Families VOY May / June 13

52

may/june2013 issue

速

free

FRANCES SIMON SPEECH & DRAMA COACHING Fun and stimulating classes for students of all ages led by a professionally trained actress Call or email today and book a taster session

m: 07876541923 | e: info@francessimon.co.uk www.francessimon.co.uk

call to book a free trial session York Area

Harrogate

07882 267971

07725 339257

for children ages 2-6

www.tennis-tots.co.uk

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

2 Families

Vale of York

welcome to families

We’re all about birthdays this issue and we have been at home too. My daughter’s obsessed with me reciting the order of family birthdays wanting to know ‘who’s next’ until we get to hers. Then we have to stop and discuss what party she might be having swimming when she’s six, or maybe a clown or a disco. A pamper party at seven, definitely.

Perhaps a princess cake this year - Belle or Cinderella? And if it’s not birthday order she’s asking about, she wants to know how old she will be when her brother’s twelve, or fifteen. I’m sneakily making it into maths but she doesn’t realise.

My son turned 11 in April and he asked for an ‘at home’ party. I was a little nervous. I vowed we wouldn’t have boys en masse in the house after they could walk. As it turned out they were delightful but it’s hard to be anything else when you’re snuggled up watching The Hobbit in an animal onesie eating pizza. I think it’s because they know I have photos and may use them in the future.

families magazine

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

The deadline for the July/Aug 2013 edition is early June 2013

Front cover: Clothing from

Polarn O. Pyret www.polarnopyret.co.uk Designed by: MOOIdesign

Tel: 01405 869045 Printed by: Warners Midlands PLC www.warners.co.uk Copyright Families in the Vale of York May/ June 2013. 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.

“Professional, reliable childcare

Whatever you do to celebrate your children’s milestones, enjoy every minute they’re only young once!

Editor of Families VOY

in this issue p4 news p8 parties p16 preparing for exams p17 travel p18 days out reviews p19 what’s on p23 beta mum

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Families Vale of York

3

news

Brackenfield’s Shoes making Big Strides in Africa

NEW - Frances Simon Speech and Drama Classes Children have fun, gain confidence, and get the opportunity to sit internationally recognised LAMDA qualifications in Poetry or Acting at these new classes run by Frances Simon.

“There are after-school places for primary school children on a Monday at Heworth Primary School,” says Frances who played The Angel Gabriel in the 2012 York Mystery Plays. “Classes also run on Tuesdays in The Groves and soon we’ll be starting at Carr Junior School, Acomb on Thursdays.”

Frances also runs Wednesday after-school classes for secondary school students at URC church hall, Priory Street. Courses for the year finish on 18th July so book early as places fill quickly!

To find out more or try a taster session, call or email: 07876 541923 • info@francessimon.co.uk. www.francessimon.co.uk

Hold a

Craft Party Paint! Stick! Make!

All occasions, all ages All materials supplied Tuition & support given

Over the past weeks pupils at Brackenfield School on Duchy Road, Harrogate have searched out their unused and outgrown shoes for the villagers of Chisasa in Malawi.

The shoes are taken directly to the village by aid workers where they are shared equally amongst those of greatest need.

Principal, Anthony Comerford was delighted to support this cause; “This is an extremely innovative and direct way of helping people. So often children’s used shoes are in a nearly are s new state since children’s feet grow t summer holiday ge for n’t do re, finally he so quickly, apart perhaps from school get your child to e tim With spring now od go a rner. Now’s n be ready for shoes! The villagers are receiving shoes ca y the t just around the co tha so imming lessons that are as good as new. In this country booked in for sw they have little value and so often they sons with les their holidays. ing ok bo on get left in boxes in the loft.” son!

MERSWIMMING M les e SU fre a ote t qu ge u ll yo If ng School you wi mi im Sw h Head Teacher, Judith Skillington was los Sp Splish ol.com shswimmingscho also delighted to support this good www.splishsplo cause: 0844 264 1102 “We support many charities throughout the year and this one has really caught the children’s attention. They can see first- hand how their donations help those in need.”

To highlight the new toys John Crane have added Brackenfield pupils have been able to learn to their range, Treasures have planned a number of more about this part of Africa and would like giveaways. The first this year was the Beautiful Cake to thank year 3 parent Mrs. Vivien Sabel for Shape Sorting Stand won by Rebecca Beadle, from introducing them to this good cause and Shadwell. helping them to stride out to Africa.

The second Giveaway will be Woofer which was

Splish Splosh FREE lesson with

Treasures Giveaway!

included as one of the Treasures Christmas Gift recommendations in the Families Christmas Gift guide 2012.

The Woofer has now also won ‘Best Preschool Toy 2013’ at ToyFair this year.

Woofer is a dog shaped guitar. It’s great After great success fun and has lots of funky features with 3 in Leeds different modes: eclectic, acoustic and and Hull, New Flex Dance hound dog! He comes with 20 sing Classes have arrive d in York. along favourites and a music book and Flex Dance involves Musical is recommended for children aged 2+ Theatre & Street Da nce tuition for children Treasures price is £35 but if you want aged 5-11 years an d offers to be in with a chance of winning students classes tha t build confidence him, all you need to do is add whilst making new friend s and having fun! your contact details to the If your child loves da competition box at Treasures ncing around the livi ng room then book yo next time you are in store. ur FREE taster sess ion at Fishergate Primary Treasures giveaway starts on School by calling Fle Dance on 07921 22 x 15 May and the winner will be 2 710. selected on 30 June.

Flex Dance Arrives in York

www.thelittlegym.co.uk

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

4 Families

preschool/ kindergarten gymnastics

Vale of York

primary school gymnastics

holiday camps

birthday parties

Donya Keys ARAD CBTS RAD RTS tel 0755 735 5562 principal@enpointeyork.co.uk www.enpointeyork.co.uk Classes from £3 • From ages 1yr+ • Ballet Birthdays • Venues in York

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Develop your child’s skills and confidence

Bankfield Easter Bon net and Palm Parade

L to R: Victoria Ellis, Holly Gardiner, Elspeth Foster-Lil and Alice Grierson

Mount Girls are Debating Champions Girls from The Mount School, York won their debates at the West Yorkshire Playhouse on March 18 in the hotly contested Debating Matters competition which is organised by the Institute of Ideas. The girls now take their place in the national finals in London in June.

Ed Noel, London Administrator of the Debating Matters competition said “This year over 270 schools have taken part. The preliminary rounds of the national finals will be held at the University College of London from 28 June with the final debate held at the Royal Society of Medicine on 30 June.” Over the past 10 years, over 20,000 students from 400 schools have taken part in the competition.

Pupils from Bankfield Pre-Prep, braved the snow to take part in the ir very own Easter Bonne t Parade this March. The children aged 3 and 4 wore their amazing cre ations whilst taking part in the ir Easter service held at the School’s Chapel. The next day, they joined older pupils for the School’s annual Palm Parade complete with ‘Geldof’ the donkey wh o led all the pupils to Chapel.

Get fit with Kettlercise An exciting new exercise class has begun in York at Acomb Methodist Church. Kettlercise is run by Sarah Annakin and promises to get you fit - with the aid of kettlebells!

For more information call Sarah on 07828 727 539

Stockeld Opening for summer adventures

We’re really excited to learn that Stockeld Park in Wetherby will be opening for the summer A team from The Mount School also won this year. the East of England finals of the Rotary Their Summer Adventure Youth Speaks competition organised by opens for the first time this July the international Rotary club to encourage and families can now spend public speaking skills among the young, summer days finding new and active adventures within and earned their place in the national finals which will be held at Hull University in April. the beautiful surroundings of the estate.

Highlights of the Summer Adventure include outdoor Deputy Principal Victoria Sherwood, is roller skating, a huge yew tree maze, go kart track, and thrilled with their win: jumping pillow, whilst indoor play has any rainy days “At The Mount, our girls are able to grow covered. If that all sounds a bit energetic you can re-fuel and learn in a single-sex environment from the yummy woodland cafe or with your own picnic which allows them to be comfortable in the parkland. in their own skins. They speak with The real star of the Summer Adventure is the magical confidence and listen with compassion, Enchanted Forest, a unique interactive adventure through and this comes out clearly in their the ancient woodland of Stockeld Park. Climb, scramble presentation and speaking skills.” and play as you explore the Enchanted Forest and discover new sculptures and installations at every turn. Let your imagination guide you for a truly magical summer at Stockeld Park. looking for an are sic Stockeld Park’s Summer Adventure opens mu ol ho od Singamajigs pre-sc between 20th July and 1st September rk. If you have a go Yo in er ch tea al addition with children, 2013. One entry charge applies, or grab a ng rki wo e lov d an 01423 singing voice summer long Season Card for even more you. Call Karen on for t jus be uld co s thi o.uk adventures. www.stockeldpark.co.uk info@singamajigs.c

Could this be you?

552918 or email

Sponsored Readathon at Highfield Prep Pupils at Highfield, part of Harrogate Ladies’ College, held a sponsored Readathon week in March, and on World Book Day the pupils dressed up as their favourite fictional characters with spectacular results.

By the end of the week the pupils had raised a fantastic £500 which is to be split between CLIC Sargent, Roald Dahl’s Marvellous Children’s Charity and Readwell.

Our dance and movement classes are a great introduction to physical exercise for kids aged 6 months to 4 years Singing Dancing Skipping Hopping Music Instruments Colours Numbers Balance Confidence Coordination Interaction Fun Certificates Contact Katie to find out where your local classes are...

T: 0113 287 6252 M: 07834 266350 www.kids2dance.co.uk Families Vale of York

5

Two independent local children’s music groups are celebrating birthdays. We caught up with High Low, Quick Slow and Singamajigs to find out the secrets of their success.

High Low, Quick Slow

I first spoke to Anne and Sarah back in 2009 when their business was relatively new. Now, 4 years on and 5 into business, to what do the sisters attribute their enduring success?

“We’re so pleased to have been able to continue expanding our ideas,” says Anne,” and I’m sure it’s all down to the fact that we decided to build a business which utilised our best skills. We’re both ex-primary school teachers with musical backgrounds, so working in that area was obvious.

We also had young children of our own so needed to fit around that - and of course the fact we’re sisters has a great impact on what we do.”

“We’re completely tuned into each other,” says Sarah.” We know just at a glance what the other is thinking which helps us on a day-to-day basis and with our planning.”

I asked how things had changed since they began and both agreed classes were now much slicker.

“We’ve trialled such a lot of ideas and know what works well now,” says Anne, “and of course we run more classes now - with more children.”

“We began with one little class for friends, now we have 5 regular classes full of up to 20 children a week together with our work in nurseries either as regular or one-off sessions. We now see more dads and grandparents come along to classes and we have produced a CD for children to sing along with at home.

The secret to our success has to be organisation, enthusiasm and focus on our customers - the children, who deserve the very best.”

High Low, Quick Slow run music and movement classes for children aged 6 months to 5 years. Check their website for more information and class venues. They also run parties - see our party guide for more details.

www.highlowquickslow.co.uk

Singamajigs

Singamajigs has just celebrated its 7th birthday and director Karen Allen is thrilled with the way the business has grown.

“I was looking for something that would fit around my children,” says Karen and the retail job I was doing before didn’t allow me much them with them.

I’ve a strong background in music and love little ones so the choice was obvious to me!”

Rather than things getting easier with time, Karen feels more challenges have come her way: “In the beginning I was full of ideas and they flowed freely! Nowadays it’s harder to keep things fresh - but I do - and I love the challenge that goes with thinking up new ideas.”

Karen’s classes have run across Harrogate and more recently she’s moved classes into York at the Theatre Royal.

“I’ve been successful, I think, because the groups we’ve created have become communities and our teachers take time to get to know everyone. Sharing music is one of the most valuable things we can do with our children, it connects us all, creates memories and continues tradition.”

Karen’s also seeing a change in the make-up of her classes.

“Increasingly we’re seeing dads and grandparents as well as nannies and carers. Grandparents are particularly enjoying classes as they are a new concept - they weren’t around when they were parenting little ones.”

Karen now has other teachers running classes across our region. They also do parties - see our party listings for more information.

To find out more visit www.singamajigs.co.uk

6 Families

Vale of York

Say It Personally launch Snappy Tags Labelling clothes is such a chore, and so timeconsuming!

Not anymore though because Snappy Tags, from on-line gift retailer Say It Personally, is the one-click way to label school uniforms, clothing and other items quickly and securely. No more sewing in labels or taking time ironing on adhesive tags that come off in the wash. Snappy Tags is similar to a small button and very simple to use.

Say It Personally just laser etch the name you need onto the Snappy Tags. Using Permanent EtchRM laser processes they guarantee that the name won’t fade or wash off. So you always know who the garment belongs to.

Families decided to test Snappy Tag - and who better to ask than an 11 year old who needs to label his clothes for scout camp in 2 weeks’ time.

“

Isaac’s verdict:

I found out that Snappy Tags is a simple yet effective way of labelling clothes. In your Snappy Tags package you will receive a Snappy Tags applicator, your chosen tags and the tag backs. All you have to do is pop the tag into the applicator, put in the strip of backs, pick up your garment and snap it onto the label. It only takes about 30 seconds once you know what you’re doing. The good thing is that when you snap the tag and the tag back together, it doesn’t puncture a hole in the garment, so it doesn’t look all tatty. You can also reuse the Snappy Tags so when they are removed with special tool, you can use the same one on another piece of clothing -you only need to buy more backs.

I’d highly recommend Snappy Tags - and so would my mum - mainly because she HATES sewing!

“

Happy Birthday to You

REVIEW

www.snappytags.co.uk

Story Studios

Rose Donaghy is turning local school children into recording stars whilst bringing literacy alive in schools, pre-schools and homes across York.

Primary teacher Rose’s new enterprise is inspiring children to write creatively and then vocally perform and record their stories using her hi-tech recording expertise.

“Children love having the opportunity to record their own voices and listen back to what they’ve created,” says Rose, “and I’ve found it really fires up their imaginations.”

Radio 2’s 500 Words competition Rose is presently reading stories as a volunteer judge for the BBC Radio 2 ‘500 words’ creative writing competition She’d like to encourage any children from The Vale of York area who entered a story into the competition to contact her.

“I’d love to give these children a opportunity to record their own story onto C.D. with me,” says Rose.

“It is not connected with the competition in any way - it’s a ‘stand-alone’ offer from me - but a great opportunity to capture your story for ever.”

See contact details for further information.

Children create a short story, poem, rhyme or sketch either individually or as part of a group. She then records the performance either at school, pre-school or their home and then Rose adds her own particular magic to create a masterpiece that will keep forever.

“During the production stage I add audio effects, jingles and atmospheric music to make a really professional recording. The children love to hear the finished product and the whole process pushes them to produce work of a very high standard.”

Recently Rose worked with children from The Mount School and

Children create / read / perform

a story, poem, rhyme or sketch individually, in pairs or as a group.

Knavesmire Primary School in York where the children have produced some super animal stories involving evil rabbits, a freaky fat fox and the most incredible astonishing elephant!

“The children really do entertain and perform as imaginative story-tellers during the sessions,” says Rose and what’s so special about the process is that each child has their story, together with their friends’ stories on a disc that will keep for ever.”

“Story Studios is a great party activity for a group of children who enjoy performing. They might want to create their own mini play, for example - I add the special effects and every child gets a CD of their creation.”

In addition Rose is in the process of collaborating on workshop events at York Theatre Royal recording sketches and is in the initial stages of a festival project for the The Yorkshire Tour de France, where the children’s C.D.s would be played in various venues throughout York during the festival.

Children record

with Rose either at school, pre-school or at home

Schools, Pre-schools and Parents: For more information about how Rose can turn your children’s stories into a masterpiece, contact Rose at rose@ storystudios.co.uk visit www.storystudios.co.uk / or call 07703 129071 Schools - will not be charged for their initial first class trial session.

Pre-Schools - A unique fundraising opportunity

Rose Produces the recording

adding audio effects, jingles & atmospheric music. Their voice and story is on record for ever!

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

TRSSON LE

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

7

jointparties extra fun

o

? e h c a d a e r huge h hton

By Carey

McNaug

I don’t know about you, but I’ve noticed that joint parties are back in fashion. I have to say that I’m a big fan and have loved helping organise joint parties for my own children in recent years. The savings that can be made when party costs are shared, and the extra fun and reduced stress you experience when organising a party with other people are the biggest reasons for this. Recently some friends asked me how to approach people and start organising a joint party so I thought I’d share some of my tips.

Plan early...

• Are they likely to to be able to agree on a theme/ entertainer?

Most joint parties will involve an entertainer and/or venue.

As some of these can be booked up months in advance (particularly if your party is at a busy time of the year, like Christmas), you will need to start planning early, especially if you have a very definite idea about what you want.

• Will the children be happy to share their birthday party?

Bear in mind that joint parties can take more time to plan, simply because you need to make sure everyone is happy with the proposed arrangements.

Before you approach other parents you need to think about whether the joint party will work. Here are a few questions you should ask yourself before you speak to them.

• Are your children friends?

We all know that children can be friends one day and not the next, but you need to think about whether your children are normally friends.

• Are their birthdays close together?

• Would we be inviting the same group of people (for example, the same class at school)? Not to worry if you aren’t – a joint party can still work very well. However, you will need to bear in mind that the costs associated with food, tableware and party bags will be higher and some entertainers charge an extra fee for larger groups of children.

• Will you be happy working with the other parents to organise the party?

When you approach the other parents, there is no need to bombard them with all your wonderful ideas for a joint party straight away.

Keep it simple; ask them if they would be interested and give them some time to think about it and discuss it with their child. If you’ve not

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8 Families

Vale of York

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heard back from them after a week or so then it’s probably time to catch up with them to see what they think. If they are interested, arrange to get together asap to start planning the party. Don’t be offended if they’re not interested, as there’s usually a very good reason.

Before you get together...

You will probably have had a few brief chats with your child about their birthday party already. However, now is the time to really get them involved.

Talk to them about what a joint party means and why it’s a good idea. You may need to explain that people normally bring separate presents for each birthday child, as some children become confused and think that they have to share their presents with the other birthday child. Discuss interests that they share with the friend(s) involved – from this you can start to build up some ideas about possible themes and entertainers for the party before the first meeting. Spend a bit of time finding out about local entertainers who would be suitable. Think about what would make the party special for your child, so that you can try and make this part of the party.

Don’t forget to ask the other parents to talk to their child before the first meeting – this way everyone comes to the meeting with some ideas that they know their child will be happy with.

Things to discuss/agree on when you get together The first time you get together you might decide to focus on the most important issues (budget, date & time, theme, venue and entertainer/ activities) so that you can make the relevant bookings asap.

However, it’s a good idea to have a list of all the things you need to talk about to make sure you cover everything (even it you need to get together a few times to cover it all). Here are some key points to get you started.

Budget – although it might not

be a very comfortable topic, it’s important to understand roughly how much other people are prepared to spend on the party.

Date and time for the party

– it is always good to have a few options – just in case entertainers/ venues are not available for your first choice. Makes sure the date chosen suits everyone and doesn’t clash with anything else (try and avoid start/end of school holidays, bank holidays, Mother’s Day, Father’s day, etc.)

Theme - all the birthday

children (and parents) need to be happy with the theme – some compromise may be needed but friends generally share the same interests and can find a theme they both like.

Entertainer/activities – Talk

about the ideas that came out of the discussions you’ve had with your children. This will help you produce a list of entertainers/ activities that all the children would be happy with. Once you have identified suitable local entertainers then you can contact them in order of preference [remember that your first choice may not be available so you need to have a couple of backup plans]. When booking ensure the entertainer knows it is a joint party and the names and ages of all the birthday children involved.

Everyone involved should come out with a clear idea of what the party will look like and what they are responsible for organising. You also need to ensure you have everyone’s contact details; if you don’t already have them then you’re going to need them.

What if you’re not 100% sure...

If you are still not sure the joint party is for you then you should agree a “cooling off” period of a few days with the other parents. No bookings should be made during this time.

Make sure you let everyone concerned know once you’ve made a decision. Once bookings have been made it is almost impossible to pull out of a joint party.

Venue - there may be an obvious choice for venue but you need to be sure everyone agrees and that the venue offers enough space for your chosen entertainer/activities.

Invitations – decide what you will say in order to make it clear that the party is a joint party.

You will also need to agree how and when you are going to hand them out. For example, when organising my son’s joint party we decided to share the invitations equally amongst the birthday children and they took them into school on the same day – this worked really well and none of the class felt left out because they all received their invitations at the same time.

Cakes – will you have a joint cake or a separate cake for each birthday child? Personally I find that separate cakes work best (each child has their own candles to blow out) but I have seen joint cakes work well.

Food and Drink – agree what food and drink you will provide and who will buy it (maybe one of you will buy everything or you might decide to split responsibility).

Decorations – will you have any decorations (balloons, banners, bunting, etc.)?

Party bags – are you going to

give out party bags? If so, what kind of items are you going to include? You may choose to each do your own.

Extra children – it may be that

one of the birthday children would like to invite friends that the other children do not know. If you’re happy for them to do this then you just need to agree who will meet the extra costs for these children.

Costs – How will you keep track of the costs involved and ensure the cost of the party is shared equally?

Don’t...

• Book things without agreement from other parents • Changes plans (date/theme...) without agreement from other parents

Remember to...

• Keep in touch and let other parents know about any problems as soon as possible (e.g. If entertainer or hall is not available) • Do the tasks you agreed to do • Share the workload fairly • Enjoy yourselves

Carey McNaughton lives in Breighton with her other half, David, and their two children. Her party planning business, Carey Plans It, offers a range of services from advice through to a full party planning service. For more information you can call Carey on 01757 322000, or visit her website at www.careyplansit.co.uk Families Vale of York

9

y t r pa

_Venues_ Animal World at Too Hoots

– party with the animals and enjoy a full day’s access to Animal World as part of the package. With an adventure playground and party food provided, lots of fun is guaranteedincluding animal handling! Parties last 2 hours. Hirst Road, Carlton, Near Goole. 01405 862854 www.toohoots.co.uk

We have everything here to ensure your party goes with a bang! _Party Supplies_ Entertainers &_ Bouncing Around Bouncy castles for hire www.bouncingaround.co.uk 0786 792 3434 Organisers_ Barbara Ray presents fun

packed puppet entertainment for children aged 3- 8. www.barbararay.co.uk 01302 320717

Bob’s Your Uncle Magician and entertainer for children’s parties and events.

01423 340568 www.bobs-your-uncle.co.uk

Carey Plans It

Party planner - takes all the stress away from organising your do - with a range of services. See our feature on P8 & 9. www.careyplansit.co.uk 01757 322000

Brendini Magical fun & entertainment for all ages, especially children. 01757 704437 www.brendinismagic.co.uk

Children’s entertainers offering magic, jugglers, stiltwalkers, games, circus workshops, event management, bubble machines, balloonology, music, stories, crafts, giveaways & entertainment. www.henriettarabbit.co.uk 0333 000 4567

Go Ballistic Juggling, magic & games for children of all ages. www.goballisticmagic.com 01904 613206 Jeepers Creepers Children’s party magic shows www.themagicplace.co.uk 01765 604472

Professor Dan Slater Explosive magic show, fun

& games. www.dan-slater.co.uk 07816 253409

Sandra - Children’s Entertainment

07709 252579 www.sandra-entertainment.co.uk

The Magic Hatter Children’s entertainer &

magician. www.magichatter.co.uk 0845 475 2124 Uncle Mal and His Crazy Puppets A fun-filled magic show. www.magicmal.co.uk 01904 762662

Ashville College Sports Centre

Party themes include – football, bouncy castle, pool parties, Enjoy-aball parties, roller disco parties, face painting options. They can also provide just hall hire, and can offer party food and a party coordinator. There are no age restrictions. 01423 724 827 or email parties@ashville.co.uk

Bubbles & Squeak Great toy shops with gifts for children from birth. 12a & 22 Gillygate, York, 01904 672020 Corky’s Special gifts for tots to teens including great party bag fillers. 9 Museum Street, York, www. corkyschildrensgifts.co.uk 01904 625075 Dancers / Kaos Fancy dress supplies. 3 Gillygate, York, www.kaosfancydress.co.uk 01904 626051 Imaginative Icing Fabulous cakes to order. Also tin hire and everything for making your own cakes 01904 654635 Internet shop at www.imaginativeicing.co.uk Kakes & Kookies Novelty & contemporary cakes, cupcakes & cookies. www.kakes-and-kookies.co.uk 07971 865337 The Bun Bunny Fabulous cakes & Buns. Based in Harrogate. www.thebunbunny.co.uk 07841 755 225 The Little Balloon Company 01904 705050 or 07818 001190 www.thelittleballooncompany.co.uk The Little Things Party bags that don’t cost the earth. www.thelittlethings.info

Farmer Fun’s Mobile Soft Play

Crazy Tykes

Soft play parties. 01937 541007 www.crazytykes.co.uk

Kidzplay

A selection of tailored parties at all 3 venues - Harrogate, Northalllerton & Boroughbridge.

01423 816111/01609 761596/ 01423 325575 www.kidzplay.co.uk

Party Zone at The Academy, Harrogate

Soft play parties. 01423 524052 www.theacademy.co.uk

Selby Superbowl

www.selby-superbowl.co.uk 01757 707074

The Engine Shed

Soft play parties are designed Fabulous party venue in for children’s entertainment at Wetherby. See our main birthdays, weddings, christenings feature on P14 and nurseries, basically anywhere were lots of young children need to be entertained for a length The Web Adventure Park of time. They offer a wide range of commercial grade soft Lots of party themes including shapes, ballpools, rocking animals, Hopperz, tunnels, tents, Wired high ropes, quad biking, baby sensory castle and lots more. With 3 packages to choose princess or pirate & make a from (home package: perfect for home and smaller venues, bear. super package: perfect for halls and function www.webadventurepark.co.uk rooms and a deluxe package: for all day 01904 692221 events like weddings & joint birthdays.)

The Wishing Well , Selby Also because their mother company is Soft play parties.

Always Riggmoor Reindeer & Co they can provide 08712 003363 check out our small animals at events too (by prior Facebook page Winkies, Harrogate arrangement). Equipment is suitable for for current offers Soft play parties. children from 0 – 5 years. that we regularly www.winkies.co.uk run throughout www.riggmoorreindeer.co.uk 01423 886886 the year 07921 267904 / 01765 607488 or email info@riggmoorreindeer.co.uk

_Party Tip..._

Crafty Kids?

Book The Bead Bar for children’s jewellery-making birthday parties.

Creative fun for kids of all ages!

Central Harrogate bead shop with separate Bead Bar where children can get creative making beautiful jewellery.

Open all day Mon-Sat. Come and see us!

t: 01904 642666 & 01904 490339

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www.yorkmontessori.com

bead.

Call 01423 313030 or visit www.beadharrogate.co.uk

_Creative Party People_ Amazing Faces Facepainting 0794 960 2202 www.facepaintingharrogate.com

All That Sparkles

Pamper Parties for children by Victoria Louise. See our feature on P15.

07748 767656 or email victoria.brigham@gmail.com

Arty Animals Party Creative cooking and art fun combined - see our feature on P14. www.artyanimals.co.uk 07982239377 Bead

Jewellery-making parties - see our feature on P15. www.beadharrogate.co.uk 01423 313030

Crafts for Kids Party

Interactive craft activities with birthday parties from just £7 per person, jewellery making parties from £15 per person, wedding favour craft activity bags from just £7 and a manned craft activity table for weddings from £200. You can also book Have a craft activity stall to 2 tables come to your event for your party, 1 for food, with pocket-money the other for prices charged to crafts. Less customers on the day. stress!

Age range: 2-15 01757 630356 / 07776 140799

_Party Tip..._

Lello & Monkey

Treasure Hunt Party suppliers & producers -Party solutions in a box, making DIY parties easy peasy. 07766 041644 www.lelloandmonkey.co.uk

Little Rascals Harrogate

_Action/Activity Parties _ Diggerland Party

_Party Tip..._

Birthday parties include 2 hours in the park and a 45 minute lunch.

Children get personalised certificates, a balloon, and a Diggerland lunchbox. A party coordinator will greet you on arrival. www.diggerland.com 0871 22 77 007

Jitterbugz Dance Parties

Parties involve children learning a dance routine to their favourite songs, having great fun and showing off their moves to family & friends. Alex will travel within a 25 mile radius of York & can provide a 1½ hour dance routine package at your home or venue with prices starting at £50 for up to 10 children. Routines are adapted to the ages of the children, so that everyone can join in the fun! She can cater for more or less children. 07585 227922 or jitterbugzdanceclub@ hotmail.co.uk

& Family Fun Day!

PaintyParty

www.paintyparty.com 01904 738260 / 07981 205539 Pots2Go www.pots2go.co.uk 01423 524797

Turn your child’s story or play into a recording with sound effects.

See our feature on P7. www.storystudios.co.uk 07703 129071

Fab dance parties - Yorkshire Funkateer Stephanie comes highly recommended. www.funkyfeetunlimited.co.uk 0845 680 3865

* Over 450 Capacity * 2 Licensed Bars * 2 Dance Floors over 2 Floors * Mezzanine Level * Superb Lighting & Sound Rig * Giant Projector Screen * Large Free Car Park

Character Mascot appearance & parties including Peppa Pig, and Micky & Minnie. 07855 844 265 www.facebook.com/little. harrogate

Story Studios Party

Funky Feet Dance Parties

Available for private hire: parties / christenings / weddings / conferences

Bring wellies, it might get muddy!

Over 25 locally sourced ales and ciders ~ BBQ from Midday Live music throughout the day Children’s Fun Bus ~ Bouncy Castle ~ Bouncy Slide Face Painting ~ Sweet Stall ~ Craſt Table

Sat 4th May From 12pm www.engineshedwetherby.co.uk

|

01937 579266

Harrogate Climbing Centre

Parties include 1.5hrs (ages 7 upwards) or 1 hrs (5-6 year olds) climbing on colourful & exciting climbing walls. Fun is guaranteed! All equipment (inc. safety Let organisers take away all the harnesses & helmets) stress. We’ll send and instruction is out packs including included. There’s invitations letting the option for a party parents know where to buffet after the come, and what to climbing, provided by bring. All you need the on-site Indulge to do is bring a Deli Bar. The party cake! food is freshly made on the day & can be tailored to individual dietary requirements.

Caters for ages 5+ with no upper age limit, even big kids can get involved! 01423 815 024 www.harrogateclimbingcentre.com

_Party Tip..._

Treasures Birthday Club

“We launched our Treasures Birthday Club at the beginning of this year and we have had a super response,” says Treasures owner Zhara Armstrong.

“It’s so easy to join. All parents (grandparents or carers) need to do is go to our website www.treasurestoys.co.uk and click on the big cake to register and add each of their children.

“We’ll send a birthday card with 12.5% discount voucher which is valid for a whole month. More than 50 have been sent already and we have received some lovely feedback from parents and children.

“As the voucher is sent before the birthday date, parents can enjoy the discount on birthday presents. Some people encourage the birthday child to save all their birthday money and buy a bigger present (big Lego sets and dressing up outfits have been popular) and customers who have joined our Treasures loyalty scheme will earn their loyalty points on all purchases too.”

Treasures offer a free gift wrapping service (great when you have lots of children’s parties on) and they also offer a free assemble service so your toy is ready to play with as soon as you get it home!

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party

Party Food

Tips from Henrietta Rabbit

_Class Parties_ Diddi Dance Parties

Diddi dance parties get all children up and dancing with fun, unique dancing games and exercises to their own funky pop songs. They also teach a little dance anything from hip hop to country and disco to Bollywood - depending on the age and interests of the children. They dance with pom poms, ribbons, hoops and maracas and end with balloons and bubbles calming the children down before their party food.

They also provide balloons on sticks for the children to take home, a present for the birthday child (a CD of all their music), plus a pass the parcel with prizes in each layer.

Suitable for ages 2 - 7 years. www.diddidance.com 07917 757 566

_Party Tip..._ “We can suit any

budget as we offer different length packages. We’ve found more people go for one hour parties in this time of recession - we think that this is a great length as by the time your guests arrive it is often 10 to 15 minutes into the party time. Diddi dance will only start their hour once you tell us to begin, so you don’t pay for any time you’re not dancing. With 30 minutes for food it only leaves you only 10 to 15 minutes to fill at the end of a 2 hour party.

It a great way of making your party more affordable.”

SPECIAL OFFER 10% off Diddi Dance is 10 years old and as part of the celebration is now offering 10% discount on parties for children up to 7 years!

Diddi Dance supports ‘getting children moving’ and is a fantastic way of keeping toddlers from the age of 2 - 4 yrs active.

Every activity has been specially developed to build the child’s confidence, balance, agility and rhythm.

Diddi dance runs on a 2 year programme, with each half term exploring different themes such as tap, hip-hop, salsa, bollywood, country and Charleston amongst others! Other activities include singing and galloping and counting up to 10 in English, French & Spanish! Props are also used during the class using items such as hoops, ribbons and a themed prop to match the dance theme running in that particular half term.

To coincide with their 10 year anniversary they are now offering 10% discount on parties for a limited time only. Quote Families and call Cath on 07917 757566 or log on to www.diddidance.com.

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Enjoy-a-Ball parties are a fantastic way to keep children entertained. For up to 30 children aged 4 - 8 years, they involve lots of fun sports and games and running around, you can rest assured that the children will leave tired but happy at the end. The birthday boy or girl gets to throw balls, pick their team and is awarded a fantastic medal at the end. All you need to do is hire a hall, do food and provide party bags - they even provide the invites! www.enjoy-a-ball.com 07789 861108 / 08452 26 26 94 Don’t do it all yourself

_Party Tip..._ or you’ll get a little

bit stressed and not enjoy the day! Pay someone to do the job for you. We make it look easy but as many parents will probably agree, it’s not as easy as it looks!!

My totally unofficial survey of hundreds of party-teas reveals: FRUIT is extremely popular WATER to drink is no longer considered weird CUPCAKES exist so that children can lick the icing off the tops and ignore the sponge bases SANDWICHES and PIZZA SLICES are still popular, as are CRISPS and

BUTTERED MALT BREAD! SAUSAGES seem to be mostly pre-made

in a factory so are no longer favourites, goodness knows what’s in them but they do look dull. Try some butcher’s sausages, cook them at home and watch them disappear....

CHEESE cubes are popular COLD SAUSAGE ROLLS are not popular Oh and don’t forget the entertainer - no sugar in my tea, thanks!

En Pointe Ballet Party

If you know a little one who’s birthday party is coming up make their dreams come true with a one hour ballet birthday session hosted by professional dancer and highly trained teacher Donya Keys (ARAD CBTS RAD RTS). Included within this hour she’ll come to your venue, dance, teach, and entertain the children, provide props and music to a magical themed ballet birthday session.

Ballet Birthday themes include Princes and Princesses, Pirates and Mermaids, Fairy and Pixie adventures, Ballerina in the theatre - or you can get in touch for any other special requests.

At the end of the session, all the children will be presented a certificate and award.

Ballet Parties are only available on Saturday afternoons term time. Other times and dates available in school holidays. Price £60 - and memories that last for ever!

High-Low, Quick-Slow Parties

Parties sre tailored towards the age of the child and includes action songs, familiar rhymes, musical instruments, simple party games, dancing and movement time.

A special party balloon is given to the birthday child and every child at the party receives a sticker and certificate. Party sessions lasts approximately 50 minutes and ensures lots of fun for both children and adults alike. Suitable for ages 1-6. www.highlowquickslow.co.uk 01757 611234

Singamajigs Party Singamajigs will bring along a tailor-made party for your child with music and singing, parachute games, instruments and bubbles.

Each party is designed with your child in mind, the songs are chosen by you, with a pass the parcel and Singamajigs teacher on hand to help with the smaller details. www.singamajgs.co.uk 01423 552918

Tappy Tots

Tappy Tots have parties available for children aged 3 -6 years lasting approximately 45 minutes. This includes a dance and music adventure with Ted Astaire and games such as musical statues, pin the tail on the donkey, pass the parcel and parachute games. All prizes are included and the birthday child receives a present from Ted. The 45 min entertainment is at the start of the party and is followed by food.

Parents need to hire their own venue, catering can be provided alongside cake and party bags if required. www.tappytots.co.uk 0113 379 0610 / 07747 065 296

Tennis Tots Parties

Parties cater for up to 26 girls and boys aged 3-6. See our feature on P15.

York: 07882 267 971 Harrogate: 07725 339 257

Les Goûters de Mimi

_Party Tip..._

Don’t Parties include 2 hours of French plan too themed entertainment (including the teamuch party), some French drinks and biscuits. food!

French party souvenir bags and bandanas can be purchased as extra. Suitable for children aged 4 to 12. The games and activities are adapted to the age of the hosts and their guests.

Email: mireille@continentalfairies.com 077901 98534 or find Les Goûters de Mimi on Facebook.

Tennis Tykes Parties

Tennis Tykes has an exciting range of tennis parties for children celebrating their 3rd, 4th, 5th or 6th birthdays. There’s a fun packed hour of tennis activities incorporating lots of games and tennis ball skills, all supervised by qualified coaches and trained staff. The Tennis Tykes characters, Tommy and Tessa are also on hand to make it a truly special day for the birthday boy or girl. www.tennistykes.co.uk 07843 342 662

Toddler Sense Parties

Toddler Sense’s award winning parties are full of variety, action-packed and fast moving. Parties are suitable for children from 2 to 5 years and you can choose from a variety of wonderful themes – for example a ‘Sparkle’ party introduces space, light and magic and a ‘Colour’ party provides an exciting mix of activities from the conga crocodile to spinners and balloons. Toddler Sense parties can be easily adapted to suit a particular theme such as ‘Pirates’ and ‘Princesses’. The alternatives are endless! Contact: Liz on 07565 551415, email york@toddlersense.co.uk or visit www.babysensory.com

The Little Gym Parties

Parties include exclusive use of their fabulous facility with 3 members of staff on call to run a stress free action packed party, filled with lots of giggles and gymnastics fun for all abilities. All this leaves you plenty of time to take those all Make sure important birthday photos and you warm up! Our catch up with your friends birthday children whilst watching the party in LOVE to see their action from the sound proof lobby!! Suitable for parents join in children aged 1-10 years. with the CHEESE SLAMS at the www.thelittlegym.co.uk/harrogate 01423 701560 end!!

_Party Tip..._

Sweet Delights for your party Sweet Delights Yorkshire is a small family run business serving York, Selby, Hull, Leeds and anywhere in between.

The original cart wheel with traditional glass sweetie jars comes fully stocked for any special occasion including weddings, parties and corporate events.

At children’s parties the cart can be used as a desert treat or as a ‘do it yourself party bag’ stand. Little ones will love to fill their bags with a little help from mums and dads and the whole experience promises to bring back sweet memories for both young and old.

From £2 per head (based on 40 guests) Sweet Delights Yorkshire is great addition to any class party, prom, or end of term function.

A website is due soon but in the meantime you can contact them via Facebook: www.facebook.com/ sweetdelightysyorkshire or email sweets@misscharles.com or call 07736 049 104

Fantastic Adventure Parties

Character based parties that will take children on a magical adventure creating a party they will never forget! If your child wants to be the Belle of the ball or best friends with Woody and Buzz then they can make it happen! They also specialise in themed parties so why not have a tea party with Alice or a Sweetie adventure with Willy Wonka! Parties can be tailored to any age range and they have packages to suit all budgets with add ons that will make your party more exciting without the stress! www.fantasticadventureparties.co.uk

Bankfield – Play and Explore sessions every Thursday* Baby Bankfield – Mother and Baby Group for 0 - 2 year olds, every Wednesday 9.30am - 11am (term time) Reception ‘Minibeast’ Open Morning – 14 May 2013* Reception Discovery Days – Every Friday in June 2013* Whole School Open Day – 18 May 2013 10am - 12pm *Please call to reserve a place

Harrogate Ladies’ College tel: 01423 504543 admissions@hlc.org.uk | www.hlc.org.uk

Children’s Parties

at Ashville College, Harrogate

• • • • • • • • •

Hall hire & catering options Dedicated party co-ordinator Pool parties Football parties Roller Disco parties Face painting Bouncy Castle Enjoy-a-ball activities Peppa Pig lookalike appearances Contact our events team on 01423 724 827 or email parties@ashville.co.uk Ashville College, Green Lane, Harrogate HG2 9JP www.ashvilletrading.co.uk

Flex Dance Parties

Flex Dance street dance & musical theatre parties choreograph a dance routine to the birthday child’s favourite song and are also are packed with fun party games! Friends and family love watching the show at the end of the party where your child is the star!

Flex Dance parties are recommended for children aged 5-10 years. With every party they provide the birthday child with a gift and every child who attends the party will get a balloon to take home! People book their dance parties year after year because they’re always exciting and have lots of themes for you to choose from! www.flexdanceinc.co.uk 07921 222 710 / 07500 618 613

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s e i t r a p with a difference

s e i t r pawith a differen

If you’re you looking for somewhere unique to host your party, look no further than the Engine Shed in Wetherby a converted grade II listed building that was originally an old railway goods shed.

With a capacity for over 450 people, 2 bars, 2 dance floors, a hydraulic stage and a superb sound and lighting system, The Engine Shed is the perfect venue for parties, christenings and weddings.

The large downstairs dance floor is a fantastic space for the kids to run around and play party games, with a stage at one end for a DJ or entertainer and a well stocked bar at the other.

As well as private functions, The Engine Shed also hosts to regular dance nights, live music events, comedy nights, and much much more. You can find out about their family Fun Day and Beer Festival on 4th May our What’s On pages.

The Engine Shed is situated on York Road, a few minutes walk from Wetherby town centre, with ample free parking. The No 412 bus (York to Wetherby route) can drop you at the front door!

The website has lots of extra information about the special events and the venue itself, including a 360° virtual tour so that you can have a good look at the place without setting foot outside your house! www.engineshedwetherby.co.uk 01937 588884 Whats On 4 2013 Junior Awards Nominee for Best Children‛s Party Entertainment Toddler Sense Adventure Play Parties for any occasion Birthday Parties•Weddings•Christmas Parties Christenings and Naming Ceremonies•Nursery Open Days•Fayres Whatever the occasion make it even more special with an action packed adventure party from Toddler Sense Book your Toddler Sense Party today!

“Thank you so much for today it was amazing. The Birthday Girl had the best time ever!!! I would recommend you to lots of people & a lot of the parents today said how fabulous the party was. A huge thanks for all your help & hard work; I really appreciate it” Mrs. S. April 2013

Contact: Liz Torpey Telephone: 07565 551415 email: york@toddlersense.co.uk www.babysensory.com

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Arty Animals Party Arty Animals was inspired by Kathryn Parry-Brown’s daughter Christiana who loves arts, crafts and cooking. Kathryn realised that many children don’t have the opportunity to do these things at home and so began the idea of putting the two together to create workshops and parties.

“Workshops began in 2005,’ says Kathryn who has moved back to Yorkshire after living in London, “and shortly after the first party was held when a regular customer requested a ‘Horses & Dogs’ party.”

“We were inundated with bookings after that and due to our uniqueness we’ve gone from strength to strength.”

A typical party would be the Funky Graffiti party recently held in York: “We always provide three activities at each party and at this one the children created a funky picture frame, decorated salt dough letters and they whipped up a storm by creating graffiti cakes in the kitchen.”

“We always work really closely with the parents and children who have booked the party to insure we give the most tailor made event we can possibly produce - like the Ballet Party where we created a Swan Lake themed event including swan gingerbread biscuits, ballet shoes cakes and lovely personalised gingham ballet shoe bags. We even made an octopus cake at a Sea Life Party!”

“We’re different because we never buy anything in bulk as all our parties are one-of-a-kind. We can do any theme and although our parties are generally for primary school ages, we have catered for older children and we have recently had a run on chocolate making and designing personalised champagne flutes!

Arty Animals is unique because they provide both arts and kitchen creations at the same party and can, if you’d like, take the pressure off by organising everything - including the food and cake.

“No party bags are needed,” Kathryn says, “as the children take their three creations home all individually wrapped in their own personalized party bag and both boys and girls enjoy the parties equally.”

For more details contact : Kathryn 07982239377 www.artyanimals.co.uk

All That Sparkles Lots of little girls love to sparkle which is why Victoria Louise has created the perfect pamper party for little ones.

“We offer two different types of party” says Victoria, “and it’s all very tastefully done, so parents needn’t worry!”

Firstly there’s the Sparkle Pamper Party where children receive a sparkly make-over including eyes, cheeks, clear mascara and lip gloss.

“They then get to choose a sparkly nail varnish for their fingers and after a foot spa and mini massage, toe nail varnish too,” says Victoria. “We also do sparkle hairstyling and provide a drinks fountain with this package which costs £8 per child.”

The Sparkle Pamper Parade is perfect for children who like to be creative. Included in this party are all the pamper treatments detailed above PLUS tee-shirt designing and a catwalk show!

“The children create their own tee-shirt designs using our fabric pens whilst waiting for their friends to have their make-over. Once everyone’s ready they parade their hand made teeshirts and newly made-over style to music and glitter balls at their own catwalk show. We also include glitter tattoos and a chocolate fountain to create the perfect party priced at £12 per child.”

Victoria can cater for any number of children as she can bring along other qualified beauty therapists to help her on the day. She also caters for adult pamper parties and includes manicures, pedicures, cnd shellac and eyebrow and eyelash treatments for girls’ nights in.

To find out more about children’s - and adult’s pamper parties call Victoria on 07748 767656 or email her victoria.brigham@gmail.com

nce

Tennis Tots Party Jacob Rycroft had a party with a difference when he turned 6 earlier this year. After winning the Families Magazine Tennis Tots competition, Jacob invited 15 of his friends along to enjoy a party filled with action and lots of fun.

The party was skillfully led by Matt Ward of Tennis Tots York who only requires hall space to run the event. The space needn’t be vast - around the sizeof a badminton court is fine - in Jacob’s case Acomb Methodist Church Hall fit the bill perfectly.

Matt’s session lasted an hour and began with the birthday boy helping to set up the net, base line and letter spots before the guests arrived.

Matt learned names very quickly and soon had them all involved in warm-ups balancing and running. Games followed with ‘pancake tossing’, balancing and lots of competitive team work.

After a short drink break the games continue using the net and learning new skills with the racket. Throughout the party and the focus is on games but the children learn lots of skills toosuch as positioning with ‘sticky feet’, forehand, backhand and scoring.

Next there were some whole group games including a ‘snowball fight’ and ‘crossing the river’ which rounded things off nicely and made sure appetites were ready for the party tea.

Throughout Matt’s session Jacob was his main helper and got plenty of opportunities to demonstrate the next game. At the end of the session, Matt fashioned a large ‘birthday cake’ from his equipment and Jacob had to knock the candles out with his racket!

Jacob had never experienced Tennis Tots before so there’s absolutely no need to be an expert or even have any skills if you’re thinking of a tennis party - Matt caters for all abilities and everyone was involved all the time.

Jacob’s mum Jo was thrilled with the party: “I couldn’t have done what he did,” she told me. “ He dealt brilliantly with some very boisterous boys and kept their attention throughout the party!

There was lots of variety too - I’d highly recommend Tennis Tots - it was really good.” www.tennis-tots.co.uk 07882 267 971 (York) 07725 339 257 (Harrogate)

Parties at Bead

Why not try jewellery making as a really different party experience?

Bead in Harrogate offers two party packages.

A one hour beading workshop costs £12 per person and is ideal for children aged between 6 and 10 years and includes an hour of jewellery making in the custom designed party room. Children have all the materials needed to create a beautiful charm bracelet and matching necklace plus a pretty organza bag to take designs home in (that’s party bags taken care of!)

At the end of the party all guests choose one bead or charm to be added to a special bracelet for the birthday child.

This is wrapped in a pretty gift box which all the guests sign creating a wonderful keepsake For older children aged 11+ a one and a half hour jewellery-making workshop costs £16 per person. From the age of around eleven children have the dexterity (and patience!) required to learn introductory jewellery-making skills.

Bead provides all the tools and materials needed to learn these skills and utilise them through the creation of a beautiful beaded charm bracelet and a pair of drop bead earrings (or a suitable alternative for those with unpierced ears).

The price includes materials and guidance and again an organza bag and charm bracelet for the birthday child Minimum of 8 and a maximum of 18 guests including birthday child.

If you want to follow your party with food you can book the party room for an additional hour and take your own food and tableware.

01423 313030 info@beadharrogate.co.uk www.beadharrogate.co.uk

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Parenting

Dear parenatrs 6 children, of ye en for you

been writt s a h e l c i t r a This as they apd l i h c r u o y to share with ams. I am sure they ex proach their to do their best, not ng will be looki lves but also for you. se only for them a considerable amount ys There’s alwa ‘chat’ about these exams d of playgroun to make children more s and this tend ight have been the m anxious than le explains that getting ic case. This art mal and provides some or ‘stressed’ is n . ideas to help

Helping your child cope with the stress of exams

If you are taking SATs this summer, you might have been practising at school or have heard people saying it’s important to do well so you are in the right streams at secondary school.

Some children can be worried about these exams. This might be for lots of reasons. Maybe you’re worried about messing it up, or worried that you won’t understand the questions. This is fine and quite natural.

In fact getting ‘stressed’ or anxious when you’re faced with exams, is very common. Leading up to an exam, your body gets pumped with two substances called adrenalin and cortisol, which can actually help you focus.

This ‘stress response’ was helpful when we were cavemen and needed to run away from wild animals…

But too much stress is not healthy and has a negative impact on your body and mind.

See how you react when stressed by completing this checklist:

How do I feel when I am stressed?

Jumpy

Worried or afraid over little things

Can’t sit still

Feeling like crying

Fast breathing

Dry mouth

Shaky hands

Muscles feel tense

Cold hands

Upset stomach

Heart pounding and breathing fast

Sweating

Tight feelings in chest

Hard time falling asleep

Getting angry easily

Other....................................................................................................................................................................

Now that you understand stress and the impact it has on you, we can look at what you can do to help yourself cope with it.

1. Look after yourself

Make sure you get lots of sleep. Stop homework or playing on computer games at least one hour before going to bed. more information  If you feel your child would like benefit from some additional support, Everlief Child Psychology (01494 521332, www.everlief. co.uk) will be running 1.5 hour workshops over the summer months for groups of up to six children. The workshops will be led by a clinical psychologist and will focus on the topics in this article. The cost for these workshops is £25.

Dr Lucy Russell is the lead child psychologist at Everlief Child Psychology in West Wycombe.

Everlief’s website has lots of other useful information: http:// everlief.co.uk.

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 

Exercise helps release tension in your body and boosts your mood. Build it into your timetable each day – perhaps walking around the block, or bouncing on a trampoline.

Your brain needs a steady stream of energy, and the right vitamins and minerals to work properly. Try and eat lots of healthy food. A good breakfast on the day of any exams is important too.

2. Use coping techniques

 

Talk to your parents or someone else you know well. It’s really important that you don’t suffer alone.

Sharing a problem can sometimes make you feel that a burden has been lifted. Others may have experienced the same sorts of feelings.

When you’re stressed, do some relaxing and enjoyable things. This calms your nervous system, stops the release of adrenalin and gives your body a rest. It creates ‘feel good’ chemicals in your body which help you relax. It’s especially important to do this in the evenings as this will help you sleep well.

3. Keep things in perspective

  

Try to challenge any panicky thoughts like ‘If I don’t pass, my world is over.’ Of course it means a lot to you and your family to do well, however, many people don’t pass exams and life will go on.

Challenge any ‘negative’ thoughts you’re having which seem to make you stressed. Thoughts are not always true. Work out what your worrying thoughts are and then check out whether they are true or not by chatting to your parents or a friend.

Thanks for reading this article, we hope you found it useful.

Short Breaks -

Maunsell Families editor Belinda is time with children. re-visits Edinburgh - th Before we were married and before children, my husband and I spent lots of time in Edinburgh. He worked in the Borders and as there was never much going on there we often headed up to Edinburgh to find decent restaurants and night life. As a capital city we always found plenty to do and always had a great time, so this Easter we decided to re-visit - this time with the kids in tow.

Our first decision was where to stay. Edinburgh is full of B & Bs which we used to be our choice of accommodation but we decided to opt for something a bit more sophisticated and somewhere that would cater specifically for children. The last thing you want to be doing on precious time away is shushing the kids at breakfast and apologising as they run round the foyer reenacting Brave. Get the accommodation right and you’re all set for a hassle-free break.

We stayed at the Best Western Kings Manor Hotel about 3 miles east of the city. The hotel chain has recently launched some of their hotels as Family Favourites promising extras such as free drinks re-fills and games to make family breaks extra special. These hotels are also close to particular family attractions such as museums, zoos and theme parks. Ours was about 20 minutes’ drive from The National Museum of Flight which was our first port of call en route to Edinburgh.

Situated just off the A1, The National Museum of Flight is a great way to spend a few hours before you arrive in the big city. We’d never visited before and were very pleasantly surprised. The main attraction is Concorde housed in a huge hangar where you can learn all about the story of supersonic flight, board the plane itself and marvel at 1970’s fashions. We spent at least an hour investigating before moving on to see civil and military aircraft, make hot air balloons in one workshop and make torches in another. My husband particularly enjoyed the visit as he grew up in an RAF family but I hadn’t realised I’d enjoy it as much as I did. The kids were enthralled as there was plenty to keep them interested and we could have easily stayed longer than the 4½ hours we spent there.

We then headed off to our hotel, parked right outside the front door and checked in before you could say ‘mummy when can we go for a swim?’ Kids under 12 stay free in a family room - with real beds (not pull-outs) which makes for a good value but very comfortable break. Our room was vast, with plenty of storage space and came complete with a PS2 and welcome packs which kept the kids busy whilst we unpacked and settled in.

As they’d been pestering for hours we went for a swim - the pool welcomes children between 9am and 7pm

during the week ( 8 - 8 at weekends). I’d highly recommend choosing a hotel with a pool - kids love swimming, it’s great exercise if they’ve been cooped up in the car on a long journey - and as a bonus it thoroughly wears them out!

We spent all of day two seeing the sights of Edinburgh and walked miles. If you know the city you’ll remember there are plenty of steps so if you have a pram you’ll need to find alternative routes. We started off at The Elephant House - the first of our old haunts - and writing den of the now very famous JK Rowling. As massive Harry Potter fans we enjoyed imagining that we may have even sat next to her in years gone by as she penned her novels. The cafe is now a shrine Potter fans flock to - and if you do go, don’t forget to visit the toilet with a pen. That’s all I’m saying.

We headed off to the Castle after that. The views are spectacular and the kids can run around. Entry is a bit pricey so as we’d already been in and we felt a 5 year old would not appreciate everything on offer, we decided to wander around some of the shops on The Royal Mile, learn all about Deacon Brodie, spit on the Heart of Midlothian, rub a shiny toe (a couple of curious local traditions) and eat - quite a lot.

In the old days our evening didn’t begin until around 9pm (when the Scottish licensing laws were quite different to English ones) but by that time we’d eaten at an old favourite restaurant - The Filling Station and were heading back out of the city on the bus. We decided on a travel pass rather than searching for parking which cost us £11 for the day. Buses run every half hour back to the hotel and stop right outside.

All four of us were happily asleep by 10pm - no longer the party animals we once were!

After breakfast (free for kids if parents are eating) and another swim, Day 3 involved a trip to Leith. We’ve only been once before and things are quite different now.

There’s a huge new shopping centre right alongside The Royal Yacht Britannia. We had a wander around the harbour area, decided against the yacht in favour of - yes, you guessed it food again! This time we stumbled across an absolute gem of a cake shop - Mimi’s Bakehouse situated right on the shore. With a retro feel and delicious treats we felt suitably fuelled for our journey back to Yorkshire.

Edinburgh is a beautiful city, has so much going on, particularly in the summer months where you can enjoy the Edinburgh Festival and the Military Tattoo. It’s a fun place to explore with the kids and as it’s only around 4 hours’ drive away - we’ll certainly be back.

Further information Accommodation: We stayed at the Best Western Kings Manor Hotel. Prices are from £95.00 for a family room including breakfast per night. The three AA star hotel has free high-speed internet access, pool, gym, sauna and jacuzzi and is pet friendly.

To book call 08457 76 76 76 or go to www.bestwestern.co.uk Best Western is a collection of over 270 independent hotels across Great Britain.

Every hotel welcomes kids with a free welcome pack and all under 12’s sleep and breakfast for free when they share a family room. There are over 25 hotels in the new Family Favourites collection, featuring everything from children’s check in desks, golf lessons, free ice cream refills, DVD and book libraries. To find out more go to www.bestwestern.co.uk or to book call their award-winning reservations team on 0845 33 00 120

Places: • The National Museum of Flight is at East Fortune Airfield, East Lothian EH39 5LF. Entry price is £24 for a family of 4 www.nms.ac.uk/flight • The Elephant House is at 21 George IV Bridge.

• Edinburgh Castle at the top of the Royal Mile costs £16 for adults and £9.60 for children aged 5 - 15. Do buy a fast track ticket online though before you go and save yourself a lengthy bout of queuing. The Palace of Holyrood House at the bottom of the Royal Mile costs £11 for adults and £6.65 for over 5s, families (2 + 3) £29.25.

• The Royal Yacht Britannia is priced at £12 for adults & £7.50 for ages 5 - 15.

• Mimi’s Bakehouse is at 63 Shore, Leith

Before you go check out our sister Magazine’s website www.familiesedinburgh.co.uk for up-to-date Families events.

Vale of York 17

G R EAT DAYS OUT...

The museum is right in the

t_ of York, just at the top has jus middle y r of the Shambles and round the o t S e corner from both the Minster hocolat C s ’ nd has_ and Dig, and so it’s perfectly k a r o y a Y d h t for combining _ situated first bir d s l t i o r d with some of York’s other a e t e y 9-y m celebra attractions for a day out. And d n a _ mine many of York’s best bits since it like t s i l been on _ you can’t drive to it or park: h s i w er’s got the train and walked 2012._ We r daught e t s from the station (about 15 a E at minutes). opened

The first thing we discovered when we got there (apart from it being much smaller than we expected) was that you really need to book! The majority of the experience is via a guided tour although we arrived before 12, because it was the school holidays, the earliest tour we could get on was 3.30!

However, this gave us time to check out the extremely decadent chocolate cafe (or ‘Indulgence Zone’ as it’s known). The café has every sort of chocolate dish you could imagine, including a range of flavoured hot chocolates, but only one savoury dish.

This a fantastic ham and cheese platter (a bit like a fancy Plougman’s) featuring all local Yorkshire ingredients, and a salad sprinkled with chocolate nibs. However, the most popular dish by far seemed to be the chocolate fondue with marshmallows, brownies, strawberries, fudge and nougat.

The tour itself takes about an hour and a half and is excellent - from the chocolate ticket you get when you arrive, to the

REVIEW

By Lisa Kendrick

fabulous Harry Potter-style talking portrait room where you meet the founders of York’s confectionery industry, and the virtual chocolate-making machine (a favourite with the kids). The guides themselves are friendly, fun and very knowledgeable, and wowed my 9-year old with great facts about Kit Kats and Smarties (which she couldn’t wait to tell Dad). They take you through the story of chocolate from its origins in Central America, to its arrival in York, and the history of York’s famous Terry’s and Rowntree brands. Along the way there are plenty of opportunities for chocolate tasting and because we were there in the school holidays we got to make our own chocolate lollies too. (Check out the website for details of other activities and special events.)

Overall then, I’d give York Chocolate Story an 8 out of 10 and my daughter gave it 7.5/8. On the down side, I’m not sure it would necessarily keep the interest of younger children as, although creatively and imaginatively done, the majority of the tour consists of listening either to your guide or the audio-visual presentations. On the plus side it’s fun and informative, and all the staff are friendly, welcoming and helpful and we spent a very enjoyable afternoon there.

It’s not the cheapest day out we’ve had (£17 for our tickets and about the same again in the café) but we’d definitely recommend it as a one-off, decadent treat.

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Vale of York

DIGGERLAND

REVIEW

e were_ w t u o nd _ they fou n e h w ed to go d t e n it a c x w e s lway were _ n had a o My kids s admit it y ll ’ m I . _ n d u f n Diggerla as good d_ w o t it g in im o h g them an ld h o t it d w a f f h to friends ?_ that I se m is and his ternoon ic f t a p ll e a c s f dig h a bit o umably s e r p was wit to bumpy ride on ’s friend the Groundshuttle which my son

By Belinda Maunsell

First of all, Diggerland is not just about digging - but surprisingly the digging bits are really good fun! Once you’ve got the hang of how the digger controls work, you can operate a number of different machines, digging, knocking things over - and my son’s favourite, hooking the ducks. Both boys - aged 10 & 11 were able to drive everything themselves whereas my daughter who’s not quite tall enough to drive on her own went on with me. At the tender age of 5½ she soon mastered then controls on most things with a bit of guidance and was definitely better at moving soil than me!

There were a number of activities for smaller children. India loved the electric cars picking up driving skills quite quickly and she enjoyed a ride on the Dig-a-Round which was just one of several fairground-type rides constructed from digger machinery. Another Spindizzy looked a bit too much for me - but Isaac who’s more of a thrill-seeker enjoyed it very much. I braved the 50 foot Skyshuttle and admit my feet felt a bit tingly all that way up in the air. My daughter could have easily done this but is afraid of heights so stayed firmly on the ground playing in a tank (the military type) whilst we sampled the impressive views.

Whilst my son was avidly catching ducks for the third time and digging for bricks, Oliver, India and I went for a

was good fun. We got screams from India as the digger spun around over rocky terrain and Oliver likened it to a tame roller coaster. It was fine for anyone over 100cm tall and although India bounced out of her seat quite a bit, she enjoyed it and it was very safe.

The kids also tried a spot of go-karting and plenty of driving dumpers and diggers over rough terrain. There’s a good balance of different rides and drives and as you’re able to operate real machinery it’s not just for kids!

Ride restrictions are based on height so be sure your child is going to be tall enough to do most things before you set off - it will save on tears and tantrums. Most activities require a heigh of 90cm to ride with an adult but by the time you’re 110 cm you can ride everything. There are a few rides children can experience between 80 - 90 cm and but not below 80cm. Children under 90cm do however have free admission. For everyone else admission is £17 (under 65) and £8.50 (over 65) and of course you can enjoy a 15% discount if you use the voucher on P18.

There’s also a soft play area, very reasonably priced cafe and a super shop for digger fans. There are plenty of spaces for you to sit and have a picnic too. It was a bit chilly when we went but there are picnic tables and grass for a blanket-type feast. We spent around 4 hours there in total but went after lunch on a quiet day. I would imagine you could spend all day there if you were planning to eat and went at a busier time. It wasn’t muddy when we were there but if there’s been recent rain, I would go dressed expecting to get dirty.

We had a great time and would certainly recommend a visit. There’s plenty to do, despite the site being fairly small and the staff are lovely. It’s good for both boys and girls and all ages so your little (and not-so-little) ones will love it!

Diggerland can be found off junction 31 of the M62 and is open 10am - 5pm weekends throughout May & June and every day throughout half term and the summer holidays. For more information visit

w w w . d i g g e r l a n d . c o m Families Vale of York

19

what’s on in may/june‘13

Fun at Clifford’s Tower

We’ve ordered everything according to start date – be sure to look out for all the events which run for several weeks / weekends too. And be sure to check before you set off. These were correct as we went to print but may have changed. Check if you need to book ahead too.

things to do, places to go EVERY DAY

ANIMAL WORLD AT TOO HOOTS Lots of animals to see, lambs to feed at set times, toys to play on, picnic area, tearoom & garden centre. FREE Easter trail and Easter Egg - see Easter listing dates.

Hirst Road, Carlton, Near Goole, DN14 9PX 01405 862854 www.toohoots.com EVERY DAY

PIGLETS

THE FARMER’S CART Adventure farm park. www.thefarmerscart.co.uk 4 - 6 MAY

GET MEDIEVAL FOUNTAINS ABBEY Take in the sights and smells of the 15th

20Families 20 Families Vale Vale ofof York York

century encampment in the Abbey ruins with Rosa Mundi Living History. www.fountainsabbey.org.uk 4 - 6 MAY

FROM SIRENS TO CELEBRATIONS

4 MAY FROM 12 NOON

Beer Festival and Family Fun Day

BENINGBROUGH HALL & GARDENS

THE ENGINE SHED WETHERBY

Nostalgia weekend - programme varies each day; re-enacters, live workshops and magical flying machines to make on Saturday, display of period vehicles on Sunday, then on Monday music and a real spitfire cockpit. www.nationaltrust.org.uk

The Engine Shed will be hosting this fun family day with live music and over 25 locally sourced firkins of ale and several fantastic ciders to choose from. Outside there’ll be lots of things to keep the children entertained, such as a soft play fun bus, bouncy castle, bouncy slide, face painting, sweet stall and craft table. There will also be a BBQ from midday with locally sourced meat.

4 - 6 MAY

MAY THE 4TH BE WITH YOU EUREKA!

Meet Characters from Star Wars and find out if the Force is with you during Jedi training. 10% off entry if you go dressed as a Star Wars character. www.eureka.org.uk

Donations from the day will be made to two charities; Martin House Children’s Hospice and Help for Heroes. Entry is £5 which includes a programme, pint glass and free half pint token.

Kids go FREE! www.engineshedwetherby.co.uk 01937 588884

4 - 6 MAY

ROYAL TRAIL

WHITBY ABBEY Seek out the monarchs from the past in this family friendly trail. www.english-heritage.org.uk 5 MAY

CARS IN THE PARK

NEWBY HALL & GARDENS Gathering of sports & super cars.www.newbyhall.com 6 MAY

MAY DAY MAYHEM

EAST RIDDLESDEN HALL Get messy in the craft room. www.nationaltrust.org.uk 5 & 6 MAY

A FESTIVAL OF PLAY HAREWOOD HOUSE

With a range of displays, performances and activities there’s something for all ages and bags of opportunity to rediscover your inner child. www.harewood.org

6 MAY 10.30 AM

FREE DIDDI DANCE SESSION

THE BARN, WARM LANE YEADON Diddi dance will be doing a FREE 45 minute session on May day at The Barn, Warm Lane in Yeadon. Take your diddi one along to enjoy all the animals at the Elmsley farm and then pop in to the activity barn for your FREE diddi dance class (standard admission prices into the activity barn apply). They’ll be doing all their usual fun dancing with pom poms, ribbons and hoops to their own funky music. There’ll also be a spot of “morris style” dancing with sticks and bells!

11 MAY 2-4PM

SPRING FAIR

YORK STEINER SCHOOL 12 MAY & 16 JUNE

16 MAY

MUSEUMS AT NIGHT HAREWOOD HOUSE www.harewood.org 17 MAY

MUSEUM SLEEPOVER EUREKA!

www.eureka.org.uk 17 & 18 MAY

BRODSWORTH AT WAR BLACKOUT BRODSWORTH HALL

A unique view of the Hall during blackout in the War. The shutters are shut and the Hall is lit by “candles”, as the sounds of the 40s echoes through the hall. www.english-heritage.org.uk 18 MAY 2-4 PM

TABLE TOTS SALE

BARLBY HIGH SCHOOL 18 - 19 MAY

KITE FESTIVAL & TEDDY BEARS’ PICNIC HAREWOOD HOUSE www.harewood.org 19 MAY

YORK DOES VINTAGE

MERCHANT ADVENTURER’S HALL Vintage stalls, tea rooms, workshops and more. www.britaindoesvintage.co.uk 25 & 26 MAY

RIPON WORKHOUSE

HERITAGE ARTS FESTIVAL Traditional arts and crafts demonstrated by experts with a chance to have a go yourself. www.riponmuseums.co.uk 25 MAY - 2 JUNE

A HALF TERM OF PLAY BENINGBROUGH HALL & GARDENS

A different theme each day including Artrageous Saturday, Soaring Sunday, The Big Den Day, Tree Day Tuesday, Wildlife Wednesday, Explorer Challenge Day and Fishing Fun Day. www.nationaltrust.org.uk 25 MAY - 2 JUNE

SCHOOL HOLIDAY FUN STICKS & STONES FOUNTAINS ABBEY

Can you crack the code and decipher the trail of sticks throughout the estate? There will also be twiggy craft activities in Swanley Grange. www.fountainsabbey.org.uk 25 MAY - 2 JUNE

HALF TERM FAMILY FUN HARLOW CARR

Get your hands dirty by joining in with the spring garden trail and fun craft workshop. www.rhs.org.uk 25 MAY - 2 JUNE

MINI RAFT BUILDING

ANIMALS & THE RAILWAYS

Join a workshop to create a mini raft from natural materials before testing it out.

Booking Essential. www.fountainsabbey.org.uk

Discover all things furry, scaly, feathery, and fluffy, and how they relate to our railways. www.nrm.org.uk

FOUNTAINS ABBEY

25 & 26 MAY

MEDIEVAL FAIRE WEEKEND CAMPING HAREWOOD HOUSE

Immerse yourself in the full medieval experience and camp on the Saturday and/or Sunday night www.harewood.org 25 - 27 MAY

POND DIPPING

WHIPPETS & WELLIES

FOUNTAINS ABBEY

CASTLE HOWARD

Find out what lurks beneath the tranquil ponds of the water garden in this hands-on family activity. Equipment provided, booking essential. www.fountainsabbey.org.uk

Celebrate the best of Yorkshire with performances, demonstrations, crafts, competitions, climbing wall and much more. www.castlehoward.co.uk

15 MAY

25 - 27 MAY

25 - 27 MAY

NATIONAL CHILDREN’S DAY UK

BRODSWORTH AT WAR THE HOME FRONT

EUREKA!

BRODSWORTH HALL

Celebrating the Rights and Freedoms of Children with lots of extra activities, both inside and out! www.eureka.org.uk

1940s weekend with living history, performance and nostalgia. www.english-heritage.org.uk

NATIONAL RAILWAY MUSEUM

25 MAY - 2 JUNE

FAMILY FUN IN THE GARDENS RIPLEY CASTLE Craft activities in the garden room, lawn games and garden trail. www.ripleycastle.co.uk 25 MAY - 2 JUNE

HALF TERM CHILDREN’S TRAILS TREASURER’S HOUSE

www.nationaltrust.org.uk 25 MAY - 2 JUNE

NEVERLAND EUREKA!

Explore Neverland with fun and games that bring J. M. Barrie’s story to life. www.eureka.org.uk 25 MAY - 2 JUNE

medieval castle life CLIFFORD’S TOWER Family fun trail. www.english-heritage.org.uk

25 MAY - 2 JUNE

PIRATE TRAIL

SCARBOROUGH CASTLE www.english-heritage.org.uk 25 MAY - 2 JUNE

PIRATE TRAIL

RICHMOND CASTLE www.english-heritage.org.uk 25 MAY - 2 JUNE

TEDDY BEARS PICNIC

NORTH YORKSHIRE MOORS RAILWAY Take your teddy bear to the Railway for a picnic at Levisham and enjoy the free teddy bear trails. Full timetable, operating dates and advance bookings: 01751 472508 www.nymr.co.uk 27 MAY

CLASSIC CAR RALLY RIPLEY CASTLE www.ripleycastle.co.uk 27 MAY

FALCONRY EXPERIENCE RIPLEY CASTLE

Flying displays will take place at 11.00am, 12.30pm and 2.30pm.

Special tours of the Castle for Children will take place at 11.45am and 1.45pm. Normal garden admission charges apply. www.ripleycastle.co.uk 27 - 29 MAY 11AM - 4PM

CHILDREN’S ACTIVITY DAYS THORP PERROW

Join in at any time during the day for loads of fresh air, fun and games in the woods. www.thorpperrow.com 27 - 31 MAY

RIDE THE ZIP WIRE MAGNA

75 ft high & 25mph ride. Book on arrival, £5 a ride. www.visitmagna.co.uk 28 MAY

FAMILY GEOCACHING TASTER DAY BRIMHAM ROCKS

Electronic treasure hunting! www.nationaltrust.org.uk 28 & 30 MAY 11AM

SEED SOWING

FOUNTAINS ABBEY www.fountainsabbey.org.uk 28 MAY - 2 JUNE

TIME TRAVELLERS GO...

HOME FRONT BRODSWORTH HALL

Join the Discover History duo for a week of interactive performances – find out for yourself how to make do and mend and what life was like during the War. You can even sign up for the Brodsworth Home Guard! Activities indoors and outdoors each day. www.english-heritage.org.uk Families Vale of York

21

what’son...

29 MAY

8 & 9 JUNE

LLAMA ROCK WALKS

TRACTOR FEST

www.nationaltrust.org.uk

With hundreds of historical tractors, cars, lorries, stationary engines and motorcycles there are plenty of attractions to keep all of the family entertained. www.newbyhall.com

BRIMHAM ROCKS

29 MAY 11AM - 1PM & 2-4PM

GEOCACHING TASTER DAY FOUNTAINS ABBEY

Booking essential. www.fountainsabbey.org.uk 30 MAY

BUG HUNTING BONANZA BRIMHAM ROCKS www.nationaltrust.org.uk 30 MAY

KIDS OUTDOOR CLIMBING DAY

BRIMHAM ROCKS Try climbing in the great outdoors with Harrogate Climbing Centre. www.nationaltrust.org.uk 30 MAY

TREASURE ISLAND CASTLE HOWARD

Open air performance - take a picnic. www.castlehoward.co.uk 1 JUNE 1-3 PM

TABLE TOTS SALE

ROSSETT SPORTS CENTRE HARROGATE

NEWBY HALL & GARDENS

9 JUNE

NORTHERN SCHOOL OF CONTEMPORARY DANCE HAREWOOD HOUSE

A programme of activities throughout the day with minimovers and children’s creative dance workshops. www.harewood.org 9 JUNE

MINERS’ GALA

NATIONAL COAL MINING MUSEUM FOR ENGLAND A fun-filled day with lots of activities, events and attractions to keep the whole family entertained. 01924 848806 www.ncm.org.uk 15 JUNE

AS YOU LIKE IT

FOUNTAINS ABBEY Open air Shakespeare. Booking essential. www.fountainsabbey.org.uk 15 JUNE 1-3 PM

1 JUNE

DEER ME

FOUNTAINS ABBEY Family nature walk www.fountainsabbey.org.uk 2 JUNE

GEORGIAN TOUR & DANCE FOR KIDS MANSION HOUSE

www.jorvik-viking-centre.co.uk 2 JUNE

THE BIG PICNIC

NUNNINGTON HALL Circus cheer and theatrical merriment. www.nationaltrust.org.uk 6 JUNE

AS YOU LIKE IT HARLOW CARR Outdoor theatre. www.rhs.org.uk

TABLE TOTS SALE

GOOLE LEISURE CENTRE 16 JUNE

FATHER’S DAY CLASSIC CAR RALLY HAREWOOD HOUSE www.harewood.org 16 JUNE

PIRATE DAY

THORP PERROW Lots of Pirate fun for all ages. Fancy Dress Competition at 3pm. www.thorpperrow.com 16 JUNE

FATHER’S DAY

RIPLEY CASTLE Dads go free. www.ripleycastle.co.uk 16 JUNE

DEN BUILDING FOR DADS BRIMHAM ROCKS www.nationaltrust.org.uk

Driver required Families is looking for a driver to deliver magazines in the Harrogate area. If you’d like some pocket money, have time to spare every other month and could deliver copies by car to nurseries, schools, shops etc, then please contact us.

Tel: 01405 860831 or email: editor@familiesvoy.co.uk

22 Families

Vale of York

theatre 4 MAY

THE WIND IN THE WILLOWS JUNCTION www.junctiongoole.co.uk 01405 763652 14 - 25 MAY

BIN MEN

YORK THEATRE ROYAL www.yorktheatreroyal.co.uk 29 MAY

THE CHUCKLE BROTHERS MEET THE PHANTOM HULL NEW THEATRE 30 MAY - 1 JUNE

RUMPELSTILTSKIN

WEST YORKSHIRE PLAYHOUSE www.wyp.org.uk 2 JUNE

THE ELEPHANT BRIDESMAID

WAKEFIELD THEATRE ROYAL AND OPERA HOUSE www.wakefieldtheatres.co.uk 4 - 9 JUNE

SLEEPING BEAUTY ON ICE ALHAMBRA THEATRE BRADFORD www.bradford-theatres.co.uk 7 - 8 JUNE

ENGLISH YOUTH BALLET’S COPPELIA GRAND OPERA HOUSE YORK 8 JUNE

THE ENORMOUS TURNIP YORK THEATRE ROYAL www.yorktheatreroyal.co.uk 12 & 13 JUNE

BEN & HOLLY’S LITTLE KINGDOM HARROGATE THEATRE www.harrogatetheatre.co.uk 25 & 26 JUNE

DORA THE EXPLORER LIVE ALHAMBRA THEATRE BRADFORD www.bradford-theatres.co.uk 26 - 29 JUNE

ALICE IN WONDERLAND JOSEPH ROWNTREE THEATRE 29 JUNE

BIN MEN

WAKEFIELD THEATRE ROYAL AND OPERA HOUSE www.wakefieldtheatres.co.uk 1 JULY

GRIMM TALES

WAKEFIELD THEATRE ROYAL AND OPERA HOUSE www.wakefieldtheatres.co.uk 16 JUNE

CLASSIC CARS

BRODSWORTH HALL For Father’s Day. www.english-heritage.org.uk 21, 22, 23 JUNE

26 JUNE - 14 JULY

THE COMEDY OF ERRORS RIPLEY CASTLE

Outdoor performance - take a picnic! www.ripleycastle.co.uk

FORTIES FETE

BRODSWORTH HALL On the Friday evening and all day Sat & Sun sample the atmoshphere of a 40s fete. www.english-heritage.org.uk

30 JUNE

PRIDE & PREJUDICE HAREWOOD HOUSE Open air theatre. www.harewood.org

beta mum

Harrogate Children’s Festival

By Clare Burkhill-Howarth of Book Events For Children

Harrogate Children’s Festival is set to return for a weekend of events this May half-term. The much-admired Spiegeltent will again play host to the events.

For those of you who missed the delights of this venue last year, ‘tent’ doesn’t do justice to these hand-crafted pavilions, which were popular venues for travelling entertainment over the course of the last century. Sadly, only a handful of these ‘tents’ remain today but their wonderful interiors of wood and mirrors, with sumptuous detailing make them worthy of a visit in their own right. Rest assured that you’ll be enjoying the festival in warmth and comfort, regardless of our unpredictable weather!

The festival will run from Friday 31st May to Sunday 2nd June and whilst most events are still being finalised at the moment, the exciting line-up should be confirmed towards the end of April. There’ll be a wide range of events on offer, including literature, science, history, music and crafts. To give you a taste of what’s to come though, you can look forward to a visit from the Jorvik Viking Centre. Anyone who headed to York for the Viking Festival earlier this year will know how realistic their events are; we took part in Viking games in a recreated encampment in the heart of Coppergate, as well as dressing up as the ancient warriors. Another date for your diaries is an appearance by the team behind ‘What On Earth Books’. The concept behind the books is refreshingly simple; instead of telling a story in a linear way, the books unfold to encourage children to follow their curiosity and read wherever their interests take them, whether it’s up, down, left or right.

The author, Christopher Lloyd, is a former Technology Editor for The Sunday Times and has so far published three books in the range, exploring history, sport (from the first Greek Olympics to London 2012) and natural history (which follows 1000 species on a 2.3metre long timeline).

This is the third year of Harrogate Children’s Festival and it is hoping to build upon the events of previous years. With my family, we visited the Spiegeltent last year to take part in an event with children’s author Tom Palmer, who specialises in books about football. ‘Take part in’ is a fitting description of the event as it was all about audience participation; after competing in a quiz about reading and football, we took part in a penalty shoot out contest, earning penalty kicks for the number of correct answers. Sadly, my lack of football knowledge was only slightly better than my goal-scoring skills!

For more information about the festival and to see the full programme of events, please get in touch with Harrogate International Festivals (www.harrogateinternationalfestivals. com) in their new home at 32 Cheltenham Parade, Harrogate, HG1 1DB or call 01423 562303.

I can’t really write what’s in my heart today.

My job is to make you giggle for five minutes over a much-needed cuppa but I’m a bit low on the laughs today, I’m afraid. The past month has thrown up a big issue for my family and it’s not my issue to discuss here really.

But the fall-out has made me reflective about how we parent our children. You know when you’ve said the same thing (put your shoes away, wipe round your mouth after cleaning your teeth, don’t ever put your finger there again), with decreasing patience, for the 576th time that day? You know when you’ve really tried to be an AlphaMum - that elusive blend of loving nurture and zingy inspiration - and failed again? When the fingerprints on the clean sofa have sent your blood pressure as high as a pre-Narcotics Anonymous Russell Brand (instead of making you chuckle fondly, like in that sugary poem they send home from playgroup that makes you sob so hard you can actually taste the raging hormones in your tears)?

night; they can wear filthy, raggedy pyjamas all day and they can stay up as late as they like and crash in my bed, even if it does mean I don’t sleep properly and have no privacy with my partner.’

But after a while, you put down the gin, wipe your eyes and carry on doing the best you can for them.

Sure, you pick your battles, but you try to install a sense of right and wrong, you don’t beg them for their approval of your decisions and you don’t let them do anything that would hurt someone else.

Next time you have the ‘giving up moment’, take a break and remember that all the work you’re putting in now does have a purpose. The past month has shown me that you certainly do reap what you sow. Kids When all that stuff’s happening are incredibly resilient - they’re and you want to sling gin in your programmed to love you. But Nescafe, you end up asking those boundaries we put in place, yourself ‘what’s the point?’. the love we show them, even the You spend hours creating a fish pie mistakes we make - if we talk about that gets pushed around the plate, that to them with honesty - all shine while your child pulls an expression through when the going gets tough.

It’s hard, long, tiring work. But it’s that clearly says: ‘Captain Birds Eye can make something I want to worth it. eat, Mum. You, on the other hand, My friend Michaela Oldfield told me have shooed me out of the kitchen a story that illustrates this thought six times and then served up this perfectly. At the end of the first poisonous muck, which you seem week of the Easter holidays, she very agitated about me eating, but said to her 7-year-old daughter, which tastes new and mysterious.

‘Oh, I really wish I was off next I have a suspicion that new and week - I have to go back to work.’ mysterious taste is called ‘healthy’ and I am having NOTHING to do Her daughter gave her a look with it.’ that Michaela said ‘wouldn’t be unfamiliar had I been looking in a You lead your toddler back to bed mirror’ and, with all the wisdom of for literally the 25th time that night her tender years, she said: ‘Mum. no eye contact, no chat, nothing to You should just be grateful for the give them a reason to keep coming week you have had off.’ to your room, just like the books say - but STILL the blighter gets up Michaela only related this as an (this has actually happened to me) amusing anecdote, but I think it (more than once). speaks volumes for her ‘glass half full’ parenting. She runs Green Whatever your trigger, there’s Shoots Coaching and is a really always something that will make inspirational person, who always you think: ‘I give up. From now on, shines with joy. Not surprising it’s Coco Pops morning noon and that’s rubbing off on her daughter.

Families Vale of York

23

YORK • SELBY • RIPON • THIRSK

ASHVILLE ADVENTURE ‘stay and play’

Fun filled classes with exciting games and activities for boys and girls aged 2 to 5 years

A fun session for pre-school children and their parents.

An opportunity to meet the teachers, see the school and engage in activities including story telling, arts and crafts and even feeding the guinea pigs!

www.football-tots.net

15th

Wednesday May & th Wednesday 19 June 9:30am - 11am No need to book

Come and see what makes Ashville different Ashville College Green Lane, Harrogate HG2 9JP 01423 724815 ashville@ashville.co.uk www.ashville.co.uk

Fun – for children and parents to enjoy together Educational – learning through play Physical – develops real football skills and exceptional co-ordination Social – make new friends To book into the classes or for more info call 07595 297639 or email info@football-tots.net

11197_Football Tots Poster.indd 1

20/12/2012 16:04

THE MOUNT JUNIOR SCHOOL WHERE LEARNING IS REAL

OPEN AFTERNOON SATURDAY 11 MAY from 12.30pm For girls aged 2-11 and boys aged 2-7 years.

Mount Junior School girls gain guaranteed admission to The Mount School in Year 7.

 Toddler Group for girls and boys at 2 years of age.  Pre-School for girls and boys aged 3 - 4 years is open 7.30am to 6pm, 5 days a week, 51 weeks a year.

For further details, please contact our Registrar on 01904-667529.

THE MOUNT JUNIOR SCHOOL, DALTON TERRACE, YORK YO24 4DD

mountschoolyork.co.uk

24 Families

Vale of York

01904-667500

registrar@mountschoolyork.co.uk