Families Leeds & West Yorkshire May/June 2024 PRINT

For ages 13 months to 5 years Siblings under 13 months are FREE!

A session made up of two parts allow toddlers to explore adventure playtime on bouncy castles, soft play, ride ons and more. Followed by themed sensory activities with puppet shows, interactive games and light shows. Each week there is different equipment and a different theme; meaning both toddlers and grown ups are never bored!

Text Lou on 07870275916 www.toddlersense.com/northleeds

Editor Claire Bottomley

Editor@familiesleeds.co.uk

07799 667041

Printed by: Buxton Press Ltd

Design: Rebecca Carr

Next issue: July/August

Book by: 7 June

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I used to think talking about the weather was a sign of my age, but all the children I know seem equally obsessed with it. Concerns about climate change probably play a part. But it’s also because we now have access to 24/7 forecasts, which weren’t a feature of my 1980s childhood.

Having finally relinquished Snow Watch, my kids are fully focused on the arrival of Summer. As is my 95-year-old grandmother.

It is in fact officially only a few weeks away, so we can all look forward to making the most of it. In this issue you’ll find lots of ideas for fun in the sunshine (and indoor ones too for when that app is showing 99% chance of precipitation).

On page 4 we have a feature on summer camps as we start to plan the coming weeks. Plus, some inspiration for camping holidays (page 6) – the ultimate in weather optimism!

You will find useful information on children’s health on pages 8 and 9, and advice about choosing the right reading book with your child (page 11), as well as news about some new local apps and websites and our trusty clubs and classes directory and What’s On listings.

We hope you enjoy this issue and find it useful. Happy (sunny) days!

Claire Bottomley, Editor

It’s time for summer camps

By Ellie Malt

I once spent a freakishly hot week in the summer holidays learning to sail near the Isle of Wight. As a tween, I was dazzled by the teenaged sailing instructors who seemed endlessly cool. I’m not saying my sailing skills were Olympian but it felt like a modern version of Swallows and Amazons. The sense of freedom and adventure was amazing. My point? Any programme run with experience and enthusiasm can be more than just a childcare solution.

Holiday camps can be daunting and my children enjoy them more if they go with a friend. Perhaps the pandemic made them cautious? Having asked around, it seems they are not the only ones.

Jenny, a mother of a 7 and 9-year-old told me: ‘My kids weren’t interested in going at all but three hours at a tennis camp turned out to be a good first step.’ Half-day camps are a great introduction to camp life.

Half-Term: Wed 24 to Fri 26 July

It’s also important to think carefully before automatically sending siblings to the same camp. ‘Choose carefully!’ warned Maggie, who has two girls with very different interests. ‘I sent both of mine off to the same sports camp. At the end of the first day, one came home on top of the world, the other refused to go back.’

For siblings with varying interests, an ‘all-rounder’ camp is a great option. One that offers a wide range of activities across arts and crafts, sports and games.

Kickstart Kamps for four to 11-year-olds is the perfect example. “When we started five years ago, we wanted to give children the ultimate Kamp experience – a chance to try new things, develop new friendships, have fun together and provide a new peer support network,” explained head coach Jake Timbs.

He added: “We encourage them to broaden their imagination and creative flare, as well as offering them the opportunity to develop skills in sport activities."

For sports-mad kids, signing up to a specific summer camp can really boost their skills and confidence.

Accomplish Academy runs cricket camps where children enjoy fun-packed sessions which support their development and give them a huge sense of achievement, as well as an improvement in general fitness.

If you think a tech camp might hit the mark, something with a specialist focus like robotics, coding or inventions might be good. Next Thing Education runs programmes across the UK led by professional creators, inventors and tech enthusiasts. Forest schools are ideal for nature-loving kids. You can find your nearest by looking on the database of the Forest School Association.

Calverley St Wilfrid’s Cricket Club

Tue 30 July to Thu 1 Aug

Rawdon Cricket Club

Tue 6 to Thu 8 Aug

Horsforth Vale Sports Ground

Tues 13 to Thu 15 Aug Farsley Cricket Club

Tues 20 to Thu 22 Aug Morley Cricket Club Tue 27 to Thu 29 Aug

Park School Tues 28 to Thu 30 May Calverley St Wilfrid’s Cricket Club

So much to choose from at Carriageworks

Some familiar stories and books get a theatrical makeover at Carriageworks Theatre this May and June.

The Three Bears is a twist on a tale you thought you knew. Then: There was an old lady who swallowed a fly… I don’t know why she swallowed a fly… but The People’s Theatre Company does! And now you can too as this much-loved story is brought to life with a stunning combination of live action, animation, and puppetry.

Based on the brilliant book by Pippa Goodhart and Nick Sharratt, YOU CHOOSE brings you an interactive musical show for all the family. In this show – YOU CHOOSE what happens!

Comedy Club 4 Kids provides cracking entertainment for everyone over six years old and under 400 years old (no vampires). The best comedians from the UK and world circuit doing what they do best… but without the rude bits!

www.carriageworkstheatre.co.uk

Call Claire on 07799 667041 editor@familiesleeds.co.uk

Limbering up for the Horsforth Walk of Art

Preparations are underway for this year’s Horsforth Walk of Art, which takes place on July 6 and 7.

The FREE community led festival showcases and celebrates creativity in everyday and unusual spaces, with lots of familyfriendly activities on offer along the way.

In previous years more than 100 artists have displayed and performed their work in more than 80 venues including high street shops, churches, woodlands, parks, garages, houses, sheds and caravans. To take part, you can plan where to visit via the Walk of Art’s Google Map. Alternatively, you can download a map to your phone or pick up a free printed map, available from June 23.

The Walk of Art is currently looking for artists to work in schools during May and June. Get in touch if you are an artist able to volunteer one or two hours of your time.

For more information visit www.horsforth-woa.org

Children’s GP Services Tower Clinic Leeds

Private GP consultations for newborn babies to teenagers

Full range of childhood immunisations, including those not widely available on the NHS

Baby and childhood developmental checks – including the six week newborn check and the eight month check.

Prescriptions and referrals.

Same day appointments including evenings and weekends available.

To book an appointment contact us:

Call 0113 267 2067 www.towerclinic.co.uk

Family camping across the UK

There’s something very special about a camping trip, especially if it’s with your family. Making memories that will last a lifetime and perhaps sparking a love of the outdoors from an early age. Once you’ve got your gear together, camping can also be a cost effective way to get away from home for a few days on an adventure.

We asked our friends at The Outdoor Guide (www.theoutdoorguide.co.uk) for some of their favourite camping and glamping (camping with all the bells and whistles, including a proper bed) sites that you and your family may want to try.

Love2Stay, Shropshire

What’s not to love about your stay here? It’s a luxury touring, caravan and glamping site that offers families everything they could want and more. Whether you and the kids want to go swimming, kayaking, complete an assault course or try your hand at archery, this is the place for you!

Love2Stay, Mid-Wales

In the heart of the rolling Welsh hills and overlooking the Severn Valley, there’s enough to do here to keep all the family busy! There’s a fantastic adventure play area for the children whilst adults can relax in the spa or hot tub.

Charmill Cottage Campsite, West Sussex

Nestled on the edge of the South Downs National Park, this is a little gem of a campsite that you’ll want to visit again and again. Next to the campsite is Wild Heart Hill - a beautiful wooded hillside to explore and play on (look out for the rope swings hidden amongst the trees). It’s also a short drive away from the beaches of Worthing and Littlehampton.

Orcarber Farm, Yorkshire Dales

This is a family run site near the village of Austwick with its country pub, local shop and playing fields with tennis, bowls, football, basketball and a playground – perfect for getting active and enjoying a family break.

Castlerigg Hall, Lake District

This is a campsite with a view and a half. Situated near the wonderful market town of Keswick, the site overlooks Derwentwater and is a walkers’ paradise. On your doorstep are the likes of Blencathra, Skiddaw and Catbells if you’re looking for a challenge or for a smaller fell, Latrigg is wheelchair and pushchair friendly.

Loch Ness Shores Club Site, Scotland

In the heart of the Highlands and with views over Loch Ness, this is a simply stunning location. It’s the perfect place to explore the surrounding countryside or perhaps while away an hour or two looking out for the elusive Nessie!

Located on a cliff top overlooking the Atlantic, this is where you’ll get a good dose of sea air. The nearby coastline offers secluded coves and sandy beaches where little ones can run free. This campsite is perfectly situated to explore Land’s End, St Michael’s Mount and St Ives.

Verwood Club Site, Dorset

Whether you’re looking to explore the miles of sandy beaches across Bournemouth and Poole or go and explore the New Forest National Park, this is the perfect base. There’s also a great children’s playground on site and your dog is welcome too.

To find out more about all these campsites and more, visit www.theoutdoorguide.co.uk/stay/camping-glamping

Sennen Cove Club Site, Cornwall

Hot water burns like fire

By Jenni Dunman

Did you know that hot water burns like fire? According to the British Burn Association, more than seven thousand children were burned or scalded in 2022 alone in England and Wales. This figure doesn’t include the thousands seen and discharged in A&E. These are the children who were so badly injured they had to be admitted to a Specialist Burns Unit.

Most accidents that cause burns and scalds to babies and children involve hot water. So let’s take a look at the risks within the home.

Hot drinks

Hot drink burns are all too common but easily preventable with these simple rules:

Keep hot drinks out of reach of young children. Place them at the back of the kitchen surface and never on a tablecloth or teatowel that a small child might reach and pull down; Never carry a hot drink whilst carrying a baby; Never pass a hot drink over the heads of children.

Hot water bottles

Hot water bottles can be dangerous and cause burns if they are not cared for or used safely. Rubber deteriorates over time so old hot water bottles can burst or leak and cause serious burns. Check for signs of wear and tear regularly. Look for the flower symbol, which indicates exactly when it was made and don’t use if it’s more than two years old. Never fill a hot water bottle with boiling water.

Saucepan and kettle spills

It is important that children are not left alone around hot cooking surfaces; keep them out of the kitchen when cooking or preparing food and hot drinks. Always use the back burners on the hob when you can, turning handles in and keeping kettles and their cords out of reach of little hands.

Baths and showers

Hot water can pose a real danger. Bath and shower water can cause such bad burns that children need years of treatment and may be scarred for life. It only takes one second to get a deep burn in hot water when the water temperature is at 70°C. Always run cold water before hot and test the temperature with the back of your hand. Never leave a child alone in the bath, even for a second.

Jenni Dunman is CEO of Daisy First Aid (www.daisyfirstaid. com) which is an expert in baby and child First Aid. She’s a regular speaker at The Baby Show (www.thebabyshow.co.uk) which returns to NEC Birmingham 10-12 May, Manchester Central 7-9 June and Olympia London 25-27 October.

What to do if your child gets burned

It is important to act immediately if your child gets burned from any source. The most common sources of burns in the home are hot water and perhaps less predictably, picking up hair straighteners. Here are the steps to follow:

REMOVE any loose clothing or jewellery. Don’t remove anything that is stuck to the skin.

COOL the burn by holding it under cool (not freezing) running water for twenty minutes.

CALL for help by dialling 111 for advice or 999 in an emergency.

COVER the burn using cling film to keep it clean and get it checked by a medical professional. You can buy special burns creams and burns bandages from most pharmacies in the UK.

Finally: consider signing up to a baby and child First Aid course. This will give you practical skills which can make all the difference in an emergency. It’s the qualification you hope you’ll never need.

Children’s GP services

Dr Ella Russell offers private GP consultations at Tower Clinic, Leeds. Here she explains the wide range of services provided…

As a Doctor and GP of 27 years, I welcome children of all ages at the clinic in Leeds. I offer private GP consultations for newborn babies through to teenagers and am used to managing a very wide range of presentations including infections, skin complaints, feeding problems and mood disorders.

As a parent I understand how worrying it can be if your child is unwell and I can offer same day appointments that are flexible and fit in with family life, even on evenings and weekends.

I can advise on or prescribe medications as needed, refer on to specialists and liaise with your NHS GP if needed.

The Children’s Service can also provide the full range of childhood immunisations, including those not widely available on the NHS, such as Chicken Pox vaccination, and Meningitis B vaccination for children of any age.

We are happy to carry out baby and childhood developmental checks – including the six week new born check and the eight month check.

The clinic is very well appointed and very family friendly and as such, I will do all I can to make you and your child’s trip to the doctors a positive and productive experience.

Get in touch today to see how I can help you and your family. Call 01132 576701 or visit www.towerclinic.co.uk

Rise in measles prompts vaccination campaign

A national campaign to boost uptake of a vaccine that protects against measles has been launched in England after a rise in cases of the potentially deadly disease.

Measles outbreaks have occurred around the country, including in London, with the West Midlands experiencing cases at their highest level since the mid-1990s.

The situation has led the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) to declare a national incident, with health experts warning further outbreaks could occur in other towns and cities unless uptake of the measles, mumps and rubella (MMR) vaccine increases.

Figures from NHS England suggest more than 3.4 million children under the age of 16 years are unprotected against this trio of serious and preventable diseases.

The new campaign will encourage children who have not had MMR vaccinations to receive their missed doses.

More info: www.bit.lyNHSMeasles

Top items for your home First Aid Kit

Digital thermometer. The NHS recommends under-arm thermometers for under 5s.

Ice pack. A top tip for when you’re at home is to pop a bag of marshmallows into a plastic food bag and freeze for an instant ice pack. Remember, never put ice directly on the skin; always wrap it in a tea towel before applying the cold compress.

Liquid paracetamol. Don’t forget that you can give your little one pain relief if they hurt themselves in an accident. It’s not just for when they have a fever and are unwell.

Alcohol-free wipes. Use to clean wounds before dressing them.

A red flannel. When a child hurts themselves it can be scary to see lots of blood. Having something red to help mop it up can help disguise the severity of more nasty cuts.

It may also be useful to keep a basic first aid manual or instruction booklet with your First Aid kit.

Health website for West Yorkshire parents

Have you visited www.wyhealthiertogether.nhs.uk - a website with advice and information provided by health professionals? Covering everything from asthma, chicken pox, coughs, colds and croup, to what to do if your child has a high temperature, it is a fantastic resource for parents and carers in this area.

The website attracted over 96,700 visitors within its first 12 months and last year it was runner up and highly commended in the Health Service Journal Digital Awards 2023.

Dr Nicola Allshorn who worked on the website said: "This project has been developed based on the insights of the local population, which identified the need for information. There has been a lot of development undertaken to ensure the website is the best tool it can be for parents and carers. We’re excited about all the future possibilities the website has to improve the health and wellbeing of children and young people."

The website design means the information is available in several languages and formats, and with technology for those who prefer to hear the information read out.

Clubs & Classes Directory

Toddler Sense

Classes are available for children from 13 months to five years. Explore adventure play time on bouncy castles, soft play, rides and more. Enjoy themed sensory activities with puppet shows, interactive games and light shows. Different equipment and theme each week.

Text Lou on 07870265916 or email northleeds@toddlersense.co.uk

toddlersense.com/northleeds

Tumble Tots

Classes available in North Leeds.

Children explore and develop their physical skills by climbing, balancing, jumping and rolling on brightly coloured bespoke equipment. Sessions tailored to the needs of babies from six months to seven years. See their confidence soar!

Sarah.cowgill@tumbletots.com

tumbletots.com/harrogate

Number Train

Number Train is a fun and interactive introduction to maths for preschool children designed and delivered by an experienced primary maths specialist. With a different theme each week, sessions keep your child engaged with games, action songs, art and craft.

Call 07852 989523 numbertrain@hotmail.com

numbertrain.co.uk

Babyballet® Leeds North

Fun and informal dance classes for ages 18 months to 6 years. Through an imaginative syllabus children are taught basic ballet steps but will have fun expressing themselves whilst developing skills such as balance, co-ordination, rhythm and more! Classes in Alwoodley, Yeadon, Bramhope and Rawdon.

leedsnorth@babyballet.co.uk

KICKS Football

KICKS Football provides high quality training sessions for boys and girls aged 4-12. All sessions are planned and tailored to each group's needs and abilities. The KICKS development journey begins at age 4 to 5 with focus on the movement fundamentals and the introduction to football.

Call 07720 266624 or 07725 597961

kicksfootball.co.uk

Debutots

Providing interactive storytelling and dramatic play sessions for ages six months to seven years. Fun, exciting classes develop children's language skills, promote their confidence and creativity.

Family Story Play on Friday mornings at Jackaboos Playgym Farsley. Monthly Sunday Family Story Play and Craft. Call 0113 8591130

Little Seedlings

Little Seedlings run pregnancy, baby and toddler classes that focus on development in a fun, easy way.

Each class includes messy play, rhymes and activities that cover all areas of learning, focusing on both the adult and child.

lucy@littleseedlingsuk.com

littleseedlingsuk.com

Music Bugs

Sensory, play-based music and singing classes for babies, toddlers and preschoolers.

The 40 minute sessions provide your children with a lovely opportunity to socialise and develop in a creative and stimulating environment.

Call 0844 5781043

Musicbugs.co.uk

Leeds & West Yorkshire Your Club or Class Here?

Would you like to promote your club or classes in our next issue and reach 1,000s of local parents?

Email Claire for more information at editor@familiesleeds.co.uk

Choosing a reading book

By Zuzu Jordan

‘I don’t like reading’ are words parents dread to hear and battle to change and in such households, reading can become a non-negotiable, timed and recorded homework chore. Yet we all strive to mould children who want to read, for pleasure, which becomes increasingly difficult to achieve when we have to compete with modern devices.

So how do we encourage a love for reading and books?

It starts with knowing how to match reading material to the child. When children are given complete free rein in choosing a book, sometimes it can be overwhelming.

Forgive the cliché but they often ‘judge a book by its cover’ or pick a book they find too challenging to actually read and end up giving up on it all together. Children need just as much support in choosing a book as they do reading one.

Try some of these techniques next time they seem stuck in choosing something:

Five finger rule. Ask them to read the first page of a book. If they struggle to read more than five words on that page then the book doesn’t suit them YET!

Try different genres. Not all reading has to be fictional. Expose children to non-fiction in the form of child-friendly newspapers or information text on a subject they might be interested in.

Find an author your child likes and research other works by the same author.

Reading comprehension

Becoming a confident reader is more than just decoding words or ‘barking’ at the text. Children who can seemingly read fluently can lack understanding which may go undetected.

There are different types of questions you can ask which will help your child to develop their comprehension of what they read. For example: retrieval questions, vocabulary questions, inference questions, prediction questions, summarising questions, author choice questions and giving opinion type of questions. All these questions are worded to encourage your child to interact with the text on a deeper level.

In order to answer comprehension questions, your child needs to learn to scan a text quickly. Viewing reading passages in chunks or paragraphs will make this less overwhelming for them and looking for key words and numbers will certainly help with retrieval type questions. Most other questions require evidence and therefore actual examples from the text. When you are reading with your child, ask them for evidence of their opinions on characters, plot, setting and vocabulary.

Listen to the audio version. Listening to someone else read can motivate children to read the book themselves.

Use organisations like Book Trust and CLPE (Centre for Literacy in Primary Education) which have created recommended book lists for different age groups.

Find out what they are reading in school. What other books are similar? Which other books did the same author write?

Meet the author. Getting a signed copy and meeting the author can encourage children to read. Look out for events at your local book shop.

Apply for the Blue Peter Book Badge which requires children to read a book and submit a review.

Zuzu Jordan is a Mastery for Maths specialist who has taught primary aged children for sixteen years and is interested in early years and home learning. For free homework and home learning resources, find her on Instagram at edumate_uk

Audio books

Technology has progressed so much in recent years that playing audio books for children has become easier. Although as parents we would like them to actually read the book, there are many benefits to listening to someone else reading.

Of course, children need to develop the ability to decode words and read independently with stamina. But audio books can be convenient and just as portable as the paper versions. In fact, you can carry more books in your pocket when they are in an audio format and take them anywhere: in the car, bedroom, aeroplane and even the bath!

A narrated story can increase your child’s interest in a book, particularly if different voices narrate the characters.

Audio books also help with language development as children will naturally be exposed to more vocabulary and books that they may not be able to read yet.

Reading along with the audio is a great tip! If you all listen to the same audio book, you can share the same experiences which naturally opens up dialogue.

Discover play-filled inspiration to support the development of your child – with benefits for you too!

Rebecca Oberg, from the team behind 50 Things, explains how this exciting initiative works…

Did you know that even just a few minutes a day of playing together strengthens relationships between you and your children? Or that playful times can be relaxing and enjoyable for you all, which helps with your wellbeing?

50 Things to Do Before You’re Five is available as an app, full of ideas and playful activities, created for families to explore and enjoy at your own pace. It is available for FREE across the whole of West Yorkshire, referencing places and spaces in your local area.

Every 50 Things to Do Before You’re Five activity helps children learn, with a focus on relationships, language development and playing together, supported by their most important teacher - you. Why? Because the sorts of things you do with your children at home makes a big difference to their long-term learning and wellbeing.

50 Things to Do Before You’re Five was created by our team of education and early years specialists, using theories of learning, child development and play. Our activities all help your child develop the skills, language and resilience needed for starting school and beyond.

But, what you really need to know is that 50 Things to Do is just full of fun stuff to do with your children! You will find a wide range of activities from outdoor discoveries in the woods, to exploring how sound changes in different places, to sharing stories and water play!

Play and wellbeing: benefits for the whole family

Often, when families are playing together you will hear laughter. This laughter triggers our body’s natural feel-good chemicals, endorphins, which promote our sense of wellbeing. And, I recently found out that you don’t even have to be laughing yourself, just hearing others laugh triggers neurons in your brain, which makes you feel as if you are laughing too!

Playing as a family also provides the ideal bonding opportunity and when you’re playing together the hormone oxytocin, which is thought to reduce stress and blood pressure, as well as playing a role in parent-infant bonding, is released!

Playing outside adds even more benefits “Time spent outdoors, in nature, increases life expectancy, improves well-being,

#29

Pitter Patter

reduces symptoms of depression and increases a child’s ability to function in school.” (Open University’s OPENspace Research Centre).

So, when you’ve finished reading the magazine, download our app or visit your local website and start your 50 Things to Do Before You’re Five adventure.

Use the tabs, on the website and app, which explain how, when, where to do the activities, as well as useful resources, local links, adaptations for a child with additional needs. There are also suggested books and key words to use, linked with the activity.

You can use the events space to find a list of things happening near you that are perfect for children and families. This list is specially selected to include only low or no cost events, so that going out doesn't have to cost a fortune.

If you work in an Early Years setting or as a childminder, we have resources available to support the roll out of the initiative with your families. Do get in touch if you want to know more info@50Thingstodo.org

www.50thingstodo.org

Family fun with National Children’s Gardening Week

This summer, why not get involved in National Children’s Gardening week?

Taking place from May 25 to June 2, in the 'warm' half term at the end of May means that pretty much throughout the UK, children can plant all their favourite plants with less fear of weather damage or the need for complicated protective growing.

As well as simply good outdoor fun, gardening has been shown to have many benefits to health and wellbeing including being more physically active and feeling happier and more connected with the natural world.

There are many ways to get involved with National Children’s Gardening Week from DIY activities at home, to attending an event at a local garden centre.

More info: www.childrensgardeningweek.co.uk

PICTURE CROSSWORD

Can you solve the picture

Child Friendly Leeds Wish 8 – Reducing the impact of poverty

Child Friendly Leeds, an organisation working to create better outcomes for children and young people in Leeds, has as its heart 12 wishes. They represent the top issues and ‘wishes’ for 80,000 children and young people in Leeds.

Wish 8 is that Leeds is a city that reduces the impact of poverty and helps families who need it. It is a place where children, young people and families experiencing poverty feel they are supported and receive the help they need. They have their basic rights and needs met.

Since October Child Friendly Leeds (CFL) has been raising awareness of one wish per month. During May 2024, the focus is on Wish 8. This month, CFL’s new Wish 8 page has gone live on its blogsite.

This page highlights the help available to families across the city, from support with bills and food to uniform swaps to free things to do.

Find the page at: wearechildfriendlyleeds.com/wish-8

Tailored Transitioning at King’s Magna Middle School

Joseph Birchall, Head of Middle School at Queen Ethelburga’s Collegiate, explains its unique and tailored approach to Year 6 transition…

After Year 5, most students are ready for a new challenge. This is why we tailor our Year 6 curriculum around senior school transitioning. Whilst our Year 6 students continue to have a designated classroom with specialist Year 6 teachers for English, Maths, Humanities and Personal Development across a topicbased curriculum, other classes including sport and performing arts are taught by specialist subject teachers across the campus. This allows our students to achieve a higher level of knowledge in specific disciplines and to prepare for optional academic, sport, or art pathways within a programme that supports a gradual introduction to senior school life.

Whilst most schools focus Year 6 study on the Key Stage 2 SATs, we forgo these tests and reassign that time to preparing for Key Stage 3 and beyond, the results of which can be seen in how highly our senior schools perform in GCSEs and A Levels each year. Our extra year of tailored learning creates space within the curriculum for computer science, three modern languages and two options where we can emphasise skills such as critical thinking, effective study and revision, collaboration, creativity, and entrepreneurship. www.qe.org

What's On

Have you got an event you’d like to share with us? Email it to editor@familiesleeds.co.uk

We took every care in preparing these entries but sometimes events are cancelled or times change. Please double check with the organiser to avoid disappointment.

ONGOING

Gnome Roam at Newmillerdam Country Park

This simple walking trail encourages children to use signs and clues to spot carved statues of gnomes and wildlife. You may even spot a gigantic bear.

Story and Rhyme at Leeds Libraries

A fun session of sharing stories and rhymes in a relaxed and friendly atmosphere. At various times at 32 local libraries on weekdays. FREE.

Exhibition: On the Bench at Thackray Medical Museum

On the Bench is the gamechanging story of sport and injury, exploring what happens when players get injured and who helps them recover.

Every Monday and Wednesday Bounce and Rhyme at Leeds Libraries

A fun session of sharing songs and rhymes with your baby in a relaxed and friendly atmosphere. FREE. Monday - Central, Holt Park. Wednesday – Headingley. 1.30pm.

Every Monday, Wednesday and Friday (term time only)

Storytime at The Little Bookshop, Chapel Allerton

Enjoy a cosy story time featuring delightful books for young children. For ages 2-5. 1111.25am. FREE.

Toddler Tuesdays at Castleford Museum

A lively session of storytelling, crafts and rhymes, inspired by a different museum object each week. 10-11am.

Tuesdays and Thursdays

Storytime for Under 5s at Truman Books in Farsley

Take your little ones for a session of stories and songs in kids’ corner. Suitable for under-fives. Tuesdays at 9.30am, Thursdays at 10.30am. FREE.

Fridays, Tiny Tigers at Leeds City Museum

Creative, messy sessions for under 5s and their carers. Babies, toddlers and preschoolers welcome. FREE, drop in, no need to book. 10-11.45am.

Every Friday, Saturday and Sunday Dungeon Tours at Pontefract Castle

Soak in the atmosphere of

this eerie underground space, discover the history of the dungeon and see where Civil War prisoners left to languish scratched their names into the rock. 10.45-11.30am.

Every Friday, Saturday and Sunday Castle Explorer Tour at Pontefract Castle

Discover who built and lived in the castle and listen to stories of unfaithful Queens, imprisoned Kings as well the castle’s role in the English Civil Wars. All ages. 12-12.45pm.

Rory’s Saturday Club at Leeds City Museum

Looking for something creative to do with kids in the city? Head to Leeds City Museum for Rory’s Saturday Club craft sessions for families with children of all ages. FREE, drop in. 11am-12.15pm.

Saturdays and Sundays Garden Play at The Hepworth Stack, build, experiment, draw and imagine with your family in the open air. No need to book, just turn up and play. 11am to 4pm. FREE.

MAY

May 5

Super Soapbox Challenge in Bradford

A great day out for all the family with continual commentary and all the action visible on large format screens. As well as the excitement on the course itself, there’ll be a funfair, live music and lots of local food and drink outlets to choose from. Watch out for a celebrity guest! FREE.

May 5

Summer Open Day at Temple Newsam

Explore the house and farm for a special summer open day where you can pay what you feel, 11am to 3pm. No need to book. Open days are usually busy – first come first served.

May 5

Family Workshop: Sculpt and Play at The Hepworth Wakefield Play with materials to explore the hollows and holes of Barbara Hepworth’s sculptures. Visit the galleries with your family to discover Hepworth’s sculptures. Look at the textures and shapes in the artworks and experiment with making your own sculptures using your kit of sensory textiles shapes. In the learning studios squish,

twist, roll and carve colourful modelling materials to make your own Hepworth inspired mini sculpture.

May 6

Ilkley Carnival Ilkley will be transformed into a sea of colour, music, street performers and a fabulous feel-good atmosphere when the Mardi Gras-themed parade comes to town.

May 11

Northern Ballet’s The Tortoise and the Hare at St George’s Hall

The perfect introduction to live ballet and music, your little ones will be cheering along as a playful cast of characters re-tell this classic tale.

May 11 and 12

North Leeds Food Festival at Roundhay Park

Find live music, family entertainment, activities, demos, kids cooking classes, artisan markets and much more.

May 12

Family Workshop: Paint Studio at The Hepworth Wakefield

Join artist Rachel Sim to play with painting inspired by the Andrew Cranston: What made you stop here? exhibition. Visit the galleries with your family to explore stories, marks, texture and colour in Andrew Cranston’s paintings. In the Clore Learning Studios add to the painting wall or make your own imaginative artwork using watercolours, oil pastels, paint and wax.

May 19

Ministry of Science Live at Lawrence Batley Theatre

Dive deep into the world of science and look at how science shapes the modern world we live in with a few loud bangs along the way. 100% Educational. 200% Entertaining. 300% Explosive. 400% Fun.

May 23

The Three Bears at Carriageworks Theatre

Take your bears for an adventure in the woods, with original music, puppets and a tale you thought you knew (featuring Goldilocks). Every show is a relaxed, friendly and fun theatre

experience for children aged 6 and under and their grown-ups.

May 23 to 25

Awful Auntie at The Alhambra Theatre

Following their acclaimed productions of Gangsta Granny, Billionaire Boy and Demon Dentist, Birmingham Stage Company are proud to present a fabulous new production of David Walliams’ amazing adventure, featuring a small ghost, a huge owl and a very awful Auntie!

May 25

Princess Concert at the Lawrence Batley Theatre

Step into a world where fairy tales collide with pop sensation! Be enchanted by the heartwarming story of six princesses who dared to dream beyond the castle walls.

May 25

The Little Prince at Lawrence Batley Theatre

Through mesmerising puppetry and beautiful music the boy who fell to earth teaches his friend the Aviator about love, life and real happiness in this adaptation of one of the best-selling children's books of all time.

May 25

West Riding to West Africa at Leeds Industrial Museum

A family-friendly day exploring the incredible story of how engineering linked West Yorkshire and Sierra Leone in West Africa. There will be fun children’s activities, a display of model trains and family railway films shown in the tiny 1930s-style cinema, the Palace Picture House. Drop-in, included with admission.

May 25

Discover in a Day at Yorkshire Sculpture Park

Spark your family’s imagination and support your young person to achieve their Arts Award

Discover. Take part in creative activities that will get everyone’s minds thinking, hands making and imaginations soaring. Suitable for all ages six plus and anyone up to the age of 25 can achieve their Arts Award. All children must be supervised.

Super Soapbox Challenge in Bradford

May 25 to 27

Abbey House Craft Fayre at Abbey House Museum

Browse a range of art and craft stalls from local makers and creatives, showcasing handmade items including homewares, accessories and natural beauty products. There will also be a pop-up café with refreshments. FREE, drop-in. 11am to 3pm.

May 25 to June 2

Greek Week Myths & Legends at Royal Armouries

This May half-term the museum will be invaded by warriors from Ancient Greece; bringing with them their battle stories and combat skills. So charge on down to Leeds Dock and enjoy a packed programme of brandnew combat demonstrations and dramatic presentations - all for FREE.

May 25 to June 2

Design it, Build it! At Eureka! Calling all young designers, engineers and inventors. Embark on a creative journey this half term at the National Children’s Museum. Every day during the holidays there will be a drop-in to Imagination Space where you can test your problem solving and creative skills with a range of hands-on activities, as well as drop-in activities in the Creativity Space for ages five and under.

From May 25 to 29, Get your hands on thousands of LEGO bricks and build your own crazy golf obstacle, then play a round. Suitable for ages 4yrs+ due to small parts. No LEGO bricks can be taken home.

From May 30 to June 2, See what amazing creations you can make with KAPLA® – the educational wooden construction toy that encourages logical thinking, stimulates creativity and helps develop concentration, patience and perseverance. Drop-in workshops in the theatre between 11am-1pm and 1:30pm4pm. Suitable for ages four plus.

May 25 to June 2

Wildflowers and pollinators trail at Nostell Follow the trail as it winds through the gardens and woodland adventure play area

to find out about the incredible work that garden pollinators do. Pretend to be a bee on the zip wire and see if you can carry the pollen to the hive. Weave amongst the wildflowers and meet the leaf cutter, honey, miner and bumble bee along the way before buzzing off on your next adventure to the house to get busy with family craft activities.

May 25 to June 2

Find Your Happy at Temple Newsam

Find your happy at Temple Newsam this May half term. Take part in fun family crafts and activities that will make you feel good and put a smile on your face. Explore the house and don’t forget to visit the happy animals at Home Farm. Drop in, included in the price of admission.

May 25 to June 2

Around the World in 80 Stories at Lotherton

Visit Lotherton this half term for crafts, storytelling and adventures inspired by tales from across the globe. Dropin, included in the price of admission.

May 27 to June 5

Fun with Felt at Leeds Industrial Museum

Fun family activities. Get creative with felt and see if you can spot all the felted animals that have made their home in the museum and tick them off your spotting sheet as part of this new Entangled exhibition.

May 28

Comedy Club 4 Kids at Carriageworks Theatre

Cracking entertainment for everyone over six years old and under 400 years old (no vampires). The best comedians from the UK and world circuit doing what they do best… but without the rude bits!

May 28

Milkshake Live on Holiday at St George’s Hall

Join your favourite Milkshake friends on Holiday with Chase and Marshall from Paw Patrol, Dora, Pip and Posy, Blue from Blue’s Clues and You!

May 29

Shells, Sea Creatures and Slime at Leeds Discovery Centre

Oysters, snails, squid, shells, octopuses, limpets… molluscs are a fascinating part of the natural world, in water and on land. Find out about the deadly ones, the weird ones, the fabulous ones and the absolutely enormous ones, all waiting to be found at Leeds Discovery Centre in this fun family workshop. FREE, booking required. Call 0113 378 2100 or email discovery.centre@leeds. gov.uk.

May 30

Half-Term store Tour at Leeds Discovery Centre

A special behind the scenes tour of the Leeds Museums and Galleries collection store. Leeds Discovery Centre is the purpose-built facility where over one million objects that are not on display are kept. It’s a treasure trove of historical artefacts from archaeology and taxidermy animals to clothing, toys, art, and furniture. What will you discover? FREE, booking required. Call 0113 3782100 or email discovery.centre@leeds. gov.uk to book.

May 31

There Was An Old Lady Who Swallowed a Fly at Carriageworks Theatre

This much-loved story is brought to life with a stunning combination of live action, animation and puppetry.

JUNE

June 1

Leeds Wool Festival at Leeds Industrial Museum

Leeds’s original festival of wool is back for 2024! Go along to Leeds Industrial Museum to celebrate all things woolly, right inside what was once the world’s largest woollen mill. There will be a market with local traders selling a wide range of yarns and crafting products, live demonstrations, fun family activities and refreshments. 10am to 5pm.

June 1 and 2

You Choose at Carriageworks Theatre

Based on the brilliant book by Pippa Goodhart and Nick Sharratt, Nonsense Room Productions brings you an interactive musical show for all the family. But in this show –YOU CHOOSE what happens! Ages 2 to 7.

June 1 and 2

The Volsung Vikings at Lotherton Dust off your chainmail and shield... the Volsung Vikings will be invading the grounds of Lotherton this June! Join a weekend of Vikingthemed activities - with living encampments, thrilling battle performances, kids' activities and lots of fun. Dress up and

get involved, as history is brought to life. Included with admission price (pre-booking recommended).

June 1 to 3

In The Night Garden Live at Lawrence Batley Theatre

Join Igglepiggle as he looks for his friends in the Night Garden by following their funny sounds until he finds them all!

June 8

Open Gardens at St Gemma’s Hospice

Wander amongst the beautiful gardens, admire the water features and gain inspiration for your own garden. Refreshments including tea and cakes as well as a tombola stall, raffle, gifts and plants will be on sale to raise funds for the hospice. Entry £5.

June 15 to 16

1940s Weekend

Join in the 1940s weekend at Lotherton and be transported back in time with vintage music and dancing. The award-winning vocalist Miss Marina Mae will be performing throughout the weekend. Family-friendly outdoor garden games and craft activities will be taking place to keep little ones entertained. Included with admission price. See if you can spot all the felted animals that have made their home in the museum and tick them off your spotting sheet as part of the new Entangled exhibition. There will be fun family activities on May 28, 29 and 30, from 11am to 2pm.

June 18 to 20

Zog and the Flying Doctors at Lawrence Batley Theatre

Based on Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler’s bestselling sequel, Freckle Productions (Zog, Stick Man, Tiddler & Other Terrific Tales) are back, with music and lyrics by Joe Stilgoe (Zog), for this truly modern take on the classic fairytale.

June 29

Summer Picnic at Temple Newsam

Take a picnic and enjoy a special day out at Temple Newsam. Admission fee also includes entry to the house and farm. There will be crafts and entertainment for all the family and refreshments will be available for sale. 11am to 3pm. Tickets £5 pp aged 1 plus.

June 29 and 30

Kirkstall Abbey Markets

Set in the beautiful surroundings of Kirkstall Abbey ruins, weekend markets are a great way to shop locally with different stallholders joining every month. Take in the delicious smells and tastes of Yorkshire-made produce including cheeses, chutneys, and sweet and savoury bakes. FREE.

Don't forget to say you saw these events in Families Leeds & West Yorkshire Magazine!