloved bobble hat in this fun-filled musical hour with all your favourite Nick Cope hits and more.
April 23 to 24
The Noisy Dinosaur at Leeds Playhouse
Join Dino and a whole host of comfy creatures as they work together to find their voices and make some noise. Perfect for under 5s and their grownups… it’ll be ROAR-some!
April 25 and 26
Dinosaur World Live
Dare to experience the dangers and delights of Dinosaur World Live in this roarsome interactive show for all the family.
April 26
Spring Stroll at Temple Newsam
Look out for signs of spring on this gentle guided walk around the farm and estate. Pre booking essential.
May 4
Super Soapbox Challenge in Bradford City Centre
A fantastic outing for the whole family with soapbox races, live music, local food and drink and celebrity guests. FREE.
COMING SOON
August 9 PAW Patrol® Live! ‘The Great Pirate Adventure’
The Pack is Back and on a Roll to the First Direct Arena on Saturday, August 9. This action-packed, music-filled production will see Ryder and his team of pups embark on a pirate-themed adventure to uncover hidden treasure. Do not miss this PAWsome opportunity to see the whole pack live on stage. Sign up for exclusive deals online and to be the first to know when tickets are available and bag the best seats in the house!
