Families Vale of York Sept / Oct 2010 issue 36 by Families Magazine

sept/oct2010 issue

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

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news

Happy Birthday Still Gorgeous

Harrogate’s only designer second hand children’s clothes shop on Cold Bath Road turns one on September 7th.

welcome I like to review the summer holidays – take a look back and see what’s been achieved before we press forward into another academic year. I ﬁnd it helps put things into perspective – not everything our children know is learned in school. And so what of my two darlings? Well my son’s had a great week at Drama summer school, performing for an audience and making new friends; he’s completed the summer reading challenge and been out on Ullswater canoeing. And the one I’m most proud of – he’s stopped biting his nails. So what does he think his greatest achievement was? ‘Learning to blow bubbles with bubble gum and completing level 10 on Wizard 101’ he told me sprawled on the sofa still in his dressing gown at midday. And what of my daughter – a bit too young to ask but she has mastered putting t-shirts on herself, improved her drawing skills and introduced crayons to the living room carpet. She now knows what make up is and wants to wear it. She did one wee on the potty (we’re sill working on that) and best of all? She now knows the sign for ‘rabbit poo’ – thanks Justin of CBeebies, the summer was not wasted. Whether you lament the end of the holidays or are secretly whooping with joy at the return to school, I hope you relish everything the new season brings. I’ll just be thankful the teen years are still well ahead of me!

Editor

Clare Whitaker, manager of Still Gorgeous and mum of two says, ‘We have had a great year and I would like to say a big thank you to everyone who has come in to either buy or sell. I am still so surprised how far people travel to come and find the shop - people travel from Newcastle, Durham, Selby, Castleford, Skipton - all over. I’m also amazed at the quantity and quality of the stock we have managed to pull in and all great quality brands such as Ralph Lauren, Boden, Catimini - everything really is STILL GORGEOUS!’ Call 01423 560402 for more information.

Catch the Theatre BUG Theatrebugs will be taking over Stockeld Park this Halloween for another ‘Theatre in the Woods’. Last year families enjoyed the tale of a stolen wand and the fading magic of the fairies in the forest. This year you’re invited to another magical mystery. Actors are hiding around every corner and all will be revealed as you take your walk through the woods. ‘We have handsome princes, gruesome mansters – have you ever hear of a manster?’ says Paula O Donohue from Theatrebugs. ‘Come to the woods to find out…better still, come and help us catch it!’ And if you want to take the magic you see at Stockeld Park into classrooms and nurseries across the region, TheatreBugs are looking for local franchisees. If you’re interested in this exciting opportunity, call Paula on 0207 350 2995. www.theatrebugs.co.uk

Buy a Bow for Breast Cancer

Think pink and help raise funds for a fantastic charity! We’ve teamed up with The Bow Company to create a Bow for Breast Cancer. 20% from the sale of each ‘pink’ hair accessory will go straight to Breakthrough Breast Cancer. There’s a range of headbands, bows and bobbles all designed by Bow Company owner Carole Ogden Pickering. It’s a charity very close to our hearts at Families. ‘I lost my sister in law Tanith to this cruel disease last year,’ says Families Leeds editor, Sarah Butters. ‘We’re told by Breakthrough Breast Cancer that this disease will no longer be a killer within a decade if we keep raising funds, so I hope this helps in a small way. Carole’s designs mean this is a stylish, affordable way of supporting a great charity’. Take a look at the range at www.thebowcompany.net

New Toy Shop for Harrogate Front cover:

Clifton Pre-Prep School, York

Circulation:

16,500

Deadline:

The deadline for the Nov/Dec 2010 edition is early Oct 2010

PO Box 201, DN14 9ZW Tel: 01405 860831 editor@familiesvoy.co.uk www.familiesvoy.co.uk

Bishops Printers www. bishops.co.uk

Copyright Families in the Vale of York Sept/Oct 2010. 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.

Award-winning children’s book illustrator Simone Wood has realised a long-held dream - to open her own toy store. The shop, which launched in July on Harrogate’s Cold Bath Road, is filled with beautiful well-made toys in a mix of traditional and contemporary styles. ‘Opening the shop is giving me the opportunity to indulge my passion for illustration-led toys and I’m stocking some really gorgeous examples that I’ve sourced from Britain, France, Scandinavia, Thailand and the USA,’ says Simone. Many of the toys will be exclusive to Harrogate, such as a range created from recycled materials. ‘The sustainability of the range is also important to me,’ says Simone, ‘it’s been a priority for me to source “green” toys and toys with recyclable packaging. I’ve even found toys where the box becomes a toy in itself, which is fantastic as everyone knows that children love the box as much as the toy!’ The Cold Bath Toy Shop will be decorated with original illustrations by Simone and will also stock high quality painting and art supplies for children. And while Simone has perhaps got a little carried away with the amount of gorgeous toys she has put on the shelves, she has kept an eye on price. ‘I’ve made sure that I’m stocking toys that are reasonably priced, and there are lots of wonderful things to buy with pocket money too…’ The Cold Bath Toy Shop, 123 Cold Bath Road, Harrogate, HG2 0NU Tel: 01423 709886 www.coldbathtoyshop.co.uk

Families Vale of York

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Competitio n winners Winners

of our ‘Meet Just in’ competitio n Julie, David, Oliv ia and Emily San derson (pictured h It’s an exciting time for children at The Magic Tree Day Nursery as a ere with Justin Fletc raft of stimulating new activities are being introduced for youngsters to her of CBeebies) enjoy for the first time. had a fabulous tim From this month youngsters will be able to enjoy regular Yoga e at the Justin Live sessions, Jabadao (an alternative approach to physical learning), French, Magical Musical-Rama, show at S carboroug According h’s Open Heuristic play and Baby Ballet. to Julie, O Air Theatre livia said it her life! Ru . was the be n n e rs Nursery Manager Beth Dunwoody, a qualified yoga practitioner who joined the nursery 12 months u p st day of w e re & Gillian E Lo u is e C ook, Kathry dmonds. ago, is delighted with the new developments – and is sure the children will both enjoy and n Ayres Winner of benefit from the activities. the Brazilia n Soccer S Gorner an chool prize d the Soca ‘Magic Tree Day Nursery is a wonderful nursery in a magical setting – these exciting new was Helen tots prize Jackson. was won b activities will enhance what we are already offering our children,’ she said. y Karen Easy2Nam e winners Magical Musical-Rama, which will run weekly at Magic Tree, allows children the chance to sing, were Sara Drum, And h Robson, rea Berane play instruments and learn rhythm and movement, while Heuristic play lets youngsters explore Karen k, Helen E Warndorff. dmondson natural objects, textures and colours using their senses. and Pippa Winners o f the Orga Baby Ballet, running on Tuesday afternoons, will be open to the wider local community as well n is e d Mum dia Yankel, Ja net Stephe ries were La as Magic Tree Day Nursery children. nson, Sally zer Empson & O’Connell, Barbara B Joanne ennett. The Magic Tree Day Nursery is based in the grounds of Belmont Grosvenor School, Birstwith, The Kiss K atch prize Near Harroagate and both are holding an open afternoon on Tuesday 5 October. Visitors can winner wa the winner s Sophie F of the Che see the school and nursery between 1.30 and 3.30pm or at any other time by ringing the elton and ster Zoo p Ahmed. rize was M school on 01423 771029 or visiting the website at www.belmontgrosvenor.co.uk ichelle

Exciting new classes at Harrogate nursery

Baby Friendly York 2010 You name it We label it!

Lunchboxes • Water Bottles Books • Uniforms • Footwear

T: 01635 298326

www.easy2name.com

The UK’s largest parenting charity the NCT is to hold its third baby and family event in York this autumn. Baby Friendly York will take place from 1 – 4pm at Joseph Rowntree School, New Earswick on 16th October and will showcase all that is on offer in York and the surrounding area for parents with young children. ‘There’ll be exhibitors offering information and services to expectant and new parents,’ says Rachel Bains chair of York NCT, ‘from midwives to baby keep-sakes, bike seats for babies to maternity bras and real nappies, we’ll have a wealth of valuable information for parents and parents-to be. We also have experts who can advise on birth options, local area childcare and activities to enjoy with your baby or toddler.’ There’ll be goody bags for the first 200 people through the door and fun activities and entertainment for toddlers as well as refreshments on sale. The Nearly New Sale begins an hour after the fair starts and will run from 2 – 4 pm and promises to offer good condition baby clothing and equipment for children up to 18 months. ‘NCT sales have a reputation for selling products of a very high quality,’ says Rachel. ‘Parents are often able to set up their nursery for around a quarter of the new price.’ If you are interested in selling at this or any other Nearly New Sales, please visit www.nct.org.uk or contact York NCT Nearly New Sales on 0844 243 6337, or e-mail nearlynewsales@yorknct.org.uk The NCT takes a percentage of all sales to raise funds for work supporting parents locally and beyond. Nearly New Sales give you a chance to recycle and recoup some money on outgrown child and baby items while helping a good cause – and it’s generally good fun too.

Insight Medical Ultrasound provides a broad range of diagnostic ultrasound scans to suit your specific needs. Prices start from £60 •Down’s screening available from 11 weeks - 13 weeks 6 days. •Dating scan from 8 weeks. •Sex determination from 16 weeks. •Anatomy scan from 18 weeks. •Growth monitoring from 24 weeks. •Presentation. •3D / 4D baby scans between 24 & 34 weeks. •We also offer a broad range of routine diagnostic scans.

Scan locations: Pinfold Surgery, Methley, Leeds, LS26 9AB. Xscape, Xercise Health and Fitness, Castleford, WF10 4TA.

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runchmums in business CrèmonechB by allenge faced struggling to

It’s a comm g events but tend networkin re. – wanting to at ca ild ch e bl , relia g find convenient men’s networkin café wo as , ge an ’s ch AJ to t th se wi l al up ’s But that s teamed de la Crème ha y, Harrogate, to introduce group Crème em ad Ac e Th at bar and crèche . re for the Crème Brunch , on-site childca offer registered mothers to focus on ns io ss se e Th event – allowing ter nearby. duration of the eir youngsters are looked af th ile and wh business en in business orting all wom g pp vin su ha t of ou e ab nc is importa ‘Crème s we know the i Graham of as working mum ’ say Sarah Sanpher & Vick e, the right balanc e. èm Cr la de e-minded e Crèm nity to meet lik ht bite fer the opportu lig of a es er ch ov un ps br hi ‘Our Children’s boutique Zak & Flo in sting relations rance la su ild as bu e d th an th wi women y atmosphere, Bishopthorpe, York, now has a lovely retaken dl ll en fri we d g in an in a warm ving fun and be ha e ar vamped website where you can access all es on that your little the beautiful clothes you can buy in the store. day, 13th care of.’ s place on Mon t more e Brunch take ou d èm ‘I’m busy getting all our stock online,’ says fin Cr To xt . ne pm e Th 1.30 .uk or call m 11.30am to Ruth ‘but if it’s not on the website, we may September fro ace, email info@thecreme.co pl ur yo still have it. Customers can call to see what or to book e.co.uk 0 www.thecrem 01423 534 64 we have or, if we don’t stock an item or a brand, they can use our “personal shopping search” which is shown under each brand and we will do our best to source an item.’

Business Booming at Zak & Flo

‘Our site is current - which means if it says we have an item we have it! We’re also excited about our new christening hire website which is coming soon at www.christeninghire.co.uk which will complement the christening wear collection.’ Ruth, who pitched for both the Small Business of the Year and the Women In Enterprise categories of The Press Business Awards 2010, started her business at the beginning of the recession in March 2008. Having survived it she now quips: ’I just hope that what they say is true – that after every recession there is a baby boom.’ www.zakandflo.co.uk

Keep it Personal When the Children go back to school why not brighten up their bedrooms and give them a really original feel with this hand finished and personalised wall art. Take a look at the website for the full range and keep a look out for the brand new designs coming throughout September and October. www.4littleart.co.uk

Halloween at Henshaws Watch out! Witches, ghosts and vampires will be descending once more on Harrogate’s Valley Gardens this Halloween as Henshaws Yorkshire’s Halloween Walk is back by popular demand! The event proved so successful in previous years that Henshaws Yorkshire is holding the walk for the third year running. Taking place on Saturday 30th October the event includes a guided spooky trail around the gardens with stops for stories, performed by Harrogate Theatre, along the way. There will also be a range of Halloween-themed games and hot food and drinks will be available. The walk is a fun and safe Halloween event suitable for all the family – and what’s more, all proceeds go towards Henshaws Yorkshire, an inspirational local charity that offers practical support and services to people of all ages living with sight loss, learning difficulties and other disabilities. The event sold out last year so early booking is advised. Places are limited so call the fundraising team on 01423 814500 to book your place. Admission is £3.50 per person with all proceeds going to Henshaws Yorkshire. Walks are available between 17:30-20:30. And don’t forget your fancy dress! www.henshaws.org.uk

Families Vale of York

news

Charity Christmas Evenings Local businesswoman Delise Thorp will be opening her home again this Christmas to raise funds for local charities including the NSPCC. Delise decorates each room of her home with a different theme which enables her to give back to the community whilst visitors are inspired by her eye for design and detail. For a really original evening out and a chance to buy some beautiful Christmas gifts and decorations, call Delise on 01405 860495. The house near Snaith will be open from Nov 25th to Dec 17th and places fill up quickly – so be sure to call early. Tickets cost £8 and include wine & mince pies.

Cooking for the Community The Cooking Rooms based at York Eco Business Centre is transforming itself into a fully fledged social enterprise in order to make its facilities available to a broader cross section of the community in York and North Yorkshire. From the beginning of September the Cooking Rooms will operate with the aim of making the cookery school experience more accessible to groups in the community. Partner in the business Luke Norbury said: ‘During September we will be working with a group of Girl Guides and also a Yorkbased primary school to introduce them to cookery and hope to work with many other groups - children and adults - going forwards.’ ‘It will be business as usual for the Cooking Rooms,’ said Luke, ‘and there will still be a range of classes to suit all ages and abilities as well as the opportunity to book private classes for team building and parties, but any profits generated will be reinvested to offer these same experiences to a more diverse group of people.’ If you know of a charity or community group that might be able to use their classes or facilities in an innovative way to benefit its members, get in touch. www.thecookingrooms.com

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Halloween at Stockeld Park A great week of half term fun from 22 – 31 October kick starts the new season at this award winning attraction. Meet the Enchanted Forest’s new arrivals on a spooky treasure hunt, join a pottery painting session and prepare to be scared on Fright Night. The Halloween production by Atmosfear Entertainment is a great alternative to ‘trick of treating’, but be warned. It’s only for the brave! ‘We’re encouraging families to come dressed up in spooky clothes and visit our haunted woods,’ says Stockeld’s Amy Thornton. ‘As night falls the Enchanted Forest will become a Halloween Hollow -it will be like walking through a live ghost train!’ For a gentler woodland walk, there’s the hugely popular Theatre in the Woods. This dusk time production is great for pre-school children and a chance to see theatre and the woods come to life. As well as being Chief Christmas Elf, Amy has also turned pumpkin farmer this year. Out in Stockeld’s fields she’s lovingly nurtured a field of pumpkins which will be ripe and ready for half term visitors to pick and carve. Meanwhile behind the scenes, she’s in charge of a team of elves busily wrapping the 5,000 presents needed in Santa’s Grotto come November. It’s hard work but lots of fun and this year Stockeld is passing some of that Christmas spirit back to, their customers. ‘We’ve listened to out visitors and realised how many visit Stockeld Park time and again over the season,’ says Amy. ‘So to give them something back we’ve launched a Season Card.’ The Stockeld Card will give discounts in the shop and café, as well as unlimited access to all your favourite attractions. There’s also a 10% discount on special events. For a detailed look at Stockeld’s half term events, take a look at our What’s On guide. www.stockeldpark.co.uk

win

a stockeld season card

Imagine being able to visit one of Yorkshire’s favourite visitor attractions as many times as you like this winter. To celebrate the launch of Stockeld Park’s new Season Card, we’re giving a family card away to one lucky Families reader. As well as unlimited access to the Woodland Walk, the new improved Maze, the popular Ice Rink and the cross country ski track, you’ll also get discounted tickets at the café and shop. There’s also a 10% discount on any tickets booked for the incredibly popular special seasonal events hosted here – like the Theatre in the Woods, Fireworks and NEW for this year, Breakfast with Santa. All you have to do to be in with a chance of winning this great prize log on to www.familiesvoy.co.uk/stockeldticket2010 and follow the instructions.

win

a sleigh ride with santa

Forget heading to Lapland. Santa is visiting Yorkshire and you can be on his sleigh! Stockeld Park is inviting one lucky Families’ reader to sit alongside Santa on the ride of a lifetime. You’ll meet his reindeers and then climb on board for a ride through the Enchanted Forest to mark the beginning of the Christmas season at Stockeld Park. The ride will take place on the weekend of 13th/14th November. The winner will also receive a Christmas Adventure goody bag.

If sitting beside Santa would make your Christmas, log onto www.familiesvoy.co.uk/stockeldsanta2010 where you can find out more and enter.

the ParentBusi n ess Jingletots Busy mum Victoria Charles lives with her partner David and two children Philippa 6

and Jack 4, near Selby. She runs Jingletots - creative music classes for pre-schoolers. ‘After graduating in Media and Production and completing an MA in Radio Production, I was very much drawn to working with music and sound,’ says Victoria, ’and began doing presenting work in Teeside. However when we moved back to York and Philippa came along and I needed a job where I could work from home to enjoy precious time with her.’

‘I had plenty of experience working with children through Rainbows, Brownies and youth groups and if I hadn’t gone into radio it would have been teaching, so after a year of researching, planning and testing sessions at local preschools and toddler groups, sourcing sounds, instruments and sensory props for discovery, Jingletots was ready to launch.’

‘There isn’t really a down side to my job, although the housework does suffer a little when you are so busy! But I confess I’m not super mum - the ironing isn’t always done and the dusting and polishing is a not a daily occurrence but my kids are the most important thing to me and it’s been great ﬁnding and creating jobs that ﬁt around them.’

Victoria then registered as self-employed, built a home studio and began working as a voice over.

David, Victoria’s other half, has created an exciting brand and a website to take the idea forward and for the last year or so they’ve run local classes and parties, keeping things simple.

Victoria advises other mums looking to work for themselves to research carefully, be passionate and creative and the rewards will follow.

‘I was able to voice radio and TV adverts, promotional trailers and imaging from the comfort of my own home when Philippa was having a nap,’ she says, ‘and I’m afraid I am the voice responsible for pushing the Crazy Frog onto a generation of teenager’s mobile phones. This was equally ﬁne when Jack came along and now he’s a bit older I present the Wind Down Zone, playing love songs 10-12 Sunday to Friday on 104.7 Minster FM.’ ‘As both the children grew a bit older, I wanted to do something more musical with them and at the time that was lacking in the area. After chatting with my neighbour we discovered we both wanted the same thing – a children’s class with an element of music, sound, discovery and play and soon Jingletots was born.

‘Now that both my children are of school age,’ says Victoria, ‘I have lots of plans for the future. The Selby classes will continue and we’ll be trialling new classes in the York and Selby area, as well as parties, events and setting visits - with an exciting Christmas Jingletots Baby Ball in the planning stages - so look out for that one! ‘The best thing about Jingletots is that I really love my job! It’s really rewarding seeing children grow though their learning and musical experience. Some of the children who ﬁrst began with us as one year olds are now three and the enjoyment they and their parent and carers get makes me very proud of my role and encourages me to move Jingletots forward.

‘Rewards may not be ﬁnancial at ﬁrst but if you start small, build your brand and trust it, people will buy into it. It’s important to talk to other mums, friends and people with a similar business and test your ideas and plans with them before launch. Networking is a great way of making new contacts who may prove to be helpful with your future plans. Be determined but don’t forget to divide your time between your precious family and your work.’ Jingletots classes are for children aged 12 months to preschool. Parties cater for children up to 7 years. www.jingletots.com email:info@jingletots.com Tel: Victoria 07736 049104

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Families Vale of York

s e s s a l c & bNesws Round-Up culu bs l t’s going on locally and what’s new for September C Wha

New Rhythm Local mum brings a ‘softer’ Time Classes side to football As a single parent, Sharon Conway wanted to be a bigger part of her son’s life and share his passion for football. ‘I started going along to matches with my son to watch him play and inevitably began chatting to some of the other mums on the touchline. Soon we were providing the after match hotdogs and touchline teas and coffees,’ says Sharon. ‘When I asked one of the coaches at his football club Tadcaster Albion how I could be more involved, I found myself on some courses at the local FA headquarters and I’ve now been Club Welfare Officer for a year.’ ‘My role is to ensure that the Club provides a safe environment for players. My duties include recruiting new coaches and helpers and ensuring all those involved with the club understand their responsibilities and have CRB checks. I deal with complaints and any child welfare issues and the development of codes of conduct for players, officials and spectators. ‘The role has taught me many things: I have realised how football brings out the best and worst in people, that passion can sometimes spill over into aggression and that spectators can become more competitive than the players! It is important to constantly remind adults that it is about the children; this is where ‘softer’ skills, often demonstrated by women, really add value to junior football. ‘Getting involved with the club has certainly allowed me to spend more time with my son and it has developed my negotiation and communication skills but more than anything it is fun and I have made lots of good friends. I feel as though I’m really giving something back to my community.’ Tadcaster Albion JFC offers league football for children age 4 to 16 years, developing football skills and improving fitness. The season runs from September to March. If you are interested or want to know more email tadcasterjfc@googlemail.com www.tadcasteralbion.co.uk

es New Fidgets class

classes Fidgets who run anish class Little d Sp ne d sig an h de nc es ss Fre Popular turday cla have two new Sa ish classes will be an Sp d across the region an h nc Saturday year olds. Fre h, Dringhouses on especially for 5-7 run on e Methodist Churc orp ich Th wh s st old We ar at ye ld he 2-5 ion to classes for mornings in addit g the week. rin du d an Saturdays .uk 01904 706565 www.littlefidgets.co

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Pre-school music class Rhythm Time has become so popular, class teacher Lynne O’Malley has opened two new classes to cater for demand. ‘We’ve had children on waiting lists so we’ve decided to open two new classes on Wednesdays at 1.20 pm for babies and 2pm for toddlers. There’ll also be a special free trial on Wednesday 29th September, for parents to come and see what we do.’ Rhythm Time offers fun music sessions to help develop children’s innate musical ability from the earliest age. ‘Babies absorb sounds from the moment their ear develops in the womb,’ says Lynne ‘and in our classes this is nurtured through exploring sounds, playing instruments, singing catchy songs and rhymes, and lots of other exciting multisensory activities.’ Classes are held across Harrogate on Mondays, Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays and in Wetherby on Wednesdays, catering for children from birth. www.rhythmtime.net 07789 895894

Harrogate Mayor catches Yoga Bug Harrogate Mayor Councillor Bill Hoult caught the yoga ‘bug’ at the fantastic Valley Gardens Play Day this summer. Over 60 children and parents joined in the free yoga sessions as part of the day enjoying the combination of yoga, stories and relaxation. Pre school classes run at Winkies Play Centre in Harrogate every Wednesday during term time and visit www.yogabugs.com for information on a new class coming to Knaresborough.

Tennis Tykes

Last issue we reported on the new local tennis class Tennis Tykes. Caroline is now expanding and opening in Ripon, York and Wetherby as well as Harrogate. Get in touch for information about classes near you which begin on 13th Sept. www.tennistykes.co.uk 07843 342 662

Little Gym goes from strength to strength Following its opening in February this year The Little Gym in Harrogate has expanded with two new classes starting next term. Bugs classes will cater for children from four months old, helping them to learn basic sitting and crawling skills and at the opposite end of the age range Twisters will be for primary age children, helping those who are already skilled at gymnastics to improve their skills. ‘With over 250 members coming every week,’ says owner Kate Henebury, ‘the gym is going from strength to strength. Our first term finished in July with Show Week – allowing the children to demonstrate to their parents the new skills they have gained, their growth in confidence and the fun they have in every class. We also ran a number of camps through the summer which were really successful.’ www.thelittlegym.co.uk 01423 701560

Talking Tots arrives in York & Wetherby

Splish Splosh makes a splash with DW Sports Fitness

Mum Lisa Dew saw a gap that needed filling when she moved to Yorkshire from London almost two years ago. ‘I went to lots of pre-schoo l activity classes with my daughter, and although we enjoyed them I felt tha t there was a need for a class that foc used on communication .’ Lisa then came across Talk ing Tots, classes design ed by speech and language therapists that help to improve a child’s communication skills and social confidence through fun games and activities. ‘I’m really excited to be brin ging Talking Tots to York and Wetherby,’ says Lisa ‘Unlike some groups tha . t focus on music or physica l activity, Talking Tots focuses on skills such as listening, taking turns and paying attention. These skills are developed thro ugh exciting games, act ivities and props so the children don’t even realise they’re learning. Each act ivity is designed to build communication and pre -literacy skills that will pro vide children with the too they need to learn effectiv ls ely when they reach prim ary school.’ Classes designed for 1 – 4 year olds are held in Yor k on Mondays in Haxby (10am) and Fridays in Bis hopthorpe (10.15am ) and on Tuesdays in Wetherby (10am). A two week trial costs £5. www.talkingtots.i nfo 07521 680 949

York-based Splish Splosh Swimming School is making waves across the UK as it celebrates securing a business partnership with one of the UK’s most prestigious chain of fitness clubs. Splish Splosh recently joined forces with DW Sports Fitness to provide swimming lessons in its pools at numerous locations including Telford, Middlesbrough and Cambridge. This partnership holds a personal connection for the owner, Vicky Pettitt, who has also managed to secure lessons at DW Sports Fitness in Trafford, a short distance from where she grew up and nurtured her passion for the sport. ‘I am thrilled to be taking my business back home,’ says Vicky. ‘My love of swimming began in Oldham where I swam for Saddleworth Swimming Club and then worked for the Leisure Services Department in Oldham at Oldham Leisure Centre back in the 90s. I knew then that my dream would be to have my own swimming school.’ The recent deal between Splish Splosh and DW Sports Fitness has seen the school base itself in yet another high profile location offering people the chance to experience the facilities of a fitness centre whether they are members or not. ‘The pools in fitness clubs are usually ideal for lessons, because they are a manageable size for a new swimmer, modern and very clean. We also like to get the teacher into the water, and the shallow depths of the fitness centre pools offer us the opportunity to do that.’ www.splishsploshswimmingschool.net

Jo Jingles helps boost BCC funds

Paula Ridley who runs Jo Jingles classes across the area has helped raised an impressive £6,100 for Breast Cancer Care so far with the help of her family. ‘The majority of the money has been raised by people sponsoring our team (consisting of various members of the Ridley family) to take part in 10K runs, half marathons and the Great North Run,’ says Paula, ‘which is all the more impressive considering I’m not a runner at all!’ Jo Jingles has played an important part too. ‘Although we anticipated the money coming through the sponsorship of runs,’ says Paula, ‘people have helped in other ways. During our penultimate week of term at Jo Jingles we were visiting Fairyland on our Magic Train Ride so everything was pink and purple which fitted in very nicely with the BCC colours. We also held a raffle where children could win a free term at Jo Jingles or a CD or goody bag and donations were given for pink and purple knitted hearts, balloons, bubbles and fairy buns. All this helped boost funds for the cause which is very close to our hearts.’ Search for ‘Team Bradshaw Wyre’ on facebook to find out more. www.jojingles.com

Follow the Starfish

If you’re keen to use rewards to encourage your child to swim and from an early age, Baby Swimmers follows ‘Starfish’, the official water safety programme for babies through the Swimming Teachers’ Association. There are 6 awards throughout the series and classes aim to concentrating on one Starfish award per 10 week block before moving on to the more advanced ‘Stanley’ award programme. Baby Swimmers runs classes in York, Pocklington, Harrogate, Leeds, Bradford and Hull. By using simple actions accompanied by nursery rhymes, they encourage water confidence, fun, games and social interaction for babies and toddlers from 8 weeks old up to 5 years www.babyswimmers.co.uk 01757 229880

Enjoy-a-Ball enjoys local and national success Since launching classes in March, Enjoy-a-ball York has continued to grown in popularity. ‘It’s been great to get the business off the ground and to be up and running so quickly,’ says owner Lesley Reid. ‘I can’t believe I was only thinking of setting it up a year ago and now here we are with many classes in operation every week and spaces for the new term already filling up fast.’ Enjoy-a-Ball is a positive coaching programme that teaches girls and boys, from 2½ to 9 years a variety of team games and eight different ball sports - basketball, tennis, football, rugby, volleyball, cricket, baseball and hockey. ‘Early on, the programme focuses on agility, balance and coordination then gradually introduces the core elements of the sports,’ says Lesley. ‘Children are rewarded for perseverance, courage and showing team spirit and have fun whilst learning in a sociable environment under the guidance of a professional coach.’ Enjoy-a-Ball also had success in the What’s on 4 Little Ones awards this year as winner of the best national activity for children aged 5 to 12 category - meaning that they are top in the UK as voted for by parents. ‘It’s great for Enjoy-a-Ball to get some national recognition, as it is such a fantastic programme,’ says Lesley. Watch out for Enjoy-a-Ball on CBeebies this September too on a programme called Mighty Mites, which is all about getting kids active. www.enjoy-a-ball.com 07789 86 11 08 / 08452 26 26 94

Families Vale of York

out of school -clubs& DEVELOPING INTERESTS outside the home is rich in rewards, from new social skills to those of the particular activity. If you’d like your child to join a local class but don’t know which one, let their interests guide you. There’s no point sending a painfully shy child to a drama class if they’ll be cowering in the corner when a good drum-bashing session or IT club would bring them out of themselves more effectively. If they babbled from an early age, they may find a second language comes easily; if they’re forever throwing themselves all over the sofa, consider a gym, swimming or dance class to focus their energies; if they’ve scribbled on the walls since an early age and can’t eat their fish fingers, carrots and peas until they’re carefully rearranged on the plate, consider art and craft or pottery classes, for example. Robina Cowan has been looking into the many benefits of out of school activities - and we’ve found the local classes.

Languages

Given that babies learn their mother tongue practically before anything else apart from motor skills, it makes sense that they can be introduced to a second language before it starts rolling into the school curriculum later in life. Children who learn a foreign language at an early age do so effortlessly. At the most receptive stage of their development they are like sponges and develop a wonderful accent. They learn through verbal and physical participation and communicate without inhibition and self-consciousness. If children enjoy their early exposure to a foreign language and culture, they will absorb and retain this, ensuring not only a head start in secondary school, but building confidence in all areas of the curriculum. Language classes for children are extremely well

Develop your child’s skills and confidence At the Little Gym, we take a non-competitive, progressive approach to motor skill development. Children aged 4 months to 12 years, learn at an age appropriate pace, building upon past achievements as they advance week to week and term to term. It 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 is NOW open in Harrogate. Take the first step, and enrol your child today.

Book your free trial class NOW! Call us on 01423 701560 �� Parent/Child Classes

Preschool/ Kindergarten Gymnastics

Primary School Gymnastics

Holiday Camps

Birthday Parties

designed - they are fun, happy and busy with plenty of activities including games, dances, songs and even cooking, to introduce the culture as much as the vocabulary.

Music

A 2009 Booktrust survey found that almost two thirds of parents do not regularly sing or read nursery rhymes to their children because they did not believe they had any educational value. However, numerous studies have demonstrated that no matter the level of skill, music is one of the best ways to help early language development. Like speech, music has structure, rhythm and rules. It introduces new words and concepts through repetition, encourages turn-taking (just like in conversation), and helps children develop listening skills and attention spans. While some children - particularly those from musical families - can take to the violin or piano like ducks to water, it may be more rewarding to start in group singing, percussion and rhythm classes first to learn and appreciate the basics before taking on trickier instrument tuition. Even preschool music classes which include rhythmic singing and clapping songs are contributing so much more than a bit of weekly fun.

Sports and Exercise

Britons are among the fattest people in Europe - so much for the 2012 Olympic effect. Yet pass any school playground at breaktime and the majority of children are running around, for the sheer exhilaration of moving at speed (typically exercising their lungs too by screaming at the same time!). If your children are naturally active then they’re following their instincts, but those slumped in front of the television or computer could do with a nudge towards a regular activity they’ll come to look forward to. Different sports suit different children; lively, outgoing boys and girls relish competitive team games; tennis develops hand-eye coordination as well as stretching young limbs; swimming builds strength without overstressing joints and ligaments; martial arts teach children to ‘read’ their opponents’ intentions; while dance adds poise, grace and flexibility to everyday movement.

Theatre and Performing Arts Drama is a wonderful extension of the ‘let’s pretend’ games

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young children love to play. Classes open and extend children’s imagination through role play and characterisation. Working to a theme or play introduces literature, classic stories and make-believe worlds which come to life through speech, song and movement. Students explore empathy for their characters and classmates, and learn to work effectively in groups, growing in confidence as they learn to express themselves more fully. Before too long, students learn to make eye contact, speak clearly in front of others and stand up tall when entering a room - attributes which will serve them well whatever their choice of career. All this and usually there is an end of term performance where the students have the chance to showcase their new skills in front of an appreciative audience.

Dance

It’s a rare child who does not enjoy dressing up

games, and dance is the perfect way to move ‘in character’, whether as a graceful fairytale ballerina princess, or grooving to a funkier beat. While dancing is great fun it also helps develop coordination, fitness and a sense of rhythm, musicality and expression, promoting selfdiscipline and confidence.

Arts and Crafts From the earliest age, children just love to make things. Admittedly they start by making a mess, but in time their painting, sticking, kneading and moulding start to take a pleasing, recognisable form. When clutching a big paintbrush, sticking pasta to a piece of card and squeezing play dough, children are developing motor skills which will later be fine-tuned to manage tasks such as writing and using cutlery effectively. Furthermore, the early attempts are stimulating many senses while introducing new techniques and textures. “There’s nothing like using clay to develop children’s artistic abilities,” one local potter observed: “usually they don’t get the chance to do pottery until they’re much older, but the younger ones love it just as much.”

And Finally In your enthusiasm to bring out the child prodigy in your child, don’t lose sight of the fact that they’re already worked hard at school. If you have signed up Oliie for cello lessons purely in the hope of a specialist school place, or believe that dance school will mean definite fame and fortune via Britain’s Got Talent - think again! First and foremost, find an activity your child will really enjoy. If their interest flags, or changes after giving it a good shot, don’t be afraid to look around for a new activity which might suit them better as they grow and develop.

&classes Sports & Movement

Enjoy – a – Ball www.enjoy-a-ball.com 07789 861 108 / 08452 262 694 Sports coaching programme for ages 3 – 9. Classes in Harrogate area. Gymboree Play & Music 0770 204 8391 www.gymboree-uk.com Gym, music & arts for ages 0 – 5 years. Harrogate. Socatots York & Ripon 01765 620 374 www.socatots.com Soccer training for ages 6 months – school age. Tennis Tykes www.tennistykes.co.uk 01423 770911 Tennis play and coaching programme for children aged 2+. Harrogate area. The Little Gym 01423 701560 www.thelittlegym.co.uk Gym programmes for children from 4 months to 12 years. Tumbletots York &Selby 01904 412381, Harrogate & Wetherby 01423 780367 www.tumbletots.com Gym classes for ages 6 months – 7 years YogaBugs www.yogabugs.com 0113 250 6972 Yoga for preschoolers, 5 – 7 and 8 – 12. Classes across the region. Baby & Child Matters www.babyandchildmatters.co.uk 07545 056 248 You’re never too young for a class – try baby massage from 6 weeks to crawling.

Swimming

Baby Swimmers 01757 229 880 www.babyswimmers.co.uk York, Pocklington, Harrogate & Leeds Splish Splosh Swimming School 0844 264 1102 www.splishsploshswimmingschool.net Harrogate, York, Selby, Stamford Bridge, Drax, South Milford, Pocklington. Ages 3 months+ Swim Tots 01423 528882 www.swim-tots.co.uk York, Harrogate, Boroughbridge & Thirsk. Classes from birth – preschool. Water Babies www.waterbabies.co.uk 01943 872556 Classes for babies from birth – 4 years. Babies need to be under 1 to begin. York & Harrogate. Swim York 01904 552 424 www.york.gov.uk/swimyork Classes run all year for ages 6 month+ at Energise or Yearsley Swimming Pool. Harrogate Borough Council www.harrogate.gov.uk Classes for all ages & stages including Raindrops for ages 6 months – 3 years. Wetherby Leisure Centre www.leeds.gov.uk 01937 585125 Swimming Lessons available for all ages following the Leeds Learn to Swim Programme.

Abbey Leisure Centre, Selby www.selbyleisure.co.uk 01757 213758 Selby swim scheme caters for babies a year and up with fun games through to Ducklings & Dolphin grades for older children. Tadcaster Community Swimming Pool 01937 833001 www.tadcasterpool.org.uk Aquatots & Ducklings programmes for all ages & stages. Waterworld York www.waterworldyork.co.uk 01904 642111 Swimming classes for age 2 +

Language

French & Spanish for Fidgets www.frenchforfidgets.co.uk 01904 706565 Classes for children aged 2-7 and their grown-up in Harrogate, York, Selby & surrounding area. Classes last 45 minutes with songs, games and role-play and often a sticky craft activity related to the term’s topic. Max 10 per class. Talking Tots www.talkingtots.info 07521 680 949 Classes to help to improve children’s communication skills and social confidence through fun games and activities. For ages 1 – 4 year olds. York & Wetherby. Sing and Sign Ripon & Harrogate www.singandsign.com Classes in Harrogate, Ripon, Northallerton, Thirsk and Knaresborough, 01765 620374. Sing and Sign York 01904 690038 Tiny Talk Baby signing classes Harrogate, Knaresborough and Wetherby: 01423 817517, York and Pocklington 01759 369514. www.tinytalk.co.uk Newborn onwards! Tiny Talk Toddler classes Fun and interactive sessions help to develop conversational skills and confidence. Harrogate, Knaresborough and Wetherby: 01423 817517. www.tinytalk.co.uk/emmac. Roughly 18mths - 3 year olds. Baby & Child Matters www.babyandchildmatters.co.uk 07545 056 248 Signing for pre-talkers in York & surrounding area.

Arts & Crafts

Smarty Art 01423 339 738 smartyart@live.co.uk Art and Craft session for 1-5 year olds . 45 minute sessions at Kirk Hammerton & Boroughbridge. Pots 2 Go Harrogate 01423 524797 www.pots2go.co.uk Rainbows Ceramic Café York 01904 675533 www.rainbowscafe.co.uk Mucky Pups Beverley & North Newbald 01430 801102 www.mucky-pups.com Arts, crafts & messy time for preschoolers.

Music

High-Low Quick-Slow 01757 611234 www.highlowquickslow.co.uk Fun music & movement for ages 6months – 5 years. 45 minute classes in Selby, Drax, Cawood, Escrick, Osgodby & Wistow. Jingletots 07736 049 104 www.jingletots.com Creative music classes in Selby with music, crafts, stories and games. Ages 12 months – pre-school Jo Jingles 01977 650455 www.jojingles.com/leeds Harrogate, Wetherby & Boston Spa. Music, singing and movement classes for babies and young children ages 3 months – 5 years. MiM Music (Multiples in Mind) www.mimmusic.co.uk 07799 796 245 Singing & music class for families & childminders with pre-school twins and children close in age. York. Rhythm Time www.rhythmtime.net 07789 895894 Music & Singing classes for babies, toddlers & pre-schoolers. Harrogate & Wetherby. Sing and Sign www.singandsign.com Ripon & Harrogate with classes in Harrogate, Ripon, Northallerton, Thirsk and Knaresborough, 01765 620374. Sing and Sign York 01904 690038 Singamajigs www.singamajigs.co.uk 01423 552918 Sing & jig from birth – 5. Classes in Harrogate & surrounding area.

Sound Generation 020 3344 2310 www.soundgeneration.co.uk Provides quality and fun music teachers for schools or home tuition in North and West Yorkshire.

Performing

Baby Ballet 01132 602449 www.babyballet.co.uk Classes in Harrogate & York for children aged 18 months – pre-school. Butterfly Dance Studios www.butterflydancestudios.co.uk 01405 780626 Extensive classes from ballet & tap to Latin American & Hip Hop. All ages – tots to adults. Goole. Debutots Early Years Drama 01759 372595 www.debutots.co.uk York & surrounding area. Stagecoach York 01904 672 662 Stagecoach Harrogate & Ripon 01423 771 138 Stagecoach Wetherby 0113 210 3505 Stagecoach Selby 0113 210 3505 Classes in drama, dance and singing for students aged from 4 -19. Offers training in performing arts and life skills, such as confidence and self esteem. www.stagecoach.co.uk York Youth Theatre (Theatre Royal) www.yorktheatreroyal.co.uk/youth. shtml Harrogate Youth Theatre (Harrogate Theatre) www.harrogatetheatre.co.uk Riding Lights Youth Theatre www.ridinglights.org Junction, Goole www.junctiongoole.co.uk Electric Youth Theatre (5-18) & Vocalise Singing & Music (5-18)

Jo Jingles is Here! Fun Music, Singing & Movement Classes for children aged 3 months to 5 years Develop your child’s ��Social Skills ��Conﬁdence ��Co-ordination ��Language ��Listening Skills ��Imagination Children’s Parties & Nursery Sessions also available!

For details on classes in: Wakeﬁeld (Sandal & Stanley), Pontefract, Normanton, Ackworth, Horbury/Ossett, Garforth, Sherburn in Elmet, Wetherby, Boston Spa & Harrogate Call Paula on 01977 650455 or email jojinglesleeds@yahoo.co.uk www.jojingles.com/leeds

Families Vale of York

. . . t a o d u o what do y t just how g local groups to find ou itin vis sy bu en be s . ha ll Maunse 3 popular clubs & classes Families Editor Belinda much fun can be had at

Stagecoach With a background in Drama teaching, I was itching to get to Stagecoach in Selby on a very balmy Friday evening in June. Despite it being half term, the session was really well attended which is a mark of just how dedicated the children and their teachers are. Principal Lisa Druett who runs Stagecoach in Selby, Wetherby, Kippax & Leeds explained that performers aged 7+ are divided into 3 age groups and rotate around the three disciplines of Drama, Singing & Dance, spending an hour on each. The very youngest members aged 4-6 have a 1½ hour session with one teacher who combines all three disciplines. First off I spent some time with the stage 3s - 12 teenagers who were working with Kerry in Drama. With lots of games to encourage verbal and physical confidence, it was clear they were having lots of fun. They were more than happy to make mistakes, laugh at themselves and carry on – great skills for anyone to acquire as well as the obvious self esteem Drama gives children. I left them looking at a script to visit the stage 2 children in Singing who were working with an Alicia Keys song and I have to admit I quickly joined the back row and began to sing along! The stage 1 music was just as much fun as they were working with a nursery rhyme which was testing their sense of rhythm. Try a rendition of ‘The Grand Old Duke of York’ singing only the words ‘up’ and ‘down’ and beating time in the spaces and you’ll get the idea! Some of the children sang alone - solo performance is very much encouraged (and I was hard pressed to find a single shy person) – but it’s not compulsory. Next up were the youngest group (aged 4-6) who were looking at the roles boys play in High School Musical (I’m guessing someone had suggested it was just for girls!) and then they played a movement game whilst Lisa filled me in on some of the other things the students are involved in. ‘We do two shows a year for parents,’ she says ‘and because our numbers are never more than 16 per class, everyone gets a chance to have a good sized part. All our rehearsals are in class time and the cost of costumes is always included so parents don’t get any extra unexpected bills. We also run trips to London to see shows – something that’s also popular with parents!’ Dance is not an area I’m too knowledgeable about and this week the regular dance teacher was ill, so a teacher from another Stagecoach was standing in. ‘We always use qualified teachers or practitioners at Stagecoach,’ says Lisa, ‘and because we have several groups in the area, we have highly qualified teachers who can step in at short notice. The children always get exactly what’s been promised.’ The Stage 3s were working together in two large groups to create a dance when I arrived there and there was plenty of teamwork – and yes, teenage boys were dancing! The teamwork was evident again when the teens were writing song lyrics in Singing and when they finished the evening with a song from Avenue Q and finally ‘Skid Row’ from ‘Little Shop of Horrors’ I was belting the songs out with them. Of course Stagecoach is a great place to send your children if they want to become performers, but it’s not just about that – it’s also for those who just want to enjoy learning to act, sing and dance and boost their self-esteem and confidence. I am probably biased but this was really great fun – I’d told my husband to expect me back early but I was actually the last to leave – Stagecoach for grown-ups please!

Further information

You can find out more about Stagecoach at www.stagecoach.co.uk

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Stagecoach Selby 0113 210 3505 Fridays, 4.30-6.30 (main school) & 4.15-5.45 (early stages) at Selby High School Stagecoach Wetherby 0113 210 3505 Saturdays,10am-1pm (main school) & 9.30-11am (early stages) at Wetherby High School Stagecoach York 01904 672662 Saturdays, 10am-1pm & 2.30pm-5.30pm (main school). Five early stages classes run throughout the day at Archbishop Holgate’s School Stagecoach Harrogate 01423 771138 Saturdays & Sundays, 10am-1pm (main School) & 9.30-11am (early stages) at Rossett School Stagecoach Leeds & Kippax 0113 210 3505 Sundays, 10am-1pm (main school) & 9.30-11am & 11.15-12.45 (early stages) at Brigshaw High School Stagecoach Ripon Fridays, 4.30pm-7.30pm (main school) & 4pm-5.30 (early stages) at Ripon College

High-Low Quick-Slow Osgodby Village Hall was the venue for our music and movement outing as my two year old tester and I set out to meet the High-Low Quick-Slow team. Anne Nicholson and Sarah Bugg have been running their preschool classes for two years now and have built an enviable reputation for their rapport with children. All of the little ones, who at this session ranged from around two to five, were immediately at their ease and were happy to bring their dollies and teddies for Anne and Sarah to chat to! The women have written all their own teaching material to use with classes with a focus on improving children’s physical co-ordination, confidence and self esteem, listening skills and to develop their imagination. ‘We’ve brought together our knowledge and experience of being primary school teachers,’ says Anne, ‘and most importantly the experience of being mums with children of our own.’ The class is named after four soft toys that make an early appearance at the session: High the giraffe, Low the snake, Quick the cheetah and Slow the tortoise. After our hello song to the animals we were soon up and off! The songs were familiar to the children and we never seemed to stop moving around – and yes that meant mums too! ‘Young children learn best by being actively involved,’ says Anne, ‘and we provide lots of activities throughout all our High-Low Quick-Slow sessions.’

The current theme (the themes run fortnightly) is about going to the park and so the chosen toys are related to this and the songs revolve around this idea too - my daughter India particularly enjoyed the ‘see-saw song’ – doing the actions with mummy! As is the nature of classes such as these, some children are more reticent than others, so whenever they have the opportunity to take a ‘solo’ part, by say choosing a toy; I notice that Sarah and Anne choose the children themselves, so everyone gets a go - not just the confident volunteers! Sarah and Anne then set out a large playground with mats, tunnels and stepping stones. True to form my daughter was straight over to the picnic area to play with the ‘cake’ – but she did have a go at matching up the ducks on the pond - an activity which helps with shape recognition and counting. At the end of the 45 minute session we said goodbye to the animals and I lay down with the other mums and children to enjoy a few minutes wind down time. India, still raring to go after some ‘free dance’ time, preferred the drink, sticker and activity sheet to take home! With lots of equipment, expertise and bags of

enthusiasm it would be difficult not to have a good time at a High-Low Quick-Slow class. Anne & Sarah’s passion and energy is infectious and it’s clear they really love their job.

Further information High-Low Quick-Slow caters for children from the age of 6 months to 5 years and runs classes at a number of venues in Selby, Escrick, Wistow, Drax and Osgodby.

For more information call 01757 611234 or visit www.highlowquickslow.co.uk

Smarty Art My daughter has shown a distinct interest in arts, crafts of late and it’s not something she’s learned from her mother. I can only thank nursery for encouraging her desire to play with paint, playdoh and sand – much of which she brings home in her pockets. She was more than overjoyed then at the vat of sand she found to play in when we arrived at the Smarty Art class at Aldborough Village Hall near Boroughbridge. Indeed it was quite tricky to encourage her away from the sand pit so that we could take part in the start of the class with the other children who ranged from one to five. Fiona Ashford who runs the class began by explaining this week’s theme which was ‘On the Beach’ and we took a look at some of the creative activities on offer. We began the session by painting a large pebble. India enjoyed choosing colours and seeing what happened when they were mixed together. Needless to say her creation was a sort of muddy brown colour - I resisted the temptation to make it look ‘nice’ for her! We then got stuck into the really messy stuff with glue and sand, making a castle picture and a flag for the top with straws. Finally she played with some jelly in a big tray - ‘jellyfish’ explained Fiona! Fiona, whose background is in teaching, explained the principles of Smarty Art. ‘The idea behind the group is that parents can bring their kids to have loads of creative fun and make the mess here, not at home.’ I have to say that as someone who only gets out the play–doh out when I’m feeling strong, the idea of making a mess somewhere away from my cream carpet is very appealing. One mum agreed with me; ‘I like the fact there’s no mess at home as my kids Hattie and Mary are very creative. Also coming here gives them access to so much material – far more than we could have at home.’ Fiona explains that much of the appeal is the wide range of arts and crafts she can offer; ‘We get the kids involved in all sorts, including painting, sticking, making collages, modelling and sensory play,’ says Fiona. ‘We follow a different theme each week and all the activities complement the Early Years Foundation stage curriculum. Of course the sessions also give the children the opportunity to develop social, interactive skills as well as manipulative and coordination skills.’ With around 10 children attending each session, there’s plenty of Fiona runs sessions at: opportunity to get a go at everything and for parents like me who Kirk Hammerton Village Hall, feel a bit out of their depth when it comes to art, there’s lots of Wednesdays 1.45-2.30p.m inspiration and help. Aldborough Village Hall,Boroughbridge ‘It’s not only great fun for the kids,’ says Fiona, ‘but I can see the Thursdays 1.30-2.15p.m parents enjoy themselves too – it’s a great chance to explore, be Holiday sessions are also available. creative, experiment and have fun with your kids.’ Our session ended back on the mats where the children were You can contact Fiona on rewarded with stickers. For every six stickers there’s a craft gift for 01423 339 738 the child and of course the children get to take their masterpieces smartyart@live.co.uk home with them!

Further information

MiM Music Multiples in Mind

Twins? Children close in age (0-4yrs)? Singing and music-making tailored to families and childminders with more than one pre-schooler Classes all-year-round, including school holidays Charge per family/group, per session Contact Katie on 07799796245 Parties and mimmusic@live.com private sessions also offered www.mimmusic.co.uk

Families Vale of York

Choosing the right school Carol Berrie, Headmistress of Pre-Prep School, Ashville College looks at how essential it is to choose the right school for your child. At this time of year parents all over the country are beginning to look towards the time when their four year olds will take that huge step to starting school for the very first time. Choosing the right school for your child is probably one of the most important decisions you’ll ever make, as it is a place that will become so important to them. You may think you know about the daily routines, the uniform, the expectations, but what you’ll never know is just what your four year old will feel as they sit in the hall for their first assembly, how they will feel as they run out onto the playground for the first time or what they will be feeling as they sit and listen to a story at the end of that first exciting day. What I love about teaching young children is how it enables me to share their joy of living and all the small events that mean so much to them. But starting school is a big event and everyone can share in that excitement. When you visit a school for the first time, look around the building from a new four year olds point of view. Go and stand in the playground; sit in the classroom and imagine registration at the start of the day. Stand in the library and the reading corner and imagine story time at the end of the day. Acquaint yourselves with the environment that is going to mean so much to your child. Does it remind you at all of your own first school? Do you have positive memories of starting school or were there anxieties that you can remember all these years later? I remember my first day at school in the most minute detail. I can remember refusing to take off my beret as I had been told not to loose it. I can remember the biscuit I unwrapped to enjoy with my bottle of milk. I can also remember the overwhelming sense of homesickness this invoked, until Sarah, the little girl sitting next to me, offered to share her biscuit and I was immediately cheered. Significantly, I remember nothing of the work I did. I do remember the mixed feelings of excitement, of novelty and fear of the unknown. Starting school is an emotional experience. We know that how we feel about school affects how we learn there. How happy children are relates to how successful they will be. The experience of going to school is a significant event for parents. You too have a complexity of emotions, which range form positive feelings of anticipation of developmental benefits for your child to feelings of apprehension and worry. You are after all, placing the care of your child into someone else’s hands. The staff will be concerned with the well-being of the children and know that the children’s ability to gain socially from school is just as important as their need to be stimulated cognitively. There will be some things that you wish for on that very first day of school: you want your child to settle confidently, to know what to do, to be normal (whatever normal is), to have a happy day and to want to return the next day. The teachers in a school want these things too. They want the start to be right. A great partnership between you and the school of your choice will ensure this happens. Good luck!

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A Matter of Balance

In our second look at play-based learning, Paula Arkley head of Clifton Pre-Prep School, York looks at the value of exercising the imagination, risk taking and boredom! Over the years I have often been asked by parents for ideas of what to do with their children in the holidays. My first answer is that you don’t have to do anything with them all the time, by all means take them out a few times – to the beach, onto the Moors, to the Library - but let them work some things out for themselves. Let them be bored! Children need to be given opportunities to exercise their imaginations – just think of the toddler who having opened their expensive present plays with the box. At school young children learn through play. Lots of different activities are set up for them to explore. But it is equally important that they have opportunities to go outside and play too. Whilst we have lots of land around us on our school site, it is all very cultivated, so we take our Nursery and Reception children out to woodland areas to experience the great outdoors. The children need to have challenges and building a camp or collecting interesting bits and pieces is all part of their outdoor experience. None of these visits is ever done without a great deal of planning. We need to ensure that the children are safe, but they do need to be given the chance to take risks. Climbing, digging, building - just having fun in the outdoors is so important. The worry is that if children don’t get the chance to experiment and discover what their bodies can and can’t do now, in twenty or thirty years time where will our explorers and inventors have gone? Outdoor learning through play is a vital part of a young person’s childhood. Let your child roam - that doesn’t mean open the gate and forget about them but let them think they are being adventurous whilst keeping an eye on them. It’s a difficult balance! Visit www.st-peters.york.sch.uk to find out more about Clifton Pre-prep School.

Shopping for shoes Maria Atkinson of Hopscotch looks at the importance of correctly fitted shoes. Now that ‘Back to School’ shopping is well and truly upon us, it’s worth taking a little time to think about your children’s feet and the shoes they will be going back to school in. Children’s feet come in all different shapes and sizes, and they continue to develop and change throughout childhood as the bones in their feet gradually harden to become solid bones rather than soft cartilage. In fact the bones in the feet aren’t fully developed until about the age of 18, which is why it is so important to have your children’s feet measured professionally each time you buy a new pair of shoes. As children spend all day, every day, in their school shoes, it’s particularly important that these are fitted correctly so that they have the correct support and growing room needed and for their feet to be comfortable and protected throughout their school day. At Hopscotch Shoes, all the staff are fully trained shoe fitters and will always do their utmost to find the best fitting shoes for your child’s feet. It’s important to have a good choice of shoes to try on once your child has been measured as all feet are very different and just because you know the size, it doesn’t automatically mean that all shoes in that size will fit. In fact, often, the best fitting shoes may not be the size that you originally measured so it is important to know that the size is only ever a guide and the trained staff will be able to assess which shoes are the best fit for your child’s feet. Hopscotch has branches in Wetherby, Harrogate, Ripon, Horsforth and Chapel Allerton all stocking a fantastic range of shoes to suit all budgets and brands. Brands include Start rite, Lelli Kelly, Geox, Ricosta, Angulus, Petasil and many more. www.hopscotch-shoes.co.uk

Tips for taking the pain out of maths homework

Maths is the school subject that worries parents the most. Sometimes the parent is anxious about their own maths ability. Just as often, it’s discovering that the methods we learned at school look completely different from the ones being taught in primary today. Maths for Mums & Dads (Square Peg, £10.99) is packed with explanations, games and insights into how to help children with their maths. Here are some tips from the book: (1) Make maths part of your everyday interactions with your child. Ask your child to help you to work out the change at the shop, to check how many minutes until the train is due, weigh ingredients etc. Pose mathematical questions out loud to yourself (“let’s see, how much change will I need?”)and pause so that your child can ‘come to the rescue’. (2) Learn about the new methods being taught, particularly the grid method for multiplication and chunking for division. These are more connected to the methods you learned than you might think. (3) Play board games involving dice and money with your child. Car games such as pub cricket are great for maths interaction, too. (4) Learn some mathematical magic tricks (you’ll find plenty in the book). Children love magic and will happily do maths if it is part of performing the trick. (5) When helping with homework, be patient. Children rarely ‘get it’ immediately. And if things are getting fraught, take a break. Often the best way to tackle a problem is to sleep on it. (6) Don’t say ‘I was always hopeless at maths’. It’s usually not true, and it can make your child think maths isn’t worth the effort. Families Vale of York

The horror of

www.tesco.com/clothing

homework

When it comes to homework, the more they get, the more they learn, right? LYDIA WHITTLE searches for the evidence among parents, teachers, students and official statistics.

16 Families Vale of York

In her recent article, ‘Homework? A total waste of time’, Dr Eleanor Updale regrets ever supporting her three children in their homework and berates the toll ‘homework inflation’ has taken on family life. She recalls how, for years, she, ‘nagged, shouted, bullied and bribed’ her children to complete their work. Sound familiar? Perhaps as the new term starts such scenes have already played out around your kitchen table? It has long been recognised that playtime is beneficial for learning in a number of ways, such as information processing, perceptual skills, language learning and other aspects of brain development. So why are such activities now apparently being asked to take second place to vigorous homework assignments? ‘The boys get far too much homework with hardly any time to play,’ says Sara, who tells of how when her 6 year-old sons attended a private school, they were given an hour and a half of homework a night in preparation for their 7+ exams. She continues, ‘If any of the homework wasn’t completed by the deadline, they were sent home from school!’ Surely this sort of pressure is unhealthy for such young minds, let alone for parents who have to urge and cajole their tired children to keep on working? No wonder so many parents resort to desperate measures. ‘I have seen many parents do their children’s homework’, Pascale told us, ‘I completely see why … but I never do, if children can’t do it, then they won’t do it.’ Helen feels that homework puts a lot of pressure on both her and husband Adam; ‘the homework my 5 year-old is given encroaches on our family time making it difficult to complete. In turn he has to stay up later to complete reading tasks’. Indeed, of all the parents we spoke to, few thought the amount of homework their child received was about right and in most cases it was too much. As Susan, mother of another 5 yearold, says, ‘I don’t really feel that children should be given compulsory homework until they are much older’. Indeed, it seems that if children feel they have the freedom to decide for themselves, they are more motivated. ‘My 6 year-old has homework once a week that takes no more than 10 minutes; in fact she often asks for more or makes it up herself,’ Sara told us.

Felice, is one of the few mothers who felt her children were given the correct amount of work during their school days but perhaps it’s telling that her girls attended a European School not subject to UK guidelines? ‘Homework was set in manageable chunks from age 6 which helped the children to work in an organised and independent way and to feel responsible.’ Eight year-old daughter Anna attends a private school and Mum Tessa relates how through the winter months she goes to school in the dark and comes home in the dark with homework still to complete: ‘It’s really sad. I would prefer her to get no homework at all as the schooling is so intense that when she comes home it would be nice for her to get some down time.’ Shockingly, there was a prevalent feeling that the completed homework was a reflection of parental competence and an indication of their management of family life. Annette points out that ‘children need the right environment to work in’. Similarly, Helen believes her 5 year-old son Oscar at such a young age needs support with all of his homework. But home life can be diverse and complicated, so does this prerequisite not promote inequality? Surely this could be a major disadvantage to children who, though no fault of their own, don’t have a certain set of domestic circumstances to return home to? What about children from nonEnglish speaking families, whose parents can’t understand the homework themselves, for example? Izabella, originally from Poland says, ‘My parents initially spoke very little English, they would have been in no position to help us with reading or writing if we had been set homework’. I spoke to a head teacher whose primary school has two outstanding Ofsted reports; she explained what teachers do to ensure a level playing field. ‘In terms of creating good learning environments,’ she says, ‘the school runs homework workshops throughout the school day, after school and during the evening. This gives all children an equal opportunity to complete homework tasks effectively. Also, their reading books and tasks are translated to help parents of any ethnic origin give this essential support to their children.’ But perhaps the focus is not about improving skills, as we so often think? Anna B and Anna A, 11 and 8 years old, both dutifully answered ‘to improve’ when I asked what homework was for. They also recognise that doing homework limits their play time. Maybe the real value of homework is about preparation for the future?

Sarah A says, ‘Luckily my daughters didn’t get much homework through primary school, on the other hand now my eldest is at high school and receives untold amounts of homework which she hasn’t been prepared for by her primary school.’ Pascale, who has five children, told us, ‘All our children, on leaving primary school, were able to get on with their own homework without me bossing them around (too much). The school has been very good in teaching them good habits, which have served them very well in secondary. Homework is compulsory but it is not too hard.’ Perhaps without due preparation and a gradual build up of homework children would not succeed in the increasingly competitive international workplace? Maybe there are different levels of attainment in countries which put less emphasis on homework? What about Norway where children start school at age 6? By this stage English children, in education for 2 years already, as well as spending a day in formal education have completed up to one and a half hours of homework every night (add that up if you dare!) while their Norwegian counterparts simply played their days away. According to the UN’s most recent (2009) Human Development Index, yes. The composite statistic used to rank countries by level of ‘human development’ is produced with data on life expectancy, education and per capita GDP (as an indicator of standard of living.) Surprisingly (or by now, maybe not?) Norway is ranked the highest in the world, along with Australia and Iceland. The UK appears at no 21 (of 182). Undoubtedly, in some cases, homework seems to reflect very positive educational standards, with China having the most

‘what drives those children out of the garden, away from the kitchen table and in front of the screens in the first place? What gives them the excuse to cut themselves off? It’s homework.’ amount of set homework up to the age of 11, and a major expansion in education, increasing the number of undergraduates and doctoral degrees five fold in 10 years as well as having the literacy rates of 90.8%. Great news but China’s ranking on the UN’s worldwide Human development report is currently 92. Dr Updale notes that there have been no recent studies of the benefits of current stellar levels of homework in the UK. It is unknown whether there is even a correlation between homework levels and educational achievements. As parents and teachers are we even clear about the actual purpose of homework? Pascale believes, ‘homework should be an extension of learning not to be done so quick that it is a chore and nothing is learnt in the process.’ But do all schools adhere to that view? It would seem that teachers are sending home mixed messages and policies are changing in some schools. Sarah B was told by the school her 6 year-old daughter attends, that when she spells the exceptionally hard words she has been set for homework correctly that, ‘it is “an indication of a good memory, not high achievement.”’ Sarah says it all; ‘It makes me wonder what the heck it’s all for...?’ Claire, whose daughter is

7, was delighted when the school she goes to abandoned the weekly spelling tests quoting research which shows that it doesn’t really help with their literacy. Instead they look up the words they get wrong and add them to their own dictionary. ‘Getting a break from learning spellings has been liberating! … I think that homework can really kill kids’ enthusiasm about learning.’ And as Dr Updale remarks, ‘what drives those children out of the garden, away from the kitchen table and in front of the screens in the first place? What gives them the excuse to cut themselves off? It’s homework.’ It seems that as a nation we have become entirely education-reliant in means of preparing the next generation to pave a way through our perceived underachieving, ‘broken Britain’. In doing this, could it be that we forget the foundations that truly build strong, successful characters - the family. Without time spent as a family, bonding, growing and having fun, we can’t hope to achieve this. Could it be that by exposing children to extreme schooling and intense homework, we are destroying the very qualities we are trying to promote?

Read more Eleanor Updale’s original article, originally published 7th May 2010 can be read in full at www.tes.co.uk/article. aspx?storycode=6043047 For the UN’s Human Development Index, see http://hdr.undp.org/en/statistics/ See www.parentchannel.tv for tips on coping with homework stress.

Clifton Pre-Prep School

For boys and girls aged 3 - 8 years ‘Academically excellent’

Building the foundation of your child’s education

Clifton Pre-Prep is holding a

‘Come and Visit Us Week’ For entry into Nursery and Reception 11th-15th October 2010 To reserve a place please call 01904 527361 Clifton Pre-Prep School York YO30 6AB Tel: 01904 526361 enquiries@cliftonprep.sch.uk www.st-peters.york.sch.uk/clifton

Clifton Pre-Prep • St Olave’s • St Peter’s

Opportunities for all Queen Mary’s School, Baldersby Park, Thirsk

Open Morning 9th October 2010 9.30 - 12.00pm

Come and see the opportunities we can offer your children; have a tour of the school, meet the Headmaster and ask any questions you may have. To register your interest please contact: Mrs Tory Robeson, Head of Admissions 01845 575040 email: admissions@queenmarys.org www.queenmarys.org A School of the Woodard Corporation Registered Charity No: 1098410

Outstanding Girls Day and Boarding School with mixed Pre Prep

Families Vale of York

Free schools & academies: Education, education, education. That was another government’s mantra – Tony Blair adopted it as his slogan in 1997 – but it could as easily fit the bill for the new Conservative/Liberal Democrat coalition.

Why so? Well, according to education secretary Michael Gove, major changes are afoot...and they’re the sort of changes that many parents have campaigned for over the last few years. In an age when an increasing number of mothers and fathers have questioned all sorts of issues around their children’s schools, Gove has a new message: do it yourself. ‘Free schools’ are the government’s Big New Idea, and here’s how the idea will work. First, you need a group of parents (plus maybe teachers, and other interested parties) who feel there’s a need for a brand new school in their area. Next, you need to gather your case – and get as many supporters as possible. You also need to put together evidence for why the school you’re planning is necessary – which may be, for example, that it’s providing a secondary school in an area that doesn’t already have one, and where a lot of children have to travel large distances to get to where they’re being educated. Or, you may want to set up a school with a particular faith bias. Alternatively, you may think that the existing schools in your area are too large, and that some children would benefit from a much smaller establishment.

the New Big Idea By Joanna Moorhead There’s an organisation called the New Schools Network whose job is to talk through whether plans for a new school are viable – their website is packed with useful advice on how to go about gathering the momentum, the documents, the funding and the premises you need to make a school happen. Setting up a new school, as the site says, isn’t easy – but the network aims “to make it as easy as possible” and promises that it will “shortly be publishing data on sites, budgeting, and detailed guides on the process of setting up a school from start to finish”. Despite the major cuts that lie ahead in public spending, Mr Gove has promised £50 million to cover start-up costs for free schools. And he’s also given his word that the current planning laws and building regulations, which conspire to make life difficult for parents’ groups trying to set up schools, will be reformed. The government believes that ‘free schools’ have the potential to raise achievement in areas where local authority-run schools aren’t providing a good education – and he points to the US for evidence that his scheme will work. There, he says that some of the most successful schools have been set up by groups backed by parents and teachers – and he’d like to see the same thing happen here. There’s a similar scheme, too, in Sweden, which again has seen the foundation of many successful schools. But the free schools scheme is only part of the new government’s plans for education. The

other main policy concerns academies; shortly after being appointed education secretary, Mr Gove wrote to every primary, secondary and special school in England inviting them to apply for academy status. Academies, like free schools, are outside of local authority control and are funded by private organisations, or by central government. Earlier this summer, Mr Gove said seven in ten top secondary schools had expressed an interest in getting academy status – and he hoped that the ones who did forge ahead with this would help drive academic standards higher, because it would give them more autonomy than they have at the moment. Parents and teachers have worried about academies being too exclusive, and discriminating about special needs pupils; but Mr Gove has promised that academies will be governed by admissions codes which will guarantee fair access to all, and safeguard the inclusive character of comprehensive schools. In all, the reforms Mr Gove is promising have the potential to provide the biggest shake-up in state education in a century, with parents in the vanguard. Watch this space!

Where to find out more The Department for Education website, at www.education.gov.uk, has lots of information about both academies and free schools The Free Schools Network is at www.newschoolsnetwork.org

and Magic Tree Day Nursery for boys and girls aged 3 months to 11 years of age.

OPEN AFTERNOON Bursaries available

Tuesday 5th October 1:30-3:30pm

“If you can’t make that day, individual tours can be arranged at any time by contacting the school office” Swarcliffe Hall, Birstwith, Harrogate HG3 2JG Tel: 01423 771029 www.belmontgrosvenor.co.uk email: admin@belmontgrosvenor.co.uk

Whole School

OPEN DAY Saturday 9th October 1.30 - 4.30pm

Come and visit our Pre-Prep School on Saturday 9th October from 1.30pm onwards. There will be a range of activities for children including sport, arts and crafts, story telling and singing. Our Junior, Senior and Sixth Form areas will also be open to visitors. There will be a range of displays and activities for children to join in with, as well as guided tours from our current pupils. Ashville College, Green Lane, Harrogate HG2 9JP 01423 566358 ashville@ashville.co.uk www.ashville.co.uk

18 Families Vale of York

out&about

Information was correct as we went to press but be sure to check before you make plans as things may have changed.

GRAND OPERA HOUSE YORK

Fairies and fun, royalty and romance, magic and misunderstandings - the Bard’s comedy gets a magical transformation.

St Leonard’s Place, York YO1 7HD. Box Office: 01904 623568 www.yorktheatreroyal.co.uk

6 -11 SEPT FOOTLOOSE By the wonderful York Stage Musicals

DONCASTER CIVIC THEATRE

21 – 25 SEPT

HORRIBLE SCIENCE

11 SEPT

16 & 17 OCT

PEPPA PIG’S PARTY

theatre

Cumberland Street, York. Box Office: 01904 671818

YORK THEATRE ROYAL

30 SEPT - 16 OCT

SCARECROW WHEN WE LIVED IN UNCLE’S HAT

29 SEPT - 08 DEC MOST WEDNESDAYS 10.15am - 11.30am STORYMAKERS Storytelling, drama and arts based session for 3 - 5 year olds and their mums and dads!

LAWRENCE BATLEY THEATRE

Queen’s Square, Queen Street, Huddersfield, HD1 2SP. Box Office : 01484 430528 www.lbt-uk.org 27 OCT THE PAPER WASHI WISH A charming and vibrant storytelling experience for younger audiences complete with a hands-on papermaking experience.

ALHAMBRA THEATRE BRADFORD Morley Street, Bradford, BD7 1AJ. Box Office: 01274 432000

14 – 18 SEPT DON’T STOP BELIEVIN’ A tribute to Glee and other gleeful tunes.

2 – 6 NOV

Waterdale, Doncaster, DN1 3ET. Box Office: 01302 342349 www.doncastercivic.co.uk

22 SEPT HOW THE KOALA LEARNT TO HUG Written especially for parents to enjoy with their children - a charming tale about the magic of family.

JOSEPH & THE AMAZING TECHNICOLOUR DREAMCOAT

HARROGATE THEATRE

Oxford Street, Harrogate, HG1 1QF. Box Office : 01423 502116 www.harrogatetheatre.co.uk

THE LYCEUM SHEFFIELD

14 – 16 OCT GUESS HOW MUCH I LOVE YOU Little Nutbrown Hare and Big Nutbrown Hare leap off the page and onto the stage taking on a magical journey through the seasons. With something for everyone including songs, games and fun, the show is perfect entertainment for anyone over the age of 3.

16 – 18 SEPT

THE GRUFFALO

HULL NEW THEATRE

Kingston square, Jarratt Street, Hull, HU1 3HF

ST. GEORGE’S HALL

Bradford www.bradford-theatres.co.uk 01274 432000

26 OCT

11 SEPT SHOW ME CHRIS & PUI Chris & Pui from CBeebies invite their young audience to join them at the theatre for fun, songs and games. 29 SEPT

14 – 18 SEPT CARRIE’S WAR Unforgettable story of one ordinary girl and her brother, packed off to the Welsh mining valleys at the start of war and living through extraordinary events.

SHAKESPEARE 4 KIDZ - A MIDSUMMER NIGHT’S DREAM

POSTMAN PAT - A VERY ROYAL MISSION

27 OCT DANGER MOUSE SAVES THE WORLD The whole team are back together from Colonel K, trusty sidekick Penfold to arch enemies Baron Silas Greenback, Nero and Stiletto. There is even a special appearance from Agent 57 if you can spot him.

Guess How Much I Love You

HARROGATE THEATRE

THUR 14 – SAT 16 OCT BOX OFFICE 01423 502 116 BOOK SECURELY ONLINE* AT: WWW.HARROGATETHEATRE.CO.UK (* £1.75 BOOKING FEE APPLIES)

out&about

HAREWOOD HOUSE

things to do, places to go

ANIMAL WORLD AT TOO HOOTS Hirst Road, Carlton, Near Goole, DN14 9PX 01405 862854

Lots of animals to see & feed, toys to play on, picnic area, tearoom & garden centre.

BENINGBROUGH HALL & GARDENS

Beningbrough, YO30 1DD 01904 472027 24 -27 OCT 1-3pm

APPLE ARTRAGEOUS

31 OCT HALLOWEEN Halloween and craft fun. Enjoy bug jellies and blood curdling soup in the restaurant. Dress as spookily as you can!

BRIMHAM ROCKS

Summerbridge, Harrogate 01423 780686 31 OCT 11am-4pm HALLOWEEN TRAIL Follow a trail of spooky clues and ghostly questions to find your way to the horrible answers at the haunted house where you will discover your prize. Fancy dress recommended. £2 per trail.

FOUNTAINS ABBEY & STUDLEY ROYAL WATER GARDEN

Near Ripon, North Yorkshire 01765 608888 www.fountainsabbey.org.uk. 9 -10 OCT

THE BIG DRAW

23 – 31 OCT 11am - 3pm SCHOOL HOLIDAY FUN - SQUIRRELS AND ACORNS! Free trails and drop in self-led activities in Swanley Grange. Normal admission applies. 31 OCT 2pm

HALLOWEEN STORY-TELLING IN THE HAYLOFT Spooky stories. Prize for the best costumes. Suitable for 4 - 9 year olds. £1.50 plus normal admission (including refreshments). Booking essential 01765 643166.

HENSHAWS ARTS & CRAFTS CENTRE 50 Bond End, Knaresborough, HG5 9AL 01423 541888 www.henshawsacc.org.uk Open daily 10am – 4pm Lots to do including Sensory Garden,Treasure Trail & watching art makers at work. Shop & Plant Nursery, licensed café open for breakfast, lunch & snacks with special children’s menu. 30 OCT

SPOOKY TRAIL – HARROGATE VALLEY GARDENS Spooky Trail around the gardens with stops for stories, performed by Harrogate Theatre, along the way. There will also be a range of Halloween-themed games & hot food & drinks.

20 Families Vale of York

Information was correct as we went to press but be sure to check before you make plans as things may have changed.

Harewood House Trust Ltd., Moor House, Harewood Estate, Harewood, Leeds LS17 9LQ Tel:0113 218 1010 Fax: 0113 218 1002 Box Office on 0113 218 1000 www.harewood.org 10 OCT 10.30am - 4pm Fun arts activities all day.

THE BIG DRAW

24 OCT - 31 OCT 10am - 5pm HALF TERM FUN FOR ALL THE FAMILY For little ones, broomstick making, storytelling, lantern making, scarecrow trails, leaf and vegetable printing plus other kiddicraft activities to keep small hands busy, with a chance to take part in a collaborative art project. 26 & 28 OCT 3pm-5pm TWILIGHT TALES: STORY WALK BY THE LIGHT OF YOUR OWN LANTERN Join in with Trio Literati and parade around the Grounds with Harewood’s Storyteller. You’ll get to make your own lantern and take it home with you as a memory of your day too! 30 OCT 11am - 6pm

DIWALI: THE FESTIVAL OF LIGHTS Activities are yet to be confirmed but Henna handpainting, Rangoli patternmaking, Bollywood dance workshops and mask making as well as facepainters creating characters from the Ramayana have all been part of previous year’s celebrations.

DIG

St Saviour’s Church, St Saviourgate, York. 01904 615 505 www.digyork.com 10 SEPT 10am - 4pm THE BIG DRAW AT DIG! Make your mark on the future with scifi drawings for the time capsule. What will York look like in the year 2025? You decide!

GREAT YORKSHIRE SHOWGROUND Harrogate

23 & 24 OCT COUNTRYSIDE LIVE Now in its eighth year, the two-day countryside show has 90 per cent of the action taking place indoors – so there’s no need to worry about the weather! With a firm focus on agriculture, Countryside Live has competitive classes for cattle, sheep, horses and ponies. Elsewhere there will be displays from the Xtreme Trial Motorbikes, dog agility demonstrations, falconry and a vast range of Yorkshire food and drink, including the popular Cookery Theatre. There’s shopping too with a wide range of stalls selling everything from clothing to ceramics and jewellery to jam. Tickets (£6 for adults, £2 for children and £14 for a family of two adults and up to three children) can be ordered online at

www.countrysidelive.co.uk. Or by ringing the ticket hotline on 01423 541222. Prices on the gate are £8.50 for adults, £4 for children and £23 for a family pass. Free Parking. 9am – 5pm Saturday and 9am – 4.30pm Sunday.

NATIONAL RAILWAY MUSEUM

Leman Road, York YO26 4XJ 01904 686 271 / 281 01904 631 319 www.nrm.org.uk HALF TERM

HOLIDAY ACITIVITES

NUNNINGTON HALL

Nunnington 01439 748283 30 OCT 5 – 9pm NIGHT FEVER Spooky night time fun with ghost tours around the hall and blood curdling soup in the tearoom.

TREASURER’S HOUSE

Minster Yard, York 01904 624247 Open 11 – 4.30 every day except Friday. House adults, £5, children £2.50, family £12.50. 11 SEPT HERITAGE OPEN DAY As part of national Heritage Open Day, the house will throw open its doors free to visitors on this day, to promote the importance and popularity of heritage to national life. 23-31 OCT 11am – 4.30pm HALF TERM HALLOWEEN KIDS TRAILS (CLOSED FRIDAYS) Free Halloween trails around the house, be tempted by treats not tricks in the tearoom or hear more about the Roman ghosts in the cellar and join a cellar tour. Fancy dress optional.

NATIONAL COAL MINING MUSEUM FOR ENGLAND

Caphouse Colliery, New Road, Overton, Wakefield, WF4 4RH 01924 848806 www.ncm.org.uk Set in a rural 17-acre site, the Museum is a unique collection of buildings, displays and activities which reveal the hidden world of mining through the centuries, telling the stories of mining methods and machinery, the miners and their families. Explore two collieries, the pit-head baths, wages office and the huge winding wheels then visit the new galleries to see how mining communities lived, worked and relaxed. Arrive as close to 10am as possible as the underground tour is often fully booked by this time. Admission to the Museum, including car parking, is FREE. Open 10.00 am - 5.00 pm

THORP PERROW

Bedale, North Yorkshire 01677 425323 www.thorpperrow.com Open from dawn to dusk all year round. Adults £5.95, Child (4-16) £3.10.

FOR WHAT’S ON, CLUBS & CLASSES AND MUCH MORE VISIT WWW.FAMILIESVOY.CO.UK 6 OCT – 7 NOV HALLOWEEN TRAIL Make your way through the witches, ghosts and ghouls that lurk in the woods, a spooky experience indeed!! 30 & 31 OCT MONSTERS & BEASTIES TOUR Special spooky guided tours - just for children!! Tours at 12.00pm, 2.00pm and 4.00pm

NORTH YORKSHIRE MOORS RAILWAY Full timetable, operating dates and advance bookings: 01751 472508 www.nymr.co.uk A great day out – trains running daily until end Oct.

HELMSLEY CASTLE

North Yorkshire 01439 770442 23-31 OCT

MEDIEVAL DRESSING UP & KNIGHTS FAMILY FUN TRAIL A chance for youngsters to delve in the large dressing up box. There’s also the mini model Knights to find around the castle grounds. Find them all and receive your prize.

EUREKA!

Discovery Road, Halifax, West Yorkshire, HX1 2NE. 01422 330069 www.eureka.org.uk 2-31 OCT 10am – 5pm EUREKA! SCHOOL FOR WITCHES AND WIZARDS Enjoy spooky fun, wizarding crafts and ghoulish games throughout the museum. Visitors will be able to meet creepy crawlies, like snails, frogs and cockroaches with The Wild Roadshow from 9 – 10 Oct. From 16 – 17 Oct get up close to the birds of National Hawking School, including some of the superstar owls from the Harry Potter films. Watch the birds soar above your head throughout the weekend or meet them up close if you dare. Children are encouraged to help fill the museum with magic by wearing their witch and wizard robes.

MAGNA

Sheffield Road, Templebrough, Rotherham, S60 1DX 01709 720002 www.visitmagna.co.uk

27 OCT 11am – 3pm HALLOWEEN Carve scary lanterns from vegetables. Make a mask and that all important Trick or Treat basket before a trip to the Haunted House for a Ghost Story!

STOCKELD PARK

On the A66 nr Wetherby, N Yorks 01937 586101 www.stockeldpark.co.uk The season begins on 25 Oct. 25-31 OCT

SPOOKY TREASURE HUNTS

25 OCT 11.45am, 1.15pm, 2.45pm, 4.15pm POTTERY PAINTING 26TH OCT 12.30pm, 2.30pm FINGER PUPPET MAKING WORKSHOP TUES 26TH OCT 1.45pm PUPPET SHOW BY MARK’S MAGIC KINGDOM 28 - 29 OCT 11.30am-1.30pm

PUMPKIN CARVING

28 OCT 2- 4pm & 29 OCT 3-5pm HALLOWEEN FACE PAINTING 28 OCT THEATRE IN THE WOODS Theatrebugs takes you on a mystical interactive journey. 16 performance between 4.00 - 8.00pm. Online tickets available. 29, 30 & 31 OCT 5.30-9.30pm FRIGHT NIGHTS Atmosfear Entertainment transform the Enchanted Forest into the Halloween Hollow to create a twisted world where fairy tales become scary tales. The yew tree maze is transformed into the Psycho Maze where you can run but you can’t hide! Online tickets available. 5 NOV FIREWORKS SPECTACULAR 6.45pm start, 6.15pm arrival recommended Fireworks display set against the illuminated woods. Online tickets available.

SELBY METHODIST CHURCH 2 OCT 11am

NCT SELBY BRANCH NEARLY NEW SALE

JOSEPH ROWNTREE SCHOOL

MUM AND BABY YOGA Tues 11am - noon (includes crawlers) at St Clements Ch, Scarcroft Rd from 7 Sept Fri 11am- noon (6 wks - pre crawlers only) at Healing Clinic, Museum St from 3 Sept Prebook at £38.50 for 7 wks.

YOGACO YOGA FOR PREGNANCY Wed & Thurs 6.30 - 8.15pm at Jacob’s Well, Trinity Lane, central York. £7.50 per class. Sophie Carr www.yogaco.co.uk info@yogaco.co.uk 01904 733752 MUM AND BABY YOGA Mon 10.30 - 12 noon at St Columba’s Church Hall, Priory St, central York. £6 per class. Alison Goodwin www.yogaco.co.uk yogawithalison@yahoo.co.uk 01904 799097

WHELDRAKE VILLAGE HALL WHELDRAKE BABY & TODDLER GROUP Every Wednesday during term time in Wheldrake Village Hall 9.45am until 11.15am A fun and friendly group for babies, toddlers and their carers and an opportunity to relax and meet others while the children play. Toys, games, separate baby area, crafts, singing and much more. £2.50 for first child, 50p for each additional child. Refreshments included. Contact Sandra Winfield (Administrator) on 01904 448796 / email wheldrakeplaygroup@hotmail.com

SUPPORT FOR CHILDREN – SUPPORT FOR PARENTS ContinYou children and families team are offering five courses on working with parents and carers to support children. The courses are being held in York on the following dates: 1 OCT

INVOLVING MEN AS FATHERS

Haxby Road, York

11 OCT

SPOOKY OCTOBER HALF TERM Creepy workshops running daily as well as Torchquest giving you a chance to get hands on and explore Magna’s dark corners.

16 OCT 1-4pm BABY FRIENDLY YORK FAIR NCT family event and nearly new sale.

PYRAMID FOR PARENTS AND SMOOTH MOVES!

12 OCT

SHARE PLUS

classes

18 OCT

WORKING WITH HARD-TO-ENGAGE FAMILIES

25 OCT

SHARE – FAMILY LEARNING

MURTON PARK

YOGA IN YORK

With Anna Semlyen British Wheel of Yoga Dip 01904 654355 / 07891 989310 www.yogainyork.co.uk anna@yogainyork.co.uk

25-20 OCT 10am – 5pm

Murton Lane. Murton, York. 01904 489966 or email events@murtonpark.co.uk 10 OCT 11am – 4pm THE BIG DRAW Be a part of this national event taking place around the country.

PREGNANCY YOGA Friargate Friends Meeting House Tues 7-8pm from 7th Sep onwards £6.50

Each course costs £150pp (plus VAT), including lunch, refreshments and all resources. To find out more or to book your place, contact Michelle Mead by email at michele.mead@continyou.org.uk, or by calling 020 7587 5090, or visit www.continyou.org.uk/children_and_ families/files/cfautumntraining. Families Vale of York

Mother&Baby Scans: What, When and Why? If you’ve just found out you’re pregnant, you may be confused about all the different scans on offer, what they’ll tell you and when you should have them.

www.cuddledry.com

Insight Medical Ultrasound based at Xscape Castleford & Methley, Leeds, explains what they offer.

When

From 7 weeks

Type of scan

Viability scan

What it will tell you

Will check for a heartbeat, how many weeks the pregnancy is, check that the pregnancy is in the right place (ie within the uterus and that it is not ectopic). Can also check for a multiple pregnancy.

When

From 8 weeks

Type of scan

Dating scan

What it will tell you

How many weeks the pregnancy is, if it is a singleton or multiple and that there is a heartbeat. Will check baby’s development.

When

11 weeks to 13 weeks 6 days

Type of scan

Nuchal translucency scan

What it will tell you

Down’s Screening - the scan measures the amount of fluid lying under the skin at the back of the baby’s neck. Combined with a blood test gives a statistical likelihood of Down’s Syndrome.

When

from 16 weeks

Type of scan

Sexing scan

What it will tell you

This is to determine the sex of the baby. This has an accuracy of approximately 99%.

When

from 18 weeks - 20 weeks 6 days

Type of scan

Anatomy scan

What it will tell you

Screening for major structural anomalies, the location of the placenta and the amount of liquor fluid.

When

from 24 weeks

Type of scan

Growth scan

What it will tell you

Assesses the growth of the baby and check its health and well being. Also check liquor volume and position of the placenta.

When

24 to 32 weeks

Type of scan

3D/4D Baby Bonding Scans

What it will tell you

You can admire the baby’s features, movements and expressions, a smile, a yawn or the bliss of it sucking its thumb. You can find out the sex too if you wish.

When

from 34 weeks

Type of scan

Presentation scan

What it will tell you

Determines the position of the baby, head down (cephalic, vertex) or bottom down (breech). The health and well being of the baby will also be checked.

Giveaway

Insight Medical Ultrasound are offering two Families readers the chance to win a £50 Ultrasound Gift Voucher - plus £10 off any scan for Families Readers.

WIN one of two

£50 Ultrasound Gift Vouchers

To be in with a chance of winning one of the two £50 vouchers* which can be used against any scan, or to buy a keepsake such as a DVD, CD or colour photos, go to www.familiesvoy.co.uk/ultrasound where you can find out more and enter online. Closing date 31st Oct. *Not to be used in conjunction with any other offer. Vouchers to be used by December 31st 2010.

22 Families Vale of York

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Classes mix exercise with education for mums and mums-to-be

A new fitness class that combines exercise with education is running in Harrogate to help new and expectant mums prevent pregnancy related health issues that can affect them for life. FitBack & Bumps classes run by Chartered Physiotherapists, fill the gap in knowledge not currently covered by ante-natal classes or regular exercise groups. Currently, only 15% of women exercise to the correct levels during pregnancy. ‘Many women don’t know what exercise they can safely do during pregnancy and the early days of motherhood, while many others are completely unaware of the permanent damage pregnancy, birth and carrying their babies can have on their bodies,’ explains Jonathan Daniel, Chartered Physiotherapist and founder of FitBack & Bumps. ‘I’ve seen countless women with chronic back and pelvic pain – often well after their children have grown up - as a result of carrying their children incorrectly and poor posture during pregnancy,’ he explains. ‘Up to 80% of pregnant women suffer from back and pelvic pain due to the release of the hormone Relaxin, but by making a few adjustments to their posture they can reduce this pain dramatically.’

Stress incontinence Another common problem caused by pregnancy and birth is stress incontinence. ‘While most midwives mention the importance of doing pelvic floor exercises, 70% of women still suffer from embarrassing “leaks” and diminished sexual pleasure as a result of not really understanding what their pelvic floor muscles are,’ explains Daniel. In a survey carried out by the Chartered Society of Physiotherapy earlier this year, only 39% of women could correctly identify the location of their pelvic floor muscles. Shockingly, 7.1% of the people surveyed, incorrectly thought their pelvic floor muscles were in their buttocks, feet, chest or ears! ‘Our classes aim to address all these issues that aren’t really covered in detail in any other environment, so that women are equipped with the knowledge they need to take care of their bodies throughout pregnancy and motherhood ,’ says Daniel. ‘What’s more, by doing the correct amount and type of exercise during pregnancy, women can make the birthing process easier and achieve a flatter tummy more quickly after birth.’

The FitBack & Bumps classes focus on five key areas including: -

reduced risk of back and pelvic pain getting a flatter tummy post delivery avoiding stress incontinence improved sexual health the correct exercise during and after pregnancy for general health and well-being

Further Information • FitBack & Bumps offer group discounts so if you have a group of friends that might like to exercise together you can save up to 20%. Call them for details. • The 4-week programme of 1-hour sessions includes detailed exercise cards, an information booklet and an optional gym ball so that mums can continue to practice what they’ve learnt at home. • The course costs from £80 but can be covered by the Government Pregnancy Grant given to all pregnant women. • Because classes are run by Chartered Physiotherapists, the costs can also be covered some medical cash plans such as Simply Health and Leeds Hospital Fund. • Classes are run from Nuffield Health & Fitness in Harrogate.

www.fitbackandbumps.co.uk or call 0845 224 6087

beta mum

Moses was a jelly bean! Like all good mothers, I firmly and fervently believe it’s important to keep the children’s learning going during the long summer break. But like all Beta Mums, I find that however fervent, and indeed firm, my beliefs are, they generally have to take second place to work, real life and the endless maternal struggle not to dissolve into a ginsoaked mush before the sun’s over the yardarm. (I rationalize this last with the happy excuse that I have no idea what a yardarm is and therefore cannot be expected to calculate its relative position to the sun, moon or any other heavenly body. So shut up and pass the pinot). Which is why I mention the jelly bean thing. It’s The Thing What We Learned This Summer: Moses was a jelly bean. Mind you, I can’t personally take the credit for this stunning religious and confectionary revelation. It came courtesy of Scripture Union, a church-funded holiday club that runs for two weeks during the summer holidays down in Kent.

What would you do? Force him to go, trusting he’d have fun when he got there? Or – and here the Beta Mum dilemma kicks in – am I really only sending them to get them out of my mum’s house (and my hair) for a blissful two hours of peace? This kicks off the same annual guilt-trip that I inevitably feel when another mother says sadly: ‘Can you believe they’re going back to school next week? What am I going to do without them?’ This comment always comes just as I’m on my knees, facing another rainy day, begging for September and seriously considering locking myself in the loo to play on the DS for a couple of hours. Or adoption. Preferably for me. The Alpha Mum would simply revel in the joy of another day of fun, yet educational games with their little darlings. Omega Mum would likely be down the pub by now.

Then there’s the Christian aspect of Scripture Union. I’m not religious, so is it wrong to take advantage of a Church group? And is it even morally right? My brain races off on a Richard Dawkins-style polemic Every year, we time our fortnight at about the divisiveness of faith-based education and the argument that a Granny and Grandad’s to coincide with Scripture Union, but every year truly inclusive society can only be achieved through secular teaching. it throws up a typical Beta Mum dilemma. It’s staffed by a small At this point, one of the boys hits army of young adult volunteers who the other over the head with a DS, approach the task of entertaining the other retaliates with an empty countless children with the kind loo roll and I realize that, right now, of boundless energy that comes two hours of free childcare is a gift only with youth, clean-living and an from whatever deity is looking down adolescence spent singing very jolly on me. Hell, I’d probably sign them happy-clappy songs. up for the Al Quaida Holiday Club if they had spaces and gave them a Smaller boy was desperate to go mid-morning juice and biscuit. to the two-hour morning holiday club, but too shy to attend without his brother. Big brother flopped around dramatically, howling at the prospect of being separated from his DS for an entire morning. (Such is the addiction that we have had to institute a new house rule – no DS while sitting on the loo.)

At noon, they emerge, happy and polite, both carefully carrying a large blob of chocolate-covered Shredded Wheat. ‘It’s Moses’ basket, Mummy!’ they gush, ‘And Moses was a jelly bean. But we ate him.’

Jacey Lamerton juggles motherhood with running her own dress agency and style coaching business Get Your Frocks Off!. Some days the juggling goes better than others. Her shop sells nearly new clothes and accessories from brands including Diane von Furstenberg, Joseph, LK Bennett, Hobbs, Mulberry and many more. It’s now at 43 Goodramgate and open Mon – Sat 10 – 5.

Swimming Lessons At Yearsley Swimming Pool and Energise

Discover the Magic at Stockeld Park Home of

The Christmas Adventure

www.york.gov.uk/fit

O SI

Call today for more information 01904 552424

Competitive prices

M AD

Amateur Swimming Association approved programme

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Friendly, experienced and qualified staff

Quality lessons for toddlers to adults

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Don’t miss our…

Theatre in the Woods, Fright Nights & Fireworks

Half Te rm Hallow & een Activitie s

Call 01423 541888 or visit www.henshawsacc.org.uk

NEW Season Card

Henshaws Arts & Crafts Centre, 50 Bond End, Knaresborough HG5 9AL

Yorkshire Registered Charity No. 221888

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An inspirational day out for all ages at Stockeld Park. Near Wetherby on the A661. Open 7 days a week from 22 October.

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