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Happy New Year! New Starts in 2014 Childcare - a look at Nannies and Nurseries
What’s On – your must have guide for family fun till end of February 11
Do One Good Thing for Forget Me Not
The really useful magazine for families in Halifax, Huddersfield, Brighouse, Oldham and Littleborough
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FP Heathfield advert 2013_Layout 1 20/11/2013 08:47 Page 1
Outstanding education...
...and more Heathfield provides a caring environment and a stimulating education for boys and girls from the ages of 3 to 11. • • • • • •
Nursery places available from third birthday Ask for details
Outstanding Inspection Calderdale Steps to Quality Excellent Profile results Newly appointed Reception classroom Specialist Teaching Facilities including outdoor classrooms, swimming pool
Heathfield The Junior School to Rishworth School
Rishworth, West Yorkshire, United Kingdom HX6 4QF. Tel: 01422 823564 Fax: 01422 820880 E-mail: admissions@rishworth-school.co.uk Website: www.rishworth-school.co.uk
‘Outstanding 2011/12’
Maths & English tuition centre For 5 to 14 year olds of all abilities t Courses mapped to the National Curriculum. t Adapts to the individual needs of your child. t Convenient for families - Open 7 days a week. t Award-winning tuition - voted Education Investor Supplementary Education Provider of the Year. “Explore Learning members’ improvement in maths was 30% higher than that of the comparison group after controlling for gender, age, year group and special educational needs.” Independent Efficacy Study by the Institute of Education at Reading University (2013). See www.explorelearning.co.uk/efficacy.
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www.familiespennines.co.uk
Happy New Year from the Families Pennines team! Plenty of Champagne corks will have been popped on New Year’s Eve but what a year 2014 is continuing to be for celebration and commemoration: Winter Olympics in Russia, the centenary of the start of World War I and Le Grand Depart of the Tour de France with events launched right now ready for July. In this issue we have news about events leading up to the Tour and we plan to start our own countdown – let us know what is happening at your school or in your community or business - contact editor@familiespennines.co.uk. Forget Me Not Children’s Hospice talk to Families Pennines about their plans for 2014 and a bit more about what a Children’s Hospice does. We also look at Childcare and Clubs and Classes listings – a new regular feature. And it wouldn’t be the start of a New Year without a feature – so take a look at our New Year, New Starts feature which takes a positive look at resolutions - things you might like to take up or start doing in 2014. Our advertisers allow us to bring you this resourceful magazine free every other month - please support them where you can and mention where you saw their ad or voucher – Families Pennines Magazine!
Our established Nanny Agency covers Huddersfield and surrounding areas and we provide: • Reliable and professional Nannies, Mother’s Helps and Babysitters • Relevant childcare qualifications &/or min 2 yrs childcare experience • CRB checked and excellent references
Call Rachel Bradley on
01484 645621 * 07557 787119 www.huddersfieldandholmfirthnannies.co.uk rachel@huddersfieldandholmfirthnannies.co.uk
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UN!QUE!
Childrens Clothing
Your Families Pennines editor
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In this issue 3
ews N from our area and beyond
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Education and Childcare including Nannies and Nurseries
9 Forget Me Not Children’s Hospice do One Good Thing in 2014
10 Clubs and Classes NEW regular listings feature 12
New Year, New Starts make positive changes in your family life in 2014
Rachel Bentley: editor@familiespennines.co.uk Tel: 07580 612800 www.familiespennines.co.uk
Families Pennines is free to our readers thanks to our advertisers. Design by Nik Clayton 07710 618119 niksclayton@sky.com Printed by Charlesworth Press, Wakefield T 01924 204830, www.charlesworth.com Copyright Families Pennines January-February 2014
Unique-Childrens-Clothes-Boutique
RSPB Old Moor Nature Reserve A great day out whatever the weather
14 What’s On really useful listings of family events in and around our area For details of all our events visit www.rspb.org.uk/ oldmoor or call 01226 751593
Contact us
Next issue: March-April 2014
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uniquechildrensboutique@hotmail.co.uk
Cover photo courtesy of Amy Best at Postbox Photography Studio, Littleborough www.postboxstudio.co.uk
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The Royal Society for the Protection of Birds (RSPB) is a registered charity: England and Wales no.207076, Scotland no. SC037654
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 everycare is taken, neither Families not its agents accept liability for loss or damage.
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News
Rochdale Business Awards finalist
It was an exciting night at Rochdale Town Hall in November where local businesses were gathered together for this black tie event to celebrate Rochdale Business Awards. The area’s newest creative and educational shop and activity centre, The Star Tree Studio, Littleborough, was a finalist in Start-up Business of the Year category. Though it did not make the top spot, The Star Tree Studio beat off tough competition to be in the final three on the night. For more information on The Star Tree Studio’s classes, online shop and parties visit www.thestartreestudio.com and for a full line up of the finalists and winners of the Rochdale Business Awards see www.rochdalebusinessawards.co.uk.
Babylab research needs bumps and babies
photo: Amy Best, Postbox, Littleborough
Competition winners let their hair down! Our competition in issue 16 (September-October 2013) provided by The LBT, Huddersfield, was won by Emma from Netherton near Holmfirth. Emma took her daughter, and fellow mum and her daughter too, for a treat to see Rapunzel last December. To enter this month’s competition go online to www.familiespennines.co.uk/win and see our website for current national competitions too. For current family shows around our region check out our What’s On section in this magazine, online at www.familiespennines.co.uk/whatson and for the Lawrence Batley Theatre, visit www.thelbt.org.uk.
Winner of the face of Sa-Be Babywear announced! Elland based babysling and dribble bibs manufacturer and retailer, SaBe Babywear, has announced Ellenor as the winner of the Face of SaBe Babywear following photoshoots in Huddersfield by CPH Photography. Ellenor’s photos will be used in a campaign to launch SaBe’s brand new website and will appear on the website too. To buy from the current range visit www.sabebabywear.com
The Babylab at Birkbeck, London, are specially inviting babies who have an older brother or sister with ADHD and/or autism to consider taking part in research at the centre. Based in Central London, the Babylab is part of Birkbeck College and has, for the past 15 years, been busy figuring out how babies talk and walk and why some babies and children struggle with reaching these milestones. Early in 2014 the Babylab is launching a new study - STAARS (Studying Autism and ADHD Risk in Siblings) - following the development of children that are at genetic risk for two common developmental disorders – autism and ADHD. By studying these babies’ development early in life they hope to better understand how autism and ADHD develop, to help to diagnose these disorders earlier, and ultimately develop earlier and more effective interventions. If you are expecting a baby or have recently given birth and have an older child with autism and/ or ADHD, please contact the Babylab about the STAARS Study.
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For more information on this research see: ttp://www.bbc.co.uk/news/health-16740758, www.staars.org/, 0207 079 0761.
Win a month’s supply of Yorkshire’s Dragon Bars for kids! Harrogate mum Kate Riall, has launched Dragon Bar, a healthy snack bar for children. Kate set up Dragon Foods, Yorkshire, with the aim of encouraging good eating habits from a young age. At 109 calories each, Dragon Bars contain fewer calories than a popular 30g chocolate bar but significantly more protein and nutritional value. Kate said, “My own children were cranky due to hunger at the end of the school day so needed to snack before their after-school clubs. I wanted to develop something that was as convenient as a chocolate bar for mums and just as tasty for children. With Dragon Bars children don’t think they are eating something that is good for them and parents have peace of mind that they are eating nutritious food.” For more information go to www.dragonbars.co.uk. WIN! Families Pennines and Dragon Bar Competition – win a ‘month’s’ supply – a box of 30 Dragon Bars! Answer a simple question online at www.familiespennines.co.uk/win closes 28 February 2014 – T&Cs online.
www.familiespennines.co.uk
News
The new Universal Credit benefit is rolling out – who will be affected? Universal Credit aims to ensure people will be better off in work. A single benefit, it replaces six current tax credits and benefits – Income-based Jobseeker’s Allowance, Income-related Employment and Support Allowance, Income Support, Working Tax Credit, Child Tax Credit, and Housing Benefit – and helps with childcare costs, through a single monthly payment, claimed online and paid straight into a bank account. The amount of Universal Credit will reduce gradually as an individual gets work and starts to earn more. This means people will not lose all benefits at once, helping to make work pay, even if it’s part-time and with no ‘fixed hours’ threshold, working a few hours a week could make a difference. www.gov.uk/universalcredit
Tour de France Painting Yorkshire Yellow! Not only is the Tour de France spinning over new ground as the Grand Depart takes place in our area this summer, this is the first time in its 101 year history a Cultural Festival is planned and taking shape ready for the 100 day countdown. Across the county as well as along the route, Yorkshire will welcome the world with millions experiencing and getting involved in innovative and ambitious world-class arts. Visitors as well as locals will be entertained and will take away new and inspirational memories and images of Yorkshire’s extraordinary landscape, heritage and culture. The official website and full programme is due to be launched at the end of January and The Festival itself will run from 27th March – 6th July. Families Pennines is planning its own le Tour countdown online and in the next 3 issues – contact editor@familiespennines.co.uk to tell us what your community or school has planned (also regarding promotional packages for businesses with links to the Tour or its route in the UK or France.) http://letour.yorkshire.com/cultural-festival. Legacy information and education packs available via http://cycle.yorkshire.com/.
photo: Welcome to Yorkshire
Hepworth Wakefield celebrates a million with Bake Off ‘Queen’!
Pennines family fashion special offers
It is no secret to those who know me that The Great British Bake Off is a particular favourite, so when invited by the Hepworth Wakefield to meet their millionth visitor AND the 2013 winner of the best baking show on TV and BBC2s most watched programme in a long time, there was a double reason to celebrate.
Lovely local fashion businesses - Benetton Huddersfield, Swimbabes online shop and Unique Children’s Clothing Boutique - all have special offers for readers of Families Pennines in this issue so make sure you read all the way through and take your pick of the discounts available whilst supporting local Pennine businesses.
Just 2 1/2 years after opening, with visitor numbers continuing to beat all expectations, Pauline Mackiewicz, from Sydney, New South Wales, Australia was named as the millionth visitor.
Terms and conditions may apply so check with the retailer.
Frances Quinn, winner of The Great British Bake Off 2013, created a special bake with a significant name based on Barbara Hepworth’s work - sculptural shortbread and toffee slabs on a base of scrumptious millionaire’s shortbread, similar to one on BBC’s Good Food website. (See our New Year, New Starts feature for more about how to bake as a family this year.)
Beth Stamp (17) has launched PeekMe Events, a brand new party business aimed at 11-17 year olds.
Family friendly, the Hepworth offers special events for children in school holidays and selected weekends, regular Toddler Tuesday’s plus school visits. A super cafe and play area on site, guides and trails for mini people and accessible galleries makes it one for the ‘must visit’ list! Check their website and social media for more information.
PeekMe is a bright, modern party venue in Cragg Vale boasting a 5 metre gaming screen equipped with Xbox Kinect, chill out area, makeup and dressing room, state of the art sound and light system as well as a purpose built photo-booth. Beth says, “My aim is to provide a unique, fun experience based around themed parties with added extras.” The Calder Valley based student is hoping to study events management at university. For more details see her website www.peekmeevents.co.uk.
Full story is at www.familiespennines.co.uk/articles. www.hepworthwakefield.org, www.bbc.co.uk/food/recipes/millionaires_ shortbread_88342
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Education & Childcare Pre-school childcare as part of independent school Thinking about pre-school childcare? Families Pennines look at what local independent school, Heathfield, has to offer. The Junior School to Rishworth School, Heathfield is in leafy Rishworth village, only minutes from M62 (J 22). The Foundation Stage is a separate unit on the Heathfield site, for Reception and Nursery children from their third birthday and was judged ‘outstanding’ in their recent ISI inspection – with profile results being consistently excellent. There is a separate Reception classroom, with a programme of academic work designed to stretch and challenge all the children, as well as sporting and cultural opportunities. From the Reception class, children progress into Key Stage One at Heathfield, and, eventually, to secondary education at Rishworth. As well as numeracy and literacy, pupils enjoy lessons in Music, Art, PE, Swimming and Dance, using specialist teachers and excellent facilities including a 25-metre indoor swimming pool, a sports hall, an assembly hall, a fully-fitted ICT suite plus traditional Library, their own dining quarters, dedicated music rooms, an art room and a Science laboratory. The outdoor facilities are extensive including sports fields and even an outdoor classroom, with a firepit for colder days! For older children, the extra-curricular programme offers a huge range of activities. The school welcomes tours at a time to suit you. Please contact Mrs Battye, the Heathfield School Secretary, at admin@heathfieldjunior.co.uk or on 01422 823 564, or Mrs Keeble, the Admissions Officer, on 01422 822 217, to find out more or to arrange a visit. www.rishworth-school.co.uk
School Days! Some of our local schools’ special days including entrance exams, open days, activities and visiting opportunities: 15 Jan, 8.45am Yr 7 Entrance Exam Oldham Hulme Grammar School Call to book. 0161 624 4497 www.ohgs.co.uk 16 Jan, 9.30am-12 noon Open Doors Morning – Senior School Hipperholme Grammar School 01422 202256 info@hgsf.org.uk www.hgsf.org.uk 18 Jan, 10-11am Winter Wonderland Oldham Hulme Grammar School Wellies and waterproofs for a wonderful winter wonderland woodland walk! Reception and nursery age children 0161 624 4497 www.ohgs.co.uk 15 Feb, from 2pm, 6.30pm performance Choral workshop for primary schools (Years 3 to 5) Hipperholme Grammar School, after at Bradford Cathedral
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Hipperholme Grammar School sharing singing skills Hipperholme Grammar School offers wonderful opportunities in music to their pupils and also the wider school community. The Junior Choir opened the Calderdale Primary School HX Factor Singing Competition at Halifax Minster just before Christmas followed by Rawson Primary School, All Saints School, St Josephs, Old Town and West Vale Primary School. The Junior Choir’s pieces included ‘Christ Child’, a lullaby written especially for them by their Music Teacher Mrs Joan Zarneh. All Saints took first place and had the chance to perform at the Victoria Theatre with the Halifax Choral Society and Black Dyke Band for the Carols and Brass concert. Hipperholme Grammar School has organised for local schools to bring children in Years 3-5 to a Choral Workshop for Primary Schools. The Workshop will be free of charge and will offer a fantastic opportunity to learn about singing as a Chorister in a prestigious Cathedral Choir. The special event is on Saturday 15th February 2014, and will be run by the Director of Music from Bradford Cathedral. Starting at 2pm, the children will spend the afternoon at Hipperholme Grammar School for the workshop, have dinner in the Dining Room and then be transported to Bradford Cathedral. They will perform the music they have learned in the workshop for their parents, at 6.30pm in the Cathedral. To find out more, please contact Mrs Sue Oliver, Marketing & Admissions Manager, at Hipperholme Grammar School. 01422 202256, info@hgsf.org.uk
Healthy Lifestyles at Oldham Hulme Grammar School The children of OHGS know how important it is to live a healthy lifestyle, with interactive experiences to explore and promote healthy living - and it is not only about having their five-a-day! Mornings often begin with ‘wake up and shake up’ songs and the children explore their senses in Science lessons to experience unusual fruits and vegetables. In PSHE they have looked at what to do to reduce the risk coughs, colds and poorly tummies - and the children know medicines are helpful when they are used properly.
Workshop at the school, dinner in the Dining Room then transport to Bradford Cathedral to perform for parents – contact Mrs Sue Oliver at the school for information and to book. 01422 202256 info@hgsf.org.uk www.hgsf.org.uk
Outdoor education is also high on the agenda at OHGS, with small groups from Nursery through to Year 2 venturing into the woodland area for fun, exercise and learning. Without paper and pen in hand, the children’s minds are free to absorb the sights and sounds of their surroundings - bird song, breezes and the regular sound pattern of rain drops. With age appropriate activities from bark rubbing to leaf printing, den building to mud sculpting, whatever the weather, the children at Kindergarten go down into the woods and there is always a learning surprise in store.
Contact editor@familiespennines.co.uk if you’d like your school event, open day or news to be included.
15 Jan, 8.45am, Year 7 Entrance Examinations at OHGS and 18 Jan, 10-11am, Winter Wonderland wear your wellies and waterproofs for a wonderful winter wonderland woodland walk for reception and nursery age children. Call ahead for details about the entrance examinations, Winter Wonderland or to visit the school - 0161 624 4497, www.ohgs.co.uk
www.familiespennines.co.uk
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YOUR CHILDREN ARE AMAZING ALREADY. WE JUST HELP THEM PROVE IT.
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Come and join us
is only pArt of the story Put on your wellies and waterproofs and enjoy a woodland walk and wonderful winter wonderland experience. With a variety of activities in our forest and classroom it will be a morning to remember for children of reception and nursery age.
Saturday 18th January 10am - 11am
Maths & English
0161 624 4497 | www.ohgs.co.uk
From Reception to Year 11, NumberWorks’nWords afterschool tuition brings out the best in every student by: • tailoring lessons according to each individual’s needs • setting achievable goals and monitoring their progress
FREE ASSESSMEN T–
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Huddersfield 01484 487911 numberworksnwords.co.uk
• developing our own programmes using only qualified Maths and English experts • following the national curriculum • teaching Verbal Reasoning skills and strategies
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Education & Childcare
So how do you decide which childcare is best? It’s one of the most important decisions you will make for your child so Families Pennines looks at 2 of the many options - what to look for in a nursery, and first, what solutions a nanny service can offer for you and your family.
The modern day nanny Today’s nanny will of course have many of the traditional values we associate with the uniformed nannies of previous generation but what does a nanny offer to the modern family? Rachel Bradley of Huddersfield and Holmfirth Nannies tells Families Pennines what the nanny of today provides to reflect the needs of family life. A nanny offers many of the things that parents will look for in someone to look after their child or children: professionalism, reliability, honesty, flexibility, mature outlook. Also parents and children want a nanny who is fun but able to be
For further help in looking at the option of a nanny contact Rachel Bradley of Huddersfield and Holmfirth Nannies, 07557 787119/ 01484 645621, www.huddersfieldandholmfirthnannies.co.uk or email Rachel@huddersfieldandholmfirthnannies.co.uk Rachel has worked as a nanny herself for over 24 years in the UK and abroad, and understands what parents are looking for including the need for someone who will remain with a family and not be looking to move on quickly. Her agency, Huddersfield and Holmfirth Nannies, work with families over a wide area around Huddersfield. A small, friendly agency, they interview all their nannies face to face for you. Certificates and references mentioned above are all checked and all in place. Rachel’s nannies offer flexible hours and are Ofsted registered so childcare vouchers can be used towards their cost – find out more about childcare vouchers from your employer (if they are in a scheme or might be willing to start one) or search on www.hmrc.gov.uk.
Looking round To kick the process off, put together a list of nurseries in the area you live or work. Look at the Ofsted reports for any you think sound promising. Think about what factors matter most to you in a nursery and then make appointments to look around a selection of those that have, or might have, vacancies. (See below for suggestions) When you look round, don’t be too anxious about all the questions you need to ask or whether you’re going to miss something vital – you can always go back. Does it feel friendly, and welcoming, and a fun place to be? Do staff treat you warmly – are you convinced by what they’re telling you? Would you feel confident about leaving the most important person in your life, your child, here in the care of the people you’ve met? If the answer is yes, the nursery you’ve just seen is a possible one for you; if you have any doubts that you cannot answer, cross it off your list. Some of our local Independent Schools with nursery, kindergarten or pre-prep/pre-school provision: Oldham Hulme Grammar School www.hulme-grammar.oldham.sch.uk, Hipperholme Grammar School www.hgsf.org.uk, info@hgsf.org.uk 01422 202256 Heathfield, the Junior School to Rishworth School www.heathfieldjunior.co.uk, admin@rishworth-school.co.uk 01422 823564 The Mount, Huddersfield www.themount.org.uk, info@themount.org.uk 01484 426432 Huddersfield Grammar School www.huddersfield-grammar.co.uk, ggarside@huddersfield-grammar.co.uk 01484 424549 Rastrick Independent School www.rastrickschool.co.uk, info@rastrickindependent.co.uk 01484 400344
firm and fair when required and someone who will be loyal to the family. They should understand that this is a very unique situation whereby children need stability and security. Hiring a nanny is often the most flexible childcare option. Where a family needs childcare outside hours normally offered within a nursery environment, a nanny can be hired part time as well as full time, and there are after school and before school nannies. Often a nanny will work until late evening and some will start their day at 6am. If a family has two or more children a nanny can be very cost effective. Nannies may register with Ofsted and it is worth noting that by hiring an Ofsted registered nanny, a family can use childcare vouchers towards the cost which means more savings. When looking for a nanny it is important to ask for childcare qualifications and experience. Also ensure they have a DBS check (formerly known as a CRB check), a paediatric first aid certificate and excellent references.
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How do you choose your child’s nursery?
Firwood Manor Preparatory School, Oldham www.firwoodmanor.org.uk, secretary@firwoodmanorschool.co.uk 0161 620 6570
So which nursery is the right one – and how do you know?
Local council early years websites have lists of childcare providers:
Joanna Moorhead shares some tips- full version at www.familiespennines.co.uk
Calderdale www.calderdale.gov.uk/education/childcare
There are all sorts of different nurseries - big, small, council run, privately owned, primary school nurseries and those offered by Independent schools – with such a plethora it can seem very daunting.
Kirklees earlyyears.kirklees.gov.uk/PublicEnquiry/
But the first, most important, and possibly even the only thing to make your choice - trust your instinct about what’s right for your child, and you’ll almost certainly make the ‘correct’ choice. Because the truth is that there isn’t a ‘right’ nursery or a ‘wrong’ one, just a nursery that will suit your child best, because it will mesh in with your family’s ideas about how to raise a child, and what matters most in his or her life.
Tameside www.tameside.gov.uk/surestart/childcare/vacancies
www.familiespennines.co.uk
Oldham www.oldham.gov.uk/info/200230/early_years
Rochdale www.rochdale.gov.uk/schools_and_children/ childcare/choosing_childcare.aspx For more stories on choosing a nursery see www.familiesonline.co.uk
Forget Me Not Chidren’s Hospice
Do One Good Thing for Forget Me Not Children’s Hospice Forget Me Not Children’s hospice helps more than 80 families like Holly’s (the star of the Forget Me Not Hospice advertisement) through its hospice at home service and its new state of the art hospice, Russell House, in Huddersfield. This year, Forget Me Not Children’s Hospice is running the ‘One Good Thing’ campaign to raise awareness of the charity and the work that they do to reach out to families who need their help but don’t know about the service and support that Forget Me Not can provide. There are over 700 children and families in and around the West Yorkshire area that could benefit from the hospice’s care. They also want to inspire people to help raise the £2.8million that is needed each year to continue to provide care services to local families in West Yorkshire. With only 4% of funding coming from the
government the charity relies on local community and businesses to support fundraising initiatives. Clare-Marie Taylor speaking for Forget Me Not says, “When a child has a condition that shortens their life they still need and want the same as every child, the chance to play, to communicate, to experience new things, to learn, to love and to laugh. Despite the common perception a children’s hospice is about enjoying life.” “We give support to the whole family, we help parents have time to just be mum and dad again rather than full time carers, we give time and attention to brothers and sisters and we support families through bereavement counselling and general emotional support while they are caring for the child and often for years afterwards.”
Could you do ‘One Good Thing’ in 2014 to help local families like Holly’s? There are many ways that you can get involved from forming your own fundraising group, donating good quality items you don’t need to one of Forget Me Not’s 10 shops, taking part in one of the organised fundraising events and challenges or simply by making a donation at www.forgetmenotchild.co.uk or by calling 01484 411040. To find out more visit www.forgetmenotchild.co.uk/holly or call the Fundraising team on 01484 411040. Anyone can refer a child with a life shortening condition to Forget Me Not Children’s Hospice (including family, friends, school teachers) call the care team direct on 01484 411042 to start the process.
Every moment is precious to those who know the value of time
14 411084 42
To help local familes visit:
forgetmenotchild.co.uk/holly 07580612800
Registered charity number (1110457)
Any o refe ne can r simp a child ly ca ll: 0
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Clubs and Classes
Get active in
Welcome to our new, regular clubs and classes pages, with news and listings for our local area. In this issue we look at classes ranging from learning through creative play (with a little glitter and glue thrown in!) to baby swimming, plus family martial arts and dance for all ages to get you and your family off the sofa and onto your feet this year (see our New Year, New Starts feature for more ideas to get together as a family.)
2014!
Please get in touch if you want your club or class including – editor@familiespennines.co.uk
More than just little ones dancing at babyballet, Halifax! Award winning babyballet was founded in Halifax by local mum Claire O’Connor and has developed successful franchises all over the UK. The Halifax studios are near Eureka! As well as little ones, the studios offer classes for older children including breakdance and theatre skills classes, and from January 2014 adults can sign up for ballet and tap.
Teaching Calderdale’s children and adults to dance and have fun! When children reach school age they naturally progress to or join The Barbara Peters School of Dance, held at the babyballet Academy in Halifax. Now offering classes from age 4 to adult, they have introduced new for 2014, adult ballet and tap lessons following Claire’s positive experiences in Channel 4’s ‘Big Ballet’ where size 12 plus members of the public train to perform in a ballet live in Bradford.
Boys and girls learn to dance with babyballet, Halifax
Also available are Breakboys - break dancing classes for boys aged 4 to 11 years and Razz Dance Drama and Singing for boys and girls ages 4 to 16.
With classes aimed at boys and girls from 6 months to pre-school age, they offer fun song and dance activities to children of all abilities – and their adult!
All classes above are booked in advance. Special offer – book a 3 week trial course for just £15 with 50% discount on trial in January 2014. Call to check for availability and to book 01422 329471, email halifax@babyballet.co.uk and for information such as class times see the website www.babyballet.co.uk.
Twinkle Tots – 6 to 18 months - musical playtime and socialising. Tiny Toes – 18 months to 3 years movement, singing and dancing. Mini movers – 3 to 4 years - basic ballet moves and rhythm. Tots Tap – 3 years and up - children love their noisy tap shoes learning basic steps!
Swimbabes lessons 6 months to 18 months
The amazing image of the baby swimmer smiling into the underwater camera shouldn’t be taken for granted. It is only through water confidence for both parent and child that is provided by specialist swimming lessons aimed at babies and toddlers. Swimbabes, based in Holmfirth, has developed just such courses starting with babies of 4 weeks of age and recommend beginning lessons before your child is 18 months. Classes take place in warm, handpicked pools in Yorkshire, Lancashire and Derbyshire including around Huddersfield, Halifax, Rochdale, Wakefield, Barnsley and Leeds. Course dates are based on terms and are bookable in advance – including a kit worth £21 for new starters. For more information on the huge range of locations and classes available and to book go to www.swimbabeslessons.co.uk or call 01484 683570. Visit the Swimbabes shop online or in Holmfirth with an online only special offer for Families readers of 20% discount with FAMILIES20 code.
18 months to 3 years
3 years to 4 years
3 years onwards
BOOK TODAY
01422 329 471 halifax@babyballet.co.uk
@bbHalifax babyballet Halifax
www.babyballet.co.uk
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www.familiespennines.co.uk
Clubs and Classes
Selection of Clubs and Classes in our area
Get creative and reach for the stars! The Star Tree Studio in Littleborough aims to support growing minds, imagination and creativity, through creative art and craft classes for children. Art Stars - Creative Art & Crafts Classes
John Letters Golf Academy Huddersfield
Fun, educational arts and crafts classes for 18 months - 4 yrs
Junior Coaching Program - maximum of 6 in a group. PGA Qualified Professionals, 6 week course. www.johnletters.com/golf_academy/ huddersfield/courses/
£5 per session (£2.50 siblings) – try first then book. Tiny Stars - Creative Play Fun, educational, creative and messy sessions for 12 - 18 months. 4 classes for £20
Huddersfield Town Zone
Baby Messy Play
Huddersfield Town Community Trust is based at the indoor venue The Zone which includes Play, Cafe, Education, Sports with 3G pitches, Dance and Gym Zones. Various football based classes are available. football@thezone.uk.com, 01484 484 134, www.htafc.com
Freedom to learn and meet other babies. Flexible class – buy 4 for £20 Term time only - places limited, booking essential. Contact hello@thestartreestudio.com, 07778 543233 or drop in to book and visit the shop! www.thestartreestudio.com
photo: Amy Best, Postbox Studio, Littleborough
KAL Swim Academy
Colne Valley Black Belt Academy
Based on ASA stages 1-7 to help children go at their own pace through structured swimming lessons, they start at 5 and over. Run by Kirklees Council they are available throughout the borough. www.kirkleesactive.co.uk/centres
Colne Valley Black Belt Academy welcomes all ages & abilities, specialising in family martial arts. Their aim is to bring out the best in their students by developing concentration, self-control, respect and most importantly to have fun!
Huddersfield Lawn Tennis and Squash Club One of Yorkshire’s premier clubs, the junior tennis coaching starts with accredited mini tennis programme through to Club, County and National Futures levels. Squash offers midweek coaching with club games at weekends. www.hltsc.co.uk/juniors
Their classes range from 2-4s, 4-6s, 6-16s and adults as well as family sessions so you can all learn together – their slogan is ‘families that kick together stick together’ so why not give it a try? The Academy also offers the wonderfully named Karate Parties and boasts a really unique concept - Nerf Gun Parties! Operated in a controlled way your children and their friends can have fun without imitating a commando operation in your home.
The Red Shoes Academy of Performing Arts, Littleborough Brand new classes for children – and also for Wedding Dance! Held at Saint Barnabas Church Hall, Littleborough. Call Sarah Carroll – Principal 07813 203 486 www.theredshoesacademy.co.uk/classes/
Based in Linthwaite, Huddersfield. Call now for a free trial class 01484 844386 or email info@cvbba.co.uk and see www.cvbba.co.uk for full list of classes and party details.
Teaching Calderdale Children & Adults to Dance and Have FUN!
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Inspiring Creativity
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WITH ANY CLASS ONLY WITH THIS ADVERT*
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Respect l Self-control Self-discipline l Fitness Fun l Friendship l Team work Concentration l Confidence Family classes
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Colne Valley Business Park Linthwaite Huddersfield
01422 329 471
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halifax@babyballet.co.uk
@babyballetHfax babyballet Barbara Peters Halifax
www.babyballet.co.uk
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11
New Year, New Starts
New Year’s Resolutions for all the family The secret behind keeping a New Year’s resolution is not to aim too high – the more realistic and ‘do-able’ the resolution, the easier it’ll be to keep it. This year, resolve to make one or more small changes that will bring your family together and give you a stronger, more positive outlook as a group. Here are a few of Families Pennines favourites (with help from fellow Families editors and friends!)
Cook and eat together as a family There are so many proven benefits of eating a regular family meal together, from better manners to happier kids. Turn off the TV, tablet and mobile phones and concentrate on talking, laughing and sharing – even if it’s only once a week, for Sunday lunch say. Or create a family bake - Frances Quinn, the winner of the Great British Bake Off 2013, told Families Pennines that a fabulous thing to bake together is shortbread – it is really easy and can be made into all sorts of shapes. She suggested making it into lots of block like Jenga (like she did on Bake Off) and try it out as a game or with Valentine’s Day in mind make some heart shaped shortbread biscuits with the middles cut out (use a smaller heart shaped or round cutter) and sprinkle in some scrunched up boiled sweet (red of course!) prior to baking and it will look like a little stained glass window. See http://francesquinn.co.uk/sweetheart-biscuits for what they should look like!
Lower the volume! No-one likes to be shouted at, and no-one likes to live in an angry atmosphere, so make the change yourself. Resolve to keep your cool and talk out any problems. Anger only breeds resentment, which can lead to longterm family rifts - talking, in contrast, leads to better understanding and closer families.
“...it will be great to learn something new as a family this year...”
Make one night of the week Family Games Night The humble board game has many benefits - it brings the family together, it teaches sharing, counting and turn-taking, and most of all it’s fun! Wean the children off their screens for one night and get them around a table, and you should soon see an improvement in everyone’s mood. Steve Uttley from NumberWorks’nWords Huddersfield gives us an insight into playing and learning together.
Family time – fun AND educational! New Year brings spring term, an important time for all school age children. Older students will be taking on new topics, consolidating and revising for exams. Younger students need to build on the work started in term 1. So how can you and your family help your child get off to a good start in 2014? Board Games Don’t underestimate the education value of Board Games, and they won’t realise they are learning! Take time every week to play together as a family. With younger children, try Guess Who, Snakes and Ladders, and Shut the Box. For older students, the strategic skills of Chess, Cluedo, Backgammon, Bananagrams and Battleships are really helpful. Problem Solving Apps It is inevitable that younger family members will use technology so help your child find some interesting educational games they can download, and you can keep an eye on! NumberWorksN’Words own “Steve Storm and The Tables of Doom” helps younger children practise their times tables. Escape games are great to refine problem solving skills and most ages will love “Dooors” and “Doors & Rooms”. Be careful - you might all get hooked! Reading Read, read, read! Visit the local library and let them choose what they would like to read. Try not to give them boundaries on their choices - you may just learn something about your child too! If you need more personalised help with your children’s learning, now is the perfect time to talk to NumberWork’nWords, Huddersfield call 01484 487911, or visit www.numberworksnwords.co.uk. Book your child’s free maths and English assessment now. Ofsted registered – ask about using childcare vouchers to cover fees.
12
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New Year, New Starts Bluebell Wood Therapies®
Focus on the positive
‘Time for me’
Resolve to look on the bright side in 2014 – it’s better for you and sets a great example. Seeing the silver lining to every cloud helps people cope and doesn’t need to be unrealistic.
Reflexology • Reiki healing Hopi ear candles • Swedish massage Indian head massage • Hand & foot massage
Do speak to your GP if you feel you need professional help to lift your mood.
Call Rebecca On
“....I am going to take 07783 823303 M L ,H some time for me every month...” Get out in nature odd
Take up a family activity or sport Families that play together stay together is a well known phrase which inspired local family martial arts experts Colne Valley Black Belt Academy to start courses specifically aimed at all ages in a family, with a free trial available before you decide to take the plunge! See our Clubs and Classes section for more information.
“...I’ll do an act of random kindness each week...”
ane
olmfirth
Playing and learning outdoors has profound benefits for children, but most of them don’t have the freedom that was taken for granted just a generation ago. Get outdoors as much as you can, and improve your family’s health and wellbeing. Why not join a nature based organisation such as the RSPB which is much more than just about bird watching. Or why not look at local council parks and recreation events which are often free and right on your doorstep. You could even take a leaf out of the book of Tim and Kerry Meek, from Nottingham, who set their two daughters (aged 8 and 10) 100 challenges, such as canoeing down a river and sleeping under the stars. Their inspirational blog is at dotrythisathome.com. See our What’s On guide published in every issue and also online and take a look at our sister magazines online too for ideas of places to visit outdoors all over the UK. RSPB Old Moor (www.rspb.org.uk/oldmoor) offers free admission to families of 4 with their voucher in our What’s On guide and you can join when you visit too. Local councils often list their events with us or check out their websites: www.kirklees.gov.uk; www.calderdale.gov.uk; www.leeds.gov.uk; www.oldham.gov.uk; www.rochdale.gov.uk; www.tameside.gov.uk
Take on a charitable challenge Give any fitness goals a boost by getting the family involved in a team challenge for charity. The idea of raising money for a worthy cause will help you all pull together through the tough bits. Not quite so energetic? Then why not aim to give an hour of your time every month to volunteer for a local group or charity, or carry out a random act of kindness each week. There are many good causes that will be running specific events or campaigns and in our area Forget Me Not Children’s Hospice are looking for us to do just One Good Thing to help them raise awareness as well as much needed funds in 2014 – and beyond!
Parents and carers – take time out for you
See our special feature on Forget Me Not in this issue. Also visit www.timeoutdoors.com/challenges/UK-challenges
If a parent or carer is tired or run down, the family suffers so ask your family to support you so you can take time for yourself to wind down and relax. Whilst it would be great if your little ones can all tiptoe around for an hour whilst you meditate, put like that it really isn’t going to happen (for most of us anyway!). Why not take yourself out of the house and go for a regular therapeutic treatment – not just a buff up and polish! Local mum and physiotherapist, Rebecca Armitage, saw the need for professional therapies in her area, trained in a range of treatments including Reiki Healing Reflexology and Indian Head Massage and has just open Bluebell Wood Therapies. Working from a dedicated and separate treatment room based at her home in Holmfirth, her clients can park virtually at the door (relaxing in itself!). In this issue take advantage a money off voucher till end February 2014 (see page 14). Call and ask for a talk through of which therapy would be right for you – to set you right for 2014! Call Rebecca on 07783 823303 to talk through the best treatment for you. LIKE her Facebook page www.facebook.com/BluebellWoodTherapies
“...we will take up a charity challenge in 2014...” 07580612800
13
What’s On. Families Pennines What’s On listings can also be found online and we update regularly, so make sure you bookmark www.familiespennines.co.uk/ whatson. Please be aware that things change so check details and suitability for your family with the provider before setting out as Families Pennines cannot be held responsible for the events we list.
Till 26 Apr Pirates! Bankfield Museum, HX3 6HG A swashbuckling exhibition of pirates, featuring original drawings from ‘Pirates ‘n’ Pistols’, the award winning children’s book. See listings here and website for events. 01422 352334 www.calderdale.gov.uk
Theatre listings
1-3 Jan, 11am-4pm Creative Carving The Hepworth Wakefield, WF1 5AW 01924 247360 www.hepworthwakefield.org
To 4 Jan Jack and the Beanstalk Oldham Coliseum Theatre 0161 624 2829 www.coliseum.org.uk/plays/jack-and-the-beanstalk To 5 Jan Dick Whittington Victoria Theatre Halifax 01422 351158 victoriatheatre@calderdale.gov.uk www.calderdale.gov.uk/victoria 5 Jan New Year Family Concert Square Chapel Halifax 01422 349422 www.squarechapel.co.uk 11-18 Jan, various times Aladdin Huddersfield Light Opera Company Lawrence Batley Theatre Huddersfield HD1 2SP 01484 430528 www.thelbt.org 24-26 Jan Strictly Come Dancing Live First Direct Arena, Leeds www.strictlycomedancinglive.com 25 Jan, 11am & 2pm Chicken Licken DNA Puppetry and Visual Theatre 3-8 yrs Lawrence Batley Theatre Huddersfield HD1 2SP 01484 430528 www.thelbt.org
1 Jan, 11am New Year’s Day Walk Marsden Moor Estate (NT) Family friendly walk, meet at Marsden Station www.nationaltrust.org.uk/visit/whats-on 1 Jan, from 12 noon New Years Day Steam Specials Middleton Railway Hunslet, Leeds LS10 2JQ 0845 680 1758 www.middletonrailway.org.uk 1 Jan, 12 noon for 1pm Whitworth New Year’s Day Duck Race Community fundraising event Whitworth, Rochdale, OL12 8BE From 2 Jan, various dates and times Mixed ability cycling Spenborough Pool and Sports Complex Liversedge, WF15 6LW 07873 773417 2 Jan, 10am-12 noon & 2-4pm New Year around the World Abbey House Museum, nr Leeds From Chinese dragons to Spanish lucky pants! 0113 230 5492 www.leeds.gov.uk/abbeyhouse
11 Jan, 1-3pm Greenhead Park Art Club for 5-10yrs Greenhead Park Community Room Booking Essential drawandexplore@gmail.com 07793 744 577 11, 18 and 25 Jan, 10am-12 noon Eureka! Visually impaired children’s club Eureka! The National Children’s Museum, HX1 2NE Booking essential (Trizia or Jenny G) 01422 330069 www.eureka.org.uk 11 Jan, 3-6.30pm (approx.) Nature and Nebulas! A Stargazing Live event RSPB Old Moor, S73 0YF Guided walk to see birds come home to roost followed by stargazing at the night sky. 01226 751593 old.moor@rspb.org.uk www.rspb.org.uk/oldmoor 18 Jan, 10am-12 noon Capital appeal coffee morning Kirkwood Hospice, HD5 9UY www.capitalappeal.org 18 Jan, 10am-12 noon Voices of Asia Leeds Museum Discovery Centre Help build their new exhibition! Booking is required. 0113 378 2100 www.leeds. gov.uk/discoverycentre 18 Jan, 10.30am-12.30pm Halifax Saturday Art Club Bankfield Museum, HX3 6HG Booking essential jeffrey.andrews@calderdale.gov.uk. 01422 352334 18 Jan, 10-11am Winter Wonderland Oldham Hulme Grammar School Wellies and waterproofs for a wonderful winter wonderland woodland walk! Reception and nursery age children 0161 624 4497 www.ohgs.co.uk
25 Jan, 27 Jan-1 Feb The Sleeping Beauty Halifax YMCA, Marlborough Hall, Crossley St, Halifax 01422 353626 www.halifaxpantomime.co.uk
2-5 Jan, 10am-5pm Jack Frost and the Winter Fairy at Eureka! Eureka! The National Children’s Museum, HX1 2NE 01422 330069 www.eureka.org.uk
6-7 Feb Strictly Come Dancing Live Phones 4u Arena, Manchester www.strictlycomedancinglive.com
3 Jan, 10am-12 noon & 2-4pm Smelly History Abbey House Museum, nr Leeds Smelly themed crafts in their Victorian Street 0113 230 5492 www.leeds.gov.uk/abbeyhouse
19 Jan, 11am Winter Bird Walk Fountains Abbey and Studley Royal Water Garden (NT) www.nationaltrust.org.uk/visit/whats-on
4 Jan & 11 Jan, 11am Recycle your Christmas tree - save our dunes Formby (NT) Bring your cut Christmas trees to help stabilise the dunes www.nationaltrust.org.uk/visit/whats-on
24 Jan-23 Feb Ice Cube Millennium Square, Leeds Outdoor real ice rink and other winter attractions, booking online. www.leeds.gov.uk/icecube
4-5 Jan,11am-4pm Coloured Dreams The Hepworth Wakefield, WF1 5AW 01924 247360 www.hepworthwakefield.org
25-26 Jan Big Garden Bird Watch RSPB Old Moor, S73 0YF Check the website for date/time and details. 01226 751593 old.moor@rspb.org.uk www.rspb.org.uk/oldmoor
22 Feb, 2.30pm & 7.30pm X Factor Live Phones 4u Arena, Manchester xfactor.itv.com/ 27 Feb-1 March, various times Tea Time by Oxford Playhouse 2-6 yrs Lawrence Batley Theatre Huddersfield HD1 2SP 01484 430528 www.thelbt.org 28-29 Feb & 1 Mar Stardom – Razzle Dazzle ‘Em Victoria Theatre Halifax 01422 351158 victoriatheatre@calderdale.gov.uk www.calderdale.gov.uk/victoria
January Events
14
1 Jan – 22 Feb, Saturdays, 1-3pm Film Production Workshop for 11-18 yrs Northfield Hall, HD2 1GS Booking essential exit25@btinternet.com 01484 710474/07792124588
7 Jan, 10.30am-12 noon Toddler Tuesdays The Hepworth Wakefield, WF1 5AW First Tuesday of every month and school hols. 01924 247360 www.hepworthwakefield.org
Till 12 Jan Through the Magic Mirror - The World of Anthony Browne Leeds City Museum 0113 224 3732 www.sevenstories.org www.leeds.gov.uk/citymuseum
5 Jan, 10am-12 noon K.I.T.E (Kids in the Environment) Park Bridge Heritage Centre OL6 8AQ Forest school activities in the countryside. Ages 7 – 12 www.tameside.gov.uk/countryside 5 Jan, 1-3pm Bird feeders Lotherton Hall, nr Leeds 0113 378 2959 www.leeds.gov.uk/lothertonhall
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25 Jan, 10.30am-12.30pm Brighouse Saturday Art Club Smith Art Gallery, HD6 2AF Booking essential jeffrey.andrews@calderdale gov.uk 01422 352334 25 Jan, 2pm Pirate Launch! Bankfield Museum, HX3 6HG Launch of the exhibition with book signings of ‘Pirates ‘n’ Pistols’, by Chris Mould. 01422 352334 www.calderdale.gov.uk
What’s On. 26 Jan, 11am-3pm Stirring stories on a Sunday Temple Newsam House, nr Leeds 0113 336 7460 www.leeds.gov.uk/templenewsamhouse 30 Jan, 1-3pm Artful Leeds Art Gallery Activities for adults and children to enjoy together 0113 247 8256 www.leeds.gov.uk/artgallery
February events Including Half-Term (because half-term dates are different in each borough, please check your school calendar for your own half-term dates!) Till 23 Feb Ice Cube Millennium Square, Leeds Outdoor real ice rink and other winter attractions, booking online. www.leeds.gov.uk/icecube
8 Feb, 1-3pm Greenhead Park Art Club for 5-10yrs Greenhead Park Community Room Booking Essential drawandexplore@gmail.com 07793 744 577 8 Feb, 1-3pm Table Tots Nearly New Sale Kettlethorpe School, WF2 7EL tabletots@live.co.uk. 07703 299768/07706 227742 www.tabletots.co.uk 8 Feb, 2pm Pirate Songs Bankfield Museum, HX3 6HG Halifax Gilbert and Sullivan Society perform songs from Pirates of Penzance and other favourites! Booking essential. 01422 352334 www.calderdale.ticketsource.co.uk 15 Feb, 10am -12 noon Capital appeal coffee morning Kirkwood Hospice, HD5 9UY www.capitalappeal.org 15 Feb-2 Mar Teddybear’s Picnic Kirklees Light Railway Clayton West, HD8 9XJ Bring a soft toy for ½ price child’s tickets 01484 865727 info@kirkleeslightrailway.com www.kirkleeslightrailway.com
1 Feb, 12-3.30pm Romans Rule! Tolson Museum, HD5 8DJ Roman relics and crafty creations. Meet the Kirklees Young Archaeologists – they’d love you to join them! 01484 223830 tolson.museum@kirklees.gov.uk www.kirklees.gov.uk/museums
15, 16, 18-21 & 23 Feb Etch-a-Sketch Art Temple Newsam House, nr Leeds Inspired by Rembrandt 0113 336 7460 www.leeds.gov.uk/templenewsamhouse
1-2 Feb Hobby horses Temple Newsam House, nr Leeds Chinese New Year activities 0113 336 7460 www.leeds.gov.uk/templenewsamhouse 1-2 Feb Royal Trail Brodsworth Hall and Gardens (English Heritage) DN5 7XJ 0870 333 1181 www.english-heritage.org.uk/daysout/events 2 Feb, 1pm-4pm History in the Landscape Red House Museum, BD19 4JP Gentle 2 mile circular walk - not suitable for very young children. Booking essential. 01274 335100 red.house@kirklees.gov.uk www.kirklees.gov.uk/museums 2 Feb, 10am-12 noon K.I.T.E (Kids in the Environment) Park Bridge Heritage Centre OL6 8AQ Forest school activities in the countryside. Ages 7-12 www.tameside.gov.uk/countryside 2 Feb, 10am-4pm Fire Service Museum Open Day Greater Manchester Fire Service Museum, OL11 1DN 01706 901227 www.manchesterfire.gov.uk/museum
15-23 Feb, 10am-5pm Funky Flying Things Fountains Abbey and Studley Royal Water Garden (NT) www.nationaltrust.org.uk/visit/whats-on 15-23 Feb Love birds week Lotherton Hall, nr Leeds Trail through the bird garden and house, meet the keeper and craft workshops. 0113 378 2959 www.leeds.gov.uk/lothertonhall 15-23 Feb Stockeld Park Half Term, Wetherby Ice skating, maze, indoor play and enchanted forest stockeldpark.co.uk 15 Feb-23 Feb, 11am-12.30pm & 1.30pm-3pm 50 Things to do before your 11 3/4 Clumber Park (NT) www.nationaltrust.org.uk/visit/whats-on
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1 Feb, 12 noon-1pm & 2-3.30pm Chinese New Year, WF17 0AS Bagshaw Museum Celebrate the Chinese Year of the Horse with themed activities. 01924 326155 bagshaw.museum@kirklees.gov. www.kirklees.gov.uk/museums
1-28 Feb Clocks Trail To coincide with their Potts clocks exhibition take part in the clocks hunt round the museum. Leeds Industrial Museum 0113 263 7861 www.leeds.gov.uk/armleymills
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15 Feb-23 Feb Outdoor Challenge Trail at Ilam Park White Peak (NT) Fun for families of all ages. www.nationaltrust.org.uk/visit/whats-on 15 Feb-23 Feb Half Term Fun Nunnington Hall (NT) Family activities, including a children’s trail. www.nationaltrust.org.uk/visit/whats-on 15-16 Feb Royal Trail Brodsworth Hall and Gardens (English Heritage) DN5 7XJ 0870 333 1181 www.english-heritage.org.uk/daysout/events
Bluebell Wood Therapies® £5 voucher off a treatment session of £20 or over in Jan & Feb 2014 Call Rebecca On
07783 823303 BluebellWoodTherapies for latest offers
8 Feb, 1-2.15pm & 2.15-3.30pm Pirate Pictures Bankfield Museum, HX3 6HG Join Chris Mould and draw a Pirate! £5 and prebooking essential 01422 352334 www.calderdale.ticketsource.co.uk
07580612800
15
17-21 Feb, 11am-4pm Artspace Mix it up Leeds Art Gallery Holiday activities to have fun mixing up fashion and art, in partnership with Leeds College of Art. 0113 247 8256 www.leeds.gov.uk/artgallery 18 Feb, 10am-12 noon & 2-4pm From Russia with love Abbey House Museum, nr Leeds Crafts inspired by Russian culture to celebrate the Winter Olympics in Sochi. 0113 230 5492 www.leeds.gov.uk/abbeyhouse 18 Feb, 11am & 2pm Geocaching Taster Day Fountains Abbey and Studley Royal Water Garden (NT) Booking Essential www.nationaltrust.org.uk/visit/whats-on 18-20 Feb Brilliant Bird Activities at Ilam Park Peak District: White Peak (About 43 miles*) White Peak (NT) Fun for families. www.nationaltrust.org.uk/visit/whats-on 18-20 Feb, 1-3pm Make a clock To coincide with their Potts clocks exhibition have a go at making your own clock. Leeds Industrial Museum 0113 263 7861 www.leeds.gov.uk/armleymills 18 Feb, 1-3pm Decorate a plate Thwaite Mills Watermill Decorate your own china plate to take home. 0113 214 1914 www.leeds.gov.uk/thwaitemills 18-19 Feb, 10am-12 noon & 2-4pm Animal art Leeds City Museum Create your own animal related works of art to take home. 0113 224 3732 www.leeds.gov.uk/citymuseum 19 Feb, 10am-12 noon & 2-4pm Sputnik space race science Abbey House Museum, nr Leeds A day of space themed science activities inspired by the space race. 0113 230 5492 www.leeds.gov.uk/abbeyhouse 19 Feb, 2-2.45pm Gruesome Newsam, Tour ages 7+ Temple Newsam House, nr Leeds Booking advised. 0113 336 7460 www.leeds.gov.uk/templenewsamhouse
19-21 Feb Bird Box Making Fountains Abbey and Studley Royal Water Garden (NT) Booking Essential www.nationaltrust.org.uk/visit/whats-on 19 & 22 Feb, 10am-12 noon Lollipops and Larks Leeds Museum Discovery Centre The mysteries of the bird skins collection 0113 378 2100 www.leeds.gov.uk/discoverycentre
25 Feb, 1.30-3.30pm Textures and Textiles Huddersfield Art Gallery, HD1 2SU Explore colour, shape, pattern and materials in this fun workshop. Create a piece of textile artwork to take home. 01484 221964 info.galleries@kirklees.gov.uk www.kirklees.gov.uk/museums 25 Feb Tuesday Tales RSPB Old Moor, S73 0YF Join Chris and Bob for tales of wildlife and wonder in the heart of the RSPB Old Moor reserve. 01226 751593 old.moor@rspb.org.uk www.rspb.org.uk/oldmoor
20 Feb, 10am-12 noon & 2-4pm The museum comes alive Leeds City Museum Free activities as you explore the museum. 0113 224 3732 www.leeds.gov.uk/citymuseum 20 Feb, 10am-12 noon & 2-4pm New family fun challenge Abbey House Museum, nr Leeds Abbey House launches its new family trail and family challenges. 0113 230 5492 www.leeds.gov.uk/abbeyhouse
25-27 Feb, 11am-3.30pm Half Term Activities Red House, BD19 4JP Half-term crafts and activities with a wintry theme. 01274 335100 red.house@kirklees.gov.uk www.kirklees.gov.uk/museums 25-28 Feb, 11am-12 noon, 1-2pm & 2-3pm Sparks! Half-term fun
21 Feb, 10am-12 noon & 2-4pm Russian circus crafts Abbey House Museum, nr Leeds Fun family crafts inspired by the Russian circus to celebrate the Winter Olympics in Sochi. 0113 230 5492 www.leeds.gov.uk/abbeyhouse
25 Feb - Speak like a Pirate and make a telescope.
21 Feb, 11am Orienteering Formby (NT) Bring your own compass or hire one. www.nationaltrust.org.uk/visit/whats-on
28 Feb - Learn to sword fight like a pirate, play games and create a pet parrot Bankfield Museum, HX3 6HG Must be accompanied by an adult and pre-booking essential 01422 352334 www.calderdale.ticketsource.co.uk
21 Feb, 11am-3pm We Love‌ le Tour de France Leeds City Museum Free fun activity day for all the family, sponsored by the Grammar School at Leeds 0113 224 3732 www.leeds.gov.uk/citymuseum 22 Feb-3 Mar Alice in Wonderland Trail Brodsworth Hall and Gardens (English Heritage) DN5 7XJ 0870 333 1181 www.english-heritage.org.uk/daysout/events 24 &26-28 Feb Drawing and Discovery Day RSPB Old Moor, S73 0YF RSPB Old Moor activity centre will be open for self led crafts all about homes for wildlife. 01226 751593 old.moor@rspb.org.uk www.rspb.org.uk/oldmoor
26 Feb - Search for the Bankfield Booty and create a porthole view. 27 Feb - Join Captain Plankfield for stories and make a Pirate ship.
26 Feb, 10am-12 noon & 1pm-3pm Family Activity Day Oakwell Hall, WF17 9LG Fun crafts and activities with an artistic theme. 01924 326240 oakwell.hall@kirklees.gov.uk www.kirklees.gov.uk/museums 27 Feb, 10am-1pm Birdie Banquets Tolson Museum, HD5 8DJ Make a bird feeder and bird spotting in the park (weather permitting) 01484 223830 tolson.museum@kirklees.gov.uk www.kirklees.gov.uk/museums 27 Feb, 11am-4pm Bug Me Dewsbury Museum, WF13 2SG Make bugs from re-cycled materials dewsbury.museum@kirklees.gov.uk 01924 325100
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