Families VOY Sept / Oct 2012

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48

sept/oct2012 issue

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The useful magazine for families with young children in York, Harrogate, Tadcaster, Wetherby and Selby

NO OP W EN

and Out Of School Club Caring for children from 3 months to 5 years in a fun, happy & safe environment • Staffed by the most professional Nursery Nurses that are committed to maximising your child’s development.

• Places are flexible and very competitively priced.

• All home cooked, organic meals included • ALL NAPPIES INCLUDED! We take a holistic approach to supporting our families and supply a host of other services to help with the costs and demands of bringing up your family.

TEL: 01937 584000 (Claire) or 01937 849588 (Naomi)

Where magic is made & adventures

2 Families

Vale of York

begin

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p4 news p8 competitions & giveaways p10 clubs & classes P17 back to school P27 what’s on P31 beta mum

A fun and educational tennis play and skills programme for children from 2 years onwards E FRE IAL

TRSSON LE

Classes across Harrogate, Wetherby & York For information call Caroline Buncall on 07843 342 662 • www.tennistykes.co.uk

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familiesmagazine Tel: 01405 860831 editor@familiesvoy.co.uk www.familiesvoy.co.uk Circulation: 18,000 Deadline:

The deadline for the N ov/Dec 2012 edition is early Oct 2012

Front cover:

Richard & Caroline Wynn-Davies, Yorkshire Wedding & Lifestyle Photographers www.richardwynndavies.co.uk

Designed by: MOOIdesign Tel: 01405 869045 Printed by:

Warners Midlands PLC w ww.warners.co.uk

Copyright Families in the Vale of York July/Aug 2012. Colour transparencies and any other original materials submitted for publication are sent at owners’ own risk and, while every care is taken, neither Families nor its agents accept liability for loss or damage. Families in the Vale of York is part of a group established in 1990 and headed by Families South West. All franchised magazines in the group are independently owned and operated under license. We take care preparing this magazine but the publishers and distributors cannot be held responsible for the claims of the advertisers nor for the accuracy of the contents nor for any consequence.

Families Vale of York

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news Fantastic pre-school setting for children aged 2 - 5 Learn through play in a friendly, fun & stimulating environment Mornings 9.15-12.15 Term Time Funded places for 3+ Established 1966 ouseburnplaygroup@hotmail.co.uk Ouseburn Playgroup, The Village Hall, Little Ouseburn, York YO26 9TD 01423 339559 (Term time only)

www.ouseburnplaygroup.btck.co.uk

is 2!

Treasures Another year has flown by and Treasures of Wetherby is about to celebrate its second birthday.

‘I think our second year has gone even faster than our first year of Treasures Toys,‘ says owner Zhara Armstrong.

‘We have had a lot of fun this year with some super new toys and we continue to meet lovely people.’

To mark their second birthday Treasures have some great competitions, giveaways and party activities lined up to celebrate the big day on Saturday September 15th.

‘We have a Lego Colouring Competition,’ says Zhara. ‘You can pick up your entry forms now for a super Lego prize and the winner will be announced at 4pm on 15th Sept. We’re also having a ‘Schleich Lucky Dip’ and have 50 beautiful Schleich figures to giveaway. Just join us on our party day and have a go - Schleich are the best in the world at making these figures so don’t miss this fabulous treat.’

And it wouldn’t be a party without fancy dress, balloons and face painting, so Treasures will have free face painting from 11:30 – 1:30, lots of balloons, party nibbles and all the Treasures team will be in fancy dress.

‘Any child joining us in fancy dress will receive a gift from Treasures,’ adds Zhara.

Do your children need a little incentive to sort through their toy box?

Raising funds for Selby District Vision Selby District Vision help anyone with a visual impairment in the Selby district including Tadcaster, Sherburn and they’re hoping to reach out to families and children with a new support service.

‘We’re hoping to raise some money and get some lottery or grant funding,’ says information officer Vicki Ramskill, ‘and we have a number of events coming up to help raise money.

‘On October 6th there will be a 60/40 sale at Selby Community Centre and we’re having information displays at local libraries to support World Sight Day as follows: 17th Oct Selby Library 18th Oct Tadcaster Library 19th Oct Sherburn Library ‘On 20th Oct there will be a street collection in Selby for Selby District Vision and on 28th October volunteers will be running a book stall at Gowdall Scarecrow Festival.’

As part of their birthday For more information visit celebrations Treasures have teamed up with Martin House www.selbydistrictvision.co.uk Children’s Hospice.

In return for your old (but still in good condition) toys, Treasures will give you a 10% discount voucher to use at the shop. They’ll deliver all the toys collected to Martin House for sale in their shops helping to raise funds for the hospice.

‘Please bring your toys into Treasures Girls from 12th Harrogate Brownies have recently in return for your voucher,’ says Zhara, celebrated the 60th Anniversary of the Brownie pack -’it’s such a good cause and will also which is based at St Mark’s church, on Leeds Road. solve the problem of what to do with The party included traditional games such as ‘Pin the toys your children have grown out of.

Tail on the Donkey’, a Treasure Map and a raffle. The ‘We will also be wrapping a selection girls were joined at 3pm by their parents and other of toys for our birthday window display Brownie leaders, past & present, from the Harrogate -these will be donated to the children at area for a wonderful afternoon tea.

Martin House at the end of our birthday ‘I was thrilled to be invited to the party and it is celebrations too.’ lovely to see so many smiling faces,’ said Division Treasures birthday party runs from Commissioner, Trish Scott. ‘Special thanks must 11am - 3.30pm on 15th September. go to the Brownie leaders Elizabeth, Shirley, Ruth & www.treasurestoys.co.uk Penny for putting on such a wonderful event.’

To find out more about Brownies or helping with a local group call 0800 1695901

Harrogate Brownies Celebrate 60 years

4 Families

Vale of York

Something for everyone at Harrogate Baby Fair Have you got your tickets yet for the much talked about Harrogate Baby Fair and Family Day? Ticket sales have been high over the summer months for the event, which takes place on Saturday 22nd September at the Great Yorkshire Show Ground in Harrogate and is sponsored by Conditioned Training.

Aimed at the whole family, the event promises lots of indoor entertainment including bouncy castles, face painting, circus entertainers and a storytime area. In addition there’s an amazing outdoor petting farm and the chance to take part in demonstration classes from popular local groups including Tennis Tykes, Little Kickers, Singamajigs and martial arts, all of which are included in the ticket price of £4.00 per adult (children are free).

The event will house up to 100 fantastic stalls, covering every aspect and area of parenting, from birthing classes, cloth nappies and breastfeeding advice, through to information stands from clubs and classes for pre-school and school age children. With stands selling books, clothes, toys and games, many of which are not available on the High Street, what better place to buy everything you need for your pregnancy, new baby, or even make a start on your Christmas shopping!

You can also have your child’s photograph taken on the day, and enter them in the ‘Face of the Fair competition to win a prize package including appearing on 2013 advertising as the Face of Harrogate Baby Fair.

A sponsored Family Fun walk will also be taking place in the grounds outside the event in aid of a wonderful local appeal, Finding Frasers Feet - it’s hoped that lots of local families will support this and help Fraser’s family get closer to their £60,000.00 target.

To find out more about the fair, to enter the sponsored walk or purchase your tickets, visit www.harrogatebabyfair.com

The Best gets even better

Hidden in the Enchanted Forest, just off the A661 between Wetherby and Spofforth are the Stockeld fairies. They’re hard at work preparing for another busy season at one of the most successful visitor attractions in Yorkshire. Top of the agenda is putting the final touches to the new Magical Gift Emporium and expanded Café before completing the brand new Grotto by the Forest. Santa arrives in November but before that, there will be a visiting Wizard in residence to help us all celebrate Halloween Half Term.

‘We passed on feedback from our customers to the Stockeld fairies and they’ve spend the summer making sure that this year all our visitors will have an improved experience here,’ explains Amy Thornton from Stockeld Park. ‘There’s new toilets, a more magical gift buying experience and a better café.

Stockeld Park is the best it’s ever been in 2012.’

And the fairies have clearly had a hand in the events calendar this year. Over Halloween Half Term you can decorate biscuits, pick your own pumpkin and meet some creepy creatures. You can watch the story of a dream thief in the wonderful Theatre in the Woods (Saturday 27th & Sunday 28th October), visit ‘Malin’ the Wizard in the new forest side Grotto (Sat 27th October – Friday 2nd November) and enjoy the spectacular Stockeld Fireworks display on Sunday 4th November at the earlier time of 5.30pm.

The magic begins on Wednesday 24th October and goes on until January with some fantastic activities running daily throughout the school holidays and at weekends. Watch out for a visit from some faces you may recognise from the Harry Potter films during Stockeld Park’s Hogwarts Weekend (Saturday 17th and Sunday 18th November). Only a Muggle would miss it!

Book online at www.stockeldpark.co.uk

Family season ticket price is frozen from 2011/12 season.

ER FF O

Children and staff from Busy Bees in Pannal enjoyed a fun-filled day at the farm to mark the end of another successful year for the Harrogate-based pre-school. The children had a great time feeding the lambs and calves, and riding on the tractor trailer.

The farm trip was the finale to a very busy summer term. ‘We were jam-packed with fantastic activities and special events, from our playground street party to mark the Queen’s Jubilee, to our Big Toddle sponsored walk for Barnardo’s. Everyone had lots of fun and our older children have fond memories to take with them when they start school this autumn,’ said Playgroup Leader Mrs Ford.

From September this year, Busy Bees has brand new opening hours with longer morning sessions, new afternoon sessions and full days available.

‘The launch of our new flexible timetable is directly in response to parents who’ve been asking us for longer sessions which tie in more with school hours. We’re really excited about offering new afternoon sessions and expanding our lunch club which proved so popular last year,’ says Chairperson Vic Wharldall.

Details of the new opening hours and how to apply for places can be found on the Busy Bees website at www. busybeespannal.org or by contacting them on 01423-870351.

We preview another exciting season at Stockeld Park

L IA EC SP

Best Bear Childcare has been offering a unique service to parents looking to hire a nanny for a number of years. Nanny agencies are not regulated so Best Bear developed a unique vetting process to test and check nanny agencies before listing them on their website, giving parents peace of mind in the knowledge that they were using safe and secure agencies, recommended by Best Bear.

To help make it even easier for parents to find recommended childcare agencies, Best Bear has invested heavily in a brand new website, which launched last month.

The new site has been built following feedback from parents, childcarers and nanny agencies and has been designed to make it quicker and easier for all who use the website to find what they need quickly and easily.

Parents can use the website to look for recommended childcare agencies, browse childcarer CVs, post a job advert, organise reference checking and find useful childcare information and resources.

Sally Harrison, director of Best Bear said: ‘We are very proud of our new website, and hope that users find it even quicker and easier than ever before to find the contacts and information that they are looking for.’ www.bestbear.co.uk

Busy Bees finishes term with a flourish at the farm

The Magic Begins

£140 per family. This gives you unlimited access to the Enchanted Forest, Real Ice Rink, Nordic Ski Trail and The Maze.

Families Vale of York

5

news Singamajigs now at York Theatre Royal Popular preschool music group Singamajigs will be running a series of new classes at York Theatre Royal this autumn.

‘We’ve been running classes at the theatre during the summer holidays,’ says owner and class teacher Karen Allen, ‘and we’re really excited to be bringing more this term.’

The two 5 week blocks will begin on Tuesday mornings from 18th September with classes for children aged 1-4 at 10.15am - 10.45am and classes for babies under 1 running from 11am - 11.30am. www.singamajigs.co.uk 01423 552 918

Every girl deserves a pretty dress If you have a daughter, chances are she has plenty of pretty dresses to choose from, so spare a thought for the children growing up in poverty in countries like Malawi, Kenya, India, Uganda and Ghana who do not own a single one.

If you have some basic sewing skills, there is a way you can make a difference with a charity called Dress A Girl Around the World which collects handmade dresses and arranges for them to be sent to projects in the relevant countries.

Louise Horler, the UK International Partner for the charity, told us, ‘As the mother of a little girl with a wardrobe full of pretty dresses, this really struck a chord with me. I could sew and had lots of fabric lying around so I decided to make some dresses for the charity. I have a sewing blog called ‘Sew Scrumptious’ so I blogged about what I was doing and asked some blogging and Twitter friends to join in too. I thought we might collect about 20 dresses to send off, little did I know that a year later I would be the UK International Partner for the charity having collected over 2000 dresses from lovely people all over the UK and Ireland!’

The dresses are being made out of new fabric or recycled pillowcases by sewing groups, schools, colleges and individuals across the UK, but more are needed.

1,170 dresses and 178 pairs of shorts have already been distributed to children in Malawi, Kenya, India, Uganda and Ghana. The other dresses are expected to go out over the next few months as volunteers take trips to orphanages and school projects across the World.

Dress A Girl Around the World is still looking for people to help make dresses. You don’t have to make a dress though, if you are handy with a sewing machine you can also make boys shorts, bags, hair bands and bracelets. There are plenty of tips on Louise’s blog if you need them.

Louise is also looking for people in the UK who are visiting charitable projects abroad to take and distribute dresses.

For more information, sewing tips or to see the dresses that generous people in the UK have made please visit: sewscrumptious.blogspot.com Contact Louise: email: louisehorler@blueyonder.co.uk Facebook: www.facebook.com/ DressagirlaroundtheWorldUK Twitter: @SewScrumptious

• Nannies • Maternity Practitioners • Nursery Staff • Babysitting • Mobile Creches For all your childcare needs contact the agency with a helping hand t: 01904 642666 & 01904 490339

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Vale of York

www.yorkmontessori.com

Contact: Vickie Edwards on 01904 691698 or log on to: www.bb-childcare.co.uk or email info@bbchildcareuk.com

Miss Hannah’s Dancers join Angelina on Stage

BOOTHAM SCHOOL YORK

OPEN MORNING

Children who attend Miss Hannah’s School of Dance in Carlton were thrilled to have been chosen to perform at York Grand Opera House this summer when ‘Angelina Ballerina The Mousical’ came to town.

‘I was contacted and asked if we’d like to apply to take part,’ said Hannah Howcroft. ‘We were so pleased when we found out we’d been accepted.’

Hannah then had to choose just 8 girls between the ages of five and eight to tread the boards with the professional actors.

‘It was quite a task as we have so many dancers but once we’d established who was eligible and available we drew names out of a hat rather than put the children through an audition process.’

‘We rehearsed the routine in our normal classes initially,’ said Hannah, ‘so the children weren’t really aware that they were preparing for the show.

Then we had a couple of special classes for the girls closer to the event.’

‘I was incredibly proud of them all on the night,’ said Hannah. ‘They worked so hard - and it’s no mean feat to perform in such a large venue at such a young age.’

You can find more about Hannah’s classes at www.misshannahs.co.uk

Visit www.bootiebo utique.com

The brainchild of craft-lover Kirsty Kissell, www.bootieboutiq ue.com sells uniqu e personalised hand made gifts for babie s and young children , ranging from bu nting and booties to Bu gaboo accessories , all of which are just go rgeous. Worth a loo k!

Be careful with music

Support for Dads

A new survey by Baby Sensory has discovered that many parents are unaware of the risks of playing music through headphones to their baby bump. The research by the baby development classes found that 89% of parents are unaware of the risks involved when playing music to their unborn child: that the amniotic fluid within the womb actually doubles the level of decibels a child hears from 60 to 120.

Baby Sensory founder, Dr Lin Day says, “It is widely researched and publicised that playing music to an unborn child helps mother and child bond and assists with brain development, which I fully support. However, the problem with playing the headphones directly on the abdomen is that the amniotic fluid works as a conductor of sound and can amplify the music which causes it to be far louder for the baby. This can, in some circumstances, lead to hearing problems to the child from birth.” Find out more at www.babysensory.com

Fathers Reaching Out is a support group for men whose wives or partners are suffering from postnatal depression.

When a woman is suffering it can have a massive effect on their partners - men can find themselves having to carry out all the main duties at home whilst working, caring for their wife and their new born child, with sometimes other children at home too.

These responsibilities can cause a lot of stress, but www.fathersreachingout.com provides an outlet where men can express their feelings and emotions without being judged, and talk to others who have been in the same position. The focus of the site is to provide men with the support they need to cope at this difficult time. www.fathersreachingout.com

10.30am Saturday 29th September 10.30 Coffee and talk to senior staff 10.45 Welcome from Jonathan Taylor, Headmaster 11.15 Tour of the school with pupils Directions: Entrance via Portland Street, off Gillygate (car parking available).

For further details: and a prospectus please call Jenny Daly on 01904 623261 or email: admissions@boothamschool.com

OPEN AFTERNOON 2.00pm Wednesday 3rd October Meet the Head, pupils and staff...

See the school in operation...

See the quality of education...

Feel the warm and friendly atmosphere...

Directions: Rawcliffe Lane, off Clifton Green (car parking available).

For further details: call 01904 655021 or email: junior@boothamschool.com

www.boothamschool.com

3-18 years, co-ed boarding and day Bootham School was founded by Quakers in 1823

Come and join us!

2012 Open Mornings Saturday 6th October - 10.30am Saturday 10th November - 10.30am

Sixth Form Open Day Friday 28th September - 10.30am For more information please contact Mrs Jackie Hallewell on 01904 720072 or email admissions@queenmargarets.com www.queenmargarets.com An independent boarding and day school for girls aged 11-18 Families Vale of York

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Competitions &

giveaways WIN The cool tool that helps kids pack their bag for school It can be hard for kids (and their parents!) to remember what they need to take to school each day. TomTag from Orkid Ideas is a brand new product that helps make this task so much easier.

TomTag is a colourful daily checklist that’s practical and fun to use. It clips to a child’s school bag so they always know what to take to school and to bring home again.

Using fun pictures rather than words so that children of all ages and abilities will find it easy to take responsibility for their own belongings, TomTag will help make sure your kids never leave anything behind again.

Orkid Ideas was launched in 2012 by two mums, Clare Cusack from Saddleworth and Deborah Watson from York to introduce the world to TomTag. The inspiration for TomTag came when Clare was studying with Dyslexia Action and designed a visual planner for a student to help with organisation. She made this into a tag to attach to the student’s bag to help them independently pack for school.

‘My experiences of making visual learning aids to help my son Tomas, who has autism, came in very handy during the process of turning this simple concept into a real product,’ says Clare, ‘and also explains how TomTag got its name!’

The student’s bag tag was a big hit so Clare went on to make them for her own children and their friends.

‘When other parents at school started saying “That looks great - where can I get one?”, I saw the potential to turn the idea into a product that could help all children and TomTag was born.’

WIN

a TomTag set for your child

Families has 3 sets of Tomtags to give away.

Just go to www.familiesvoy.co.uk/competitions to enter the competition. Closing date October 10th.

Diggerland - the Ultimate Adventure Park

a Kindle with Metanium Everyday

NHS Choices recommends that the best way to prevent nappy rash is to follow a good skin care routine which includes ‘applying a barrier cream after each nappy change’. Metanium Everyday Barrier Ointment has a unique double action formula to help guard against nappy rash. It helps seal in the skin’s natural moisture keeping the skin soft, smooth and supple. Metanium Everyday contains no fragrance or lanolin, so is gentle enough to use every day and at each nappy change.

In a recent product test undertaken with Mumsnet, the UK’s busiest social network for parents, 200 mumsnetters were recruited to test Metanium Everyday barrier ointment. 171 of the product testers gave feedback and the majority said that they found Metanium Everyday ‘easy to use’ and said they would be likely to recommend Metanium to other mums. Protection for your baby and peace of mind for you – Every day!

Metanium Everyday RRP £2-99 for 40g and £5-49 for 80g is available from Boots, Asda, Tesco, Sainsbury’s, leading pharmacies and at www.boots.com Visit: www.metanium.co.uk to join the Metanium Baby & Toddler Club and for more information about the treatment and prevention of nappy rash.

WIN a Kindle!

Reading can be the perfect way to unwind after a busy day with your baby. Metanium Everyday Barrier Ointment is giving away a Kindle (RRP around £120) which can store over 1000 of your favourite books.

With a built-in wi-fi, you can download a book in less than a minute. It’s small, light and portable so you can even slip it in your changing bag – just in case you get a quiet moment!

Three runners up will win a specially designed set of baby body-suits (size 6-9 months), there’s seven in a pack – one for every day of the week (RRP £28 a pack). Each cute baby suit features a different day of the week.

To enter, just answer the question below: How often can you use Metanium Everyday Barrier Ointment?

To enter go to www.familiesvoy.co.uk/competitions and fill in the online form. Closing date 10th October.

Diggerland Yorkshire in Castleford, is the Ultimate Adventure Park experience where children and adults can drive REAL full size JCB’s.

For the daredevil in you, hang tight on Spindizzy or you can try out your excavating skills with a 6 tonne Digger, drive a monster JCB 3CX, or take five and enjoy the views 50ft in the air from the Sky Shuttle. It’s the perfect place to take your kids for an action packed day out.

Diggerland is open 10am till 5pm at weekends and every day until 9th September.

What better way to enjoy the end of the summer than with a day of diggers and dirt! Join Duggy, Dotty and the Diggerland team at the most fun-packed adventure park in the land.

For more information find Diggerland on Facebook and Twitter, visit www.diggerland.com or call 0871 22 77 007.

WIN

a family ticket to Diggerland

Here’s your chance to experience the Ultimate Adventure. To win a family ticket for 4 to Diggerland Yorkshire answer this question: What is the name of the Diggerland ride that takes you 50ft in the air?

A: High Flyer B: Sky Shuttle C: Sky Rocket To enter visit www.familiesvoy.co.uk/competitions. Entries by September 21st 2012. Winner will win a family ticket for 4 to Diggerland Yorkshire. Tickets will expire at the end of the season 4/11/12.

WIN

A Sleigh ride with Santa and a VIP trip to Stockeld Park When Santa arrives at his Yorkshire home why not be there to welcome him. We’ve teamed up with the magical Stockeld Park to give one lucky family the chance to join Santa on his sleigh ride through the Enchanted Forest before he takes up residence in his new purpose build chalet with his elves. You’ll get VIP access to the sleigh which will pass by the waiting crowds pulled by Santa’s reindeers on Saturday 10th and Sunday 11th November. After arriving at Santa’s newly refurbished grotto just outside the magical forest, you’ll get to pay him a private visit to let him have all your Christmas wishes.

The prize includes a VIP pass to all the great activities at this superb attraction. Head to the REAL ice rink, have a go on the Nordic ski trail, get lost in the magic maze and finish your day with a twilight walk retracing your sleigh ride through the Enchanted Forest.

Enter Online: To be in with a chance of winning this magical

prize, simply visit www.familiesvoy.co.uk/competitions where you can enter online. Winners will be notified via email. Closing date 29 October.

For ALL a full list of events at Stockeld Park take a look at our What’s On guide on page 28. www.thechristmasadventure.com

WIN

The chance to meet Ben and Holly In York Ben and Holly are paying a visit to Yorkshire and you could be in with a chance of meeting them. They’re bringing the first ever stage version of Ben and Holly’s Little Kingdom to York Barbican on the 7th & 8th November and we’ve got our hands on some VIP tickets.

The show will bring to life the Little Kingdom which is home to Princess Holly and her best friend Ben Elf. Along with Gaston the Ladybird they go on a musical adventure. You’ll see them take a trip to the Big World with Nanny Plum, clean up Gaston’s cave and prepare a surprise party for King Elf which, of course, ends in a jelly flood. The tickets are for a family of four on Wednesday 7th November at 4pm.

You’ll meet Ben, Holly and some of their friends onstage.

Photo: Simon Johnston

Enter Online: To be in with a chance of winning visit www.familiesvoy.co.uk/competitions to enter. ENTRIES CLOSE MONDAY 29TH OCTOBER. WINNERS WILL BE NOTIFIED BY EMAIL. To find out where Ben and Holly are visiting take a look at www. benandhollylive.com Families Vale of York

9

s e s s a l c & s b clu

Swim-Tots Increase York Classes

More Classes at Little Fidgets

Little Fidgets are delighted to announce they are opening more after-school and lunchtime clubs in the York and Harrogate area this September. Classes always include a snack, with lots of games, role play and songs to make language learning a really fun experience as well as teaching the children hundreds of really useful everyday words. At this age they can soak up words like sponges, so now is the perfect time to start. If you’d love your child to do an French or Spanish class at their primary school why not give Little Fidgets a ring on 01904 706565 or email lucy.amos@littlefidgets.co.uk

Local Swim school Swim-tots, is delighted to announce that they’ve teamed up with venues in York to provide even more two new you to give your little one water conf options for idence for life.

From September classes will be held Joseph Rowntree Pool in New Ears at The wick Mondays and Thursdays, and at Arch on Osbaldwick, on Fridays and Sundays bishop Holgate school, near being held around the region at Harr . This is in addition to classes ogate, Leeds, Boroughbridge, Thirsk and Birstwith. ‘We cater for child Williams, ‘and promise the best swim ren from 0 to 5,’ says owner Jo ming start you can have.’ 01423 528882 www.swim-tots.co.uk

New Tennis Tots Franchisee for York Tennis Tots will be expanding in York this autumn with new venues - and new franchisee Matt Ward Matt has a passion for teaching tennis and has a wealth of experience working with young children at a number of clubs, leisure centres and schools within the York area. Qualified with the Lawn Tennis Association as a Level 4 Senior Club Coach and an Ambassador for the RPT, Matt aims to inspire more young children to take up tennis at a young age through Tennis Tots.

‘I’m very excited about the Tennis Tots franchise in York and how I can develop it over the coming months and years ahead,’ said Matt.

‘I’m looking to offer 3-6 new groups next term with new venues planned for later in the year. I very much look forward to working with the children and parents next term and would love to see more children in York at Tennis Tots in September.’

Tennis Tots is a completely unique programme aimed at children from 2-6 years of age and goes far beyond just getting kids started playing tennis; it aims to provide an all round approach for children to develop many different skills whilst learning a sport that can stay with them for the rest of their lives.

Incorporating many of the early years learning goals, the Tennis Tots curriculum provides a unique experience for children to develop physically, socially and emotionally and helps provide an environment to get children ready for a classroom setting and serves the children well into their school years and beyond. Using a structured approach to each session children learn to listen to instructions whilst having fun and learning about numbers, colours, shapes and letters - as well as developing their tennis skills.

York Schedule for September including Mon: Haxby: 10.00-10.45am

Pocklington 1.30-2.15pm Tues: Knavesmire 1.30-2.15pm Weds: TBC 1.30-2.15pm NEW Sat: Clifton: 9.15-10.00am

Could you teach Tennis?

new sessions: 10.45-11.30am NEW 2.15-3.00pm NEW 4.00-4.45pm (4-6yrs) 2.15-3.00pm NEW 2.15-3.00pm NEW 3.45-4.30pm (4-6yrs) NEW 10.15-11.00am 11.15-12.00pm (4-6yrs)

Tennis Tots York are also looking for tennis tots assistants to help on some of the groups in the York area so if you are passionate about working with this age group and would like to do a job that is both fun and rewarding then call Matt on 07882 267971.

To book a free trial or to find out more information about Tennis Tots in York call Matt Ward on: 07882 267971 or email: york@tennis-tots.co.uk For more info about Tennis Tots visit our website at www.tennis-tots.co.uk

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Extra Classes at The Little Gym More than 500 children visit the Little Gym Harrogate each week and such is the ever growing demand that extra classes have been added to the autumn-winter schedule starting in September.

Gym Director Holly Williamson says the younger classes are extremely successful: ‘Our Bugs classes at The Little Gym, Harrogate are proving very popular, with parents appreciating the way you can switch between classes on a Wednesday morning and a Friday afternoon.

The friendly and sociable atmosphere is wonderful to be a part of, and it’s great for parents and carers to meet new friends too, as many stay afterwards for teas and coffees.’

And the earlier you start, the easier it is says Holly: ‘Classes start for children from four months old, and at this young age, the programme is orientated towards stimulating the senses and developing motor, emotional and perceptual skills. As the children grow, the curriculum grows with them.

‘In the Bugs classes (4-10 months) children explore a variety of movements in our gym filled with equipment. Content is colourful and lively, with lots of exploration, ball play, music, songs and bubbles.’

The Little Gym is open six days a week, from Tuesday through to Sunday, with plenty of different class times available to suit the differing schedules of members. The full timetable is available at www.thelittlegym.eu/uk

d new classes Babyballet adnew classes starting

two Babyballet York have 0 Tinytoes well as their usual 9.1 Saturdays at Roko. As es and an yto Tin 10 11. an g din (18m-3yrs), they are ad s) class.

4yr 11.50 Minimovers (3 & ments afternoon class at Cle new a be o als l wil those There for ct rfe pe 3+ for ages Hall on Fridays at 1pm hool classes.

-sc who have morning pre call a 3 week trial for £15 ok bo or To switch class abyballet.co.uk w.b ww it vis or 932 Jane on 07702 965

Rhythm Time Celebrate double achievements Rhythm Time is one of the winners in the latest Netmums awards for North Yorkshire and owner Lynne O’Malley is thrilled to have been awarded a Rhythm Time award for personal achievement too.

‘Rhythm Time won a Netmums award for Best Pre-school Activity classes,’ said Lynne, ‘we had lots of nominations from all over the country and won in several areas. It’s so lovely to have the support from our class members.’

Lynne is also thrilled to have won an award at the recent Rhythm Time AGM for positive attitude and always striving to achieve the best.

New classes will be starting this autumn too: ‘We’ll have - brand new baby classes opening in Harrogate and Linton on Ouse,’ says Lynne. ‘Harrogate classes run on Thursday mornings at Starbeck Methodist Church at 10.50 (birth -walking) and on Tuesdays at Linton On Ouse at the Maple Leaf Cafe at 1.30 (also birth -walking).

Rhythm Time classes will be running as follows in September: Mon: Green Hut Harlow Hill Harrogate: baby class 1.20, toddler class 2.00 Tues: Elim church Harrogate: baby class 9.40, toddler class 10.20, toddler class 11.00 Weds: St James Church Wetherby: toddler class 10.00, toddler class 10.40, baby class 11.20 Thurs: Starbeck Methodist Church: toddler class 9.30, toddler class 10.10. baby class 10.50

● ● ● ●

Baby signing Movement & bonding Fibre optic light shows Music

● ● ●

New Venue and More Classes for Toddler Sense ‘It is an absolute thrill for me to run my Toddler Sense every week,’ says class Leader Liz Torpey. ‘It’s always a real treat to see how the toddlers (and parents) become totally emerged in the sessions.

Liz is delighted to announce that from the beginning of October Toddler Sense will be moving to a new venue in Poppleton on Fridays, ‘and I’m introducing more classes in Holgate on Mondays,’ adds Liz. Toddler Sense introduces a whole new world of adventure for toddlers and children up to the age of three with great music, great equipment and great new ideas. Activities include exciting adventures such as climbing a snow mountain, going on safari, digging for fossils, swimming with dolphins and hunting for dinosaurs. Each session introduces a whole new adventure and is designed to help with the development of vital physical, communication, learning and social skills that will form the basis of their future learning.

The class age range is from 13 months to three years and is split into two groups; 13 - 18 months and 18 months - 3 years. If you’re interested in booking a free trial contact Liz on 07565 551415, york@toddlersense.co.uk or visit www.babysensory.com

Tennis Tykes TV Popular local tennis programme Tennis Tykes is now streaming videos of their tennis classes on their website.

Log onto www.tennistykes.co.uk where you’ll be able to watch the top tennis skills of the many talented children on their programme.

There is a different video on each of their pages under the caption ‘Tennis Tykes TV’ and the footage even shows children as young as 2 years old rallying!

A number of classes are running a waiting list so be sure to book in good time at one of the following venues: Harrogate Tues: 10.00-10.45am (2-3 year olds) & 10.45-11.30am (3.5 & 4 year olds) - St Andrew’s Church Hall, Starbeck Thurs: 10.00-10.45am (3.5 & 4 year olds) & 10.45-11.30am (2-3 year olds) - St Andrew’s Church Hall, Starbeck Fri: 1.00-1.45pm (2-3 year olds) & 1.45-2.30pm (3.5 & 4 year olds) New venue - Kidzplay (+ includes free soft play after the class) Wetherby Weds: 10-10.45am (2-3 year olds) & 10.45-11.30am (3.5 & 4 year olds) Wetherby Town Hall York Weds: 9.15-10am (2-3 year olds) & 10.45-11.30am (3.5 & 4 year olds)- All Saints Church Hall, Poppleton Thurs: 1.15-2.00pm & 2.00-2.45pm - Roko Health Club Fri: 1.15-2.00pm (2-3 year olds) & 2.00-2.45pm (3.5 & 4 year olds) - St Oswalds Church Hall, Fulford For further information and to book a FREE TASTER LESSON, contact Caroline on 07843342662 or email caroline. buncall@tennistykes.co.uk

Fren

hil ch & Spanish for C

dren

Fun classes for children aged 2 - 11 With puppets, songs, craft, stories and snacks Harrogate, York, Selby & Leeds We’re expanding: teachers required

littlefidgets.co.uk

Tel 01904 706565

Puppet shows Massage Water Play

For classes in Harrogate & Wetherby please contact Rachel on 07801 367553 or email harrogate@babysensory.co.uk.

For classes in York please contact Elizabeth on 07590 425310 or email northyorkshire@babysensory.co.uk.

www.babysensory.com Families Vale of York

11

By Elisabeth Dolton

Choosing after-school activities As the new school year starts, so does the time to choose after-school activities, but take a quick look and you will find a whole range of classes available, from Scouts to Ballet, from French to Karate.

How can we know which ones are the best for our child, offer value for money, and critically, which ones they will enjoy!

After-school activities definitely offer value to your children. Reports indicate those who participate in after-school programs have better school attendance, higher grades and loftier aspirations. They’re less likely to get into trouble are at lower risk of obesity.

It is also a great opportunity for children to develop social and leadership skills. The benefits are there, but under which classes?

Talk to your child and find out how they feel about the activity, and let them choose at least one club or activity themselves. Help them choose activities that reflect who they are and what they want to learn, don’t impose your preferences. Explain that it’s important and fun to try new things, and remember switching activities is normal amongst children.

Always check out the quality of an activity. Discipline-based activities that create a quality product over a period of time are great, e.g. putting on a play. Don’t think that high cost equal high quality, some activities are cheaper to run like football. Staff members should be professionals with skills and experience.

Consider the mix of activities. The benefits of exercise are huge, so including a sport would be a good start. Extracurricular activities are ideal for children to explore and practice what it means to be a group leader, e.g. Brownies. If you are stuck between two similar activities, consider the usefulness, e.g. drum lessons might be cool, but the guitar might have wider applicability.

Finally, remember logistics. The afterschool programme affects you too. Avoid signing on to too many activities that leave you scrambling from one to the next. No one will have fun doing anything if it means arriving late, leaving early, and going without dinner on Tuesdays and Thursdays. Look hard for places you can walk to, it reduces your carbon footprint while keeping you fit for free!

Finally do build in some downtime. Children need to have independent play as well as the structured activities, so ensure time is built in for dinner, watching T.V. and relaxing. Leave some activities perhaps for the summer, when different interests can be tried, without the pressure of school demands.

After-school activities can provide enrichment, adventure and variety. They can enhance knowledge and build character. Spend a bit more time choosing the right activity programme for your child and you will reap the benefits.

Consideration for special needs children • Consider your child’s interests, rather than their needs. Many regular activities can use technology or planning to help their participation, e.g. drama, athletics, cooking, academic Evaluate your child’s stamina. Check they have the energy for an extracurricular activity?

• Talk with the activity leaders about your child’s unique medical and communication needs. Provide them with emergency contact information.

• Make sure family downtime is a regular part of the schedule. Sometimes your family needs to have nothing to do — as a group.

Remember the inclusion of children with special needs is beneficial to all. Special needs children achieve more, improve behaviour, and enhance motivation.

Children without special needs learn from working cooperatively and grow in confidence through helping others.

Picture courtesy of Matalan www.matalan.co.uk

Ashville College

Sports Club

Children’s Swimming Lessons •

As seen on TV

• • • •

Lessons available from Parent & Toddler up to Junior Lifesaving Tuesday evening, Friday evening & Saturday morning Lessons run during school term time only Group based lessons or private tuition Casual swimming & kids’ pool parties also available

Book early to avoid disappointment Tennis Tots is the UK’s leading tennis play and coaching programme for boys and girls aged 2-6 years of age

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Vale of York

To book a free trial call York: 07882 267971 Harrogate: 07725 339257 www.tennis-tots.co.uk

Please call in to the sports club to enquire, telephone 01423 724812 or email sportsclub@ashville.co.uk Ashville College Sports Club, Yew Tree Lane, Harrogate HG2 9JP www.ashvillesportsclub.co.uk

Swimming

Baby Swimmers 01757 229 880 www.babyswimmers.co.uk York, Pocklington, Harrogate & Leeds Harrogate Borough Council

www.harrogate.gov.uk Classes for all ages & stages including Raindrops for ages 6 months - 2 years.

Splish Splosh Swimming School

0844 264 1102 www. splishsploshswimmingschool.co.uk Classes in Harrogate, York, Selby, Pocklington & further afield. Ages 3 months+ Swim Tots 01423 528 882 www.swim-tots.co.uk York, Harrogate, Boroughbridge & Thirsk. Classes from birth-pre-school.

Swim York www.york.gov.uk/ swimyork 01904 552 424 Classes run all year for ages 6month + at Energise or Yearsley Swimming Pool.

Tadcaster Community Swimming Pool 01937 833001

www.tadcasterpool.org.uk Aquatots & programmes for all ages & stages.

Water Babies 01904 607 110 www.waterbabies.co.uk Classes for babies from birth – 4 years.

Babies need to be under 1 to begin.

York & Harrogate.

Waterworld York

Talking Tots

www.talkingtots.info 07521 680 949 Classes to help to improve children’s communication skills & social confidence through fun games and activities. For ages 1 – 4 year olds. York & Wetherby.

clubs&classe s

Tiny Talk Baby signing classes York

& Pocklington 07739 140 050. Harrogate 07989 076 588 www.tinytalk.co.uk From newborn onwards!

Arts, Crafts & Creative Crafty Chefs

www.craftychefs.co.uk Cookery courses for children

Pots 2 Go Harrogate 01423 524 797 www.pots2go.co.uk Rainbows Ceramic Café York 01904 675 533 www.rainbowscafe.co.uk

Mucky Pups Beverley & North Newbald 01430 801 102 www.mucky-pups.com Arts, crafts & messy time for pre-schoolers.

Smarty Art 01423 339 738

smartyart@live.co.uk Art and Craft session for 1-5 year olds .

45 minute sessions at Kirk Hammerton & Boroughbridge.

Young At Art 01423 502 215

www.youngatart-harrogate.co.uk Arts & craft sessions for children aged 1-11 in Harrogate. 1 hour sessions.

www.better.org.uk 01904 642 162 Swimming classes for age 2 + Wetherby Leisure Centre www. leeds.gov.uk 01937 585 125 High-Low Quick-Slow Swimming Lessons available for all ages 01757 611 234 following the ASA National Plan for www.highlowquickslow.co.uk Teaching Swimming.

Fun music & movement for ages 6months – 5 years. 45 minute classes in Selby, Rawcliffe, Escrick, Osgodby, Baby & Child Matters Monk Fryston & Wistow. www.babyandchildmatters.co.uk

Music

Language

07545 056 248 Signing for pre-talkers in York & surrounding area.

Little Fidgets www.littlefidgets. co.uk 01273 833 340 French & Spanish classes for children aged 2-7 and their grown-up in Harrogate, York, Selby & surrounding area.

Sing and Sign Ripon & Harrogate 01765 620 374

www.singandsign.com with classes in Harrogate, Ripon, Northallerton, Thirsk & Knaresborough.

Sing and Sign York 01904 690 038 www.singandsign.com

Jo Jingles 01977 650 455

www.jojingles.com/leeds Harrogate, Wetherby & Boston Spa. Music, singing & movement classes for babies & young children ages 3 months-5 years.

Rhythm Time 07789 895 894 www.rhythmtime.net Music & Singing classes for babies, toddlers & pre-schoolers. Harrogate & Wetherby.

Sing and Sign Ripon & Harrogate 01765 620 374 www.singandsign.com with classes in Harrogate, Ripon, Northallerton, Thirsk & Knaresborough.

Families Vale of York

13

Sing and Sign York

01904 690 038 www.singandsign.com Singamajigs www.singamajigs. co.uk 01423 552 918 Sing & jig from birth – 5. Classes in Harrogate & surrounding area.

Sound Generation

Stagecoach

www.stagecoach.co.uk York 01904 672 662 Harrogate & Ripon 01423 771 138 Wetherby 0113 210 3505 Selby 0113 210 3505 Classes in drama, dance & singing for students aged from 4 -19. Offers training in performing arts & life skills, such as confidence and self esteem.

www.soundgeneration.co.uk 020 3344 2310 Provides quality and fun music teachers for schools or home tuition in York Youth Theatre (Theatre Royal) www.

North and West Yorkshire. yorktheatreroyal.co.uk/youth.shtml Catering for ages 5-19. A brilliant opportunity to work with professional Babyballet York 07702 965 932 theatre practitioners & artists & www.babyballet.co.uk perform on stage.

TinyToes for 18 months to 3 years and Minimovers for 3 & 4 year olds starting Harrogate Youth Theatre (Harrogate Theatre) in September. www.harrogatetheatre.co.uk Babyballet Harrogate 01132 602 For ages 3 -18. No auditions and the 449 www.babyballet.co.uk same opportunities and experiences Classes in Harrogate & Tadcaster for for everyone - whatever background. children aged 18 months – pre-school.

Razzamataz 01759 306 676 www.

Butterfly Dance Studios www. razzamataz.co.uk butterflydancestudios.co.uk 01405 Drama, dance & music for ages 4-18 780 626 at York High School Extensive classes from ballet & tap to Riding Lights Youth Theatre Latin American & Hip Hop. All ages – www.ridinglights.org For ages 11-18. tots to adults. Goole.

Performing

Flying Ducks Youth Theatre

You name it We label it!

Lunchboxes • Water Bottles Books • Uniforms • Footwear

T: 01635 298326 www.easy2name.com

01904 761806 www.flyingducksyouththeatre.com For ages up to 12 & 12 - 18.

Junction, Goole www.junctiongoole.co.uk Electric Youth Theatre (5-18) & Vocalise Singing & Music (5-18)

Stage Door Academy

01405 780357 Drama & musical theatre & singing in the Goole & Howden area.

Bluespoon Theatre Company Based in York 07923 359470 www. bluespoontheatre.com

Upstage Centre Youth Theatre 01904 674 675

www.upstagecentre.org.uk One of the foremost youth theatres in York catering for ages 8-25.

Finding balance for busy families

By Elisabeth Dolton

As parents we want our children to take advantage of opportunities and have enriching experiences, whilst keeping on top of our own demands and duties. So it’s no surprise that families can often find themselves over-committing and running from one activity to another. A over-busy schedule impacts on us all. Parents feel pressured to maximize every opportunity for their children, and with less family time relationships can suffer. Too much structured activity can contribute to anxiety, stress, and even depression in children. Finding a balanced lifestyle is key.

There are several signs of an overly busy family. Children become tired, overwhelmed and irritable as a result of no downtime, activities are being done out of habit or because everyone else is, or your children spend so much time in activities that you don’t know what else is going on in their lives. Back-to-school makes you think back-to-stress!

If your family is overscheduled, ease the pressure by simplifying the daily routine. This is achievable in two ways - cutting back on extracurricular activities, and getting more organized.

Scale down extracurricular activities. Limit the number of activities you have in a week to one artistic, one athletic, and one social for example. Focus more on creating a manageable family schedule.

As you cut down on outside activities, set aside dedicated time for the family to be together. If you feel it’s important to eat dinner together a few nights a week, or have a set time when you and your children can just chat, arrange the schedule to make it happen. Reserve time to play and hang out.

Streamline household routines to make time at home more relaxed. Keep spaces that you use every day, like the kitchen counter, free of clutter. Keep things where you use them. After dinner, lay out breakfast, make lunches and gather everything needed for tomorrow’s activities. Have your children lay out their clothes before going to bed.

Once you create some organisation in the house, it’s likely to spread. But almost contradictorily, let go of the idea of being a perfect parent and resist feeling guilty if the house is less than immaculate. Take a few minutes to relax after getting home; don’t immediately dive into meal preparation.

Finding a Balance -Top Tips for parents:

• Listen to your children. If they appear fatigued, irritable or ove they may be over-scheduled. rwhelmed • Talk to your children. Find out which activities they love and which they could live without.

• Ask yourself: “Does my child want to be involved in all these activities, or do I wan t them to be? Your best intentions may be adding to the pressure • Don’t forget ‘me time’. Don’t sacrifice your own wellbeing. Find time to recharge and rejuvenate.

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What do you do at...

?

Families editor Belinda Maunsell went along to meet the students & teachers at Razzamataz Theatre School in York.

As an ex-teacher of Drama there’s nowhere children I’m watching are certainly having working on rapping and all were singing from I enjoy visiting more than a theatre school. plenty of fun. Amongst them is four year an interactive white board to a backing trackYou can always be guaranteed lots of old Logan Love who is joining in for the first so no noisy sheets of paper. They then tried energy, positivity and fun - Razzamataz time with a trial class. Although he doesn’t the song a capella with a view to going into certainly lived up to my expectations. know anyone to begin with, he’s enjoying the the recording studio next week - exciting stuff! dancing and games and singing along with the ‘We’re so lucky with the facilities here,’ says Classes were in full swing when I arrived at others.

9.15 with the Razz Minis strutting their stuff Angela. We have plenty of rooms all kitted out to a dance session. As the 4 and 5 year olds ‘I brought him along because I thought it with interactive whiteboards as well as a huge learned moves to ‘I’m a Believer’, I chatted to would boost his confidence,’ said his mum drama studio and hall. Recording studio work principal Angela Pickup who has been running Sarah Clarke.’ The taster session is free so will be available too which is going to be great the York-Based theatre school since last May. there’s no commitment without making sure fun.’ he likes it - but I can see that he is enjoying Angela explained that the younger children Razzamatazz also has lots of other himself!’ have an integrated class which covers the 3 opportunities for children. ‘We aim to run disciplines of drama, dance and singing. Two Angela tells me that parents sometimes sit in performance trips to London,’ says Angela classes are running simultaneously with two for the first couple of sessions but after that and we’ll be bringing workshops here to the teachers in each. they are encouraged to leave their little ones. school. We also have a great chance for one ‘It helps develop a sense of independence child to win a year’s scholarship - there’ll be ‘We keep everything fresh and modern at -and gives parents a bit of a break too!’

37 in total across all the Razzamataz schools Razzamataz,’ says Angela. ‘We alternate each in the UK.’ week between working on pop music and Soon it’s time for the crossover where the musical theatre so everything is kept relevant little kids go home and the big kids arrive. At I admit to feeling a little bit envious of Angela to what the children know.’

10.15 classes begin for children aged 6-18, as I left. She’s created a wonderful school of split this time by age and genre. Juniors (ages over 90 children who all get to perform for The week before I visited the school had put 6-8) begin with dance, inters ( 9-11) with up to 3 hours every Saturday. What could be on a ‘Shrektacular’ show for parents and drama and the seniors (12 - 18) are singing. better than that? friends.

They’ll all have an hour in each discipline with ‘There’s a real buzz when we put on a show,’ experienced teachers and performers leading says Angela. ‘The children did so well and Further Information the sessions. for many of them it was the first time they’d • Razzamataz is the creation of Denise HuttonJames is teaching Drama when I arrive in ever performed before an audience, which Gosney who took her idea to the Dragon’s Den their class and the ten girls are warming is an enormous confidence booster. We take and won backing from Duncan Bannatyne. up with some bizarre Elvis impressions and all abilities here at Razz - from children with rather energetic movement games. There’s • Razzamataz York meets at York High School learning difficulties and physical disabilities lots of laughter; it’s clear James has a great every Saturday in term time. Razz Minis runs to those who are already super-confident relationship with the group and that they’re from 10-11 am whilst main school runs from performers. There are no auditions; children getting lots from the session. I left them 10.15am - 1.15pm. are encouraged to join in and have lots preparing some work on the Olympics to visit of fun at • Razz Minis have an integrated session, other the inters. whatever classes rotate with an hour each of drama, level they This class of 6 - 8 year olds were warming up dance & singing. may be.’ for a dance session before choosing which • You can book a free session before dance music they were to work on that day.

And the committing - see website for details.

With Usher, Katy Perry and Cheryl Cole on • 50% sibling discounts are available. offer there was much deliberation, before Katy • To find out more, book classes and find out Perry finally won the day! The class was really If you about scholarships visit: lively and all 12 girls and boys were focused Razam want to fin on getting the moves right. d out atazz www.razzamataz.co.uk Open more, will b Da york@razzamataz.co.uk My next visit was to singing where Hannah 15th to y on Saturd e holding a was putting the seniors through their paces Anyon celebrate ay Septem n TEL: 01759 306 676 / 07969 859 895 e be th with a Maroon 5 song. Some of the boys were join in attending o eir birthday r n . the da and de the fun w y ca it monst ration h giveaways n s f r o m exis studen ting ts.

Families Vale of York 15

OPEN

DAY

Football or skills for life??

Brian MacNair tells us why Socatots will help your child become more confident in sport - and in life.

Many people (especially parents with girls) are sceptical about the benefits of attending a preschool football class. At Socatots we help develop confidence and get children ready to thrive at school giving them a great start in life!

Great fun

• Exciting toddler classes • Educational pre-school sessions • Classes in Harrogate, Wetherby, Skipton and Wharfedale.

Skills for life

Socatots Socatots will help your h a few spa ave children become more c confident in sport and remaining es in life and the best bit winter 20 for the 1 is that you can help have an e 2 term and and watch them along x readers o clusive offer for the way. If you would f Families Magazine 2 free ses like more information s : when you ions for Winter 20 or to book contact 1 term. Bo register and pay fo 2 term Brian MacNair on o r Septembe kings to be made the full 07811 109437 or by 14th r. email b.macnair@ Condition s socatots.com or customers : Available only to n visit www.socatots. winter 20 and only to be us ew 1 e com/york&ripon included. 2 term. Saturday s d for the essions n ot

R FE OF

• Stimulating multi-sensory baby classes

From 3 to 4 years Socatots classes focus on introducing more advanced skills. Many of the children will recognise numbers and be able to count to 10, however at Socatots we look to incorporate simple addition and subtraction facts. Socatots also recognise and match colours and shapes in a fun way so children learn while having fun – the best way to learn!!

Socatots is developing some of the best young footballers around.

Through repetition and progressive sessions, Socatots develop exceptional ball control. Over time this allows more difficult tricks and skills to be attempted and then mastered. Children attending Socatots learn to trust the coach and develop a ‘can do’ attitude so are willing to give the most difficult skills a go.

Some of the first Socatots are now playing football in local teams and are among the most skilful and talented players around – but they are also winning matches in style!

L IA EC SP

Socatots starts for children aged 2 years and the initial focus is to help children learn to enjoy the structure of the session.

We do this using a mixture of fun games and football activities which are designed to develop improved balance and coordination but more importantly help children develop improved listening skills and extended concentration and focus. The session is split into lots of short activities to maximise the enjoyment and participation at every session.

Most children love Socatots from the start.

However, all children are different and some find the structure of the sessions hard to follow.

At Socatots we acknowledge this and are determined to help children learn to follow and enjoy structure. The parents who persevere will have children who thrive at school, have fantastic coordination and balance and ball skills way beyond their years.

Advanced skills

Call for your FREE trial session

Call Lynne on 07789 895894

www.rhythmtime.net The Toddler Sense Adventure Play Programme!

For Young Adventurers aged 13 months to 3 years old NEW CLASSES starting in the York area from October 2012 Come along for a FREE TRIAL SESSION and see for yourself what Toddler Sense is all about!

Climb Snow Mountains, Swim with Dolphins, Go on Safari Experience a magical, multi-sensory interactive experience Emphasis is on mobility, excitement and adventure Every week introduces a whole new adventure The Next Step from the Award Winning Baby Sensory

For more details or to book a FREE TRIAL, contact Liz: Tel: 07565 551415 Email: york@toddlersense.co.uk

16 Families

Vale of York

www.thelittlegym.co.uk

Develop your child’s skills and confidence The Little Gym is a place where children develop their co-ordination, balance, confidence, listening and social skills whilst having heaps of FUN! The Little Gym provider of the world’s leading gymnastics based programme for children aged 4 months to 12 years is available in Harrogate!

Contact us now for more information on 01423 701560.

The Little Gym® Harrogate • 1 Cardale Park • Harrogate • HG3 1RY 01423 701560 • Harrogate@thelittlegym.co.uk • www.thelittlegym.co.uk parent/child classes

preschool/ kindergarten gymnastics

primary school gymnastics

holiday camps

birthday parties

Picture courtesy of Marks & Spencer www.marksandspencer.com

Open Morning Queen Mary’s School, Baldersby Park, Thirsk

Saturday 13th October 2012 9.30am until midday For further information please contact: Mrs Tory Robeson, Head of Admissions 01845 575040 email: admissions@queenmarys.org or visit our website www.queenmarys.org A School of the Woodard Corporation Registered Charity No: 1098410

Outstanding Girls Day and Boarding School with mixed Pre Prep

Give your child a head start at school with online teaching resources With the recent reports in the media about the level of literacy in the UK you may have been left asking questions about whether what our children are learning in school is enough. Searching for additional resources that can be used at home to support their school learning can be a daunting task as there are so many questions to cover: What teaching system should I be using? How much should I pay for resources? How long should we be spending working at home? How much support and guidance should I be giving my child? Etc. etc.

Easy Access - One of the resources currently available in the market place is Reading Eggs from educational publisher Blake Publishing. The Reading Eggs program is all online and can be used on a computer, laptop and most tablets (with an iPad it can be accessed through the free educational app Rover due to flash compatibility) making it instantly attractive to children.

Wide Appeal - The program has been designed for 3-7 year olds but is also suitable for older children who are struggling with reading. There are currently 120 reading lessons which take children who have little or no reading experience right the way through to them reading books confidently. In addition to the reading lessons there are also a series of spelling lessons, an introduction to comprehension and grammar, a story factory where children can put together their own books, plus additional educational games and activities to keep children motivated. It uses a teaching system of phonics supporting what children are learning at school.

Older Children - For older children who can already read there is the next level of the program, Reading Eggspress, which has been designed for 7-13 year olds. This program focuses on comprehension and grammar, writing and reading fluency and uses a highly engaging spinning island to draw and keep attention. It includes areas such as the Comprehension Gym where lessons are completed, the Library which holds over 1000 e-books and the Stadium where they can compete against the computer or other children to test their comprehension and grammar knowledge.

Free Trial - Both programs support school learning and are also suitable for home educators. It is a paid for resource and offers an obligation free trial for all new registrations so you can ensure the product is suitable for you and your children before you commit to purchasing. There are 2 terms of subscriptions, 6 months at £29.95 and 12 months at £39.95 and if you have more than one child you can take advantage of the 50% family discount for any additional children. All free trials and subscriptions include access to both Reading Eggs and Reading Eggspress.

To trial the program for 5 weeks free simply visit www.readingeggs. co.uk, click the ‘Parents click here’ button and follow the set up instructions. Once your account has been activated and you have added a child enter code UKB24YRK. Families Vale of York

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news Queen Margaret’s raises over £8000 for Cancer Research UK

Over a busy summer term pupils from Queen Margaret’s School, York have worked hard to raise over £8000 in aid of Cancer Research UK. In total 131 girls and 28 staff members from the school took part in the Race for Life. The party from the independent girls’ school ran, walked or jogged the 5k course at The Stray in Harrogate as part of the largest womenonly fundraising event in the UK. With almost half of the school’s pupils taking part, QM girls raised funds through sponsorship, cake sales and donating their old clothes, raising over £7,500 to support ground-breaking work into the prevention, diagnosis and treatment of cancer.

Sports teacher and catalyst behind QM’s involvement, Nathalie Hart said: ‘It was wonderful to see so many women and girls from across the school taking part. This is a tremendous achievement which really shows what the girls can do, raising funds for this important cause which is very close to many of our hearts.’

The school continued its efforts for the cancer charity as pupils collected donations at June’s Lower School drama production, Jabberwocky. Audiences dug deep donating over £450 over the two night run, bringing the school’s total to £8,115.61

Fabulous New Facilities Planned at Bootham

‘In 12 months’ time Bootham will have a fantastic new facility for music, art and performance,’ says Jonathan Taylor, Headmaster of Bootham School in York.

The project, costing around £3.5 million, is just the latest in the well-known independent school’s building development programme.

Last year, the new nursery extension at Bootham Junior School received a York Design Award for its eco-friendliness, while the new entrance building at the senior school was also shortlisted for a design award.

Andy Woodland, Bursar at the leading Quaker school said, ‘Bootham has always put the emphasis on quality. The assembly hall and theatre, built in the early 1960’s, was a revolutionary concept design of its time. It won a number of national awards and is one of the few concrete constructions to have listed status.

Now our emphasis is on the environment and sustainability, and our new buildings look to be examples of best practice as well as providing excellent functionality and aesthetics. Bootham’s Quaker ethos means that taking a responsible approach to our environmental impact is part of our guiding values. Interestingly, the students themselves are keenly involved in all aspects of environmental issues and keep us on our toes!’

To find out more about Bootham Junior School, you can visit the school on Wednesday 3 October, when their Open Afternoon starts at 2pm or phone 01904 655021.

For those interested in a senior school, go along to Bootham on Saturday 29 September where things start off with coffee at 10.30am. Parking is available for both events – see www.boothamschool.com or telephone 01904 623261.

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An audience with The Queen!

Pupils at Belmont Grosvenor School were granted an audience with HRH The Queen when she dropped in to see them during her Diamond Jubilee year.

The Royal visitor, aka actor Suzy Wilson of Harrogate-based educational theatre company Tempus Fugit, kept youngsters entertained with stories of the highs and lows of her 60 year reign.

As well as recounting details of the Queen’s accession and reign, she explained to pupils how other Kings and Queens of England have celebrated their jubilees, including Queen Victoria’s Diamond Jubilee and celebrations during Elizabeth I’s reign.

Throughout the year, staff, parents and pupils at the co-educational school have been involved in Diamond Jubilee celebrations.

The school joined forces with Harrogate-based gardening charity Horticap to plant a row of six cherry trees in the grounds of the school, based at Swarcliffe Hall, Birstwith, to mark the six decades of the Queen’s reign.

For more information contact www.belmontgrosvenor.co.uk

Harrogate Ladies’ College

It has been ‘full speed ahead’ during the supposedly ‘quiet period’ of the school summer holidays at Harrogate Ladies’ College (HLC).

Celebrating the 50th Anniversary of their Assembly Hall and Memorial Room, HLC are transforming this existing facility into a modern multi-functional new hall.

The new Assembly Hall will provide a fit for purpose, multi-functional Hall and will be used for assemblies, PE, drama, teaching, lectures, events and functions.

With a capacity for over 380 seats, new retractable tiered seating will provide spacious and elevated seating, complemented by demountable staging which will be used for the ever-strong and successful drama and musical performances by pupils.

Set on a 27 acre campus, Harrogate Ladies’ College, including Pre-Prep Bankfield, and Prep Highfield, offer an all-round quality education, for boys aged 2-11 and girls aged 2-18.

Open Morning and Taster Event at Harrogate Ladies’ College (for girls aged 9-11, Years 5 & 6) will be held on Saturday, 20th October, 9am-1pm.

Contact: 01423 504543.

Summer Adventures at Queen Mary’s

The Key Stage One children at Queen Mary’s have had plenty of fun and excitement in the run up to the end of the Summer Term and they didn’t let the bad weather get in the way. The Year 1 children enjoyed a successful climbing expedition to Brimham Rocks.

Accompanied by the ever-so-bold Miss Charmer, Outdoor Education Instructor, the children found their way through the famous ‘Smartie Tube’ and up and over some weirdly-shaped rocks Everyone took part in the Pirate Secret Mission, Where all children in Years 1 & 2 had to work together as a team to build shelters and cross the ‘shark-invested’ river. The goal was to find the hidden treasure chest and enjoy its contents!

Finally the Year 2 children had a wet, but very fun day out at Flamingoland as a goodbye to the Pre Prep as they prepare to enter the main school in Year 3.

Picture courtesy of Matalan www.matalan.co.uk

cts u d o r p t s e t la One of the best things about going back to school is new stationery!

We asked Jane Miller of Seahorse, Funky Stationery & Art Stuff to choose some for us: Helix Ringbinder Pencil Case This clips inside an A4 & Foolscap ringbinder files, has a clear pvc front & is great value at £1.99. Comes in pink, lime green & turquoise blue.

Super smooth writing pen from Schneider This Slider Edge black pen glides across the page & has a triangular barrel for comfortable writing. £1.50

FaberCastell felt tip ‘Connector Pens’ pack of 10 & 20’s, from £4.50.

Quattro Colori pencil cases in eight funky colours from £2.99!

Chunky erasers in lime green to bright orange & hot pink, £1.49!

Quattro Colori ringbinders & elasticated A4 files from £3.99!

You can now find Seahorse, Funky Stationery & Art Stuff at 70 Market Place, Market Weighton and online at www. funkystationeryandartstuff.co.uk Families Vale of York

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d a e To r or not to read…

by Clare Burkhill-Howarth of Book Events for Children Take a quick look around most Capturing their interest homes with young children and what will you see? If your house is anything like mine, I’ll guarantee you’ll find a mountain of Lego, Playmobil, discarded dolls houses and the usual electronic games and handheld devices. …oh, and of course, some books. Whilst children often have a bookshelf full of books, how do we encourage them to read for pleasure and to choose reading as an enjoyable activity, when they have so many other means of entertainment?

Speaking at the recent Harrogate Children’s Festival, Yorkshire-based author Tom Palmer claimed he was a reluctant reader as a child, until his mum channelled his passion for football by encouraging him to read about football in books, magazines and newspapers.

The wise Mrs Palmer realised that the best way to encourage a reluctant reader is to find a subject that actually interests them. Fast forward to Tom’s successful career as a children’s author, specialising in writing about football!

As Tom’s experience proves, magazines and comics can be an ideal means of encouraging children to enjoy reading.

Who doesn’t remember reading The Beano as a child? In fact, the launch earlier this year of The Phoenix comic is testament to the lasting popularity of this genre. Published weekly, The Phoenix features work from popular children’s illustrators and runs occasional competitions with children’s authors. As parents we can worry that our children should be reading books rather than comics, but once they enjoy reading their tastes tend to broaden over time.

Face to face If your child needs a bit of encouragement to try and read something new, why not arrange for them to meet an author ‘in the flesh’.

Attending book-related events is a fantastic way for children to see authors/ illustrators as ‘real’ people, who may or may not have loved reading as children and to hear about what inspired them to create their stories. Local libraries and bookshops hold regular events with authors and these small group sessions encourage children to chat to authors informally and hear the authors tell the stories in their own voices. Lovers of adventure books should look

out for David Lawrence Jones when he appears at Waterstones York this Halloween to sign copies of his Bradley Baker series. And very excitingly, Jacqueline Wilson will be visiting Harrogate’s Royal Hall this October to discuss her career and writing.

Taking to the stage Taking a child to see an adaptation of a children’s book at the theatre can be a magical experience, as they are drawn into the story unfolding before them, particularly if it is a familiar tale. Theatre companies excel in bringing to life adaptations of popular books, including Julia Donaldson’s much-loved books and classics like The Tiger Who came to Tea. Visit York’s Theatre Royal this autumn to catch a new interpretation of Rapunzel , whilst the ever-popular Handa’s Tale will be brought to life at Harrogate Theatre.

Bookish days out As well as including a visit to the theatre or library in your weekend plans, why not venture a bit further afield? A number of book-related attractions now offer a whole range of events for children; you could take a day trip to Seven Stories in Newcastle or visit Discover Children’s Story Centre on a family visit to London.

I recently took my children to visit The Roald Dahl Museum and Story Centre in Buckinghamshire and the interactive displays really captured their attention.

You could measure your height on a wall chart against Roald Dahl characters; cue much amusement as I was eye to eye with the evil Trunchbull. The contents of Roald Dahl’s writing shed are now on display in the museum and my three were fascinated to see the weird objects the writer kept on display to inspire him, including bone shavings from his backbone.

About us

Book Events for Children is a dedicated website and twitter feed listing book-related for children across the UK. Aimed at grandparents, teachers, parents and carers, we feature events at bookshops, literary festivals, theatres and libraries. The site also features additional content including interviews with authors, publishers and independent bookshops.

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www.bookeventsforchildren.co.uk Twitter: @ChildBookEvents

THE READ SCHOOL PRE-SCHOOL AND PRE-PREP

OPEN MORNING Saturday 6 October 2012, 9.30 - 12.00 noon

Screen time If encouraging your children to read involves dragging them away from the iPad, then don’t overlook the benefits of apps and reading activities online. Nosy Crow, a publishing company which also specialises in producing apps for young children, has created an app based on Axel Scheffler’s latest creation Pip and Posy. Also worth looking out for is The Singing Alphabet app created by The Ministry of Letters. This catchy app was much-loved by my daughter when she was learning her letter sounds. Older children may enjoy visiting the websites of authors, which often offer interactive games and activities. The children’s book app market is relatively new and rapidly evolving so look out for new apps in the coming months.

Finally, as well as encouraging children to read, let’s not overlook the simple power of a good book to capture the imagination of a young reader. I’ve heard tales of parents who say their child never picked up a book until one particular book grabbed them and they haven’t looked back since. For one friend, it was The Boy in the Dress by David Walliams whilst for my younger son, it was The Diary of a Wimpy Kid that kept him up at night reading.

So, whilst as parents we may worry that books are being relegated to a poor second in favour of all the other entertainment on offer, maybe we just need to make the most of the sheer volume of options available to us. We can take advantage of children’s enthusiasm for the online world to introduce them to new authors and apps, we can include an event that brings books alive as part of our weekend plans.

And perhaps, most importantly, we can still sit down and share their favourite books with them.

If your child is aged between 2 and 7 years and you would like to find out more, then please contact Janet Falkingham on 01757 618248 for a prospectus or to arrange a visit

The best possible start The Read School, Drax, Selby, North Yorkshire, YO8 8NL Tel: 01757 618248 : Fax: 01757 617432 www.readschool.co.uk Email: headspa@readschool.co.uk 

Children’s Parties

at Ashville College, Harrogate

• • • • • • • •

Hall hire Dedicated party co-ordinator Pool parties Football parties Kids’ cake decorating Party food catering Bouncy Castle Enjoy-a-ball activities For enquiries and further information please contact our events team on 01423 724827 or email events@ashville.co.uk Ashville College, Green Lane, Harrogate HG2 9JP www.ashvilletrading.co.uk Families Vale of York

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o t e v o m e h T

BIG school

by Alicia Coad of Ashville College Harrogate

Starting secondary school is a milestone in your child’s education, especially when as a parent it seems only two minutes since you were dropping them off on that first day at primary. Whilst it may be both exciting and daunting for the children as they move into a larger school it is mainly just daunting for parents! No longer will you know the names of all the teachers or the parents of your children’s friends, and of course the chances are your child will no longer want you dropping them off or picking them up.

Support

You will be keen to support them, but at the same time learning to keep that distance that older children require. Treading the fine line between supporting them and interfering is like walking a tight rope. Senior schools require children to be far more organised than primary school; each day different equipment and books will be needed. Children will also be faced with far more choice than previously, for example what to have for lunch, which clubs and activities to join, who to sit with in class. They can find this all rather daunting so the more of a routine that can be put in place to offer a constant amongst this changing time, the better.

Things that will help include agreeing a wake up and sleep time, organising when to have tea and whether homework will be done before or after. You should also establish an agreed place where homework will take place and set aside time with your child to empty and repack the school bag for the next day.

Reassurance

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If your child does seem to be struggling in the early weeks reassure them that this is normal. Most children take at least a few weeks to settle into a new school and it is important to remind them of this when they are in a mild panic or a shell shocked silence at the end of the first day. If they do confide in you about problems with a certain teacher or pupil, listen to what they say but try not to let them know how concerned (or annoyed!) you are about the situation; it takes time for new friendships to form and for teacher-pupil relationships to develop, and children need reminding about this. Common worries about starting secondary school are being bullied, not making friends, getting lost, homework, the journey to and from school, getting into trouble, and struggling with the work. Most children will worry about at least one of these and being able to remind them that it’s only ‘normal’ will help curtail their worries.

Settling in

Senior school are the ‘best days of their lives’ for most children and as they will most likely be there for seven years, or at the very least five, the first term needs to be seen as a ‘bedding in’ process, in the same way one approaches the first weeks of a new job or house move. It may seem strange as you sit here now reading this article, but the chances are that in just a few years you will be adjusting their bow tie or finishing their make-up for their leavers prom whilst they stand with a tear in their eye reminiscing about the great friendships they have made at school.

So when September comes and your child refuses to kiss you goodbye, is monosyllabic after the end of the first day and seems to need a hundred and one different things each day, take solace in the fact that it seems only two minutes since you waved them off at the school gate and went home for a sob. They are starting the next exciting part of their journey through life and with your support should leave their school independent, confident and ready for their next stage in life’s journey.

In a world where we are told our children are more internet-savvy than we are, how can we be sure to stay one step ahead of them?

Families editor Belinda Maunsell talks to E-Safety consultant Robin Duckworth about how we can keep our children safe online.

‘One of the first myths that need de-bunking,’ says Robin, ‘is the notion that digital natives know it all. The idea that children know more than their parents has been exaggerated - only around a third of 9-16 years olds believe this to be ‘very true’ *1. And assuming children already know so much can obscure the fact they need support in developing their digital skills.

‘Children will definitely need to be educated in E-Safety from around year 3 of primary school onwards as this is when they begin to become independent users. Many children are accessing the internet away from the family computer too so assuming everything’s okay if the PC is in the living room is naive: 53% go online at a friend’s house, 49% in their bedroom and 33% via a mobile phone or handheld device such as an iPod touch *1.

‘There are some very simple rules to follow,’ says Robin, ‘and loads of information and help is out there for parents. Our workshops teach a series of SMART rules which are easy for children to remember whether they are playing online games or entering the world of social networking. There really is no point in sticking your head in the sand - parents need to make sure their kids know what to do to keep safe and how to react if they encounter something that upsets them online such as bullying, pornography or sexting (sending explicit text messages or photographs).

‘By far the greatest worry that children have is bullying - mainly through the medium of social networking, texts, tweets, videos etc. Despite the fact that across Europe only 6% of 9-16 year-old internet users reported having been bullied online *1, it is the single risk that upsets children the most. Again, by following the

Stay SMART

SMART rules, children should be able to stay safe should any bullying occur.’

What about Social Networking?

‘We all know the age limit for Facebook is 13 - yet we all know lots of children who have an account long before that. I’d advise caution and even when children are old enough there has to be a thorough understanding of who should be able to see your account. Of course it’s always better if your child can be your friend on Facebook and have other adults as their friends too - but it might not be seen as cool the older they get. It’s important to keep the communication lines open. Children derive a great deal of kudos (as do may adults) from having a huge number of Facebook friends and it’s very tempting for them to befriend people they don’t know - or friends of friends. Privacy should be set to friends only.

‘Meeting new people online is popular with children who see it as an opportunity to “make new friends” whilst many adults see it as “meeting strangers” and a risk. Children need to be aware that the person they are talking to may not be who they say they are - again the SMART rules are important as are keeping those communication lines open -as in all areas of parenting.’

Being Proactive ‘Many children are afraid to report online incidents to their parents - be it bullying, making new friends or accessing undesirable sites. This is because

Robin Duckworth is primary teacher who runs courses in schools for both children and adults.

For lots more information about internet safety and to book a course visit Robin’s website at www.cloudeducation.co.uk *1 EU Kids Online Survey Final Report September 2011 which can be found online at www2.lse.ac.uk/media@lse/research/ EUKidsOnline

www.shutterstock.com/Yuri Arcurs

How safe are our kids online?

they fear repercussions from their parents which they believe will inevitably mean losing internet privileges. Above all they don’t want to be banned from going online so they may clam up when they should be sharing. Parents should try not to be draconian about these things but use it as a way of opening up a conversation about what children can do to protect themselves.

Many children when asked how they’d deal with an online bully say they would ignore them - some would share what has happened. The best action is to be proactive and learn how to report and block the perpetrator whilst printing off evidence.’

Get protected ‘My advice would be to make sure you have safety measure in place. Net Nanny is the gold standard but there are may other effective packages out there. Windows & Macs have basic parental controls - make sure you’re using them. I’d also advise parents who are separated to have a conversation about security to make sure there is consistency when their child is with either parent. Protection for mobile devices is still in its infancy so there is a need for extra vigilance but do keep a lookout for what’s coming on the market. It is also worth talking to your children about what they post online themselves: people have lost jobs over what they have posted online. Remind them to think before they post as once a message is out there, it’s potentially out there for ever.’

If you follow these rules then staying safe online should be a breeze: Safe - keep safe by not passing out any of your details online. You should be suspicious if someone asks you where they live for example. You should never tell your email address, phone number or passwords.

Meeting - Don’t arrange to meet anyone you don’t know in person. Tell your parents if someone wants to meet up.

Accepting - Don’t accept friendships from people you don’t know. Where has a file or email come from?

Has it got a virus?

Reliable - is the person who they say they are? Is that website reliable?

Tell - someone if you’re being bullied online or if someone or something makes you feel uncomfortable.

Learn how to block people, report people and keep evidence.

Families Vale of York

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www.shutterstock.com/Drozdowski

r u o y g n i t r o p Sup Left Handed Child 1 in 10 children are left handed, but many fail to get the support they need in the early years of their education. Experts say teachers aren’t given the proper training and schools don’t have the right resources. Sarah Butters is mum to a left handed daughter. She takes a look at some of the most common problems faced by left handers and some tips for helping them out.

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Messy Handwriting If you have a child who is left handed, chances are they haven’t been taught to write. Most are simply allowed to use their left hand. As the right handed parent of a left handed child I admit to having that same attitude. I now know that I was completely wrong.

Left handers push the pen across the page, whereas their right handed friends will pull.

This can lead to smudging and untidy work which in turn leads to anxiety on the part of the child. At an early stage a left handed child should be encouraged to master the correct handwriting position and paper placement to avoid problems as the writing assignments increase.

The paper should be rotated to 45 degrees with the hand and wrist below the writing.

Any pen needs to be held in a strong 3 point grip. In Early Years this can be supported with a triangular bodied pencil or a moulded grip around a regular pencil. If your child can get into good habits from the start of their school life, they will avoid problems when they graduate to a fountain pen and longer writing assignments.

Hook Grip Some left handers use a hooked grip to avoid the problem of smudging, and angle the pen in the same way a right hander would. This causes more problems than

it solves. The hook grip becomes more uncomfortable the more you write. It leads to an overtight grip and aching hands which in turn lead to messy handwriting. The wrist should always be below the writing line. If your child is developing a hook grip, consider introducing a sloped surface to resolve the problem.

Elbow Collision

At some point your child will have to share a desk and if they’re left handed this can be a problem.

“I always end up banging elbows” explains my 9 year old daughter. “That makes my writing messy.”

You child should always be placed at the left hand side of a shared desk or next to another left hander. This gives them plenty of space to get their paper positioned correctly and avoid knocking elbows with a right handed neighbour.

White Boards They’re a teacher’s best friend but a left handers worst nightmare. White boards and chalk boards are a great learning tool in the modern classroom - pupils can get rid of mistakes easily without using endless pieces of paper. However, if you’re left handed you can end up erasing as you write. Good grip and placement of the board gives left handers half a chance. However if your child

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isn’t completing white board work quickly or neatly enough, it may not be their fault.

Mirror Writing I remember being hugely concerned when I discovered that my daughter had completed a Reception assignment using mirror writing. She had begun her words on the right hand side of the page and written from right to left. It’s common in left handed children and when you think about it, it makes sense. If they are sat next to a right hander, they are simply mirroring their work. Encourage them to start on the left hand side of the page by placing a coloured star in the margin as a reminder.

Computers Most ICT rooms are set up with the computer mice on the right hand side of the keyboard. This gives left handed children an automatic disadvantage because they either need to move the mouse or attempt or use their right hand. Don’t presume the teacher knows your child is left handed. Be sure to let all the staff involved with your child know they’re a left hander and will need a different workstation set up.

The ‘Right’ Equipment Many left handed children learn the basics with the wrong equipment. Give a left handed child some right handed scissors

and they’ll find the blade is upside down and so they can’t see the line they are cutting. It means the child has less control and think of themselves as messy.

This can be a real problem in the Early Years. Check your school has left handed scissors to offer your child. Ambidextrous scissors don’t exist – trust me!

As the progress to writing, shiny barreled pens are to be avoided.

Make sure whatever pen you choose has a good grip so it’s easy to hold even when hands get hot and tired. Left handed fountain pens are available from www.anythingleft-handed.co.uk.

They’re worth the investment for older children as the have an angled nib.

Open Morning Thursday 4th October 9:30 - 11:45am Swarcliffe Hall, Birstwith, Harrogate HG3 2JG Tel: 01423 771029 www.belmontgrosvenor.co.uk email: admin@belmontgrosvenor.co.uk

HLC

HLC Highfield Bankfield Harrogate Girls & Boys Ladies Age 2 –College 5 4 11

Harrogate Ladies’ College

Lack Of Understanding As a right hander, I never appreciated the challenges faced by my daughter. Until she mastered left handed writing, she was labelled untidy in her written work and lost enthusiasm for putting pen to paper. It wasn’t until I began researching this piece that I realise how much of her attitude is linked to the hand she writes with. The bad news is she’s had a more challenging time than her right handed pals. The good news is she’s in good company. Barack Obama, Leonardo Da Vinci and Bill Gates are all lefties. Now that’s not a bad club to be in!

A leading independent school right on your doorstep with day pupils enjoying all the benefits of a local in-town boarding school Open Morning & Taster Event for girls aged 9-11 (Years 5 & 6) 20 October 2012 - 9am–1pm Entrance Examination Day - 12 January 2013 Music and Chapel Scholarships available for 11+, 13+ and 16+ entry 2013

Admissions Office: admissions@hlc.org.uk or 01423 504543

USEFUL RESOURCES

www.anythingleft-handed.co.uk has some great left handed guidance sheets for parents and teachers. It’s also a super source of left handed equipment. www.lefthandedchildren.org another great website with some top tips for parents looking to support their left handed child.

Harrogate Ladies’ College, Clarence Drive, Harrogate, North Yorkshire, HG1 2QG

www.hlc.org.uk Families Vale of York

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Play

Therapy Donna Purkis began her career as a nursery nurse and very quickly realised she wanted to make things better for children who were experiencing difficulties or problems in their lives.

‘I’ve worked for a number of children’s charities and helped support families so becoming a therapeutic play practitioner was a natural progression for me. I find the job so rewarding,’ says Donna.

‘The play therapy sessions are non-directive so the children can choose whatever they want from the therapeutic toolkit provided.

With few restrictions in place I often see children open up and start to play out some of their feelings . One child made some paper chicks to go in an egg box which led him to tell me about the chick who was sad because he had no friends and was lonely. Others make use of the puppets I have: children often find it easier to talk about their feelings through the puppets than speaking about themselves. The relationship between the therapist and the client is very important, some children find it much easier to talk to someone like me who is removed from the problem than their parent or teacher. What happens in the sessions is kept confidential and is only shared if the child is at risk of harm or with the child’s permission.

When parents bring their child, they need to be aware I am not here to ‘cure’ them but to enable them to explore their feelings and difficulties. Everything is led by the child,’ says Donna, ‘and we meet at the same time and in the same place every week.’

‘Play therapy shouldn’t be seen as either a reward or a punishment by the child or their parents. We adults wouldn’t see counselling as that - it’s a tool by which they can learn to overcome particular feelings and problems they may have. I’ve worked with children who have all kinds of problems from the arrival of a new baby in the home to friendship and peer group issues. Recently I’ve worked with a group of children on issues surrounding divorce and separation. Children can feel quite isolated but by understanding that they aren’t alone they come to realise that they have common feelings.’

Donna offers a free consultation with parents before therapy begins. She then starts with a strengths and difficulties questionnaire which helps highlight the issues the child is experiencing and forms an assessment.

Donna works flexibly and can travel right across the area to work with children. She’s a certified practitioner and member of PTUK (Play Therapy UK) and has over 27 years experience working with children and their families.

So what’s next for Donna?

‘I’m continuing to work towards my MA ,’ she says, ‘I’m not one for standing still, there is so much to learn!’

Donna Purkis is a certified therapeutic play practitioner. Families editor Belinda Maunsell met up with her to find out all about how play therapy can benefit children.

All about Play Therapy Want to know more? Read on for a detailed look at what play therapy really means.

What is Play Therapy?

Play therapy is basically therapy or counselling for children. Because they are often too young to articulate their feelings and problems as we would, play therapy is used as a means of exploring issues, feelings or situations.

Through play a child can learn to cope with their problems and improve their self-esteem.

It can be used to alleviate a mild emotional problem that might be preventing them from functioning normally.

Who is it for?

Donna works with children between the ages of 3 and 11 and even older if they have additional needs. Children can be referred by their school or health and care professional.

Alternatively, parents can refer their child for support. It can be for absolutely anyone regardless of social standing or income. Any child can have a problem and any child can benefit from this approach.

What problems can Play Therapy help with?

There are many issues children can work through in play therapy. Some examples Donna has worked with are bereavement, divorce, behavioural problems,

How do I find out more?

26

To find out more about play therapy you can visit Donna’s website at www.mytimetherapeuticplay.co.uk or phone her on 01405 862 677 / 07944 097 644 email: donna@mytimetherapeuticplay.co.uk All Donna’s work is bound by PTUK code of ethics and conducted with full clinical supervision. She has a fully enhanced CRB check.

Visit www.apac.org.uk and www.playtherapy.org.uk to find out more about play therapy.

Families Vale of York

adoption, bullying, abuse, phobias, unhappiness, anxiety, transition to a new school and many more.

What happens in a session?

Each session takes place in a school, children’s centre or similar establishment on a weekly basis and lasts 45 minutes. Donna takes her therapeutic play toolkit along and sets out the toys in exactly the same way each week.

The child can choose to do whatever he or she wants with little restrictions. The tool kit consists of arts and crafts, sand, musical instruments, clay, puppets and stories. Parents are not present at the session.

During the first session the child makes a box to put their items in which is taken home on the last session.

How many weeks does therapy last?

Sessions can be 12, 24 or 36 weeks long depending on the child and their particular problems. Children can be taken out of a school lesson or sessions can take place after school.

Why might schools refer a child?

By alleviating emotional and behavioural difficulties, play therapy allows children to become more receptive to teaching and learning. Play therapy can improve social skills, encourage focus and concentration and develop children’s confidence.

Peppa Pig World

Families editor Belinda Maunsell lets the family loose with Peppa and George down in Hampshire

If you’re looking for a half term break with pre-schoolers in tow then a trip to Peppa Pig World would be well worth the journey. We travelled down south this summer as part of a long weekend after having it recommended by friends.

We spent half a day in Paulton’s Park - home of Peppa Pig World arriving just before lunch time. I’d advise an earlier arrival if you want to fit everything in as this is a full day experience. Peppa World takes up about a quarter of the larger Paulton’s Park which caters more for slightly older children.

We have a 10 year old and a 4 year old so headed straight for Peppa World to soak up some of the atmosphere. After a rather long queue for the helicopter ride (this was the summer holidays) we decided to split into 2 camps - boys & girls. We did Peppa whilst the boys went off to discover the thrill rides.

There are seven main rides in Peppa Pig World with lots of side attractions too such as George’s Spaceship, Miss Rabbit’s Ice cream Parlour and a well-stocked toy shop. We managed five of them with very little queuing - around 15 minutes or so each but with a full day we’d have easily got them all in. We also wanted to try out some of the rides in the main part of the park so had to use our time well.

Most rides are fairly tame but India was a bit apprehensive about Windy Castle which towers quite high. I did manage to persuade her on and she was quite happy

once we were seated. You can ride on everything with your little one so they don’t have to go-it-alone unless they want to and every ride has a minimum height & age chart (detailed on the park map) so that you can plan your day accordingly.

We particularly enjoyed George’s Dinosaur ride and Daddy Pig’s Car ride.

Typically, as is the case at such places, India seemed to be attracted to the slides and climbing frames (Mr Potato’s Playground) which were all beautifully safe and clean - but not essentially the reason we made the trip! We also enjoyed meeting Peppa, George and Rebecca Rabbit who made appearances during the day. If you go on a warm day, which we did, there’s lots of opportunity to get wet both inside Peppa World at Muddy Puddles and in the main park in Water Kingdom and the River Ride.

If you forget your swim stuff you can buy a cossie & towel - or use one of the huge ‘dryers’ available.

We had lunch at one of the many eateries and found healthy options such as soup, salad and fruit alongside the more usual fare. Of course there are plenty of places to picnic too. The whole place was very clean and there were plenty of toilets and staff on hand to help.

The boys spent most of the afternoon on the two main thrill rides (sadly Magma was closed) and we even did a swap so that I could have a go on the Cobra, The Pirate Ship and Jumping Beangreat fun! I would say Isaac is at the

Further Information Peppa Pig World is situated on the edge of the New Forest in Hampshire.

You can combine your trip with an extended stay in the area and take in the beautiful surrounding countryside of the New Forest. The south coast resort of Bournemouth is just over half an hour away and Monkey World Ape Rescue Centre is an hour away in Dorset.

Peppa Pig World & Paulton’s Park is open every day between 22nd October - 5th November from 10.30 am - 4.30 pm and is open weekends before this. From 17th November weekend openings are for the Christmas Wonderland.

Children under 1 metre tall are admitted free and there are some great savings to be made by booking in advance online.

Find out more about Peppa Pig World & Paulton’s Park at www.peppapigworld.co.uk and information about The New Forest is at www.thenewforest.co.uk To find out what’s on in Hampshire & surrounding areas visit our sister magazines Families Solent East & Families Solent West online at www.familiesonline.co.uk

top of the age range for the park at 10 but he still managed to have a great time. He is a thrill-seeker so he would have liked to have seen more at that end of the spectrum but if your children are aged up to 10 or prefer slightly gentler rides, then Paulton’s really is perfect.

Outside Peppa World India enjoyed the Teacup Ride, Jumping Jack, Wave Runner, Kontiki and Stinger - a mini-rollercoaster which was quite brave of her given the speed it goes! In truth there was much more we could have ridden but we ran out of time running between rides right up to 5 o’clock.

Granted Hampshire is a long way to go just for a theme park but take in a few more attractions and bear in mind you’ll only have Peppa fans in your house for a few years and we think it was well worth it.

Fun wi th Paddington Bear

TM

27 October – 4 November 2012

A great week of family activities with the one and only

Free entry Paddington Bear will be making personal appearances at intervals on each day.

nrm.org.uk/paddingtonbear

Families Vale of York

27

what’son

in sept/oct‘12

We try to be up to date but, as always, remember to check before you set off. Check too for multiple date entries where we’ve listed under the start date.

Every Day

ANIMAL WORLD AT TOO HOOTS

Lots of animals to see & feed, toys to play on, picnic area, tearoom & garden centre. Hirst Road, Carlton, Near Goole, 01405 862854 4,11,18 & 25 Sept 2pm-3pm

Hidden House Tours

BENINGBROUGH HALL & GARDENS Step below stairs for a rare opportunity to discover the spaces and places the Beningbrough servants worked. All £2 Booking not required 01904 472027 www.nationaltrust.org.uk 8 Sept

Heritage Open Day

NUNNINGTON HALL Free entry all day. 01439 748283 www.nationaltrust.org.uk 8 Sept

Heritage Open Day

RIEVAULX TERRACE & TEMPLES Free entry all day. Explore the woods in a new way through poetry. www.nationaltrust.org.uk 8 & 9 Sept 11am - 5pm

5th Annual Scarecrow Trail

HUNTINGTON MEMORIAL HALL 9 Sept 11am - 4pm

FAIRY DAY

THORP PERROW Lots of very funny, fairy magic with Fairy Ellie! Go in your fairy costumes and have a magical day.

Suitable for all ages - no need to book. 01677 425323 www. thorpperrow.com 15 Sept 10am – 4pm

Spectacular Spiders

BRIMHAM ROCKS Search for spiders and learn more about these web-making wonders!

Join the Ranger on this free event in search of the many spiders that make Brimham Rocks their home.

Discover more about their amazing lives, plus get crafty and make a spider to take back home. Suitable for children aged 5+. Free 01423 780688 22,29 Sept & 6,13,20 Oct 10.30 - 11.30am

Museum Monkeys!

YORK ART GALLERY Under fives and their carers are invited to these fun activity sessions, which include songs, stories, and games. Each of the five sessions has a different theme including Dinosaurs, Birds, Space, Mini-Beasts and Colour. Suitable

28 Families Vale of York

for children over 12 months old.

Booking essential. £4 per child, per session; or pre-book five sessions and get one session free.

Telephone 01904 650333 to book. www.yorkshiremuseum.org.uk 22-23 Sept

Superhero Weekend

EUREKA! See if you have what it takes to be a planet-saving hero. 01422 330069 www.eureka.org.uk 23 Sept 10.30-4.30

Yorkshire Best

6 Oct - 6 Nov

HALLOWEEN TRAIL

THORP PERROW Take a hideous trail with grave diggers, ghosts, and ghouls. £1 extra for trail - Prizes on completion - no need to book. 01677 425323 www.thorpperrow.com

14 Oct 10.30 - 5.30

York Does Vintage

MERCHANT ADVENTURERS HALL Event for all ages. 40+ vintage stalls, signature vintage tearoom, lindy-hop dancing, vintage workshops, beauty bar, children’s corner and much much more.

Supporting the Alzheimer’s Society and York’s SNAPPY! Entry £1 children under 10 free

THE HOSPITIUM, YORK A brand new event for York organised by the curators of York Does Vintage! Enjoy, sample and purchase some of Yorkshire’s finest handmade and home grown produce, in the heart of York!

Try your hand at creating your own Yorkshire inspired goody and indulge in the best cakes in town! Supporting the Alzheimer’s Society and York’s SNAPPY! Entry £1 children under 12 free

EUREKA! Visit the haunted town where fiendish events unfold and lost ghosts wander the streets. 01422 330069 www.eureka.org.uk

27 Sept- 4 Nov 10am - 5pm

23 Oct 11am - 4pm

Autumn Glory

HAREWOOD HOUSE Perfect for family activities and lovers of the outdoors, half term at Harewood includes indoor and outdoor events, storytelling and Hallowe’en fun. Activities include crafts, food demonstrations & tastings, twilight tales, spooky trails and autumn walks. 0113 218 1000 www.harewood.org 28 - 30 Sept

Autumn Steam Gala

NORTH YORKSHIRE MOORS RAILWAY The last steam gala of the year.

Book online at www.nymr.co.uk 29 Sept 12-4pm

Autumn Fayre

ST. EDWARD’S CATHOLIC PRIMARY SCHOOL An afternoon of family fun with favourites such as: bouncy castle, inflatable sumo wrestling, face painting, children’s disco tent, delicious food, tombola, raffle and much more. On Westwood Way, off Boston Spa High Street (LS23 6DX). Admission: Adults £1 and Children free.

29 & 30 Sept

The Medieval Year: Michalemas

RIEVAULX ABBEY Celebrating Michaelmas, costumed performers present life in the 15th century with a day of presentations and living history.

19 Oct - 4 Nov

Ghost Town

Halloween Fun

will be available to take you for a strange adventure looking for monsters!! Suitable for all ages no need to book. 01677 425323 www.thorpperrow.com 27 & 28 Oct

Halloween Experience & the Hex Factor

NUNNINGTON HALL Hear the ghost stories and tales that are abound at Nunnington Hall, and see the house dressed for spooky goings on. Little witches and wizards can enter the Hex Factor fancy dress competition at 2pm in the Hall, or join one of the terrifying ghost tours. 01439 748283 www.nationaltrust.org.uk 27 & 28 Oct

Spooky Theatre in the Woods (for the less brave)

STOCKELD PARK 16 performances between 4.00pm - 8.00pm. Go on a mystical interactive journey.

27 Oct - 2 Nov 1pm - 6pm

FOUNTAINS ABBEY & STUDLEY ROYAL WATER GARDEN Enjoy some spooky fun and games at Studley tearoom this Halloween.

Near Ripon, North Yorkshire 01765 608888 www.fountainsabbey.org.uk

Wizard’s Den

27 Oct - 4 Nov

27 Oct - 2 Nov

Halloween Pumpkin Trail CASTLE HOWARD Take part in a creepy halloween trail. 01653 648333 www.castlehoward.co.uk

27 Oct - 4 Nov 11am – 3pm

School Holiday FunSpiders and Webs

FOUNTAINS ABBEY & STUDLEY ROYAL WATER GARDEN Follow the clues on a trail and join in with drop-in craft activities in Swanley Grange. Near Ripon, North Yorkshire 01765 608888 www. fountainsabbey.org.uk 27 & 28 Oct

The Big Draw Weekend

NATIONAL COAL MINING MUSEUM FOR ENGLAND Work with an artist and join in with the nation-wide campaign to get Britain drawing.... 01924 848806 www.ncm.org.uk 27&28 Oct 12pm, 2pm & 4pm

MONSTERS & BEASTIES WALK THORP PERROW Find out which of the many weird characters that live in the woods

STOCKELD PARK Visit Wizard Malin as he preforms magic in his den. Take home a spooky gift from his cauldron from.

All ages. Prices: £5.50 per child.

Face Painting

STOCKELD PARK Fabulous face painting from 2.00 5.00pm. £3.50 per child.

27 Oct - 4 Nov

Autumnal Family Fun NUNNINGTON HALL Half term trails & fun. 01439 748283 www.nationaltrust.org.uk 27 Oct - 4 Nov

Time Travellers Go...

Ghosts & Ghouls

WHITBY ABBEY Let your little horrors scare themselves silly this Halloween with creepy crafts, spooky activities and ghost hunting galore! Meet a Victorian Undertaker costumed performer for a look at Victorian funerals and ghost hunts around the abbey! www.english-heritage.org.uk 27 Oct – 4 Nov

Fun with Paddington Bear ™ NATIONAL RAILWAY MUSEUM Paddington Bear™ will be here for the October school holidays so grab your duffle coat and marmalade sandwiches and join

in with lots of family fun. You’ll have the chance to meet him at various times throughout the day and dress up like the bear himself. There’ll also be lots of other half term activities taking place including steam rides, storytelling, science shows, theatre performances and a craft activity. www.nrm.org.uk/paddingtonbear 0844 815 3139 www.nrm.org.uk 27 Oct - 4 Nov 12 - 5pm

Craft Activity

STOCKELD PARK Visit the activity area where you can make a pirate ship, or a dinosaur, design a wand and much more. £2.00 per child.

27 Oct - 4 Nov 11am - 4.30pm

Half Term Children’s Halloween Tours

TREASURER’S HOUSE Halloween Children’s trails and Roman Ghost cellar tours. Free children’s trails, normal house admission applies. www.nationaltrust.org.uk 01904 624247 27 Oct - 4 Nov

Halloween Catwalk

STOCKELD PARK Dress up in your best Halloween outfit & take part in the daily Catwalk. The best dressed wins a fabulous goodie bag filled with treats. FREE.

29 Oct - 4 Nov

Wild Woodland at Halloween

HARLOW CARR Half term family fun. 01423 565418 www.rhs.org.uk/gardens/harlowcarr 30 Oct 11am – 3pm

Geocaching Taster Day FOUNTAINS ABBEY & STUDLEY ROYAL WATER GARDEN Join in with a digital treasure hunt.

Find out how to hide and seek geocaches and borrow GPS units to have a go. Near Ripon, North Yorkshire 01765 608888 www.fountainsabbey.org.uk 30 Oct 12 - 6pm

Magic Hatter

STOCKELD PARK Close-up magic, balloon modelling and two spellbinding magic shows starring The Magic Hatter as The Wizard of Wonderland! Brimming with a cauldron full of magic, a pinch of storytelling, a drop of mystery and a dash of excitement – perfect for fans of a certain boy wizard! Special shows at 1:30 and 3:30pm. FREE. 31 Oct

Wicked Wednesday

27 Oct - 4 Nov & every weekend all season 1-5pm

NOSTELL PRIORY Celebrate Halloween - £1 per child 01924 863892 www.nationaltrust.org.uk

Glitter Tattoos

31 Oct & 1 Nov 12 - 5pm

STOCKELD PARK Get a fun fantastic glitter tattoo £1.00 to £2.50 per stencil.

28 Oct

Halloween Family Event NOSTELL PRIORY Join in this Halloween Craft event just in time for the day itself! 01924 863892 www.nationaltrust.org.uk

29-30 Oct 10am–12pm & 1pm–3pm

Creepy CrawliesHibernation Box Making

FOUNTAINS ABBEY & STUDLEY ROYAL WATER GARDEN Create your own insect hibernation box at drop-in craft workshops in Fountains Mill. £2.50 per box. Booking essential, tel: 01765 643197 Near Ripon, North Yorkshire 01765 608888 www. fountainsabbey.org.uk 29 & 30 Oct 12- 5pm

Halloween Biscuit Decorating

STOCKELD PARK Decorate your own tasty Halloween treat. Price: £2.50 per biscuit.

29 Oct - 2 Nov

Animals In-Tuition

Live Creepy Creatures

STOCKELD PARK Meet an array of Halloween creatures including spiders, snakes and scorpions. FREE. 31 Oct & 1,2,3 Nov 5.30pm-9.30pm

Fright Nights (for those who are brave enough)

STOCKELD PARK Go along in your scariest Halloween costume and if you dare, let AtmosFEAR take you on a haunted walk through 3 scary settings, all haunted by creepy characters.

Be prepared to be scared! Ticket price will include entry to all three attractions.

1-3 Nov

Dracula at Night

WHITBY ABBEY Bram Stoker’s classic tale is brought to life in the ruins of Whitby Abbey revealing a remote castle, a shipwreck and vampires The 5.30pm performance is suitable for families and children aged 8+ www.english-heritage.org.uk

MAGNA A witch’s brew of Snakes, Spiders, Frogs and all that creeps awaits you.

If you are feeling brave enough to go along and get to know these animals a little closer! Workshops will take place between 10.00am and 3.30pm and will last approx 30mins. £2 per child.

01709 720002 www.visitmagna.co.uk

2 Nov 11am - 3pm

29 Oct - 2 Nov

STOCKELD PARK Don’t miss the opening bang!

Arrive by 5:15pm to see the start of the famous fireworks at 5:30pm.

Fireworks charges start earlier in the day. Price: £5.50 per person or £20 for a family of four.

Half-Term Holiday Fun

NATIONAL COAL MINING MUSEUM FOR ENGLAND Art and craft, living history and a look inside the Museum’s stores, throughout the school holidays. 01924 848806 www.ncm.org.uk

CHILDREN’S ACTIVITY DAY

THORP PERROW An exciting day in the woods, you can join in at any time. Suitable for all ages - no need to book. 01677 425323 www.thorpperrow.com 4 Nov

Firework Spectacular

The Cupcake Queen’s recipe for

theatre 11 - 15 Sept

Horrible Histories-Terrible Tudors and Vile Victorians HULL NEW THEATRE www.hullcc.gov.uk/hullnewtheatre 01482 300 300 15 Sept

The Frog Who Wouldn’t Hop

LAWRENCE BATLEY THEATRE 01484 430528 www.lbt-uk.org 18 Sept

A Midsummer Night’s Dream

POCKLINGTON ARTS CENTRE Great introduction to Shakespeare for the whole family. 01759 301547 www.pocklingtonartscentre.co.uk 27 Sept - 13 Oct

Rapunzel

YORK THEATRE ROYAL 01904 623568 www.yorktheatreroyal.co.uk

Yummy Vanilla

Halloween

Cupcakes 250g softened unsalted butter 250g caster sugar 250g self raising flour 5 medium free range eggs 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract

28 & 29 Sept

Yummm

LAWRENCE BATLEY THEATRE 01484 430528 www.lbt-uk.org 4 - 6 Oct

Peter Pan

ALHAMBRA THEATRE BRADFORD 01274 432000 www.bradford-theatres.co.uk 11 - 13 Oct

Angelina Ballerina The Mousical ALHAMBRA THEATRE BRADFORD 01274 432000 www.bradford-theatres.co.uk 13 Oct

There Was an Old Lady Who Swallowed a Fly POCKLINGTON ARTS CENTRE 01759 301547 www.pocklingtonartscentre.co.uk 14 Oct

Jacqueline Wilson

HARROGATE ROYAL HALL The popular children’s author will be talking about her career and the new book ‘Emerald Star’, the eagerly anticipated final instalment in the Hetty Feather trilogy.

19 Oct

1) Put the butter and sugar in a mixer or bowl and mix until light and fluffy.

2) Add the eggs and the flour and mix, but do not over mix.

Add the extract.

3) Line 2 x 12 cupcake tins with cases and divide the mix between the 24 cases.

4) Put the cakes into a preheated oven of 180 degrees celsius for about 20 minutes or until the cakes is golden.

5) Take out of the tin and leave to cool on a rack.

For the Buttercream 250g unsalted soft butter 500g icing sugar 2 teaspoon vanilla extract small amount of colour paste..for these cupcakes I used orange sugarflair.

Farmboy

POCKLINGTON ARTS CENTRE Sequel to War Horse by former Children’s Laureate Michael Morpurgo. 01759 301547 www. pocklingtonartscentre.co.uk 20 Oct

How Lion Became King of Tinga Tinga Land ST. GEORGE’S HALL BRADFORD www.bradford-theatres.co.uk 01274 432000 23 Oct

There Was an Old Lady Who Swallowed a Fly

DONCASTER CIVIC THEATRE 01302 342349 www.doncastercivic.co.uk 24 - 27 Oct

Northern Ballet Beauty & The Beast

ALHAMBRA THEATRE BRADFORD www.bradford-theatres.co.uk 01274 432000 27 Oct

The THree Billy Pigs

LAWRENCE BATLEY THEATRE 01484 430528 www.lbt-uk.org 29 Oct - 3 Nov

Grease

GRAND OPERA HOUSE YORK 01904 67181 31 Oct

Sleeping Beauty

WAKEFIELD THEATRE ROYAL AND OPERA HOUSE Russian State Ballet 01924 211311 www.wakefieldtheatres.co.uk 31 Oct - 3 Nov

Beauty & The Beast on Ice

HULL NEW THEATRE www.hullcc.gov.uk/hullnewtheatre 01482 300 300 1 - 3 NOV

His Dark Materials - Part 1 YORK THEATRE ROYAL Suitable for ages 12+ 01904 623568 www.yorktheatreroyal.co.uk

1) Add all the ingredients into the bowl and whisk on high until fluffy.

2) Put the buttercream into a piping bag, I used a star nozzle although you can just spoon the buttercream on.

3) Swirl the buttercream around the cooled cupcakes. This buttercream mix will cover all 24 cupcakes.

4) Then go mad...add sweets, icing shapes, let your children have fun making icing shapes and decorating the cupcakes.....

Happy Halloween Baking Families Favourite lloween Game

Ha

Wrap the Mummy!

Preparation: purchase lots of rolls of cheap loo roll (at least one per person) Gather the kids into small group or two teams, if there aren’t many of you. One person in each team agrees to be the Mummy and the others have 3 minutes in which to wrap their Mummy in as much toilet roll as possible. The team with the best wrapped Mummy is the winner.

CAUTION!!! This may cause mild fits of hysteria

TheParentBusiness

Bakewell Travel At the age of 50 single mum Jacquie Cole allowed her inner rebel to return and began her own business.

‘When I left school I had no career plan,’ says Jacquie, ‘just a determination to travel, which was probably a consequence of spending every childhood holiday in Scarborough. I somehow got a job in Switzerland, then France for a year, before becoming a trainee travel agent in York. Later as branch manager of a multiple agency my rebellious streak resurfaced when, disillusioned with the industry’s directional selling policy, I left to back-pack round the world for a year. Last year as a single mum aged 50 and working in an independent agency, the rebel returned and I decided to start my own business.’

Bakewell Travel is a small group of self employed travel professionals and with her experience Jacquie knew she could offer her clients a tailor-made holiday whilst offering the best personal service.

‘Another aspect of my job that is now more enjoyable is being able to walk to work rather than commute - and I can choose my own clothes instead of being issued a lurid polyester uniform blouse!’

So how does Jacquie find working for herself fits around family life?

‘Life’s so much easier now.

Instead of dashing off at 7.45 I spend an hour or so doing chores then walk to work for 9.30. I work by appointment so make sure I keep clear the times I am needed for the boys and their activities. I finish between 4pm and 5pm and am home at least an hour earlier than when I was employed.

‘When it’s busy I might have to do some work at home in an evening and sometimes I meet clients in the evening if it’s a more convenient time for them.

‘I had no plans to work for myself,’ says Jacquie, ‘it was a snap decision following a chance meeting with some other Bakewell Travel consultants at an awards dinner last year. Afterwards I kept thinking, if they could do it so could I, and within just a couple of weeks I’d taken on an office and handed my notice in at the job I’d been in for almost 20 years. It was incredibly impulsive but just felt completely right, a real gut instinct.’

‘There can be a few difficulties but nothing that can’t be sorted out.

There is more administration than people realise and occasionally there might be a difficult flight schedule change that impacts on all the arrangements in an itinerary causing a lot of extra work, but there is always a way to solve things.’

Jacquie particularly enjoys getting to know her clients and suggesting holiday ideas they might not have thought of or that they thought were too complicated to do themselves.

‘You need to do something that you really enjoy. With a new business you will spend a lot of time working on it to start with so its important to enjoy it. Go with your gut instinct, it’s usually right, and think positively all the time.

There will be challenges but we can all learn from them and they can make us and our businesses stronger.

Jacquie advises other parents thinking of working for themselves to make sure it’s something they have a passion for:

‘Putting together family adventures is particularly rewarding. Canada for example can include treetop treks, ziplining over waterfalls, bear and whale watching. Sri Lanka in contrast has temples, the more information: Elephant orphanage and tea plantations. Feedback from Jacquie Cole families who have exchanged Bakewell Travel, Harrogate. the beach for an adventurous holiday, literally creating Tel: 01423 704 127 Mob: 07711494891 memories to last a lifetime, is www.bakewelltravel.co.uk/harrogate very rewarding.’

beta mum

You will probably see me gliding elegantly round York this week, with my collar turned up and a deep fringe over my eyes.

Expect me to be icily cool, uttering only a few devastatingly apposite words, before disappearing like a will o’the wisp into the shadows.

This is because I’m cultivating an air of mystery. And I’m cultivating an air of mystery because I’m fed up with being the person who says things like, ‘Smell my ears, they’re all minty.’

Urging relative strangers to sniff one’s ears is not the type of thing that graceful women do. Mind you, a graceful woman wouldn’t have found herself in the situation that led me to have boast-worthy fresh-smelling ears in the first place.

I had an important appointment in town. All sorted. There was just the right amount of time to apply hair dye, purchase my tax disc online, hop in the car and head off.

My hair is currently a very bright raspberry red, so I slapped it all over my bonce, tied the whole caboodle up stylishly in a Sainsbury’s carrier bag to minimise drippage, and logged on.

‘We could not process your application for road tax as we do not have a record of an up-todate MOT for this vehicle.’

WHAT???? Head rustling and squidging scarlet gunk under my carrier bag headwear, I embarked on the search for the MOT certificate needle among the paperwork haystack.

The triumph of finding it was tarnished a bit by the shocking and unexpected realisation that the DVLA were right and I was wrong.

Fortunately, my local garage is almost opposite my house and the owner is a neighbour.

‘Gary, please can you MOT my car today? Please, please.’

The long-suffering Gary must be used to scatty women because he just laughed and told me to drop it over asap.

But if I can’t drive into town for my appointment, I’ll have to get the bus. God bless Google.

Fifteen minutes or an hour and 15 minutes.

I know you think I went dashing out with the carrier bag on my head but I’m not an idiot (no heckling from the back please). I whacked the shower on full blast and rinsed like crazy, leaving the place dripping with more red than a bathroom at The Bates Motel .

But it wasn’t just the bath that suffered. Great stains of raspberry dye had dripped down my ears, face and neck.

But, dear readers, I have a Top Tip for you. Toothpaste, applied topically, is the best hair dye remover there is. So I grabbed my trusty tube of Colgate and ran.

The mechanic said the farmer wouldn’t mind if I ran across the field to the bus stop and I caught the bus with seconds to spare.

Which is how I found myself sitting on the 415, red-faced, sweaty, wet-haired and with bits of wheat stuck to my clothes, smearing toothpaste on my face and using an inch square handbag mirror to check I wasn’t still looking like someone who’d had major brain surgery without being swabbed clean afterwards.

Triumphantly, I arrived at my appointment bang on time. An elegant, mysterious, graceful woman would have entered the room like a swan.

Not I. ‘Sorry I look a bit sweaty. I’ve had a nightmare. Smell my ears, they’re all minty.’

As if the public humiliation I heap upon myself wasn’t enough, my eight-year-old reckons that if an old fool like me can write a column, so can he.

Here is his offering: 21st Century Boy I think children today are a bit smarter than children in the past because my mum thought england was everywhere. She thought the eiffel tower was a metal thing two miles away from her home in Margate and the leaning tower of piza was in Broadstairs and she couldent understand why it wouldent lean.

On reflection, I think cultivating an air of mystery is a lost cause.

Families Vale of York

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Outstanding education for children aged 4-7

Family Open Day Saturday 6th October 1.30 - 4.30pm Come and join our fun day for families with young children!

• Bouncy Castle • Face Painting • Story Telling

• Singing • Games • Healthy Snacks

‘Outstanding’ ISI Inspection 2010/2011 Registrations currently being taken Ashville College

Green Lane, Harrogate, North Yorkshire HG2 9JP 01423 566358 ashville@ashville.co.uk www.ashville.co.uk