Families VOY May / June 2012

46

may/june2012 issue

free

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

families ad april 12 outlines.pdf

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Families

Vale of York

5/4/12

16:51:31

welcome

A crime has been committed in our house and no-one’s owning up.

When I first became a parent a good friend advised me to choose my battles carefully and not to sweat the small stuff. Good advice and I’ve heeded it well.

I decided the crime was big - it involves a lie, a very small ‘Hello Kitty’ stamper and the table mats. Since daddy was at work and the nature of the crime probably excludes him anyway, there are only two possible culprits: Child A and Child B. After a lengthy courtroom scene in our kitchen, Child A cried a lot but was determined it wasn’t her - even when a special mummy-daughter trip to France next month was put into question. Even when I did the disappointed ‘teary-eyed’ look.

Child B, typically, did nothing and saw nothing.

After an evening of no TV or games and a re-trial, I was still no further forward.

Then came the self-doubt. Maybe, just maybe, the crime was committed by a visiting child earlier in the week? Maybe it was accidental? Maybe it’s a cry for attention and I’m a bad parent? On the other hand if I let my child get away with lying they will become a criminal at the very least, won’t they?

I decided to sleep on it and by morning I’d come to several conclusions: Child A is likely to be a politician, Child B a spy; I’m not nearly as good as I used to be at seeking out the truth and parenthood has made me more relaxed.

I’ve relegated the crime to ‘small stuff’ status.

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in this issue familiesmagazine Contact us: PO Box 201, DN14 9ZW Tel: 01405 860831 editor@familiesvoy.co.uk www.familiesvoy.co.uk Front cover:

Photography by Linda Scannell Photography www.lindascannell.com Circulation: 18,000 Deadline: The deadline for the July/Aug 2012 edition is early June 2012 Designed by: MOOIdesign Tel:01405 869045 Printed by: Warners Midlands PLC www.warners.co.uk Copyright Families in the Vale of York May/june 2012. Colour transparencies and any other original materials submitted for publication are sent at owners’ own risk and, while every care is taken, neither Families nor its agents accept liability for loss or damage.

Families in the Vale of York is part of a group established in 1990 and headed by Families South West. All franchised magazines in the group are independently owned and operated under license. We take care preparing this magazine but the publishers and distributors cannot be held responsible for the claims of the advertisers nor for the accuracy of the contents nor for any consequence.

p4 news p8 competition p9 families survey p10 parties p18 ask the doctor p19 getting more of what you want p20 what’s on including jubilee listings p23 beta mum

what’s online • party traditions • ethical parties • create free range kids • why we need to eat more fat not less • competitions • beta mum Families Vale of York

news

Caring for Others at Killinghall

Children from Killinghall District Playgroup enjoyed a visit from Tinky the donkey courtesy of the Elisabeth Svendsen Trust for Children and Donkeys.

The charity is dedicated to providing riding therapy with donkeys to children with special needs and disabilities.

‘As part of the visit to playgroup the children learned about the trust’s work and all about being a donkey and the care they need,’ said playgroup manager Carol Moxon.

‘Afterwards the children gave Tinky the donkey a pat and a cuddle.’

The visit formed part of the playgroup’s ‘Caring for Others’ topic and is part of a number which have taken place this term including visits from the Dogs Trust, the police and a vet.

Killinghall Playgroup/Pre-school is situated on the outskirts of Harrogate and takes children between the ages of 2 and 5. For more information or to arrange a visit call Carol Moxon on 07745592436 or killinghalldistrictplaygroup1@gmail. com. www.killinghalldistrictplaygroup.co.uk

ceive Nominationination in the Tennis Tykes Re Tennis Tykes, has received a nom

For the second year running t Activity for Ones Awards in the category “Bes are their prestigious What’s On For Little such list ing wait a ing runn ses are now k, Kidzplay, bec the Under 5s”. A number of clas Star Hall rch Chu s ses at St Andrew’ popularity. You can sign up for clas n Hall, All Saint’s Church Poppleton, St Oswald’s Tow Ripon Leisure Centre, Wetherby .

Club lth Hea o Rok & rd Fulfo Church,

Splish Splosh is a SBS winner!

Local swimming school Splish Splosh has won a Small Business Sunday award from dragon Theo Paphitis.

Each Sunday Theo reads through the tweets he gets between 5pm to 7.30pm from all the businesses entering and retweets a selection to his followers. Splish Splosh was one of the lucky 6 who received an ‘I’m in’ from him back in November 2010 and now the York-based national swimming school has won an award in recognition of this.

Vicky Pettitt, Splish Splosh’s co-owner and managing director, was a social media novice at the time and had only been tweeting since March of that year: ‘I love the world of Twitter,’ says Vicky, ‘you can connect with lots of different people and when it gives you the power to connect to such high profile business people how can you not use it to create further exposure for your business?

‘Since starting our tweeting we have grown our followers and made great contacts along the way. Being invited to a SBS Winners Event was the icing on the cake for the company!

‘Theo was really down to earth whilst giving the speech and he seemed a genuinely nice guy wanting to help small businesses - after all, that’s how he started.’

To find out more about Splish Splosh swimming school visit www.splishsploshswimmingschool.com

Families

Vale of York

Fundraising for CLIC Sargent with Kick!

Young football fans from Yorkshire are being encouraged to get active by taking part in CLIC Sargent’s Kick! football fundraising campaign.

Registration is now open for this year’s campaign with schools, youth groups and youth football clubs encouraged to hold their own events between now and July 2012. Groups who sign up have the option of keeping 25% of the funds raised to develop their own activities or facilities. CLIC Sargent provides a free event pack with everything teachers, coaches, and youth club leaders need to hold an event including fundraising tips, advice on how to get publicity for the event, event ideas and template certificates.

For more information and to register your own event with Kick! – just visit www.clicsargent.org.uk/kick or call 08451 20 22 32

Springboard to Success It’s hard to believe that The Little Gym in Harrogate has been open two years and now has over 500 children taking classes there every week.

The gym offers a wide range of gymnastics-based classes that help children aged four months to 12 years to reach their potential with structured lessons built around entertaining themes.

‘The vast majority of our staff were with us when we opened in February 2010,’ says gym director Holly Williamson, ‘and such is the relationship we’ve established with the families who come and visit us every week, we’ve now formed a real community.

It’s been a real pleasure getting to know the children, watching them grow in confidence and ability in the fun, safe Little Gym environment.’

The Little Gym now has an exciting new piece of equipment, the AirTrak, on which children can bounce and practice the skills they learn at The Little Gym. ‘It‘s enjoyed by the entire age range of our membership base and features regularly in our three-hour holiday camps which have proved to be very popular,’ added Holly.

You can find out more about their classes at www.thelittlegymeu.com and be sure to look out for The Little Gym, North Leeds which is set to open its doors in February 2013!

Little Fidgets Launches in Doncaster Little Fidgets classes are now running in Doncaster thanks to local linguist Hayley Kirkby.

Hayley runs her new classes, ‘French for Fidgets’ and ‘Spanish for Fidgets’ in Doncaster, Bawtry and Retford and in surrounding villages. Classes include puppets, songs, games, role play and snacks, with the children using all the 5 senses as much as possible. Hayley runs classes for 2-4 year olds in church halls, nurseries and playgroups and she’s also planning some after-school classes to be held in local primary schools.

‘I want to show people that learning languages is really easy if you start young’, said Hayley. ‘Languages are so much easier when you start young and children can copy accents instantly.’

If you want to join a class or find out more, give Hayley a call on 01302 461 123 or visit www.littlefidgets.co.uk

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Fun classes for children aged 2 - 11 With puppets, songs, craft, stories and snacks Harrogate, York, Selby & Leeds

Plan ahead for summer with Super Camps For parents, the approach of the summer break is often more of dread than excitement; juggling commitments as the perfect balance of family and working life is sought.

But it’s not as impossible as it sounds. Super Camps – England’s largest provider of holiday childcare based at some of the finest schools in the UK are launching more activities and sites this year at even more competitive rates and most importantly with greater flexibility.

‘We understand that being a working parent is not easy at the best of times and we’ve made it our mission to make life a little easier by providing quality, safe and most importantly, fun holiday childcare for children ages 4-16,’ said Super Camps Managing Director, Mark Vingoe.

Camps include RAW Camp, with new tasks including Trap Making, Advanced Navigation Skills and Wilderness First Aid and for those seeking something more creative, budding performers can tread the boards or take part in the Popstars Academy.

With classes for aspiring chefs, artists, sports stars and even secret agents there is sure to be something for everyone.

Super Camps offer optional extended hours from 8am until 6pm and competitive prices for individual day or lengthier courses.

New for this year is a “parent portal” allowing bookings and amendments at any time of the day or night. Providing spaces are available parents can make the most of the special flexi-change policy.

In our area there are camps at St Peter’s School & Ashville College this summer. Book now at www.supercamps.co.uk or call 01235 832222

Can you help with Snak Appeal?

Martin House Children’s Hospice and Snak Appeal are working in partnership to raise in excess of £30,000 this year and are asking if you can help.

Any business, small or large, can get involved. Schools, shops, pubs, hotels and offices are already supporting the cause and enjoying the delicious treats on offer.

Although the concept is quite new in Yorkshire, Snak Appeal donated a quarter of a million pounds to different children’s hospices around the UK last year by selling sweets and snacks. In 2012, the aim is to raise more nationally and at least £30,000 in Yorkshire, solely for Martin House Children’s Hospice.

Snak Appeal will deliver a box of 30 delicious treats to your workplace that each retail for £1. Well known brands of sweets and chocolates are all included and a selection of cakes, biscuits, healthy nuts and dried fruits, cheese biscuits and rice crackers are available. Customers or staff chose their favourite and put £1 in the box, it’s as simple as that – Snak Appeal do all the rest.

If you would like a convenient snack service that supports Yorkshire’s children’s Hospice contact Becky on 07932751003.

ers sent. aby Swimm re’s no time like the pre OFFER B im with your baby, the ss with every 10 classes sw to g ’re thinking of startin free cla

If you ol, offering an extra hool, New Earswick Po l Baby Swimmers are t Wilkinson Primary Sc ton School.

Local swimming schoo ber Ro at ce pla e tak a are ckling booked. Classes in our ckwith Health Club in Harrogate and at Po y’ve Be n’t have to wait until the do you & Waterworld in York, and to dy rea are y the g! l kin fee ma n as you ian in the Babies can swim as soo o knows, you might have a future Olymp Wh had their vaccinations. co.uk www.babyswimmers.

We’re expanding: teachers required

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news Killer Queens

Nippers Nursery Dads will be competing again this year in The Great Knaresborough Bed Race. It will be their 13th year running – unlucky for some but hopefully not for ‘The Killer Queens’. As the name suggests the team of dads dress up as women to entertain the crowds during the parade but once the beds reach Conygham Hall it’s all about beating last year’s time and completing the course to raise money for their chosen charity. This year money is being raised for The Knaresborough Candlelighters, supporting The Yorkshire Regional Paediatric and Adolescent Cancer and Leukaemia Unit in Leeds. We wish them all the best on 9th June.

Nippers Nursery is a family run setting with six themed play areas that support children to choose ‘free play’ - where children make their own decisions and choices about how to spend their day. With continuous access available to the outdoor area, children are suited & booted in 100% waterproof outfits and encouraged to go out and explore come rain or shine. They’ve been providing local families with child care for 18 years. www.nippersnursery.co.uk 01424 865 650

ool holidays Nanny Share for the sch y club this summer - why not consider holida a

Rather than just relying on relatives or using a nanny? people realise hiring a nanny is a very costJoanne Boyd-White of Angelic Angels, says few h the holidays: throug work to have who s parent effective solution for ire will earn between £8 - £10 per hour ‘An experienced qualified nanny working in Yorksh the children in your own home. If you after g lookin day gross and will come to you each children and are facing a similar have who consider that cost divided between friends ering. consid worth ely definit that’s n solutio a it’s a dilemm the children entertained and happy ‘Whether it’s sunny or raining, your nanny can keep day trips and you get a first hand sive expen or parks theme to resort without having to had together! have they fun much how of report at the end of each day and could be just the solution family a as needs your to d tailore ‘This service is flexible and before the children have to and y holida family your to fill those remaining few weeks after return to school.’ e on hiring a Contact Angelic Angels for friendly free advic hire.

Yorks in nanny y summer holida www.angelicangels.co.uk

Teachers needed!

New Italian Playgroup

Singamajigs are looking for teachers in the Northallerton and York areas to work term-time, mum-friendly hours.

If you are a confident singer and enjoy working with pre-schoolers give Karen a ring on 01423 552918

A brand new playgroup for Italian and half-Italian families living in Yorkshire is launching.

‘Until recently a group of us have been meeting at each other’s houses or at local cafes,’ says group founder Erica Di Martino, but now we have grown in number we want to meet somewhere with a little bit more space.’

The informal sessions are aimed at encouraging bilingual children to strengthen and practice their Italian skills through playing and socializing in a totally Italian-speaking environment.

The group meets in the York / Harrogate area two weekends per month. Venues are not yet confirmed but you can find out more by emailing Erica at italianplaygroup@talktalk.net

education Want to know more about the Montessori Movement?

Following our Montessori feature in the March/ April issue of Families, we’ve been contacted

by Stephen Phillips who, together with his wife, teaches evening classes at York University on the subject. Courses for the coming year include How to Build a Human Being: An Introduction to the Montessori School of Thought and Kids: Instructions Not Included.

For those wanting to know more about the courses the university will be hosting an open day in the King’s Manor on 4th September.

Stephen and his wife Bernadette will be there, with all the other tutors from the Centre for Lifelong Learning, to answer questions and chat to anyone who’s interested. The courses are aimed at anyone, no prior knowledge (either of Montessori or children) is assumed.

Find out more at www.bestmontessori.co.uk 01904 476 350

venor Belmont Gros eir next ing th Schoniongl wonill beThurhosdstay 3rd May 9:th30e -the le to see open mor re you’ll be ab 11:45am whe without an appointment. n e school in actio any other tim welcome at emailing e ar es ili m Fa 423 771029 or by calling 01 tgrosvenor.co.uk to on lm be admin@ intment. make an appo

Pocklington Montessori School will be hosting a Summer Fayre

and Open Morning on Saturday 23rd June 10am – 3pm.

If you’d like to visit during the school day, phone 01759 305436 to make an appointment or visit www.pocklingtonmontessori.com

Outstanding Ofsted 2011, in all 14 areas

FULFORD & STRENSALL, YORK from birth to 5 years We have re-named our nurseries to recognise our Outstanding Montessori childcare.

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

Families

Vale of York

To book a free trial call York / Pocklington - 07807 949874 Harrogate - 07725 339257 ww.tennis-tots.co.uk

Watch out for our new name, the York Montessori Nursery.

t: 01904 642666 & 01904 490339

www.hometohomenursery.co.uk

@yorkmontessori

news & open days information Brackenfield School Celebrates Record Scholarship Results Brackenfield Year Six pupils have been celebrating as they have been awarded a record number of Scholarships and Exhibitions for independent secondary schools. This year the children not only all achieved places at their chosen schools but did so in style with the talents of individual children being recognised through a range of scholarship awards.

Mrs Skillington, Headmistress of Brackenfield said; ‘We are very proud of all of our pupils’ achievements. Whether they are planning to attend State or Independent secondary schools, we aim to develop their talents not only in core subjects but also in music, drama, sport and arts so the fact that so many children have gained scholarships across all of these areas, in addition to academic subjects, is a wonderful reward for their hard work and reflects the high standards that we aim for in the school.’

To celebrate their achievements Year Six had a ‘no-homework week’ and each of the scholars has chosen a ‘Scholarship Lunch’ which the whole school will enjoy over the coming term. Favourites include ‘Brackenfield Brunch’, treacle tart and trifle!

Anthony Comerford, Principal of Brackenfield, was delighted with the success: ‘Our pupils deserve to be really proud of their results, especially in a year when senior schools have reported a record number of pupils taking entrance exams. On behalf of the pupils and parents I would like to thank all of our excellent staff for their high standards of teaching and support in achieving these results.’

To find out more Brackenfield have two open mornings: Friday 25 May 10.00 – 11.30 am Saturday 26 May 10.00 – 11.30 am www.brackenfieldschool.co.uk

Looking ahead at Bankfield and Highfield Like many parents at this time of year, you may be daunted at the thought of your son or daughter moving on to ‘big school.’

Bankfield Pre Prep and Highfield Prep work hard to ensure children have a smooth transition.

‘We are very proud of the fact that there are no first day tears,’ says the Head of Highfield Mrs Rachel Colbourn.

‘Children enjoy their weekly visits to Highfield throughout the summer term and become familiar with their new surroundings. During the sessions, children are thoroughly prepared for life in Reception through storytelling, craft activities, singing and outdoor play.

‘By September, children have already formed close bonds with the Reception staff, all of whom share the same ethos and enable children to fulfil their potential through structured learning activities and play.

‘Bankfield and Highfield have a real buzz that is hard to describe and we know that you and your child will feel at home straight away.’

Places are still available for some year groups in September 2012 - you can find out more at their whole school open day on 26th May. Contact: admissions@hlc.org.uk www.hlc.org.uk Telephone: 01423 504543.

Stay & Play at Ashville

Ashville Pre-Prep School in Harrogat e likes to host open days with a difference. Stay and Play is a fun where children can enjoy getting invol interactive session ved in activities ranging from arts and crafts to storytelling.

At the end of the session parents are offered an informal tour of the school whilst children enjoy a snac k.

Forthcoming sessions are: Wednesday 2nd May, Wednesday 23rd June & Wednesday 4th July from 9.30 May ,Wednesday 13th - 11.00am.

01423 566358 ashville@ashville.c o.uk www.ashville.co.uk

Discovery Fridays Harrogate Ladies’ College are hosting Discovery Fridays every Friday for any Year 6 girl looking for 2012 entry to secondary school. Girls are invited to join the current Upper 3 (Year 7) girls for a taster experience of life at HLC. For further details contact the admissions office.

Baby Bankfield A new Mother & Baby Group, meets every Wednesday from 9.30-11am at Bankfield during term time only.

Planned activities and music sessions are included.

All welcome and free of charge. For more information contact Bankfield Pre-Prep, Harrogate Ladies’ College on 01423 537030.

Families Vale of York

news

Boost your fundraising with a Pre-loved Clothing Sale If your pre-school, nursery or school is looking for new ways of fund-raising Zak & Flo in Bishopthorpe have put together a simple package for you to raise much-needed funds.

Firstly Zak & Flo will come along to your PTA or fund raising meeting to present how the scheme works: ‘We then help you to put together a ‘Pre-Loved Sale’ for parents to bring along their pre-loved children’s clothes, shoes & wellies,’ says owner Ruth Holden-Harris, ‘and they don’t have to have been bought at Zak & Flo. ‘When you have fixed dates we provide you with all the paperwork, rails and even a till for the event. Proceeds of the sale will be split 50/50 between your school and the seller. What’s more as a seller you can ask for your money to be returned as a Zak & Flo gift voucher where it will be worth 10% more!’

After the sale Ruth will help you organise a textile collection to raise funds for your group, or you can donate directly to charities such as The Yorkshire Air Ambulance. Any unsold items from the Pre-Loved sale can also be donated to this collection if parents wish.

As well as raising funds, it also helps the environment by helping to divert unwanted textiles away from landfill. A recent DEFRA report has shown that textile collection schemes are helping to reduce the volume of textiles discarded as municipal solid waste. However, it is a fact that as a nation we still send 1,081,000 tonnes of textiles to landfill every year.

‘By getting involved in the recycling collection, you have an opportunity to sort through your cupboards and wardrobes and donate unwanted textiles in the bag provided,’ adds Ruth. ‘This can include adults’ and children’s clothes, shoes (tied together please), hats, belts, bags, soft toys, curtains and bedding (not duvets or pillows).

‘We also believe the scheme is sure to raise awareness of the benefits of recycling and reusing amongst our children.’

To find out more about fund-raising for your nursery, playgroup or school you can contact Ruth at Zak & Flo. www.zakandflo.com ruth@zakandflo.com 01904 707 829

ro Camp Summer Fairy & He their brand new website to

Fantasy Kids Clubs have launched ge fun childcare for their child(ren) make it easier for parents to arran gh time without the added enou over the holidays. It’s a busy ing forms, so with a book ng pleti com and ing print of stress about the holidays on mati infor r clea and form simple online can access the website nts pare , able avail s camps and workshop and easy booking process. k quic the anytime of the day to complete ps are a great way for little ones The highly popular Fairy & Hero cam camps are suitable for girls The to spend a week full of magical fun.

9am-3pm. from daily run and rs 3-8y and boys aged y & Hero Camp will be held at St de The 2012 York-based Summer Fair 24th August. Other locations inclu the to 20th the Peter’s School from London. If your and ury, wsb Shre ter, ches Man , the Leeds, Harrogate, Wakefield or Hero, or wants to brush up on little one wishes to train to be a Fairy asy Kids Clubs now to book a place!

Fant skills they learnt last year, contact mer Fairy & Hero Camp and to Sum ut abo tion rma info e For mor the website: visit or 8 798 322 3 book contact 011 .uk www.fantasykidsclubs.co

Families

Vale of York

reader survey How much do you really love us? - and be honest!

Many readers have told us Families is the only local publication they read - thank you! However, we don’t want to rest on our laurels. We want to know what you think - what you like, and what you’d like more - or less of. Please fill in and return our questionnaire and you could win these fabulous prizes!

It should take no more than 2 minutes to fill in!

1. How much of each issue do you read? q All of it from cover to cover q More than half q Just the articles which catch my

eye 2. Which element is the MOST USEFUL OF ALL (tick max two) q Articles q List of holiday activities q Lists of clubs and classes q What‘s On in your area q Children’s party venues

and entertainers q Adverts q Local news

6. In your opinion which category of information do you find the hardest to find online? q A really good searchable list of

what’s on events in my area q Specific parenting articles q Children’s activity classes q Local nurseries and schools q Local plumbers, carpenters etc q More news about my area q To chat to local mums q Book/product/restaurant reviews by

other mums q To sell my unwanted stuff

……………………...……….......………

a fantastic fam bundle from M ily games attel

You could w fantastic famin one of five bundles from ily games Worth over £1 Mattel.

00, prize is burseach board gamesting with brilliant to set up an that are super-fast into the busid play so they can fit est family’s lives.

Show off your Pictionary, the artistic skills with classic game sketches of quic now has diffeand crazy guesses, which k rin g sk ill le vels for kids an parents. Or words with thlaunch a battle of wits and d e w or ld ’s fa vourite gam Scrabble Junie Scrabble Original. There’s word or included fo even r yo un ger word fansa Get ready for . so m e fa st -p number one aced family fu as you race tocard game UNO. It’s a fra n with nt ge forget to yell UNt rid of all your cards – juic frenzy st do O when you ha ve one card len’t Fans of Angry ft. board game. Birds will love the new An the bird-flingingAngry Birds Knock On W gry Birds ood brings fun to life as th competes to e whole using a tiny sliknock the evil pigs from thfamily ngshot. e tower And there’s lo ts of active fun to Chameleon be ha room to colle Crunch as kids race arou d with ct different co nd the having so muc loured bugs.

Th h fun, they w learning. on’t even real ey’ll be ise they’re

q Other...............................................

.............................................................

3. How often do you contact ............................................................. advertisers you’ve seen in Families?

Often q 7. Tick any that applies to you q Occasionally q I have and use a Facebook Never q

account q I have and use a Twitter account 4. Which advertiser type have you q I own a smart phone, I-pad or contacted after seeing them in

plan to buy one soon Families?

I use a What’s On app q

q Nursery

If so, which one do you like and use?

School q q Children’s activity club ............................................................. q Nanny/Au Pair/babysitting agency q Health practitioner/therapist 8. Which age group are you in? q Party supplier q 20 something q Parenting course q 30 something q Photographer q 40 something q Private tutor q 50 something q Holiday/family hotel q Cleaner/hairdresser/gardener 9. How would you describe Families?

5. Online how do you find most of your family-related information? (about local nurseries, schools, clubs and classes, local news and events etc) Tick all relevant to you. q I mostly use FamiliesOnline q I never use FamiliesOnline q I mostly Google randomly q I mostly visit other sites such as

WIN

Looking for a childcare solution during the school holidays?

Don’t want to use holiday clubs all summer?

Have friends with children in the same dilemma?

Contact Angelic Angels to find out how a nanny or ‘nanny share’ could be the perfect solution for your family this summer. Free, friendly advice to families across Yorkshire

t: 01482 845 387

www.angelicangels.co.uk

.............................................................

Any other comments? ........................... .............................................................. .............................................................. .............................................................. ..............................................................

Thank you for your time.

Please return your replies by 30th June to: Families Vale of York, PO BOX 201, DN14 9SA. Data will be treated in confidence and details will NOT be passed on to a third party. If you would like to be entered in the prize draw, don’t forget to include your email address. Winners will be notified directly. One prize each family.

Editor’s decision is final, no cash alternative.

My e-mail: .............................................................................................

My postcode: ....................................................

If you prefer to enter online follow this link www.surveymonkey.com/s/7JSTGQB or scan the QR code above with your smartphone and go straight to the survey.

Families Vale of York

Thinking of holding a party at home? We asked local party organiser Carey McNaughton to give us her advice.

s e i t r a p

As someone who has held many successful children’s parties at home I’m often asked by friends for ideas and tips on how to manage the mayhem and make it memorable and exciting. Here are my key ideas and tips to help you do the same.

at homemayhem!

e h t e g a n a m o t w o –h

by Carey McNaughton themes at the moment include: • Lego City

• The Muppets

• Bob the Builder

• Disney Cars 2

Keep it simple and make it easy on yourself

• Disney Princesses • Pirates

• Don’t take on more than you’re comfortable with

Involve your child/children in preparations

• Pick a date and time that suits you • Ensure you allow yourself enough time to pull the party together • Use the internet where possible to order partyware and food/drink in advance • If you think you might need extra help before or during the party ask people in advance.

Be realistic about how many children you can comfortably accommodate

Take a look at the rooms to be used as “party space” - include outside space if the party is during the warmer months, but always have a bad weather plan. Decide on a number and stick to it.

Decide on a theme for the party Based on your child’s interests the theme can be anything from favourite characters to hobbies, fancy dress or their favourite colour.

A theme helps you to plan and pulls together everything for the party from activities and food through to invitations, tableware and decorations.

However, before you promise your child a certain theme make sure you can get hold of it - themes go in and out of fashion quickly. Hot

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• Jungle Animals

• Minnie Mouse

In my experience children love to help. Talk to them to get ideas for the theme and activities/ games then set them to work helping to make invitations, simple decorations and pulling the party bags together.

Be prepared for activities/games to take less time than you thought and have some ideas in reserve.

Allow some time for the children to run around and let off steam

Remember that the main aim of the party is for everyone to have fun. I always have a rough plan to help me but it

Useful lin ks

Partyware invitation /decorations/ s/etc There ar

e fa this article, r too many of these to but here ar e a few I’ve list within useful: found www.partyp ieces.co.uk Let them know whether they can leave their www.partyb child or if you expect them to stay. ox.co.uk www.partyd elights.co.u Ask them for any details you need, including k www.partyar k.co.uk any allergies (particularly food) and a contact w w w.monsterp number in case of emergencies. arties.co.uk Activities Make a rough party plan Many of the and games Pick a variety of activities and games that will also offer g websites offering party am keep all the children interested, especially if you buy. Howev es and activites for ware yo have a mix of boys and girls as their interests often use fo er, here are some oth u to er sites I r ideas: can be very different.

Art and cra www.yellow fts Think about how long each activity/game will moon take. Make a rough plan of when you think www.baker ro ss each activity/game will start and end (don’t Ideas for p a forget to include time for food and the cake). www.partyp rty games lan.

This will help you to see how the party will www.netmum co.uk/asp/partygames .asp s.com/partie flow and if there are any gaps to fill. www.activity s/party-gam es vi lla g e. co .uk/party_g Include a simple activity for children to start and_activiti ames_ es.htm when they arrive which will keep them busy Ready ma d whilst waiting for the other guests. www.lelloan e treasure hunts dmonkey.c o.uk www.quest sonline.co.u k

Share information with parents of the guests

!

pays to be flexible. If you find the children are enjoying playing something different don’t force them to stick rigidly to the plan. Activities can always be taken home in the party bag or used another time.

Prepare as much as you can in advance

Getting things ready beforehand avoids the stress of frantically trying to get sorted before or during the party and can spread the costs.

So once you’ve decided on the theme and activities/games for the party you may as well start shopping. With so many online party stores it’s easy to find the goods that you need at competitive prices and have them all delivered to your door.

Find an empty box/drawer to dedicate to party preparations so that you know where everything is stored. When things arrive unwrap them, check them and then put them into the party box. Keep the party bags in this box and fill them as things arrive. Where activities/games need you to pull together separate things, store the components in a

parties

clearly labelled bag/envelope in the party box until needed on party day.

Allow yourself time to prepare food and drink before the party - make sure drinks are in jugs and food is in bowls/on platters before the guests arrive.

If there are items in your house that you don’t want the children to see/play with then tidy them away a few days before the party so that you don’t need to worry about them.

On the Day

Protect areas that are to be used for messy activities with a plain plastic tablecover.

Don’t put out noisy or distracting toys out on the table unless you want the children to spend the rest of the party charging around with them (examples include blow outs, balls or balloons). Keep them until the end of the party or put them into party bags to take home.

Lastly – remember to relax and enjoy the fun!

ren. d their two child r half, David, an he ot r he th d wi an hton corporate ton lives in Breig organise social, ploma Carey McNaugh for planning to t len ta pletion of her Di d m an co e ve th lo r ng he wi llo ed us Fo s s. ha She s, Carey Plans er 10 year planning busines informally for ov es rty rti pa pa n ow n’s r at re he ild d ch nche visit her website , she has now lau 757 322000, or 01 on y, re in Event Planning Ca ll n ca rmation you ca It. For more info k .u careyplansit.co

Treasures Wish List Celebrates its First Birthday with Families Magazine Treasures launched this new service last year with Families magazine so we thought we would catch up with owner Zhara Armstrong and see how the new Wish List Service has done.

‘I am delighted with the response we have had,’ says Zhara. ‘It really offers a great solution to questions like, “what should I buy?” and “how do I know what the birthday child really wants?” We have had a number of families that used the Wish List service last year and are using it again for this year’s birthday, which is the best feedback we could hope for.

‘Parents have really liked the Wish List cards we give to be attached to birthday invitations. This explains everything including the fact that buying from the birthday child’s chosen wish list means they get a discount. We also gift-wrap for free and this can all be done over the phone so even family and friends living a distance away can easily use it.

‘One parent of a 5 year old summed the experience up perfectly: “This wish list is a great ide. Our daughter couldn’t believe we were encouraging her to put toys in the trolley and by the time her party happened she seemed to have forgotten she had chosen them! She said it was amazing that everyone knew how much she loved horses and fairies! We will be doing it again at Christmas and next birthday.”’

Another valuable feature of the service is that once your child has selected their Wish List, Treasures will guarantee these items will be kept until after your party date. So no more regretting not buying when you saw the toy – once it’s on the Wish List it is secure. After the party date Zhara will follow up with parents to ensure they were happy with the Wish List Service and to find ut if they would like to buy any items remaining on the list (discount still applies) before they go back on sale.

If you haven’t tried the Treasures Wish List Service now is a great time: Wish Lists created in May and June for birthdays up to the end of August, Treasures are doubling the Wish List discount to 10%. www.treasurestoys.co.uk 01937 589187

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Families Vale of York

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n a g n i s choo

entertainer

We asked our good friend Henriett Rabbit how to choose an entertainer and, since she’s had more experience than anyone we can think of, a few tips to make the party go with a swing:

Ahead of Time • Ask at the school gates, reputation is everything amongst entertainers.

• Look for genuine customer testimonials. Reliable ones from happy customers, with star- ratings, can be found on useful sites such as FreeIndex.co.uk.

Hold a

Craft Party Paint! Stick! Make!

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

• There’s simply no excuse for an entertainer not having a CRB clearance, we never object to being asked. You should ask to see the CRB Enhanced Clearance Certificate not ‘a copy’.

• Check liability insurance - especially for bouncy castles.

• To save money on an entertainer’s fee, share the party with another child or hold the party on a weeknight when we drop the rate.

• It’s never too early to book, 6 weeks to two months seems to be the current time-gap between booking and event. The really busy times are July (summer holidays can empty a school child’s social calendar, and parties are crammed into July before the school term ends), September (THE high birth-rate month), January & May. • At Christmas, entertainers are often booked a year in advance for December weekends at corporate events. Bear in mind that after-school parties in December can be wild affairs, the children being at peak excitement and exhaustion rates in equal measure.

• Enlist the help of several adults. For children age 3 - 5 you’ll need a ratio of about 1:4 and for ages 6-10 a ratio of 1: 6. A total of 25 children is probably enough!

• Make and freeze food ahead of time if you possibly can.

• Send out invitations 4 weeks ahead of time. Don’t forget to ask about allergies ( facepainting / hairspray) or special dietary requirements.

• Charge up camcorder battteries - get spare batteries for the camera.

• Make sure you have a couple of extra party bags made up.

On the Day • At venue, provide a cuppa for the mums that stay. They in turn might even offer to help you serve the party tea!

• Don’t forget the cake, candles & matches.

• Food? Do whatever you’re comfortable with and serve what’s familiar to the children. The memories of a ‘posh’ party of children being served sandwiches, such as watercress and sliced egg on grainy nutty bread still come to mind. The children were at the ‘wobbly-tooth’ age when salad becomes... er... unpopular to eat. I ate well that day!

• Don’t assume your entertainer is a child minder! They are there to provide the entertainment, not a nanny service! It’s not unknown for parents to disappear into the kitchen and leave the children unsupervised. Crack open the wine later when the children have gone to bed.

• Remember, young guests are excited and there are bound to be mishaps. Keep your sense of humour, and even if every aspect of the party doesn’t go as planned, the most important part is to enjoy your child’s big day!

• Finally, take note that all entertainers who are parents ALWAYS hire entertainers for their own children’s parties......can you now work out why?

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Party Supplies

Candy Bows has a new range of party bag fillers

which have proved to be a huge hit with children’s boutiques, gift shops and department stores. They are perfect for little girls as they include a beautiful bow presented on a special gift card which also serves as a Thank You note too - perfect!

‘Party bags can be such a headache when you are planning a party as you always want to include something,’ says Candy Bows owner Charlotte Mackenzie but I think most Mums are getting fed up with lots of sweeties and plastic toys - these are great as they are all individually wrapped in cellophane and teamed with a slice of cake they make an ideal gift for all guests’. www.candybows.co.uk

Corky’s Fabulous Party Bag gifts

If you’re looking for the perfect party bag gifts then Corky’s children’s gift shop on Museum Street, York has a wonderful vintage haberdashery display cabinet holding a selection of 50 quality party bag fillers, suitable for age 1–99yrs.

Tennis Tykes advert:Layout 1

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With prices ranging from 15p to £1.25, there is something to suit all budgets, and samples are always on display to try. All the items can be bought individually too, so party bags can be personalised and you can also avoid the costs of annoying ‘bulk-buy multipacks’.

‘Customers often come to the shop with a list of children attending the party, and have lots of fun choosing the party bag items relevant to each individual,’ says owner Stephanie McCormack. ‘With items ranging from fortune telling fish to finger traps, popping ice-creams to paper lazers, and monster jump-ups to mini spinning tops, customers have great fun trying them all out before they buy.’

A range of party bags are also sold individually, along with a selection of delightful party invites and thank you cards.

All items can be ordered from Corkys website at www. corkyschildrensgifts.co.uk - to avoid p&p costs, choose ‘to collect’ at the checkout and your order will be ready on arrival!

Teaching tennis to little ones from 2 years A fun and educational tennis play and skills programme

FREAEL

Classes across North Leeds, Ilkley, Wetherby, Harrogate, Ripon and York For information call Caroline Buncall on 07843 342 662 • www.tennistykes.co.uk

TRISON LES

Seahorse, Funky Stationery & Art Stuff based in Selby sources and sells fabulous stationery and art supplies that are a little bit different - great for birthday gifts and party bags.

We like this Djeco origami bird game suitable for ages 5 to 10 years, it comes with an instruction booklet and is priced at £5.95.

The erasable colour pencils are from Faber-Castell, are non toxic and rub out when you make a mistake- £6.50.

The Very Hungry Caterpillar bookmarks are from Yorkshire company ‘That Company Called IF’ & would make wonderful party bag fillers priced at just £1.99.

They also stock Elmer, Mr Benn & V&A gift wrap papers from British company, Museums & Galleries. www.funkystationeryandartstuff.co.uk Top Floor, 2 Market Lane, Selby

● ● ● ●

Baby signing Movement & bonding Fibre optic light shows Music

● ● ●

Puppet shows Massage Water Play

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

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

www.babysensory.com Families Vale of York

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help!

What do I buy the birthday Child?

If you’ve spent what seems like hours pacing shop floors for the perfect gift for a child you barely know, you’re in good company.

Sometimes it can be really tricky to know what to buy a child you may not know so well so we asked Zhara Armstrong of Treasures and Simone Wood of Cold Bath Toy Shop to give us their advice and to offer suggestions to suit every situation.

Choosing the right toy

by Zhara Armstrong

Once your child starts school, the birthday party invitations can really start to pile in. This is because many parents find it easier to invite the whole class rather than asking their child to choose a select few to invite. At Treasures we are often asked for advice on choosing the right gift for a child that you may not yet have had the chance to get to know. People are often just as concerned about how your present choice will be viewed by the parent as much as the birthday child!

So here are our answers to the most common questions parents ask: What is an appropriate amount to spend? Spending too much can embarrass and too little can be uncomfortable!

For class parties most parents spend between £8 – 12 and you can certainly get a quality present for less than this. At Treasures we have lots of choice and we make it easier by offering a free gift wrapping service.

Always tell us if you are dashing straight to the party – you can write the card as we wrap your present (I have been in this situation plenty of times with two young children!)

I don’t know the parents yet – does it give the wrong impression if I choose a toy with an educational slant? Or My son loves Nerf guns is it okay to buy a gun as a present?

I advise parents that if they don’t know the family yet then choose a present they would be happy for their child to receive. Also worth remembering is that most parents really appreciate toys or activities that their child can do alone, or “rainy day crafts” or when travelling. We always ensure we have a great range of Usborne activity books, Top Model craft and travel games.

What if they already have this toy?

Ask for a gift receipt so the toy can be returned. I always offer one which solves any problems with duplication of gifts or if they already have it – easy! If the gift receipt is lost, don’t worry, we have a very straight forward exchange policy. If the toy is as it was when purchased at Treasures, we will be happy to exchange it. If you are a member of our loyalty scheme, we will have a record of all your purchases so this serves as another way of showing the gift was bought at Treasures.

Is it okay to buy a toy with an older age recommendation than the age of the receiving child?

Choosing a present with a higher age recommendation can be okay, however I would not stray too far and it does depend on the type of toy.

Some craft sets can be quite tricky when aimed at 8 to 10 year olds. For younger children I always check for small pieces. Puzzles are a good example, where going up to the next age bracket can be really useful.

It’s a double party – do I have to buy two gifts?

When invited to a joint party in most cases I would suggest buying two gifts, but spend less. There certainly are plenty of quality toys at £3.99 / £4.99. For example Lego have ranges at both of these price points, there are lots of Top Model products, craft sets and Jewellery in this price range too.

Is it okay to buy a joint present for siblings?

It is definitely okay to share in a joint present, as a parent I positively encourage this.

parties

Buying a voucher is always a great alternative for the birthday child, as it extends their birthday.They also serve as a birthday card so you don’t need to buy a separate one.

If the birthday child has created their present Wish List at Treasures it makes choosing the right present easy! It also means you get a 5% discount and your present wrapped with gift card and your message added. For the birthday child creating their wish list is lots of fun - imagine taking our child size shopping trolley around Treasures and selecting your favourite toys!

For Families readers creating a Wish List in May & June for birthdays up to the end of August, we are doubling this discount to 10%.

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Ideas for gifts HEXBUG Nano comes packed in a “test tube” and may look small but don’t let that put you off. Priced at £8.99 they will make a great gift for boys and girls. They come in a variety of colours and are now available in a glow-in-the dark finish. Nanos are suitable from age 3 and appeal to a great age range.

Nanos on their own are great fun but you can also add track and build up your set over time. The Hive is the latest launch from Innovation (company behind Hexbugs). This set includes one rare Hexbug - you can add other sets to this. The new Glow in the Dark starter (£14.99 includes track and one Nano) set makes a great addition to the Hive.

Just in time for the release of The Avengers Film Lego have launched 3 more toys – Iron man, The Hulk and Captain America.

These make great presents, each priced at £10.99 with age range 6 – 12 years. In each you get a 16cm tall poseable figure once built, and then you can combine other Superheroes to customize. I expect these to be really popular with boys and girls too, as this is very much the year of the “Superhero” with the launch of Mike The Knight, The Avengers and a new Spiderman film due this summer.

Ideas for younger girls The Trixibelles Mandala Colouring Book is a great price at £2.75 and if your child produces a masterpiece these are really easy to frame.

The Rainbow Colouring Pencil (£2.25) is nice and chunky for little hands whilst the Trixibelles Mushroom Sharpener (£3.25) is great quality and it’s always handy to have a sharpener for 10mm pencils (I’ve always struggled to find these).

This Top Model Wedding Colouring Book is beautiful. It comes with plenty of accessories & stickers and will keep 5 – 8 year olds entertained.

It retails at £7.99.

The Wire Craft Rings Craft Set is a lovely addition to the My Style Craft range. This range is for 8 – 10 year old girls and is always made to a high quality standard. The Wire Craft Ring set will make a super present priced at just £7.99 and 8 rings can be made from each set.

This set would also work really well for craft parties.

Jubilee Themed Gifts We’re stocking some lovely themed

gifts - amongst them this Union Jack Cushion kit (retailing at £14.99) which makes 2 cushions.

This Sentry Box with Budkin Guard is from Le Toy Van and retails at £12.50.

Educational Toys

by Simone Wood

If you asked any child, you wouldn’t naturally expect them to prefer lessons instead of playing. But when the toys you offer have an element of education about them; something to stimulate the child’s imagination and encourage them to ask questions about the world around them, the learning becomes fun and spontaneous, and the child is enthusiastic to learn without even realising it.

Educational toys enhance intellectual, social, emotional and physical development in a way that encourages the child’s growth, and the best toys will provide plenty of opportunity for subtle learning.

For babies, a primary-coloured hanging toy with sounds and textures will stimulate the senses, but one without any batteries will also help the child to discover cause and effect. Manhattan’s Whoozit range is a consistently award-winning example, with bright colours, high contrast black and white elements, squeakers, crinkly bits and loads of assorted textures.

For pre-schoolers, something as simple as a series of stacking cardboard cubes, can encourage development in so many ways, but especially hand-eye coordination and very basic science principles. Djeco make three different designs of 10 stacking cardboard boxes, which you can build up, knock down, hide things in, on and under, as well as describing and counting the animals, shapes and numbers from the beautiful pictures on the sides. They look absolutely gorgeous when not being played with too, which is always a bonus!

As the child gets older, jigsaws develop spacial awareness and visual games like Memo increase memory and brain function. Djeco have introduced jigsaws with an included border to offer an extra play element, with this observational Where’s Wally type exercise.

Construction toys offer 3-dimensional variety with scope to develop hand-eye coordination and spacial skills and patience. Lego has been around for years, and now there is even a teeny version of construction blocks called Nanoblocks, from Japan, which creates delightful, almost pixillated models which can be built into the image on the packet or, left to your own devices, made in to any form you can think of. A great way to develop imagination and creative free-thinking.

Craft projects encourage concentration, creativity, self-expression and an immense feeling of accomplishment, all skills which are vital for development and transition into adulthood. Djeco have an amazing selection of craft-based projects from simple stencils and origami to much more intricate subjects including sand-paintings, papercutting, collage, painting, scraper boards, to name but a few. The results are always beautiful, imaginative and incredibly rewarding.

From the moment a child is born every stimulation they get goes towards their brain and body’s development. And every stage in this process helps towards hopefully developing the accomplished, capable, confident adult they will become. It makes sense to give them access to the most stimulating, thoughtprovoking, interesting and rewarding toys. Even if they are educational.

OPEN TO NON-GYM MEMBERS

Children’s Parties

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Manhattan Whoozit, ÂŁ9.50 Melissa and Doug Clock Puzzle, ÂŁ11.99 Melissa and Doug Latches Board, ÂŁ17.99 Djeco Observation Puzzle, ÂŁ11.99 Djeco Funny Blocks, ÂŁ13.25 Nanoblocks Panda, ÂŁ6.99 Djeco Paper Aeroplanes, ÂŁ7.25 Djeco Moving Pictures, ÂŁ13.99

Looking for local

Party Providers?

visit www.familiesvoy.co.uk Families Vale of York

15

party

n local selectio a a d e k h s a it d rty go w ? We’ve ifferent our child’s pa re you can fin d it b e le y t h t lp li w e a o h o ething ow they can svoy.co.uk t h for som ilie Looking ople to tell us isit www.fam . le v e p p o o t y e t r p r e pa memb f local party e R . g st o swin Harrogate nsive li an exte

First Steps @ Roko will

organise a stressfree children’s birthday party for you. With a team of very experienced staff who have proven childcare experience they will set up the party in one of the Roko studios and care for the children whilst parents sample the club’s facilities with a guest pass or just relax in the Costa coffee lounge.

Different themed parties including Bouncy Castle, Pamper Party & Splash Party are offered lasting 2 hours for children aged 1-10.

You’ll get 2 party co-ordinators, a fabulous buffet (which caters for anyone with allergies and special dietary requirements), a birthday cake and party bags.

Contact: call First Steps on 01904 693007 a booking deposit of £50 is required. A week before the party they will ask you to confirm numbers. Let them know if your guests have any allergies that they need to cater for.

FAMILIES OFFER

A party for 10 children is £140 and £12 per head after 10.

However, if you mention Families Magazine they will give you a £10 discount off your final

The Little Gym

parties have become a real hit as staff take away all the hassle of organising your child’s big day on a Saturday or Sunday afternoon.

Your fully supervised, gymnastic based, private party will be filled with music, games, obstacle courses and laughter. Parties are for children of all ages, led by trained staff in their custom designed, bright and colourful gym. Parties are created to meet the needs of each child and include: exclusive use of the facility, invitations, 2 instructors, all preparation & cleaning, decorations, juice and a tee shirt for the birthday child.

It could be your child’s first try at gymnastics or you could have a household of budding Olympians, the key is FUN! Contact: The Little Gym, Harrogate 01423 701 560 www.thelittlegym.co.uk a full two hours

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p class on has a range of to ’s next birthday party. Located a ild m ch fro ur yo ss r ce fo e ac sy venu Harrogate with ea child’s the south side of ads it’s the ideal place for your ities ro ain e activ os rp ipu ult number of m m a the choice of d to special day. With ol or bouncy castle there’s boun rty po pa eir ing th m th im wi sw and hall, d meet your needs be something to re of everything you can relax an ca g kin ss, from dle en e ar organiser ta ns tio stles; urself. The op enjoy the day yo rties; face painting to bouncy ca for g pa hin ol et po m to so ll ba foot there’s child to multi sports cake decorating ed party organisers will give your t at dic m jus fro g rtin sta s everyone. De ice n ber and with pr u have the optio a day to remem smiling as well! Yo them supply a be ll wi s nt re pa ting £50 rty yourself or let of catering the pa party food, the choice is yours. nt lle ce range of ex 724 812 or Contact: 01423 shville.co.uk @a e-mail events

Tennis Tykes

offer birthday tennis parties for children celebrating 3rd through to 6th birthdays. You get one hour of fun tennis activities incorporating lots of games and prizes. Children aged 2 are welcome to participate in the activities but a parent should accompany 2 year olds to help them with the tennis activities. Older children up to the age of 9 are also very welcome to participate.

Maximum of 16 children for 3 and 4 year old birthday parties and up to 20 children for 5 and 6 year olds but this will also depend on the size of the room/hall used.

A birthday present for the birthday boy/girl is also included.

Contact: 07843 342 662 caroline.buncall@ tennistykes.co.uk/www.tennistykes.co.uk

Climbing Centre

is a unique attraction; set in an impressive leisure complex with an on-site deli-café. It offers exciting and unusual activities that will keep your youngsters and their friends talking for weeks! They provide a group birthday party for children and adults, consisting of either an hour or an hour and a half’s climbing (depending on the age group) with a professional instructor followed by optional party food at the Indulge cafe.

Every party session focuses on getting as much climbing packed into the session as possible, and the centre’s instructors know how to deliver the right session depending on the age of the children taking part. Parties start from as little as £66 for up to 6 people, and can accommodate almost as many as you like. The activities don’t stop there, they also offer family taster sessions, after school & holiday clubs and adult beginner courses.

The centre is located on the south edge of Harrogate, meaning it is easily accessed from across Yorkshire. The extensive free parking and rail links make it an ideal spot to combine a trip into Harrogate shopping or sightseeing.

Contact: 01423 815 024 www.harrogateclimbingcentre.com

Crafts 4 Kids

Singamajigs will give you a traditional musical party with songs, instruments and parachute games. You’ll get a bespoke party with pass-the-parcel & nursery rhymes etc. Perfect for ages 1-5 and good for groups of up to 20.

Karen will host the whole 2 hour party or come and do a 45 minute slot – it’s up to you.

Contact 01423 552918 www.singamajigs.co.uk

offer a unique interactive craft party for children. They bring everything required to make your own masterpiece to take home - and clear up any mess afterwards!

All glues and paints are safe and non-toxic. Prices are very reasonable and are dependent upon what and how many activities you have chosen to do - allow 30 minutes per craft.

Crafts 4 Kids will email you pictures of all available activities to choose from - all you have to do is organise & supervise the party food & drink. The party will be completely stress-free as children are looked after and all the mess is taken away. Each child achieves results and produces something that they’re proud to show off and take home! Areas covered include York, Harrogate & Selby, plus for a small extra charge, further afield.

Contact: Kate on 01757 630 356 www.craftpartiesyork.co.uk

Diggerland in Castleford is the ultimate adventure park

experience where children and adults can drive REAL construction machinery and it’s also the perfect venue for a Birthday Party with a difference!

Parties include 2 fun-filled hours in the park for all your invited children, on unlimited rides and drives. You can take a ride on ‘Spindizzy’, unique to Diggerland where you’ll feel the ultimate adrenaline rush or try out your excavating skills on the giant dirt diggers - you can even drive a monster JCB 3CX. Afterwards children are treated to a picnic style party meal served in their own souvenir Diggerland lunch box, that they can take home and keep.

Bookings for a minimum of 10 children are required, and this will include 4 free adult entry tickets. Parties are available on any day that Diggerland is open to the general public.

Contact: www.diggerland.com or call 0871 22 77 007.

High-Low, Quick-Slow Parties

are based around four soft toy animal friends, High the giraffe, Low the snake, Quick the cheetah and Slow the tortoise. The party is 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 Contact: 01757 611234 www.highlowquickslow.co.uk

Toddler Sense’s award

winning parties are full of variety, action-packed and fast moving. Parties are suitable for children from 2 to 5 and you can choose from a variety of Baby Sensory parties are suitable years wonderful themes – for example a ‘Sparkle’ for any occasion when parents and babies party introduces space, light and magic and are coming together for a celebration, such a ‘Colour’ party provides an exciting mix of as Birthdays, Weddings, Christenings/Naming activities from the conga crocodile to spinners Ceremonies and Nursery events. and balloons.

If you have experienced their award winning Toddler Sense parties can be easily adapted Baby Sensory sessions you will know all to suit a particular theme such as ‘Pirates’ about the excitement that is in store for you and ‘Princesses’. The alternatives are endless! and your baby. If not, they can suggest a range of activities and songs to suit the Contact: Liz on 07565 551415, email occasion. Alternatively, you can opt for a york@toddlersense.co.uk or visit theme such as ‘Baby Pirates’ or ‘Jungle www.babysensory.com Jitters’.

Jitterbugz Baby Sensory will work with you to plan a memorable party that is enjoyable for both the dance parties babies and the adults. Activities may include will really get your party balloons, bubbles, parachutes, fibre optic light started! Alex Dykes shows, musical instruments, puppet shows, has been dancing since she amazing light balls and so much more. was 3 years old, performs professionally and has been Contact: running her own after school Elizabeth 07590 425310 or dance club for nearly 3 years. email northyorkshire@babysensory. co.uk or visit www.babysensory.com for Her parties involve the children learning a dance routine to their parties in the York area. favourite songs, having great fun Rachel 07801 367 553 or email and showing off their moves to harrogate@babysensory.co.uk for parties family and friends - in fact parents in the Harrogate & Wetherby area. & grandparents have even been seen joining in!

Alex will travel within a 15 mile radius of York imaginative Childcare and can provide a 1½ hour dance routine specialise in package at your home or venue with prices imaginative and starting at £50 for up to 10 children. unique children’s She can cater for more children and optional parties. They can extras are available including party bags create any venue with the host receiving a photograph of or home in to fairy their “dance troupe” in action and Jitterbugz wonderland or “Let’s get this party started” T-Shirts . pirate island and have a large collection of party packages Contact: 07585 227922 or to choose from - or they can create a jitterbugzdanceclub@hotmail.co.uk child’s perfect party around any theme.

Teddy bear parties are currently a big hit Crafty Chefs where each child is given a new cuddly parties provide everything friend to stuff and personalise along with for the cooking party; they its very own birth certficate. Or, with the arrive at least 45 minutes summer arriving, you could hold a child’s before the party, set up, entertain traditional tea party complete with real the children for you for the two hour china and fabric bunting and garland party. The children make their own decorations. meal, which they eat at the party and For older children there are pamper parties afterwards they clean up. They cater or jewelry making parties which girls often for children with allergies and also run opt for. Boys tend to enjoy decorating cookery workshops. large playhouse spaceships and pirate ships as well as chocolate making or a football parties.

They can can also provide parties in a box 8 children for those people who prefer to run their for the price of 6 @£150 includes own part as well as fun and luxury gift everything from invites, cooking bags. activities, party tea, goodie bags Contact: 01904 407 803 Contact: www.craftychefs.co.uk www.imaginativechildcare.com harrogate@craftychefs.co.uk

Winner of Whats On 4 2011 Junior Awards 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!

“Our 11 toddlers all revelled in the fun that the Toddler Sense party provided, from bouncing to exploring, singing and bubbles, there wasn‛t a still person in the room... and that included the Mums and Dads! We all had a fun packed time and a party to remember! Thank you for all your hard work!!” Mrs. W. 2011

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

The fun and educational forest school programme for 2 to 6 year olds, designed specififically for parents and children

Bushbabies is a Magical and Innovative way for Children to connect with the Wonders of Nature

Classes in York & also Children’s Parties Call Adam on 07531 429722 | info@bushbabies-woodlandadventures.co.uk

www.bushbabies-woodlandadventures.co.uk

PARTY OFFER

Tennis Tots offer fun and unique parties for for girls and boys aged 3-6.

The party includes one hour of great fun and games with plenty of action and a warm, positive and fun-filled environment with a special gift for the birthday child.

During term-time, parties are at weekends due to busy weekly schedules.

Contact: www.tennis-tots.co.uk 07725 339 257 info@tennis-tots.co.uk

www.thelittlegym.co.uk

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

Contact us now for more information on 01423 701560. $!ŏ %00(!ŏ 5)IJŏ ..+# 0!ŏđŏāŏ . (!ŏ .'ŏđŏ ..+# 0!ŏđŏ ăŏā ĀāąĂăŏĈĀāĆćĀŏđŏ ..+# 0!Į0$!(%00(!#5)ċ +ċ1'ŏđŏ333ċ0$!(%00(!#5)ċ +ċ1' parent/child classes

preschool/ kindergarten gymnastics

primary school gymnastics

holiday camps

birthday parties

Families Vale of York

17

ask the

Clare Spencer is a local GP with experience in obstetrics and gynaecology. She lives near Harrogate with her husband and 3 children.

Clare juggles life working part time and being mum.

doctor

Local GP Clare Spencer offers some advice on Verrucas

V

errucas - My two sons both have verrucas and so I thought it would be useful to review what treatments, if any, may be useful and how to do it - I can now speak from personal experience!

WHAT IS A VERRUCA? Verrucas are warts on the soles of the foot. Warts are actually small lumps of skin which result from tissue infection with the human papilloma virus (HPV).

The virus causes a tissue reaction as it infects the skin. There is often a hard, rough surface which is raised from the skin surface. There may be small black dots on the surface, from blood clots in the tiny blood vessels (capillaries). They vary in size from just a few millimetres to more than one centimetre. One person can have one or many verrucas and there may also be warts on any other parts of the body.

Most of this information applies generally to all warts. Those on the face and genitals need special treatment though and you should always see a doctor if there is any doubt about the diagnosis, or if you think you have genital warts. Warts are not usually harmful, but can be painful if they press on sensitive parts of your body.

HOW ARE VERRUCAS SPREAD? Verrucas are contagious but the risk of spread is quite low. The virus is spread through direct skin to skin contact and the risk of spread is higher if the skin is wet or damaged in any way, or in contact with roughened surfaces such as in swimming pools. You can also spread warts to other areas of your body – for example spreading from your fingers to lips if you suck a finger.

You can also cause warts to spread to surrounding tissue for example by scratching them – so don’t pick your verrucas!

It is worth mentioning that, if your immune system isn’t working properly, many warts may appear which are difficult to clear. This may result from some drugs that can effect the immune system, or illnesses. See a doctor if you think this applies to you.

HOW CAN I PREVENT SPREADING MY VERRUCA? Covering your verruca should work – either by walking in flip flops, using a verruca sock or waterproof plaster in swimming pools. Avoid touching other parts of your body with the warty bit, and also avoid touching other people directly with the wart. Avoid scratching warts, as this can also result in spread to skin near by.

HOW ARE VERRUCAS TREATED? The first thing to say is that you don’t necessarily have to treat verrucas.

They may go away by themselves. In children, even without treatment, 50% of warts disappear within 6 months; 90% are gone in 2 years. They are more persistent in adults but even then may clear up eventually. Successful treatment will not prevent further warts, or verrucas, from developing.

In addition, treatment may be painful and can leave a scar. It is therefore definitely worth considering not treating.

Treatment There are three common treatments offered. Patience and persistence are needed for all!

1. Salicylic acid preparations

Verruca treatments bought over the counter, and most given on prescription, contain salicylic acid.

This chemical helps remove the hard outer layer of the wart. It is more effective if you soak your foot in warm water for at least 5 minutes to soften it, then file the surface of the verruca with an emery board or pumice stone. You should only put the treatment on the verruca as it may irritate the surrounding skin and you can protect this by putting Vaseline on the skin just around the verruca. Alternatively, use one of the plasters with a ring cut out for the verruca. There are different forms of this treatment and so if you do buy it over the counter, read the instructions. Never put this treatment on your face or genital warts.

If you use the treatment daily as instructed the chances of getting rid of the verruca in 3 months are good but not 100%. It really can take a full 3 months of daily treatment. If the verruca is not fully gone after this time, it may be smaller and so less painful.

2. Duct tape

Yes, you did read correctly. Duct tape bought at your local DIY store. There is evidence that this waterproof adhesive tape can clear verrucas. A piece of duct tape the size of the verruca should be cut out and stuck over it, then left in place for 6 days. If it falls off, replace it with a new piece. After 6 days, remove the tape, soak the wart in warm water for 5 minutes, and then gently scrape off dead skin with an emery board or a pumice stone. Leave the tape off overnight and replace with a fresh piece the following morning for a

further 6 days. Repeat this cycle, covering the wart for 6 days and exposing the wart for 1 day each week. It is important that you file away the dead skin each time the tape is removed. Continue this process until the wart goes, or for a maximum of 8 weeks, whichever is the sooner. This method is not risk free - the glue in the tape can cause skin irritation, and occasionally the verruca will become sore and may bleed if the paring of the wart is too vigorous.

In a recent study, about 7 out of 10 warts had cleared within 2 months using duct tape technique.

3. Cryotherapy

Cryotherapy is where the verruca is frozen using liquid nitrogen applied either using a cotton wool or spray.

This freezes the wart, which then thaws and this process destroys the wart tissue. Cryotherapy treatment is offered by some GP surgeries, dermatologists, some podiatrists and it is possible to buy a version over the counter. The treatment needs repeating every 3-4 weeks for 3-4 months and can be painful.

It may lead to blistering afterwards.

It is not ideal, therefore, for young children. Success is similar to other methods. Cryotherapy can be combined with the use of a salicylic acid preparation.

Other treatments

Verrucas can be treated in other ways by GPs chiropodists and dermatologists. Local anaesthetic can be injected round the verruca and the growth ‘cut or scooped out’ and the base burned by diathermy.

Unfortunately, even verrucas treated by this more radical method can still come back. There are other chemical treatments that may be offered by specialists.

Acknowledgments Dr Lesley Sunderland provided advice in preparing this article.

Further information www.patient.co.uk and www bad.co.uk both have general advice www.dermnetnz.org has good photographs

18 Families

Vale of York

Time!

Getting more of what you want...

How many of you feel exhausted by the end of each busy day? Do you believe there aren’t enough hours in a day to fit everything in that needs to done?

Life Coach Rachel Smith looks at how we can create more time for ourselves.

Are you racing around dropping children at school, nursery and then somehow arriving at work at a reasonably acceptable time trying to find the confidence and energy to fit in a working day before the rushing around starts all over again? Do you sit there, hoping you have remembered the children’s reading books, dinner money, spare clothes and favourite toy?

And weekends are no longer a time for relaxation and recharging your batteries and spending time with your loved ones but for providing a taxi service for your family to swimming lessons and ballet lessons.

And if we are lucky enough to still have our parents, your role with your parents has changed as well. They are getting older and need more support, there are hospital appointments to attend, shopping to arrange and visits to fit in.

It is little wonder that the women who I work with are all looking for the same thing, time and more of it please. They feel overwhelmed with their mounting responsibilities and they need support to make their lives a happy sane place to be.

I have exactly the same juggling act, I am a working Mum with a five year old and a 22 month old. I run my own business working with women to create lives where they are happy and confident through coaching, mentoring and NLP. And I really understand how difficult it can be to ‘fit everything in’, ‘remember everything’ and somehow find time to do the things I want to do and ensure I am spending quality time with the people whom I love.

From the moment I hear my son rustling his Lego box at 6.30 am, I know my day has started and it’s not just remembering everything for your children - there are the household chores that need sorting out. And there is a great temptation here, that when I do spend some time with my children, rather

than playing or reading with them, I leave them to their own devices whilst I load the washing machine, cook dinner or whatever job needs completing. Or my favourite habit is to play with the children whilst checking my emails, calling friends or checking out the internet. I mean we are women after all and we can multi task. Can’t we?

Here is what happened recently when I decided to get two jobs done at the same time. It was the Easter holidays and I was playing with the children. Whilst playing I decided to call a friend who is currently buying a new home, so quite a big deal. On the call, my friend started to tell me about some of the difficulties she was facing and wanted my opinion on what to do next. The call became quite complex, in the meantime my little girl needed a nappy change.

Realising Mummy was busy my daughter got out her own changing mat and laid herself on it. Brilliant I thought I can carry on with the call. All I need to say is this didn’t end well.

What I realised once I quickly ended the call saying I would call my friend later were two significant things: • I was there in the room with the children, however I wasn’t really present.

• My friend realised that I wasn’t really connected to her and her situation.

So can we multi task? Apparently not, studies show we are 40% less productive when we multi task. And more importantly is we are not experiencing our lives. We are rushing head first through it with gritted teeth, hoping everything will be ok at the end.

Is this how we want to live our lives – which golden moments are going to pass us by?

You will be relieved to know there are lots of brilliant strategies and solutions you can use to make life run a little smoother. Some of these need some practice, but once you have mastered them you really will have more time to do the things you love to do.

Here are just some of the solutions I share with my clients who want to live their lives in a less chaotic way and to carve out some quality ‘me time’

Live in the moment: • Decide to do one thing every day and do it • Turn off your phone (or at least don’t check it) when spending time with other people • Check your emails at the beginning of each day and once again during the day when you can respond to them. Get on with other things • Don’t get distracted with other things like updating your status on Facebook or checking items on ebay • Commit to being present

Creating more time: Write down everything you do in a day. Look at your list and consider: • Where are you giving your time away?

• Are you spending time on the right activities and/or people?

• How does it make you feel?

• Is the activity or experience moving you forward? Or is it holding you back?

Next write down all of the things you love to do. Looking at this list, write against each of the things you love to do one of the following I do this: • very frequently • frequently • never Now choose one activity you love to do and commit to having this in your life right now. This will soon become the norm and you will have something for you that you love.

Rachel Smith is the coach who delivers What Women Really Want. Follow her on Twitter and Facebook for top tips and product information.

During May and June, she has an amazing offer. For busy women everywhere, join her What Women Really Want programme and receive a FREE strategy session with her.

Find more information at www.rachelsmithlifecoach.com

Families Vale of York

19

Get in the spirit of things by painting your children’s faces. Just grab some red, white and blue face paints and follow the steps below (we used Snazaroo Union Jack Face Painting Kit, £4.99, ).

Jubilee Face Painting

a damp sponge and white face paint, sketch out the white areas – no need to Step1 Using be exactly accurate as you can paint the other colours over it once it’s dry. royal blue paint and a brush, draw the outlines Step2 With of the triangular areas and fill in using the sponge or the brush.

Step3 Using bright red paint and a brush, fill in the central cross and then carefully paint the fine diagonal lines.

Big

Jubilee 3 June 2012

lunch

The fourth annual Big Lunch will fall on the same weekend as the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee. So anyone who would like to celebrate and commemorate the Queen’s 60 year reign can do so by holding a Big Jubilee Lunch!

As announced by Buckingham Palace The Big Jubilee Lunch will be a part of the main programme of events over the central weekend of Diamond Jubilee celebrations in June 2012.

The beauty of The Big Lunch is that people themselves decide everything about their own event. The venue can be wherever you want or have space, the theme whatever you fancy - food and people are the key ingredients. The idea is to get as many people as possible to sit down and have lunch with their neighbours on the first Sunday in June it’s all about community, friendship and fun!

For menu & games ideas look at www. thebiglunch.com

Heading to London?

If you’re heading to the capital to do some Jubilee partying then take a look at Families online listings for what’s going on there: www.familiesonline.co.uk/jubilee

20 Families Vale of York

Or if you prefer a more understated look, here’s how to create the perfect Union Jack cheek art: a brush and white paint, Step1Using sketch out the shape of the flag, the central cross and the diagonals with a fine line. Then fill in the diagonal lines. bright red paint and Step2 With a brush, fill in the central cross and then add the fine diagonal lines.

Step3 To finish, using royal blue paint and the brush, fill in the eight triangular shapes that remain.

what’son

in may/june‘12

Lighting the way to London 2012

On 18 May 2012, the Olympic Torch Relay will start with a 70-day celebration that will travel thousands of miles to bring the London 2012 Games to hundreds of communities across the UK. The Olympic Flame will be lit on 10 May in Olympia, Greece and will embark on a 8 day relay around Greece before arriving at the Panathenaic Stadium in Athens for the official Olympic Flame handover ceremony. Lighting the cauldron in the Olympic Stadium signifies the beginning of the games and the flame will stay lit until the closing ceremony on 12 August.

A ritual for the lighting of the Flame is followed at every Games. It is lit from the sun’s rays at the Temple of Hera in Olympia, in a traditional ceremony among the ruins of the home of the Ancient Games. The flame is then handed over to the new host city and the Flame is then transferred from one torchbearer to another, spreading the message of peace, unity and friendship.

It’s not just sporting superstars who’ll carry the Olympic Flame this summer. People from all walks of life and from every part of the UK will take part. In all, 8,000 torchbearers will get the chance of a lifetime to carry the flame and over half of the torchbearers will be young people aged 12 - 25.

When will the torch come through North Yorkshire?

For the first time in Olympic history, Britain will be the first country to hold a torch relay completely within the UK. The Olympic Torch Relay will be a fantastic spectacle, a chance to celebrate your community and showcase it to the world – so don’t miss out! The Torch will be traveling through Selby, Tadcaster, Wetherby Harrogate & Ripon on 19th June arriving in York that evening. You can find street level details at www.london2012.com/olympic-torch-relay-map.

Every Day

5 - 7 May 11- 5pm

ANIMAL WORLD AT TOO HOOTS Lots of animals to see & feed, toys to play on, picnic area, tearoom & garden centre.

01405 862854 www.toohoots.co.uk

Nostalgia Weekend BENINGBROUGH HALL & GARDENS Travel and entertainment through the ages, from vintage vehicles to morris dancing & traditional games around the garden. www.nationaltrust.org.uk 01904 472027

Every Day THE FARMER’S CART Meet goats, rabbits, guinea pigs, chickens, piglets and lambs, which are on show most of the year. At Piglets Adventure Park you can try activities such as the petting barn, bouncing pillows, crazy farm golf & pedal go-carts are also included. 01904 499183 www.thefarmerscart.co.uk 5 & 6 May Tell me a Story EUREKA! Revisit some of your favourite children’s books as they’re brought to life & have fun with some of the key characters & themes.

01422 330069 www.eureka.org.uk 5 - 7 May Preparing for Royalty BRODSWORTH HALL Step back to the Edwardian era - 1912.

Meet the household & servants of Brodsworth as they prepare for a royal visit, from fashion, to etiquette, food & drink to gossip. Witness a series of scenes inside & outside the hall. 01302 722598 www.english-heritage.org.uk 5 - 7 May 1-3 PM Artrageous Workshops BENINGBROUGH HALL & GARDENS Make, stick, colour & build in their popular family art workshops 01904 472027 www.nationaltrust.org.uk

5 - 7 May Bank Holiday Special YORKSHIRE MUSEUM OF FARMING Traditional May activities: crafts, games, free rides on the Derwent Valley Light Railway and living history on site over the long weekend. New playground equipment for all ages! 01904 489966 www.murtonpark.co.uk 6-7 May 10am - 4pm Play! A Festival of Fun HAREWOOD HOUSE Two day event with favourite games and toys for children and adults. Indulge yourself in a magical world. www.harewood.org 0113 218 1010 7 May & 8 June Kids Outdoor Climbing Day BRIMHAM ROCKS Try climbing in the great outdoors with Harrogate Climbing Centre on this fully supervised day. No previous climbing experience is necessary, just go along and have fun.

More Information: Harrogate Climbing Centre, 01423 815024, info@harrogateclimbingcentre.com

12 May 11am - 4pm YORK STEINER SCHOOL SPRING FAIR YORK STEINER SCHOOL 01904 654983 www.yorksteinerschool.org 12 May 7.30pm Going Batty!

NOSTELL PRIORY See the nocturnal residents feed out on the lakes. 01924 863892 www.nationaltrust.org.uk 12 - 13 May Geoffrey The Lion Weekend CASTLE HOWARD Meet children’s mascot, Geoffrey the Lion and let him introduce you to his new Children’s Trail, Geoffrey’s Grand Tour.

01653 648333 www.castlehoward.co.uk 26 May - 5 June 11am - 4.30pm Half term Children’s trails TREASURER’S HOUSE Free children’s trail through the house.

01904 624247 29 May 2pm - 4pm Yorkshire’s Sea Dragons YORKSHIRE MUSEUM Find out more about the marine reptiles that swam in the seas off Yorkshire when dinosaurs roamed the land, including the science behind how they lived & stories of their discovery. £5 per person. To book, tel 01904 650333. www.yorkshiremuseum.org.uk 1 - 4 June Jubilee Celebrations TADCASTER Including barbecue, pram push & float parade through the town.

2 - 5 June Animal Antics!

CASTLE HOWARD An fun-filled animal themed weekend for all the family! Learn about your pets, make new furry friends and even take part in our fun dog show! 01653 648333 www.castlehoward.co.uk 2 - 5 June Jubilee 1950s Weekend YORKSHIRE MUSEUM OF FARMING A 1950s - themed Bank Holiday Coronation Special! 01904 489966 www.murtonpark.co.uk 2 - 10 June 10.30 am - 4pm Make your own Accessory BARLEY HALL Add a touch of Jubilee elegance to your costume and make a Venetian mask, a corsage, or even your own crown jewels.

2 - 10 June Railfest NATIONAL RAILWAY MUSEUM Britains biggest rail celebration www.nrm.org.uk 2 - 10 June Fairy Tale Kingdom EUREKA! As the Queen celebrates her Diamond Jubilee meet some Kings and Queens from history & enter a world of makebelieve with dragons, princesses & knights in shining armour.

01422 330069 www.eureka.org.uk

We’ve ordered everything according to start date – be sure to look out for multiple date entries.

And be sure to check before you set off. These were correct as we went to print but may have changed.

Families Vale of York

21

what’son continued... in march/april‘12

2- 10 June

3 - 4 June 10 am - 6pm

4 June 1pm

Jubliee Celebrations ROYAL ARMOURIES Royal Family Fun Day for all the family.

Open daily from 10 am to 5 pm. Museum entry is FREE. www.royalarmouries.org

Diamond Jubilee Weekend ‘Street Party’ HAREWOOD HOUSE Celebrating the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee with a quintessentially English bank holiday weekend. Across the weekend, you can enjoy classic English food at the Courtyard Café, join in with craft activities & immerse yourself in the feel-good factor. 0113 218 1010 www.harewood.org

CRowning Glory BRIMHAM ROCKS Celebrate the Queen’s jubilee by making your very own crown! Booking Essential 01423 780688 www.nationaltrust.org.uk

2 - 10 June Family fun RIEVAULX TERRACE & TEMPLES Trails and fun for the family. Normal admission charges & opening times apply.

01439 748283 www.nationaltrust.org

4 & 5 June 2pm - 6pm

Royal Trail CLIFFORD’S TOWER Especially for the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee, seek out the monarchs from the past, see how many you can find hiding around the site. 01904 646940 www.english-heritage.org.uk

A Right Royal Weekend BRODSWORTH HALL Step back to the Edwardian era and witness the royal visit of King George V and Queen Mary. There’ll be falconry displays, music, a travelling cinema, and Punch & Judy shows - with the highlight being the arrival of the king! 01302 722598 www.english-heritage.org.uk

The Queen’s Diamond Jubilee HELMSLEY ARTS CENTRE As part of Helmsley’s Jubilee Celebrations Helmsley Arts Centre will be hosting a glittering array of workshops & performances at the sports field & in the Market Place. Hear children’s stories in the Tell Tale Tent, learn to drum, get your face painted & listen to brilliant street musicians, as well as taking part in a huge range of other activities for all the family, organised by the Town Council & Jubilee Committee. www.helmsleyarts.co.uk

3 June

4 JUNE

4,6,9 June 11am - 4pm

The Big Jubilee Garden Party Picnic NUNNINGTON HALL Celebrate the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee in style with an elegant garden party at Nunnington. Put your posh frock on and buy a picnic to enjoy in the gardens. Fun, games and much more.

01439 748283 www.nationaltrust.org.uk

Jubilee Day with the National Trust ROSEBERRY TOPPING, GREAT AYTON A very British day to celebrate the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee. Take part in a range of games & activities or just relax with a cup of tea and a piece of cake.

Free event. www.nationaltrust.org.uk

Children’s Activity Days THORP PERROW Lots of fun and games to liven up your Half-Term, join in at any time. Suitable for all ages - no need to book.

3 June

4 June 11am - 12pm

Discover Climbing BRIMHAM ROCKS Try a short climb on the rocks at Brimham. You will be guided & watched over by climbing instructors from Harrogate Climbing Centre. Suitable for everyone aged 8+ More Information: Property Administrator, 01423 780688, brimhamrocks@nationaltrust.org.uk

A Victorian Lesson CASTLE MUSEUM Sit up straight or we will be getting the back straighteners out! Sample a 19th century lesson on Kirkgate and try your hand at the 3 Rs, writing on a slate, using the abacus, and working on your posture! £3 per person & suitable for all the family. To book, tel 01904 650333.

2 - 10 June 10am - 6pm

theatre 2-5 MAY WIND IN THE WILLOWS HARROGATE THEATRE 01423 502116 www.harrogatetheatre.co.uk 5 MAY LITTLE BIG CLUB HULL NEW THEATRE www.hullcc.gov.uk 5, 7 & 6 MAY PEPPA PIG’S TREASURE HUNT YORK BARBICAN www.yorkbarbican.co.uk 0844 854 2757 9 MAY TIDDLER AND OTHER TERRIFIC TALES ST. GEORGE’S HALL www.bradford-theatres.co.uk 01274 432000 12 MAY THE OWL WHO WAS AFRAID OF THE DARK THE GEORGIAN THEATRE ROYAL, RICHMOND 01748 825252 www.georgiantheatreroyal.co.uk

3 - 5 June

5 JUNE Queen’s Diamond Jubilee Celebrations RIPLEY CASTLE Special day for all the family - Ripley Church and School are organising a host of entertainment for all the family including a Bouncy Castle and Tombola stall. Dress your children as Kings and Queens - a prize will be given for the best. Guides will be available to conduct special tours of the Castle and their very own Queen Elizabeth I

5 JUNE

11-13 JUNE

20 JUNE

DISOBEDIENCE - CHRIS T-T SINGS A.A. MILNE YORK THEATRE ROYAL 01904 623568 www.yorktheatreroyal.co.uk

HAIRY MACLARY & FRIENDS 2012 TOUR WAKEFIELD THEATRE ROYAL & OPERA HOUSE 01924 211311 www.wakefieldtheatres.co.uk

LITTLE FEET - THE PRESENTS YORK THEATRE ROYAL 01904 623568 www.yorktheatreroyal.co.uk

13 JUNE

21 JUNE

THE WIGGLES LIVE IN CONCERT GRAND OPERA HOUSE YORK 01904 671818

LITTLE FEET - HARE AND TORTOISE YORK THEATRE ROYAL 01904 623568 www.yorktheatreroyal.co.uk

6 JUNE LITTLE RED... YOU KNOW WHO! YORK THEATRE ROYAL 01904 623568 www.yorktheatreroyal.co.uk 7 - 10 JUNE

15 - 19 MAY

PEPPA PIG’S TREASURE HUNT WEST YORKSHIRE PLAYHOUSE 0113 213 7700 www.wyp.org.uk

THE KING & I ALHAMBRA THEATRE BRADFORD www.bradford-theatres.co.uk 01274 432000

8 & 9 JUNE

ALICE’S ADVENTURES IN WONDERLAND DONCASTER CIVIC THEATRE 01302 342349 www.doncastercivic.co.uk

THE TIGER WHO CAME TO TEA HULL NEW THEATRE www.hullcc.gov.uk 9 JUNE THE THREE BILLY PIGS JUNCTION www.junctiongoole.co.uk 01405 763652 9 JUNE THE WHEELS ON THE BUS ST. GEORGE’S HALL www.bradford-theatres.co.uk 01274 432000

16 JUNE

19 JUNE LITTLE FEET - CLAYTIME YORK THEATRE ROYAL 01904 623568 www.yorktheatreroyal.co.uk 20 JUNE LITTLE FEET - THE OWL AND THE PUSSYCAT YORK THEATRE ROYAL 01904 623568 www.yorktheatreroyal.co.uk

22 JUNE LITTLE FEET - THE DEVIL, THE TSAR & THE THREE DRY BISCUITS YORK THEATRE ROYAL 01904 623568 www.yorktheatreroyal.co.uk 22 JUNE LITTLE FEET - FLY BY NIGHT YORK THEATRE ROYAL 01904 623568 www.yorktheatreroyal.co.uk 22 - 23 JUNE LITTLE FEET - TIDDLER & OTHER TERRIFIC TALES YORK THEATRE ROYAL 01904 623568 www.yorktheatreroyal.co.uk

will relaying her Royal tales of the past throughout the day. BBQ & drinks, Royal Garden Trail where children can search for clues as the wander the gardens & treats for all.

6 June 10.30 Llama walks around the rocks!

BRIMHAM ROCKS Take a llama for a stroll, Tickets £3 01423 780688 www.nationaltrust.org.uk 6 June 6pm Family Bike Ride FOUNTAINS ABBEY Cycle through the grounds of the Fountains estate for free!

Start at Studley gates next to the tearoom.01765 608888 www.fountainsabbey.org.uk 6 -10 June Time Travellers Go...

Upstairs, Downstairs BRODSWORTH HALL Discover life in Edwardian and Victorian times, as they recruit for all sorts of jobs to keep the great Hall or house in order.

Take part in hands on activities, butler school and traditional games. 01302 722598 www.english-heritage.org.uk 7 June 11am- 3pm Geocaching Taster Day FOUNTAINS ABBEY Join in with a digital treasure hunt. Find out how to hide & seek geocaches & borrow GPS units to have a go. 01765 608888 www.fountainsabbey.org.uk 7 June Find the Lady NOSTELL PRIORY Can your family work as detectives & find the Lady? Booking Essential. £5 per family. 01924 863892 www.nationaltrust.org.uk 8 - 10 June Get Medieval!

FOUNTAINS ABBEY Join the costumed re-enactors around their medieval encampment.

Watch and take part in activities & demonstrations based on 15th century life. 01765 608888 www.fountainsabbey.org.uk 15 June 11am - 12pm A Tour of Kirkgate CASTLE MUSEUM Kirkgate, is a Victorian Street, set between 1870 and 1901, & reflects the stories of the businesses & people of York from that time. Take a guided tour & hear about the entrepreneur ironmonger John Parkes, proprietor of The Little Dustpan on Fossgate, the extraordinary life of Edward Allen, the Taxidermist, & the everyday experiences of the inhabitants of ‘Rowntree Snicket’. £5 per person. To book, tel 01904 650333.

15 & 16 June BioBlitz YORKSHIRE MUSEUM Join experts from across Yorkshire to learn about and help record all the animals and plants in the Museum Gardens. From bat walks to rat cams, and worm hunts to wildflowers, this activity-packed event is suitable for all the family. 01904 687687 www.yorkshiremuseum.org.uk

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16 June 7pm Romeo & Juliet THORP PERROW Chapterhouse Theatre Company presents Shakespeare’s tale of romance & passion in the beautiful outdoor setting of the arboretum. Gates open 6.15pm, take a chair & a picnic. 01677 425323 www.thorpperrow.com 16 June Open Air Theatre- The Importance of Being Earnest FOUNTAINS ABBEY The Pantaloons perform Oscar Wilde’s hilarious play.

Adult £15 Child £12. Booking essential, tel: 0844 249 1895 nationaltrust.org.uk/events 01765 608888 www.fountainsabbey.org.uk 16 - 17 June Kite Making FOUNTAINS ABBEY Make your own kite in the craft workshops. £2 per kite. 01765 608888 www.fountainsabbey.org.uk 17 June 1pm Den Building for DaDS BRIMHAM ROCKS Take dad along to help build a den deep in the woods 01423 780688 www.nationaltrust.org.uk 17 June 10 am - 4pm Classic Cars HAREWOOD HOUSE Harewood is gearing up to Father’s Day with hundreds of vintage & classic cars to admire. Treat your father to this special day out, ideal for all the family and enjoy all the fun of the car, with competitions, arena act and trophies galore. www.harewood.org 0113 218 1010 17 June Classic Cars for Father’s Day BRODSWORTH HALL Recall motoring memories and classic marques from the past. www.english-heritage.org.uk 01302 722598 20 June - 8 July Taming of the Shrew RIPLEY CASTLE No shows Monday 01423 770 632 www.ripleycastle.co.uk or visit www.spriteproductions.co.uk 23 - 24 June 10.30am - 4pm Tudor Weekend BARLEY HALL Celebrate the arrival of the sparkling new royal collection of costumes. Meet King Henry VIII himself, who will be making a visit on 24th June! With special activities and mini Tudor tours for children and families (included in admission and departing Barley Hall at 11am, 1pm and 3pm on both days), this is an ideal opportunity for young and old alike to learn more about the dynasty that changed England forever.

28 June, 6pm - 7pm Moth Trapping YORKSHIRE MUSEUM Join Stuart Ogilvy, assistant curator of natural science, to discover which moths have been caught in traps he has set in the Museum Gardens, right in the heart of the city.

Release these beautiful and surprising insects back into the wild and find out how to set a trap yourself. Suitable for all the family! Free, but book by telephoning 01904 650333. www.yorkshiremuseum.org.uk 30 June - 1 July 10 am - 5pm Harewood Medieval Faire HAREWOOD HOUSE All the colour, excitement & history from this extraordinary period: jousting & archery, armoury displays, historical traders, crafts, cooking, clothing, puppet shows, medieval music, games, falconry & storytelling. Join in with family craft activities & make your own shields, crowns, swords, puppets, heraldry & beads. www.harewood.org 0113 218 1010

‘Mum, do you like my boxing?’

The fiery fist of a hefty ten-year-old comes flying towards me, stopping a hair’s breadth from my nose. Not what you want when you’re shovelling funghi di bosco into your mouth, intent on escaping as fast as possible from the deafening hubbub that is Pizza Express on Lendal Bridge.

But it is said ten-year-old’s birthday treat, so instead of the usual table manners lecture (no physical violence during dinner), I decide to help him with his technique.

‘Great, Son,’ I say, ‘But keep your guard up and if you’re left-handed, you need to put your right hand closer to your face.’

‘Dur! No I don’t.’

I turn to my boyfriend, who has a black belt in karate and has done his fair share of cage fighting and kick boxing.

‘If he’s left-handed, shouldn’t he have his fists the other way round, so his left hand is forward, to punch?’

‘Yes, of course,’ he shouts, as the baby at the next table continues to beat his mother’s metal fork on the table to spectacular aural effect.

I bellow this information towards my son.

‘Dad told me to do it like that,’ pouts the ten-year-old, wincing slightly as the office party argue noisily about the bill.

‘No, Daddy wouldn’t get that wrong.’

‘Who knows more, you or Dad?’ ‘Well, lovely, I know I’m not Frank Bruno, but I have done a bit of karate, I did loads of boxercise, I’ve had kickboxing lessons, I grew up in a rough town.. but mainly I just asked someone who has a karate black belt. So in this case, me.’

The ten-year-old considers this for a moment and the baby at the next table sweeps all the cutlery onto the ceramic tiled floor in a triumphal crescendo.

‘Yeah, well Mum, that’s great…. but Dad must know better because he has Rocky I, II, III IV, V and VI on DVD.’ Case closed then.

The boyfriend is shaking like George Osbourne facing the angry mob at the Saga savings convention and has gone the same colour as the dentist’s apron. This is odd because she’s wearing blue.

Mind you, it was a different story last week. The ten-yearThis is the same boyfriend old had to have his two eye teeth extracted, in preparation as the black belt, kickboxing, cage fighting one I mentioned for braces. before. The one covered in During the tricky bits, I gently tattoos, who wears polished held his hand and chatted boots and sports a number away to take his mind off it. one crop. The one who sat up and took photographs of ‘Hey, Son, close your eyes his vasectomy being done and imagine we’re at the and texted them to his mates, seaside, near Granny and Grandad’s beach hut. You’re before insisting on going to karate training that very same on your bike, cycling along the prom and Grandad gives evening. you some money to run down But a five foot female dentist to the kiosk and get yourself has reduced him to jelly. an ice cream. Then we collect some whelks and Granny Things do, admittedly, go badly. She has to give him cooks them for our tea.’ two sets of anaesthetic and He smiles. As much as you can smile with a large pair of eventually tip the chair so far pliers in your gob, two bloody back he’s almost standing on his head. She’s literally holes in your gums and a purple with the effort and he’s face-full of anaesthetic. possibly gone into physical As luck would have it, the shock. boyfriend then developed I grip his hand. I’ve been in a raging abcess and tooth a similar situation recently. I infection, of the kind that know just what to do here. would even make a woman take a couple of paracetamol ‘Hey darling, close your eyes and have a sit down, so for a and imagine we’re at the man it was obviously a near- seaside near my mum and dad’s beach hut. The kids are death experience. on their bikes…’

Things had reached such a He grips my hand tighter pitch because of his severe than ever. Bless him, I think, I dentist phobia (this is called know how to relax him. ondontophobia actually - don’t say you don’t learn There’s an odd noise and anything through this column). despite the numb mouth and Anyway, we finally succeeded elephantine pliers yanking in navigating the enormous bits of rotten tooth out of his mental, physical and head, I realise he’s trying to emotional challenges set by speak. the emergency dentist service I lean forward, ‘Yes, darling?’ and won the ultimate prize I whisper. an appointment.

After a week on very strange I can clearly make out his antibiotics, we’re back for the strangled words, ‘Jace?,’ he extraction itself. gurgles, ‘Shut. The. ****. Up.’ Families Vale of York

23

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Clifton Pre-Prep School

For boys and girls aged 3 - 8 years â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Academically excellentâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;

ASHVILLE ADVENTURE Ashville Pre-Prep School is a purpose built school for children aged 4-7

Building the foundation of your childâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s education

Come and Visit Us! Contact us to arrange a visit to our nursery or reception classes. We look forward to meeting you!

Clifton Pre-Prep School York YO30 6AB Tel: 01904 527361 enquiries@cliftonprep.sch.uk www.st-peters.york.sch.uk/clifton

Clifton Pre-Prep â&#x20AC;˘ St Olaveâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s â&#x20AC;˘ St Peterâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s

A fun interactive session for pre-school children and their parents. Stay and play at Ashville Pre-Prep school.

Children will be invited to engage in a range of activities, including story telling, arts and crafts and even feeding the guinea pigs! At the end of the session parents will be offered an informal tour of the school whilst children enjoy a snack.

Come and see what makes Ashville different.

Stay and Play Wednesday 2nd May, Wednesday 23rd May Wednesday 13th June, Wednesday 4th July 9.30 - 11.00am Ashville College, Green Lane, Harrogate HG2 9JP 01423 566358 ashville@ashville.co.uk www.ashville.co.uk