Families Pennines Issue 3 July-August 2011

It’s never too soon to start learning!

Kirklees Light Railway 9th & 10th July 2011 19th-22nd August 2011 Park Mill Way, Clayton West HuddersďŹ eld HD8 9XJ Call 01484 865727 to book Visit our website for further details

At Oldham Hulme Kindergarten, we accept children in the term that they become 3 years old.

With dedicated, high quality staff, a reputation for academic excellence and a full range of extra-curricular activities, you will give your child a head start. Come and see us in our beautiful Grade II listed building, which is surrounded by our own natural woodland.

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Please say you saw us in Families Pennines

FREE Issue 3 July / August 2011 www.familiespennines.co.uk

Pennines

Summer fun Whatever the weather

Summer safety Be prepared

Summer brains Keep them ticking over

The really useful magazine for parents in the boroughs of Calderdale, Kirklees, Oldham, Tameside and Littleborough

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Welcome to Families Pennines C O N T E N T S Love it or loathe it (I love it) the summer holidays are upon us. At Families Pennines we’ve gone to town on ideas for things to do. So if you hear “I’m bored” reach for your copy of Families Pennines or visit our website www.familiespennines.co.uk for lots of options, indoors & out.

The website’s THE place to visit if you’re travelling around the country this summer. There are 36 different Families magazines packed with all you need to know.

From the Families Pennines homepage, click on the locations button & you’ll soon find yourself knowing what’s going on elsewhere in the country.

Page 4 & 5

News what’s happening near you Wet day wonders Who needs the sun?

Page 6

Be prepared.. your child is counting on you!

Summer Safety

Have fun & stay safe Page 7

Kirklees Light Railway

There's more to them than Thomas

I hope you have a fabulous summer.

Page 11

Schools out for summer Parent First Aid www.kissitbetterfirstaid.co.uk Contact: 07903 655195

Louise Bennett Editor

Contact us editor@familiespennines.co.uk Tel: 01457 870112 www.familiespennines.co.uk Next issue: September/October Families Pennines is free to our readers thanks to our advertisers.

Design by Russell Finneran 01457 873300 www.stonehousecreativeservices.co.uk Printed by Warwick Printing Tel: 01926 883355 www.war wickprinting.co.uk Cover: Press Loft Platypus Australia Sunprotective Swimwear Copyright Families Pennines July/August 2011.

Families Pennines is one of a group of magazines established in 1990. It is a Families Franchise independently owned and operated under licence. We take every care preparing this magazine, but the publishers and distributors cannot be held responsible for the claims of advertisers nor for the accuracy of the contents nor for any consequences. Any original materials submitted for publication are sent at owner’s own risk and, while every care is taken, neither Families not its agents accept liability for loss or damage.

Antenatal First Aid Workshop - £12.50

How to avoid brain drain Course - £50

Page 10

 

Page 8 - 9

14 0utdoor ideas Stargazing to sailing

Page 12 - 13

July What's On Page 14 - 15

August What's On  

Pennines

COMPETITION

Visit www.familiespennines.co.uk to win

Win a Family Annual Pass to

Be prepared.. your child is counting on you!

Antenatal First Aid Workshop - £12.50 Parent First Aid Course - £50 www.kissitbetterfirstaid.co.uk Contact: 07903 655195

Check out our unique swim, holiday and outdoor shop online and in Holmfirth.

Eureka! is a magical place where children play to learn & grown-ups learn to play.

Discover the world around you through 100s of hands-on exhibits.

Families Pennines has a Family Annual Pass for up to five people for you to win...

Baby and toddler swimming lessons at warm, local pools for ages 1 to 18 months.

To enter, visit www.familiespennines.co.uk/competitions Terms & conditions apply.

Closing date for the competition is 31 August 2011.

Congratulations to the winners of our March/April competition Janet from Uppermill L Karen from Elland L Samantha from Birstall

Please say you saw us in Families Pennines

www.swimbabes.co.uk t:01484 683570

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News

What'shappening happeningnear nearyou you What's

It’s Panto time!

‘Oh no it isn’t... ...but the Victoria Theatre, Halifax, says ‘Oh yes it is!’

They want aspiring dancers aged 8-16 to put Sunday 11 September in their diary.

That’s when auditions will be held for dancers to take part in the theatre’s Christmas pantomime which will run between 10 December 2011 and 2 January 2012.

Children need to arrive at the Theatre at 9.45am. If successful in the morning session, dancers will be asked to stay on for a recall in the afternoon where final decisions will be made. You can fill in a registration form on the day or pick one up from the Theatre box office, Monday to Friday 10am to 4pm.

Biathlon fever grips Pennines

Can you help CLIC Sargent?

You’ll need to wear comfortable clothing, shoes suitable for dancing and take a still, soft drink. There are more details at www.victoriatheatre.co.uk Good luck from Families Pennines.

An inter-school biathlon at Todmorden Sports Centre in May attracted 127 participants – with a further 30 disappointed because their coach got stuck on the M62 so they couldn’t get there in time.

Pentathlon GB’s Joelle O’Neill gets to the point National headlines may suggest children are only interested in playing computer games or watching TV but Pennine children are bucking the trend.

Pentathlon GB coach Liam O’Neill is delighted with the enthusiastic response from schools throughout the Families Pennines area to school biathlons.

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Schools which took part in the inaugural Heathfield Pennine Biathlon in March are now receiving their free fencing taster session which is proving popular with pupils.

If your school wants to join in, the next opportunity will be the second Heathfield Pennine Biathlon on Monday 17 October.

Email cbouckley@heathfieldjunior.co.uk or ring 01422 823564 for details.

The children’s cancer charity is searching the Pennines for some fun loving fundraisers in Yorkshire and Lancashire to help raise awareness and funding.

CLIC Sargent provides clinical, practical and emotional support for children and their families following a cancer diagnosis. They have a social care team in all of the primary treatment centres, including the Leeds General Infirmary and Royal Manchester Children’s Hospital.

The charity also provides care grants and free holidays to families from across West Yorkshire and East Lancashire.

Currently CLIC Sargent can only support two out of every three children who are diagnosed with cancer. Their aim is to support every one.

If you would like to help by setting up a fundraising group or want more information please contact: Jo Warmington, Community Fundraising Manager, on 0113 2883219 or email joanne. warmington@clicsargent.org.uk.

tel: 01457 870112

Swimbabes aim high Swimbabes teachers have been set a tough challenge by their little swimmers – can they beat the £10,500 raised for local hospitals in the Swimbabes area by the 1600 Swimbabes who took part in last November’s Swimathon?

High five!

Joshua Molloy presents a Swimathon cheque

Swimbabes teachers will be put to the test in the Jane Tomlinson “Swim for All Yorkshire Festival” on July 10. Laura Molloy, founder of Swimbabes, says: “The Swimathon included babies as young as four weeks old right up to our advanced toddler swimmers. We’re delighted to have gone above and beyond our intended target and are so proud of all the little swimmers that took part.”

The money raised was split between the children’s wards of hospitals in regions where Swimbabes classes are held including Halifax & Huddersfield.

Harry beats the Pennine drum

She knew Harry was keen to audition again when – aged 9 - he came home from last year’s summer school saying, “That was the best thing ever – can I do it again?”

Harry Stobart from Hipperholme is making a big noise in musical circles. For the second year in a row, the talented 10 year old percussionist will join an elite group of young musicians gathering at Wellington College near Reading over the summer for the National Children’s Orchestra summer school.

If you’re inspired to try and join Harry in 2012, then applications have to be in by 30 September 2011. You need to be aged 7-13 on 31 December 2011 to be eligible for the 2012 orchestra.

Families Pennines wishes all those swimming on July 10 the very best.

Children’s favourite Trunki is five years old this year and celebrates its fifth birthday with the launch of the Quinn – the new ride-on limited edition suitcase. As with all iconic Trunki suitcases, Quinn can be packed, pulled, towed and ridden. Quinn costs £34.99. Alternatively, why not let your tot befriend limited edition Freddie Fire Engine or Princess Penelope instead? At £40 each they’re perfect for roleplay and come with foam axe and helmet or tiara and wand.

Details at www. trunki.com.

Auditions take place around the country with Leeds and Manchester being the nearest for Pennine musicians.

Bursaries and scholarships are available.

For more details ring 01934 418855 or visit www.nco.org.uk

World-class conductor, Sir Simon Rattle, describes the NCO as, “The perfect mix of fun, friendship and phenomenal playing,” for young musicians.

It’s a view echoed by Harry’s proud mum, Helen: “We’re so pleased for Harry that he’s made it into the under-11 orchestra for the second year running. The summer schools are intense but enjoyable too.”

Harry in action last summer

Please say you saw us in Families Pennines

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Keep safe this summer

Holiday time is when we all like to relax and take things easy – but safety is one thing we shouldn’t get relaxed about. Families Pennines takes advice on the best way to have fun and stay safe.

Water, sunshine, playing outdoors – they’re all essential parts of a great summer – but combine them with being away from home and you can find yourself struggling to cope with a minor emergency, let alone anything major.

Thinking ahead helps Emerald Brook of Kiss It Better, the first aid course provider for parents, parents-to-be and carers in the Pennines, offers the following tips: l Always have a mobile charged and ready for use. Be aware of bad reception areas – know where to

find a signal if you need to call 999.

l Have a spot to meet if your child wanders off. If there is a designated lost area,   l Carry a pocket size first aid kit for minor make sure older children are aware of it. If injuries, including plasters, a bandage & a there are lifeguards or staff milling around, bottle of tap water to clean any cuts/ make sure your children know to speak grazes. to one of them should they lose you. l Sun lotion, hat, sunglasses l Dress your child in something and water are a must. Keep bright that can be easily spotted in a hydrated and protected to crowded area. avoid heat stroke and keep out of the sun during peak hours Kiss It Better runs first aid courses that between 11am-3pm. are specially designed so that parents, Antenatal Firs grandparents and anyone you’re going to Workshop -£ l Remember inhalers/epi-pens entrust your children to, can feel competent and anything else your child needs Parent First and confident about what to do in an in an emergency. Make sure anyone Course - £5 emergency. To find out more visit looking after your child is aware of www.kissitbetter firstaid.co.uk or ring how and when to use them.

Emerald on 07903 655195 / 01422 315962. www.kissitbetterfirs

Be prepar your chil counting on

Contact: 07903

Whether you’re staying at home or going abroad, the sun can make you feel wonderful – but it can cause harm – short and long-term.

Sarah Butters reports on one Yorkshire-based solution to avoiding sunburn, UV Angel.

Slapping on the suncream can be a battle especially when children don’t understand why it’s necessary. But Families Pennines has discovered a fun range of sun jewellery from Yorkshire based UV Angel which really helps. These great products, made from sun sensitive beads, change colour to let you know that the UV you’re being exposed to could be damaging your skin.

“The idea came after a good friend developed skin cancer,” says Angela Thompson from UV Angel. “When the beads change colour, it makes you think. It reminds you that there’s UV out there and you need to protect yourself.”

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contemporary range for mums. The darker the beads go, the more UV there is and they act as a great way to prompt not just sun cream application, but also conversation about the dangers of the sun.

Before

After Before After

“Kids cook quickly so it’s a parent’s responsibility to protect them,” says Angela. “If you have a bead on your bag or your body and you see it change colour, ask do the kids need more cream? Do we need to get out of the sun?”

The Butters family tested the UV Angel products on a recent holiday. The girls liked the bracelets and keyrings, and were interested in what made the beads change colour so quickly.

Before After

There’s a wide range of UV Angel products to choose from including bag tags, key rings, necklaces and bracelets. There’s a fun range for children, as well as a more

“It gave me the opportunity to talk to Isobel and Eliza about sun safety and the threat of skin cancer if you don’t protect yourself,” says Sarah. “What surprised us was the UV around even on a cloudy day.”

To see the full range of UV Angel products see www.uv-angel.com. Prices start at £2.50.

tel: 01457 870112

Who needs Thomas?

Kirklees Light Railway is rightly famous for its Day Out With Thomas weekends – but why wait for Thomas and friends to be there when you can enjoy a ride through glorious Pennine countryside any weekend – and every day through the school holidays - courtesy of Badger, Hawk, Owl and Fox, Yorkshire’s very own Great Little Steam Trains? Louise Bennett reports on a day out for all the family.

Some people love trains and everything about them. Some people don’t. But whatever your opinion, there’s something appealing about steam engines – particularly pint-sized ones that work hard pulling visitors up and down nearly four miles of narrow-gauge railway with views across Emley Park, Blacker Wood and the farmland of Shelley.

Topped up with water and fuel, they steam and toot their way from the main station at Clayton West to Shelley station via the Cuckoo’s Nest Halt and Skelmanthorpe.

There are high quality outdoor train-themed playgrounds at Clayton West and Shelley stations; the cafes at both ends have wooden Brio Thomas layouts for the young enthusiast to spend time playing with whilst the adults enjoy a drink and a cake; there are picnic tables for those who’ve brought their own refreshment and the Clayton West café offers a range of reasonably priced sandwiches, toasties and daily specials for those who haven’t. Clayton West is also home to a shop full of Thomas and other train spending opportunities – you have been warned!

Before you board, check if your train will be stopping at Cuckoo’s Nest and Skelmanthorpe where you can explore the surrounding meadows, woods and village.

The Shelley end has a bouncy castle for those under 125cm whilst the Clayton West end has a miniature train that takes you on a delightful journey around the duck pond for 50p per person!

(Do ring and check if this will be operating on the day you plan to visit if it’s a must for your family.)

Amongst those travelling on the day Families Pennines visited were the Patel family from Upperthong - mum Catherine, Holly 7 and Leo 2 - and Liz Ellis from Shepley with her 11 month old grandson Gabriel May. Catherine is a KLR fan – “It’s a really pleasant day out,” she says. “The staff are very enthusiastic and they do the Thomas Days very well.”

Please say you saw us in Families Pennines

The train goes through a tunnel between Skelmanthorpe and Shelley stations – and the children love it. As the lighting changed from bright sunlight to muted electric light, baby Gabriel’s eyes widened in wonder – fascinated by the change in his surroundings.

Whether Thomas and his friends are there or not, Kirklees Light Railway offers Pennine families a grand day out.

Families Pennines’ top tip

The Pullman coach has cushioned seats

How much?

Adult £7, Child 3-15 £5, Under 3 Free, Family ticket £22 Adult season ticket £30, Children’s Olly the Owl Club £30 – tickets valid for 12 months, special discounts available, terms & conditions apply

Getting there

Kirklees Light Railway, Park Mill Way, Clayton West, HD8 9XJ. It’s about 20 minutes to the east of Holmfirth near Denby Dale; 50 minutes from Saddleworth or Halifax via Huddersfield.

Ring 01484 865727 or visit www.kirkleeslightrailway.com

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simple but fabulous

The sun is out, the school holidays are almost here.

Joanna Moorhead shares her top ideas for how to enjoy the Visit a pick-your-own farm

“That was the best day of my life,” says my daughter Miranda, 12, of our trip a couple of summers ago to a pick-yourown farm. She loved everything about it: choosing which farm to go to beforehand, looking online at what would be in season on our visit, running around picking strawberries when we got there, and making jam and puddings with her fruit when we got home afterwards.

Families Pennines readers can try www.bentleygrange.co.uk They’re at Woodhouse Lane, Emley, Huddersfield HD8 9QX. See the website or ring 01924 848273 to check opening times and what’s in season. Strawberries will be under sheeting so you can pick even when it’s wet.

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Organise a street party

Home Sense paty ware

If you enjoyed your Royal Wedding street party – or if you looked on enviously at other people’s parties – why not throw one this summer?

It’s a lovely way to spend a summer evening – and if you don’t want to go to the hassle of getting the council to close the road, and you’re lucky enough to have a park or green space nearby, you could always hold it there instead. Simply drop invitations through your neighbours’ doors, and organise a planning meeting.

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www.familiespennines.co.uk

3

Plant a veggie growbag

You don’t need any more space than a window-box, or a tiny space in your yard, for a veggie grow-bag – and your kids will love deciding what to plant, sowing the seeds, remembering to water them and then charting their progress from seedling to stomach. Potatoes are an ideal starter veg if you’re new to growing.

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Pitch a tent in the garden

Whether your family are regular campers or not, there’s nothing to beat the excitement of a tent pitched in the garden. If you don’t have your own, borrow one from a friend who camps – not too big, ideally, and not too difficult to assemble. Once it’s up, encourage the children to decorate it with all they need for a long, lazy day in the garden – cushions, blankets, books, iPods. And of course, lunch and tea can be picnics under canvas!

Tent £95 Idyll Home

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5

Stargaze!

Choose a night when the sky is very clear, and there’s no moon. Before you go out, look online or at a book about the constellations, and choose a shape to look for that should be visible at the time of year, and in the area you’re facing (check these before you go). Look out for the brightest star in the night sky, Sirius. If you’re an amateur at stargazing, start with a (relatively) easy

constellation to spot, such as the Big Dipper. It might take a while to work things out, but stick with it – and once you’ve identified a constellation, you’ll always find it easy to spot. Magical.

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Go cycling

Dust off your helmet, pump up your tyres, and head for a spin through a local park, along a canal bank, or along a cycle track. If you’re not sure what routes are available in your area, check out www.sustrans.org.uk. Or, if you really don’t have any old bikes hanging around that you can crank back into service, why not investigate the possibility of hiring them for a day (or even a week) and exploring your neighbourhood in a whole new way?

And if your kids are tiny, invest in a baby seat – my children loved nothing more, as toddlers, than the chance to ride across the common singing nursery rhymes on the front of my bike.

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Build a den

Den-building courses abound (see www.forestr y.gov.uk or google them), and taking your kids on a course can give them ideas for dens for the entire summer. But you don’t need a tutor: den-building is as natural as breathing to most kids. Look for spaces that are especially conducive to dens – woods, of course, are ideal. If you’re confined to the garden, find some props to get them started – a huge cardboard box is perfect.

If you’ve not got one to hand, try asking a local builder or large store whether they have any packaging you could have.

tel: 01457 870112

things to do this summer What can you do without spending a fortune? days and lay down some happy memories.

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Go wild swimming...

...or even, if your kids are tiny, wild paddling? Nothing beats the fresh, cool, vibrant feel of wild water on your face or even just between your toes. Some of my happiest summer days as a mother have been spent picnicking, and paddling, and even swimming in the streams and brooks around where my parents lived in west Yorkshire. For ideas of where to go to find wild water near you, see www.wildswimming.co.uk. If you’re an abject townie who really can’t get to somewhere with a stream or river, make do with a lido instead – www.lidos.org

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Try sand sculpture

Sand sculpting is bigger than ever before – each summer, the papers groan with photographs of wonderfully-crafted figures, buildings and entire kingdoms on beaches near and far.

But it doesn’t have to be a professional art – why not take your children on a beach day out with sculpture in mind? Start with a flotsam and jetsam-collecting session, since this will add plenty of fuel to your ideas, and then set off. If you’re being competitive, give everyone a time limit for the creation of their masterpieces.

Organise a rounders match

Everyone loves a rounders match (or you can make it cricket). Simply phone a few other families, identify your park or space for the match, choose your day, and pitch up with the bats and balls, the postmarkers, and the rugs and picnics for lunch.

Make sure the teams are well-balanced in terms of age, ability etc, and play hard! It’s a wonderfully bonding experience.

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Row a boat

Everyone has a park with a boating lake somewhere within striking distance, so why not throw caution to the wind and try out the boats? Make sure the kids wear life jackets (which should be available from the hire attendant), and take it in turns to row. So what if you end up going round and round?

It’s all part of the fun! Try Hollingworth Lake for water activities or a ride on the Lady Alice www.link4life.org/holwac

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Go fishing

Kids love fishing! If you know an adult who enjoys fishing, get your child to chat with them – or go to visit the local riverbank or lake where people fish, and let your child ask the fishing folk questions. If your child seems keen, this might be a good time to invest in a fishing kit – but if you’d like to try it out without a big outlay, or your kids are young, go for a dipping net. And remember that, if you and your child take up ‘proper’ fishing, you’ll need a licence from the Environment Agency www.environment-agency.gov.uk

Please say you saw us in Families Pennines

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Borrow a dog

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Fly your kite

You might own a dog already, of c o u r s e , in which case just skip this idea and go take him or her out for a walk instead! But if you’re not a dog-owner, and if you have a child or children, chances are that a dog would be a welcome guest – so why not invite one over, for the day or even for the weekend? We regularly foster two dogs, Rocco and George, while their owners are away: my children love the chance to take them for walks and to bath them and feed them. It’s all the fun without the ties – and without enthusiasm ever waning. To find your dog, just ask around: dog-owners need breaks too.

The sun is out, the sky is blue.

There’s a breeze fluttering: and what could be more fun than watching your child’s kite playing on the gentle wind? Kites don’t always fly first time, of course – they take practice. But most homes have at least one kite forgotten in a cupboard – or you can make your own, using dowelling and paper and glue. If you’re really keen, there are even professionals who’ll give you kite-flying lessons in windy spots across the country – see www.kitevibe.com

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Special things for wet summer days

Endless sunshine isn't going to happen – so what are the options for keeping everyone happy when it’s wet?

Families Pennines offers some thoughts…

Embrace the weather

Dust off those games

Soft play heaven

Think Paddington doing Morecambe & Wise doing Gene Kelly doing Singing in the Rain – and just enjoy being out in the wet – especially if it has been hot. Get some wellies, an umbrella and jump in those puddles as a family – what could be more cathartic?

No – not the electronic ones – the ones in boxes – they’re great fun to revisit on a wet day. I was delighted when my son was given Buckaroo – it’s a game I’d longed for as a child but never received so it’s great to have the chance to catch-up now. Other favourites (not just mine – honest!) include Sshh! Don’t Wake Dad, Frustration, Mouse Trap and Monopoly.

That reminds me…we really should get Cluedo…I used to love that…

Calderdale Big Blue Frog – 01422 363878

Fun House – 01422 383131

Play Palace – 01422 353700

Parents like the intimate surroundings of the Fun House, enabling them to see the children from the seating area but allowing little ones that crucial sense of safe independence. And if you choose a Fun House party then the venue is closed to the public. tel: 01422 383131

range from toddler to teen then you’ll appreciate somewhere they can all have space to let off steam.

If you’re unsure, ring before you go.

Go somewhere warm & dry If you have to get out of the house but don’t want to play in the wet there are so many things you can do.

The National Trust offers lots of indoor options – a Families Pennines favourite is a trip out to Quarry Bank Mill in Cheshire.

The food in the restaurant is tasty too – all locally produced ingredients.

If they just need to burn off some energy & you’d like to relax with a cup of coffee, then soft play areas are great.

If your children are young it can be alarming going to soft play areas in the holidays when older children are there and seem too boisterous and reckless to be around your own precious bundle.

The Fun House in Halifax specialises in under 7s. Since new owner, Emma Rhodes, took over in April last year she has invested in a new playframe and bouncy castle.

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The Fun House is just around the corner from Eureka! where children of all ages can experiment in over 100 different ways with sights, sounds and all manner of interesting things throughout the summer. tel: 01422 330069 www.eureka.org.uk If you’re not already an annual pass holder, don’t forget to enter our fantastic competition at www.familiespennines.co.uk/ competitions.

Most soft play centres do have set times and/or areas for different age groups – but things can get a little blurred in the holidays – and if you’re a parent with children who

Kirklees

Fun Factory – 01484 845711 Fizzy Lizard – 01484 467321 Magical Forest – 01484 537799

Oldham

Bouncers – 01457 810300 Cheeky Chimps – 0161 626 2552

Tameside Fun Depot – 0161 343 5507 Littleborough Jitterbugs – 01706 378123

Messy Rascals in Royton is well worth a visit with its unique combination of creativity and a licence to be messy – taking the strain out of letting their imaginations run wild without leaving you with a cleaning job afterwards.

07852 336328 www.messyrascals.co.uk If you’re feeling brave though it helps to have a ready supply of boxes, cardboard etc in the house. Keep a ‘secret stash’ of odd shaped boxes and textured materials that can be released on a wet day and turned into all manner of wonderful things.

A lovely way to spend a couple of hours is a trip to a paint-a-pot studio – Jazzy Pipkins on Uppermill High Street is a Families Pennines favourite.

01457 878222 www.jazzypipkins.co.uk Whatever the weather, Families Pennines wishes you a wonderful summer.

tel: 01457 870112

School’s out for summer! …but that doesn’t mean brain-drain

l Fine motor skills can suffer – so using pens, scissors, sewing, anything that needs careful control, will help. A little, often, is better than a lot in one go. l Keep reading! Fiction, non-fiction, the back of cereal boxes…it’s good for the whole family to read and talk about what they like and why

l Play car games – I spy, 20 questions, number plate games – give treats for correct answers, spellings and times table recall

l Let them plan and cook a meal so they create the shopping list, choose things in the shop, work out how much it will cost, measure the ingredients and prepare the meal as much as they can l Above all, keep children talking about issues and encourage critical thinking – things like First News provide excellent material for discussion, help build logical arguments and expand general knowledge. l Encourage the children to take the lead on things – that way planning and doing is fun for them and keeps their minds working

l Let the children unwind – they need some down-time l Keeping on top of key skills can be fun and relaxing – don’t over-plan

l Write and send postcards – using best writing

l Let them plan a day-trip – research it through websites, leaflets, the Families Pennines what’s on guide l Take photos of the trip and write a diary – encourage them to write their emotions not just facts

F&F @ Tesco

Families Pennines enlists the help of Anthony Wilkins, Head of Heathfield School, Rishworth and Steve and Judith Uttley of NumberWorks’nWords Huddersfield to make sure summer 2011 is one to remember…

l Diary writing is great – but be flexible: some may choose an e-diary; others a photographic record with a brief note; sketches and a scrapbook are good too. It all helps with the inevitable September homework – “What I did over summer”!

l Indoor games like Scrabble, Rummikub and jigsaws require concentration and patience – they’re a fun way to stimulate thinking and learning on a wet day l Plan a treasure hunt – let the children write the clues and hide the treasure for YOU to find F&F @ Tesco

With a school holiday of 6-8 weeks ahead, how can we have a happy summer AND help our children hang on to what they’ve learnt this year without tears, tantrums and a last-minute panic on 1st September.

Monkey Business Activity Book www.peanutandpip.com

l Maths can be a stumbling block – especially if parents feel rusty or unsure of the subject – but keeping it practical and regular, e.g. in shops or when preparing food, is more useful than trying to get children to do sums on paper (and less of a battleground! Ed)

If keeping number-work going over summer fills you with trepidation then you may want to invest in ‘Maths for Mums and Dads’ – it’s a great way to bring yourself upto-date with how maths is taught these days – so much better than I remember it at school! Ed. Maths For Mums And Dads by Rob Eastaway and Mike Askew Published by Square Peg ISBN 978-0-224-08635-6 RRP £10.99

Please say you saw us in Families Pennines

l Write and perform a play – get the children to write the script, create the costumes, make tickets, posters and refreshments – they’ll use numbers, words, fine motor skills, imagination and have a great time. Just don’t forget to record the performance!

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What's On July Friday 1 July – 30 October

Mary Queen of Scots: Facts & Fiction Lyme Park hosts a National Portrait Gallery display examining the portrayal of this romantic & tragic figure in the centuries following her execution. Daily 12-5pm. National Trust members free. Admission charge for nonmembers. Ring 01663 762023 Lyme Park, Disley, Stockport SK12 2NR

Friday 1 July – Sunday 17 July

Toffee Town Did you know that Calderdale is the home of modern toffee? It was first made by Violet Mackintosh in 1890, in the Mackintosh's pastry shop. 2011 is the 75th Anniversary of Quality Street production in Halifax and this exhibition celebrates the history of confectionery manufacture in Calderdale.

What is your favourite favourite? Come along and vote! 10 am - 5 pm, Sunday 1 pm - 4 pm Bankfield Museum, Boothtown Road, Halifax, HX3 6HG, Tel: 01422 352334

Fridays 1,8,15 July

Baby Signing Classes Pied Piper Childcare Centre, 117-123 Knowl Road, Mirfield. WF149JG 10-11am Baby signing classes using songs, toys, pictures & Tilly to help both parents & children

Skills for Life The Leading National Physical Play Programme ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ●

Structured 45 minute sessions Jumping, rolling, climbing, balancing Fun songs and rhymes Specially designed children’s equipment Separate classes for ages 7 months to 7 yrs Tuesday – Northowram, Halifax Wednesday and Saturday – Huddersfield Thursday – Holmfirth Friday – Denby Dale

To book, phone 01484 689467 or visit www.tumbletots.com/huddersfield

Teacher in the pool Small Groups Lessons for ages 3mths plus Fartown, Hudds Sun 8.30am to 12pm Crossley Heath Halifax Mon & Weds 4pm to 6pm Fri 4pm to 6.30pm

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to remember the signs. £25 for the course. Pay at first class. Contact Rachel Smith 07952 770619; email signwithmummy@ntlworld.com

Saturday 2 July

Cumberworth Carnival Parade of King, Queen & attendants from 1pm. Bouncy castle, stalls, prizes & refreshments, including Hog Roast.

Cumber worth CE 1st School playing fields, Upper Cumber worth, Huddersfield HD8 8NU

Tuesdays 5,12,19,26 July

Ashton Time for a Rhyme Rhymes, songs & stories for little ones, their parents & carers.

2-2.30pm Tameside Central Librar y, Old St, Ashton-under-Lyne, Tameside OL6 7SG Ring 0161 342 2029

Tuesday 5 July

Saturday 2 & Sunday 3 July

Shibden Park Pram Walk Come and join us for a walk around Shibden Park. Ideal for children aged 0-5 and their parents/carers. Activities include singing, crafts and a pram walk. £1 per child, free for passport to leisure. 10.30-12pm Contact Shelley Bullas on 01422 392638

Saturday 2 & 16 July

Huddersfield Buggy Movers An hour of walking & post-natal exercise with other mums & their babies in buggies. 10.30-11.30am £2.50 Top Café, Greenhead Park, Trinity Street, Huddersfield HD1 4DT Contact Gill Logan 01484 234097 gill.logan@kirklees.gov.uk

Woodland Celebration Weekend Hardcastle Crags offers something for everyone with activities, demonstrations, crafts & walks at various times throughout the two days.

11am-5pm For details ring 01422 844518 or visit hardcastlecrags@nationaltrust.org.uk

Saturday Art Club, Smith Art Galler y, Halifax Road, Brighouse

Saturday 9 July

Saturday Art Club, Bankfield Museum, Halifax. While the adults go shopping, children aged 8-12 take part in a fun and creative workshop. We explore a variety of art and craft activities using the gallery exhibitions and museum collections for inspiration. £4 per child. 10.30-12.30pm To book contact Jeffrey Andrews on 01422 284459 email jeffrey.andrews@ calderdale.gov.uk

Sunday 3 July

Wednesdays 6,13,20,27 July

Wednesdays 6, 13, 20, 27 July

Baby Signing Classes Kidzville Playgym, Church Street, Greetland,Halifax HX4 8EG 1.30-2.30pm Baby signing classes using songs, toys, pictures & Tilly to help both parents & children to remember the signs. £25 for the course. Pay at first class.

Contact Rachel Smith 07952 770619; email signwithmummy@ntlworld.com

Wednesdays 6,13,20,27 July

Holmfirth Duck Race 10,000 rubber ducks race down the river for a prize. For details ring David Pearson 07971 207124 Sands Recreation Ground, Huddersfield Road, Holmfirth HD0 3JL www.theduckrace.co.uk

Hurst Time for a Rhyme Rhymes, songs & stories for little ones, their parents & carers.

2-2.30pm Hurst Librar y, Hurst Cross, Ashton OL6 8EW Ring 0161 330 3750

Sundays 3,17,24 July

Stalybridge Time for a Rhyme Rhymes, songs & stories for little ones, their parents & carers.

2.15-2.45pm Stalybridge Librar y, Trinity Street, Stalybridge, SK15 2BN Ring 0161 338 2708

Creative Family Fun Craft activities, painting, drawing & creative fun for all the family. Free – no need to book, just drop in from 11am – 3pm Gallery Oldham, Oldham Cultural Quarter, Greaves Street, Oldham OL1 1AL Ring 0161 770 4653 www.galler yoldham.org.uk

Wednesdays 6,13,20,27 July

Mondays 4, 11, 18, 25 July Wednesdays 6,13,20,27 July

Cathedral Mice Baby & toddler group – lots of toys, healthy snacks, themed song time, outdoor play when dry! 9.30-11.30am 1st visit free – then £1.50 for 1 adult + 3 children.

Cathedral House, St Thomas Road, Huddersfield HD1 3LG

Mondays 4,11,18,25 July

Cleckheaton Buggy Movers An hour of walking & post-natal exercise with other mums & their babies in buggies. 10.30-11.30am £2.50 Cleckheaton Librar y, Whitcliffe Road, Cleckheaton BD19 3DX Contact Gill Logan 01484 234097 gill.logan@kirklees.gov.uk Mottram Time for a Rhyme Rhymes, songs & stories for little ones, their parents & carers.

1.15-1.45pm Mottram Librar y, Broadbottom Road, Mottram SK14 6JA Ring 01457 764144

Thursdays 7,14,21,28 July

Batley Buggy Movers An hour of walking & post-natal exercise with other mums & their babies in buggies. 10.30-11.30am £2.50 Wilton Park, Bradford Road,Batley WF17 0AS Contact Gill Logan 01484 234097 gill.logan@kirklees.gov.uk

Thursday 7,14,21,28 July

Mossley Time for a Rhyme Rhymes, songs & stories for little ones, their parents & carers.

2.15-2.45pm Mossley Librar y, Wyre St, Mossley, Tameside OL5 0, UK 01457 823467

tel: 01457 870112

For more events visit www.familiespennines.co.uk/whatson Saturday 9 July

Birdsedge Village Festival A traditional family event with music, dancers, craft tent, children’s entertainment, real ale & barbeque at the village hall & school field. For details contact Carole Ashley 01484 606533 Birdsedge, Penistone Road, Birdsedge, Huddersfield HD8 8XP Small Mammals Discovery Expedition Visit the voles, meet the mice, see the shrews & discover what other mammals live in Nostell Priory Parkland. 9-11am £3 Booking essential 01924 863892 Nostell Prior y, Doncaster Road, Nostell, Wakefield WF4 1QE

Saturday 9 & Sunday 10 July

Day out with Thomas.

Join Thomas & his friends for a fun-filled family day out. 9.30- 5.30 Tickets Adult £10, Child £8, Under 2 free. Family ticket £32. Advanced booking recommended 01484 865727 www.kirkleeslightrailway.com Kirklees Light Railway, Clayton West, Huddersfield HD8 9XJ

Wednesday 13 July

Mini Makers Under 5s & their families or child minders during term time. Come along, enjoy a story & join in our craft activities inspired by the Museum’s objects & art. £2 per child, free for passport to leisure. 10.30-12pm Please bring your own packed lunch. Contact Fiona Willats on 01422 284451. Bankfield Museum, Boothtown Road, Halifax HX3 6HG

Friday 15 – Sunday 17 July

Saturday 23 July to Sunday 4 September

Summer hot sparks Create your own selfsculpture and look at some sculptures in the collection at Halifax Visitor Centre & Art Gallery.

Drop-in hourly sessions. Book place on arrival.

11am -4pm £2 per child.Halifax Visitor Centre and Art Galler y, Piece Hall, Halifax, HX1 1RE, Tel: 01422 368725

Wild West Showdown and outdoor maze Eureka! invites you to saddle up for a summer of fun, indoors and out, with ‘Wild West’ activities. Families can learn about the Old West with Dodge City Sheriff School, performances & craft sessions or take part in the Papoose Pow-Wow. Meet a Native American Indian & see crafts from Apache Art Co. or take part in cultural workshops from Calderdale Council Countryside Service who will bring a tepee for children to explore. The Trailblazers western re-enactment society will set up camp.

Free with standard admission to the museum.

Open daily. Ring 01422 330069 or visit www.eureka.org.uk

Stream dipping at Jerusalem Farm Discover freshwater mini beasts. Wellies & midge repellent essential plus a change of trousers and socks! £2 per child Booking essential 01422 393273 Jerusalem Farm, Booth, Halifax HX2 6XB

Wednesday 27 July

Fun at the Manor: summer art Visit the butterfly house & create a fluttering kite to fly. 1-4pm £2 per child. Call in at the Jungle Experience to register. Holiday clubs please contact Manor Heath Park before the event to make arrangements. Ring 01422 365631 Manor Heath Park & Jungle Experience, Manor Heath Road, Halifax, HX3 0EB

Saturday 23 & Sunday 24 July

Standedge Bicentenary Family Fun Days Experience the boat trips, new children’s playground, craft fair & bouncy castle. Free.

10am-4pm Standedge Tunnel & Visitor Centre, Waters Road, Marsden HD7 6NQ Ring 01484 844 298 www.standedge.co.uk

Clowning Around Holmfirth Library’s summer reading challenge craft session for children.

Free but places need to be booked. Ring 01484 222430 Holmfirth Librar y, 47 Huddersfield Road, Holmfirth HD9 3JH

Sunday 24 July

Experi-ART Family art workshop Join our artists & create something arty to take home. 5+ 50p per child. 1.30-3.30pm Central Art Galler y, Old Street, Ashton Ring 0161 343 2878

People’s Park: It’s a penalty shoot out!

Meet by the Information Centre for the annual penalty shoot out competition 2-4.30pm. £1.50 per person entry fee. People’s Park, Halifax HX1 2TS For details ring P. Oddy on 01422 323824

Thursday 28 July

Dark tales from the Wood Folk Bring a picnic & join Christine Savage-McMahon for fairy tales outside the Ogden Water visitor centre. 12noon Suitable for all ages. Numbers limited so ring 01422 393273 or e-mail julie.swift@calderdale. gov.uk to reser ve a place. Ogden Water Countr y Park & Nature Reser ve, Halifax HX2 8YA www.ogdenwater.org.uk

Family cycle day East Riddlesden Hall hosts free cycling activities for all the family with rides for all abilities, a mini course to test your skills & a Bike Doctor for poorly bikes. 10am-4pm Booking essential for led rides – ring Cassandra Cowie on 01535 683806 East Riddlesden Hall, Bradford Road, Riddlesden, Keighley BD20 5EL

Meltham Memories 1940s weekend 3rd year of Meltham’s 2nd World War transformation with a parade of vintage vehicles, a fly past from the Battle of Britain commemorative flight (weather permitting), entertainment of Magic & merriment: Punch & Judy Punch the era & stalls selling vintage goods. For more Monday 25 July – 4 September  & Judy appear in the walled garden at Manor information see www.melthammemories.ning.com Amazing Victorian Activities A hands-on Heath Park. Undercover if wet. 1, 2 & 3 pm experience of Victorian times – solve the Saturday 16 & Sunday Ring 01422 365631 Manor Heath Park & Jungle Mystery Objects quiz, write with dip pen 17 July Experience, Manor Heath Road, Halifax, HX3 0EB or slate, play with period toys. 11am-4pm Kiss It Better First Aid Red House Museum, Oxford Road, Gomersal, Friday 29 July for Parents Learn how Cleckheaton BD19 4JP Shark in the park. For 4 - 8 years. Meet in to feel confident in a Shibden Hall courtyard for storytelling, crafts & first aid situation with Monday 25 July & Wednesday 27 July a walk based on the well-loved book by Nick your child. 10am-2pm Holiday fun at Gallery Oldham Free family Sharratt. 10.30 -12 noon. £4 per child. Booking both days. £50, including activities linked to our exhibitions so please take essential- 01422 392638. Shibden Hall, Lister’s first aid manual. Booking a look around the galleries before you come Road, Halifax, HX3 6XG, Tel: 01422 352246 essential – ring Emerald Brook 01422 315962 along. Face painting and Antenatal craft activities at each First Aid www.kissitbetter firstaid.co.uk Cote Royd House, 7 session. For ages 4 – 10 years. Free, drop in Saturday 30 July Workshop - £12.50 Halifax Road, Edgerton, Huddersfield HD3 3AN 1-4pm. Galler y Oldham, Oldham Cultural Quarter, Shakespeare on the lawn – Twelfth Night Greaves Street, Oldham OL1 Parent 1AL Ring First 0161 770 Aid Nostell Priory invites you to picnic on the vista Sunday 17 July 4653 www.galler yoldham.org.uk during Illyria’s production 7.30-10.30pm Adult Yummy Yorkshire annual birthday party Course - £50 £17 Child £8.50 Family £35 Celebrate local produce, plus games and Tuesday 26 July For details ring 01924 863892. activities including the Penistone Young We’re going on a bear hunt 4-8 year olds www.kissitbetterfirstaid.co.uk Farmer’s ducking stool! Enter the ‘create a are invited to Shibden Hall, for a fun session of Families Pennines tries to get the details 07903 655195 flavour’ ice cream competition. Free admission story telling, crafts andContact: a walk based on Michael right – but sometimes things change so & parking. Contact Louise Holmes 01226 762551 Rosen’s book. 10.30am-12 noon. £4 per child. please check before you travel.

Delph House Farm, High Flatts, Denby Dale, Booking essential – ring 01422 392638 Lister’s Want your event listing? email the details to Huddersfield HD8 8XY Road, Halifax HX3 6XG

Be prepared.. your child is counting on you!

editor@familiespennines.co.uk

Please say you saw us in Families Pennines

13

What's On August Monday 1 August to Sunday 4 September Wild West Showdown and outdoor maze

Eureka! invites you to saddle up for a summer of fun, indoors and out, with ‘Wild West’ activities. Free with standard admission to the museum. Open daily.

Ring 01422 330069 or visit www.eureka.org.uk

Monday 1 August – 4 September

Amazing Victorian Activities A hands-on experience of Victorian times – solve the Mystery Objects quiz, write with dip pen or slate, play with period toys. 11am-4pm Red House Museum, Oxford Road, Gomersal, Cleckheaton BD19 4JP

Monday 1- Friday 5 August

Feel the force Wonder at the might of the Quarry Bank Mill water wheel – try & harness the power of nature for yourself. 11am-5pm Ring 01625 445896 Quarr y Bank Mill, Styal, Wilmslow SK9 4LA

Mondays 1,8,15,22 August

Mottram Time for a rhyme Rhymes, songs & stories for little ones, their parents & carers.

1.15-1.45pm Mottram Librar y, Broadbottom Road, Mottram SK14 6JA Ring 01457 764144

Mondays 1,8,15 & Wednesdays 3,10,17 August

Holiday fun at Gallery Oldham Free family activities linked to our exhibitions so please take a look around the galleries before you come along. Face painting and craft activities at each session. For ages 4 – 10 years. Free, drop in 1-4pm. Gallery Oldham, Oldham Cultural Quarter, Greaves Street, Oldham OL1 1AL Ring 0161 770 4653 www.galler yoldham.org.uk

Mondays 1,8,15,22 & Wednesday 3,10,17,24,31 August

Cathedral Mice Baby & toddler group – lots of toys, healthy snacks, themed song time, outdoor play when dry! 9.30-11.30am 1st visit free – then £1.50 for 1 adult + 3 children.

Cathedral House, St Thomas Road, Huddersfield HD1 3LG

Monday 1 August

Yorkshire Day at East Riddlesden Hall Celebrate all things Yorkshire with activities, food & shopping. 10.30am – 4.30pm Ring 01535 607075 East Riddlesden Hall, Bradford Road, Riddlesden, Keighley BD20 5EL Yorkshire Olympics Celebrate Yorkshire Day at Nostell Priory with cuppa tea races, wellie wanging, flat cap hooplah & lots more Yorkshire fun. 2-4.30pm Ring 01924 863892 Nostell Prior y, Doncaster Road, Nostell, Wakefield WF4 1QE

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Tuesday 2 – Monday 29 August

Summer activities at Tatton Park Farm Donkey grooming, make a scarecrow, farmyard collage, paint a picture and fun quiz. Meet newly born chicks & ducklings. FARM CLOSED MONDAYS, except Bank Holidays. Details ring 01625 374400 Tatton Park, Knutsford WA16 6QN www.tattonpark.org.uk

Tuesdays 2,9,16,23 August

We’re going on a bear hunt. 4-8 year olds are invited to Shibden Hall, Lister’s Road, Halifax HX3 6XG for a fun session of storytelling, crafts and a walk based on Michael Rosen’s book.

10.30am-12 noon. £4 per child. Booking essential – ring 01422 392638

Tuesdays 2,9,16,23,30 August

Ashton Time for a Rhyme Rhymes, songs & stories for little ones, their parents & carers.

2-2.30pm Tameside Central Librar y, Old St, Ashton-under-Lyne, Tameside OL6 7SG Ring 0161 342 2029

Tuesday 2 August

Bake & Take Edwardian servants help children bake a treat to take home in Dunham’s Edwardian kitchen. 12-4pm Booking essential Ring 0161 941 1025 Dunham Massey, Altrincham WA14 4SJ Bob the Builder Fixham Theatre has been closed for 6 months. Bob & Wendy have to fix it for the grand opening of ‘There’s No Fixing Like Snow Fixing’ Spud, Scoop,Lofty & Scrambler will be there to help – but can they fix it in time? Shows at 1 and 3.30pm Tickets £14 Under 16s £12 Family tickets available. Ring 01422 351158 The Victoria Theatre, Fountain Street, Halifax HX1 1BP

Wednesday 3rd & 10th August

Fun at the Manor: summer art 1-4pm £2 per child. Call in at the Jungle Experience to register.

Holiday clubs please contact Manor Heath Park before the event to make arrangements.

Ring 01422 365631 Manor Heath Park & Jungle Experience, Manor Heath Road, Halifax, HX3 0EB

Wednesdays 3,10,17,24, 31 August

Hurst Time for a Rhyme Rhymes, songs & stories for little ones, their parents & carers.

2-2.30pm Hurst Librar y, Hurst Cross, Ashton OL6 8EW Ring 0161 330 3750 Stalybridge Time for a Rhyme Rhymes, songs & stories for little ones, their parents & carers.

2.15-2.45 Stalybridge Librar y, Trinity Street, Stalybridge, SK15 2BN Ring 0161 338 2708 Experi-ART Family art workshop Join our artists & create something arty to take home. 5+ 50p per child. 1.30-3.30pm Central Art Galler y, Old Street, Ashton Ring 0161 343 2878

Wednesdays 3,10,17,24

Afternoon summer fun at Gawthorpe Hall Bring the family for fun, games & a range of different activities each week. Charge per activity. 1-4pm Ring 01282 771004 Gawthorpe Hall, Burnley Road, Padiham BB12 8UA

Wednesday 3 August

Go Wild A fun day for families with mini-beast safaris, den building, pond dipping, a nature walk & woodland crafts. 1-3pm Ring 0161 330 9613 Castle Clough Car Park, Buckton Vale Road, Carrbrook, Stalybridge SK15 3PJ

Thursday 4 August

Go Wild A fun day for families with mini-beast safaris, den building, pond dipping, a nature walk & woodland crafts. 1-3pm Ring 0161 330 9613 Lymefield Visitor Centre, Lower Market Street, Broadbottom SK14 6AG Boredom busting beach party Nostell’s annual beach party with sand, Punch & Judy, donkeys & lots of seaside activities. 11am-4pm Ring 01924 863892 Nostell Prior y, Doncaster Road, Nostell, Wakefield WF4 1QE

Thursdays 4,11,18,25 August

Mossley Time for a Rhyme Rhymes, songs & stories for little ones, their parents & carers.

2.15-2.45pm Mossley Librar y, Wyre St, Mossley, Tameside OL5 0, UK 01457 823467 Magic & merriment: Punch & Judy Punch & Judy appear in the walled garden at Manor Heath Park. Undercover if wet. 1, 2 & 3 pm Ring 01422 365631 Manor Heath Park & Jungle Experience, Manor Heath Road, Halifax, HX3 0EB Pond dipping at Marsden Moor. Cost £1 Wellies recommended. 11am-2pm Ring 01484 847016 Estate Office, Old Goods Yard, Station Road, Marsden HD7 6DH

Fridays 5,12,19,29 August

Fun Fridays at Marsden Moor Events 11am2pm Cost £1. A different theme each week: wild weaving, kite-making, wildlife trail, geo-day.

Ring 01484 847016 Estate Office, Old Goods Yard, Station Road, Marsden HD7 6DH Shark in the park. For 4 - 8 years. Meet in Shibden Hall courtyard for storytelling, crafts & a walk based on the well-loved book by Nick Sharratt. 10.30 -12 noon. £4 per child. Booking essential- 01422 392638. Shibden Hall, Lister’s Road, Halifax, HX3 6XG, Tel: 01422 352246

Saturday 6 August

Bounce ‘n’ Bump Celebrate Green Park’s 100th birthday with an Alice in Wonderland theme & Mad Hatter’s Tea Party. Lots of things for all the family. Details -ring Roz Garthwaite on 01484 222087 Green Park, Heckmondwike WF16 0HB

Sunday 7 & 21 August

Creative Family Fun @ Gallery Oldham For all the family. Free. 11am – 3pm Galler y Oldham, Greaves Street, Oldham OL1 1AL Ring 0161 770 4653 www.galler yoldham.org.uk

tel: 01457 870112

For more events visit www.familiespennines.co.uk/whatson Monday 8 – Friday 12 August

Design-a-day Play with pattern, shape, colour & texture to create something special. 11am5pm Ring 01625 445896 Quarr y Bank Mill, Styal, Wilmslow SK9 4LA

Tuesday 9 August

Calling All Servants Mrs Collins, the housekeeper, is very pleased to meet you & put you through your servant paces in this fun, interactive session for all the family. 12-4pm Ring 0161 941 1025 Dunham Massey, Altrincham WA14 4SJ Stream dipping at Jerusalem Farm Discover freshwater mini beasts. Wellies & midge repellent essential plus a change of trousers and socks! £2 per child Booking essential 01422 393273 Jerusalem Farm, Booth, Halifax HX2 6XB Shibden Park Pram Walk Come and join us for a walk around Shibden Park. Ideal for children aged 0-5 and their parents/carers. Activities include singing, crafts and a pram walk. £1 per child, free for passport to leisure. 10.30-12pm Contact Shelley Bullas on 01422 392638 Art for tots – family art & craft workshop for under 5s. Ring 0161 343 2878 Astley Cheetham Art Galler y, Trinity Street, Stalybridge SK15 2BN Butterfiles at Lyme Which butterflies visit Lyme? Find out and create your own beautiful butterfly to take home. 1-3pm. Ring 01663 762023 Lyme Park, Disley, Stockport SK12 2NR

Wednesday 10 August

Mini-beast safari Join the Ranger to see what creatures you can find lurking in the undergrowth at Brimham Rocks near Harrogate.

2-3.30pm Child £2.50 Booking essential 01423 780688

Thursday 11 August

Boredom busting pirates Nostell Priory hosts a day of walking the plank, treasure trails, desert island fun, fancy dress, games & competitions.

11am-4pm Ring 01924 863892 Nostell Prior y, Doncaster Road, Nostell, Wakefield WF4 1QE

Thursdays 11 & 25 August

Big Summer Roadshow Celebrate summer at Tolson Museum. 50p per child Ring 01484 223820 Tolson Museum, Ravensknowle Park, Wakefield Road, Huddersfield HD5 8DJ

Friday 12 - Saturday 13 August

Elmer the Elephant Blunderbus Theatre Company brings the story of David McKee’s multi-coloured elephant to life with jungle characters, catchy songs & beautiful handcrafted puppets. Ages 4-7 Performances 11am and 2pm Adult £6 Child £4.50 Ring 01484 430528 Lawrence Batley Theatre, Queen’s Square, Huddersfield HD1 2SP www.theblt.org

Sunday 14 August

Kite Festival Bring your kite to Marsden Moor – see how high it will soar. Meet at the Carriage House Pub on the A62, Manchester Road, Marsden HD7 6NL Ring 01484 847016 Estate Office, Old Goods Yard, Station Road, Marsden HD7 6DH Summer fun day Falconry displays, bouncy castles, food stalls & a beer tent.

11am-4pm 30pm Ring 01535 607075 East Riddlesden Hall, Bradford Road, Riddlesden, Keighley BD20 5EL Fun dog show at Tatton’s Farm 10 Novelty classes – e.g. saddest eyes, waggiest tail.

Champion trophy and rosettes to 6th place.

12-5pm £1 entry fee per class to enter.

Ring 01625 374400 Tatton Park, Knutsford WA16 6QN www.tattonpark.org.uk

Sundays 14 & 22 August

Free guided cycle ride exploring Nostell Priory Parkland. Children with parents. 10.30am12noon. Booking advisable 01924 863892. To borrow a bike ring 01924 866841. Nostell Prior y, Doncaster Road, Nostell, Wakefield WF4 1QE

Wednesday 17 August

Crazy Circus Capers Craft session at Holmfirth Library. Free.

Ring 01484 222430 to book. Holmfirth Librar y, 47 Huddersfield Road, Holmfirth HD9 3JH

Friday 19 – Monday 22 August

Day out with Thomas Join Thomas & his friends for a fun-filled family day out. 9.30- 5.30 Tickets Adult £10, Child £8, Under 2 free. Family ticket £32. Advanced booking recommended 01484 865727 www.kirkleeslightrailway.com Kirklees Light Railway, Clayton West, Huddersfield HD8 9XJ

Sunday 21 August

Wildlife Fete Games, stalls & wildlife information at Hollingworth Lake Country Park 11am – 4pm Hollingworth Lake Visitor Centre, Rakewood Road, Littleborough OL15 0AQ Mirfield Family Agricultural Show 2011 Horses, dogs, rabbits, flowers, vegetables – variety & family entertainment are on show.

Children go free – adults £3 Mir field Showground, Huddersfield Road, Mir field WF14 9DN

Monday 22 – Friday 26 August

A day in the life Experience life as an apprentice child & find out what life was like for the Mill Owner’ lucky children. 11am-5pm Ring 01625 445896 Quarr y Bank Mill, Styal, Wilmslow SK9 4LA

Tuesday 23 August

Living in the Woods Meet some woodland wildlife & learn about bushcraft skills.

2-4pm Age 6-11. £2.50 Booking essential 01706 373421 Hollingworth Lake Visitor Centre, Rakewood Road, Littleborough OL15 0AQ Go Wild A fun day for families with mini-beast safaris, den building, pond dipping, a nature walk & woodland crafts. 1-3pm Ring 0161 330 9613 Park Bridge Heritage Centre, Ashton OL6 8AQ

Wednesday 24 – Monday 29 August

Wybuloo Piplings Summer Tour Explore a Pipling pod, specially delivered to Nostell Priory from Nara. 11am- 4.30pm Ring 01924 863892 Nostell Prior y, Doncaster Road, Nostell, Wakefield WF4 1QE

Friday 26 August

Jammy Dodgers Make your own raspberry jam in the Still Room, just as they would have done 100 years ago. Children can prepare fruit and design their jam jar. Collect your jam 30 minutes later. 1-3pm £5 Ring 01663 762023 Lyme Park, Disley, Stockport SK12 2NR

Monday 29 August

Friday 12 & 19 August

Family Farm fun day Visit the Edibles smallholding to make & bake a pizza in our outdoor oven, get to know our chickens, plus art workshops & gardening activities to choose from. 10am - 4pm. Children £18; adults £8 includes lunch, refreshments and all materials.

See www.edibles.org.uk or call Rosie on 07722 557701. Paddock Farm, Parkgate Road, West Slaithwaite HD7 5XA

Pirates of Penzance Bring a chair & a picnic to enjoy Illyria’s production on the vista in front of Nostell Priory – dress as a pirate if you want to!

7.30-10.30pm Adult £17 Child £8.50 Family £35 Booking essential 0844 249 1859 Nostell Prior y, Doncaster Road, Nostell, Wakefield WF4 1QE

Saturday 20 August

Go Wild Family Pond Dip Celebrate Rochdale Canal Festival and discover what wildlife lurks within the pond. £1 per person. Booking essential 01706 373421 Hollingworth Lake Visitor Centre, Rakewood Road, Littleborough OL15 0AQ

Please say you saw us in Families Pennines

Adopt a farm animal day Brush Blossom, meet Rosie & take Tallulah to the fields. Adopt one of the Rare Breeds to help conserve & protect these special animals. 10am-5pm Adult £2.50 Child £1.50 Ring 01625 374400 Tatton Park, Knutsford WA16 6QN www.tattonpark.org.uk

Families Pennines tries to get the details right – but sometimes things change so please check before you travel.

Want your event listing? email the details to

editor@familiespennines.co.uk 15