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Leeds & West Yorkshire
IN THIS ISSUE
WHAT’S ON IS BACK! Find re-openings, events, family theatre and more Plus: Camping, Education and Summer Fun
Win a family holiday at an Away Resort! Magazine
May/June 2021
Familiesonline.co.uk
SEE INSIDE
Familiesonline.co.uk May/June 1
A Leeds Playhouse production
Outside at Playhouse Square and at community venues across the city
FROM 27 MAY 0113 213 7700 @leedsplayhouse leedsplayhouse.org.uk Production Sponsor
2 May/June
Families Partner
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CONTENTS
Welcome As the world opens up again (and by that I mean Leeds and West Yorkshire!) we have so many ideas for early summer fun in this issue. It has been amazing to once again compile our What’s On listings (pages 38-40) as our fabulous family friendly theatres, museums and attractions open their doors once more. And of course, lots of families will be wanting to get away, so we have a five page UK holiday special to inspire you. Many children will be eagerly awaiting a birthday party, so take a look at our downloadable party planner which might make things easier. Of course, low-key home-based activities and ideas are still an important part of any family itinerary, and you’ll find tons of recipes, crafts, book recommendations, as well as parenting and education articles. We also have competitions to win outdoor toys for summer as well as exclusive giveaways for our subscribers. If you’re not a subscriber, why not sign up now so you don’t miss out on our future subscriber-only offerings? Finally, happy Fathers’ Day to all the fantastic dads for June 20th – you rock!
Get in touch In This Issue 4
Education
9
Summer fun
13
Father’s Day
17
Early years
Outdoor toy giveaway! Gazillion Rollin’ Wave
24 Holidays 30 Home improvement 32 Birthday parties 34 Health 38 What’s on Competition Winners from our Jan/Feb issue. Congratulations to Joanne Long and Jennifer Vlodyka who received subscription boxes of their choice. Families is a registered trademark of LCMB Ltd, Remenham House, Regatta Place, Marlow Road, Bourne End, Bucks SL8 5TD. The contents of this magazine are fully protected by copyright and none of the editorial or photographic matter may be reproduced in any form without prior consent of Families Print Ltd. Every care is taken in the preparation of this magazine but Families Print Ltd, its distributors, franchisees and LCMB Ltd cannot be held responsible for the claims of advertisers nor for the accuracy of the contents, or any consequences thereof.
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May/June 3
EDUCATION
Life skills beyond the classroom How many of these skills does your child have? Help them learn with these great instructional videos.
Touch typing
Repairing a bicycle puncture
Dialling 999
Basic sewing
Making a bed
Pitching a tent
Tying a shoe lace
Performing a shout and signal rescue
Managing money
4 May/June
Familiesonline.co.uk
Discover an amazing day out at Lotherton • • •
Visit Wildlife World to see the penguins Explore the Museum and see the Making Japan exhibition Play outdoors and stop by the café to refuel
Pre-book your tickets on our website lotherton.leeds.gov.uk
Familiesonline.co.uk
May/June 5
EDUCATION
Books that challenge gender stereotypes Books can be purchased via Bookshop.org an online bookshop which financially supports local, independent bookshops and of which Families Magazine is an affiliate.
My First Book of Feminism
She Rex
Julie Merberg Ages 0-3.
Michelle Robinson & Deborah Allwright Ages 3+.
The Paper Bag Princess
Tough Guys Have Feelings Too
Robert Munsch & Michael Martchenko Ages 4-7.
Rebel Girls Lead: 25 Tales of Powerful Women Ages 6-9.
6 May/June
Keith Negley Ages 5-6.
Love Your Body Jessica Sanders & Carol Rossetti Ages 7+.
My Daddy is a Nurse
Kerrine Bryan & Jason Bryan. Ages 2-5.
Stories for Boys Who Dare to be Different 2
Ben Brooks & Quinton Winter. Ages 9-12.
Molly on the March Anna Carey Ages 10-12.
Familiesonline.co.uk
Get Outdoors + Find Your Wellbeing SPRING / SUMMER at HAREWOOD
SAVE AN EXTRA 10% with code SPRINGFAMILIES when you book and visit before 4 July.*
Registered charity in England no 517753 *Standard terms & conditions (see website) apply, day visit only; offer not valid on event days.
Familiesonline.co.uk
With exciting outdoor installations and a brand new circular walk, there’s something for everyone to enjoy at Harewood. Get back to outdoor family fun this Spring.
Online booking essential harewood.org May/June 7
SUMMER FUN
Outdoor toys We asked our friends at The Good Toy Guide to put together their recommendations. You can read reviews of each toy on their site.
Walkie Talkies
Kidnoculars
Diditrike
5 in 1 Outdoor Measure Mate
Paint-a-Puzzle
First Weather Science Kit
Hop Skip Jump
Discovery Adventures Metal Detector
The JUNKO Kits
8 May/June
Familiesonline.co.uk
SUMMER FUN
Making the most of the summer By Claire Winter Summer is almost here - time to start planning fun family activities! Book it! Most venues will have a booking system to avoid overcrowding and to ensure Covid-compliance. Book and arrive early. Less is more. Don’t over schedule. You will have become accustomed to less stimulation. Brainstorm quieter places to visit, or plan events on alternate days/weekends. Don’t forget the food…. Don’t get stuck in long food queues. Hungry kids and ‘hangry’ parents don’t mix. Take a packed lunch and snacks. Enjoy the spontaneous. After months of restrictions, embrace spontaneity again. Why not take a day trip to the seaside or visit somewhere new?
May & June highlights Film & Theatre. Get lost in another world as theatres and cinemas reopen. Leeds Playhouse is staging an open-air production for all ages – Fairy Poppins and the Naughty Winter Ghost. There’s also a production of Zog coming to Leeds Town Hall. In the cinema, Peter Rabbit 2 is due out so watch out for showings to book. Or there are drive-in film showings taking place at Harewood House. Visit museums and galleries. Many of the fabulous museums and galleries on our doorstep are reopening – book ahead and enjoy Leeds City Musuem, Leeds Art Gallery, Leeds Industrial Museum, Abbey House Museum, The Royal Familiesonline.co.uk
Armouries or The National Science and Media Museum to name a few. Day trip. If your preference is still fresh air, there are so many great places with wonderful outside space to visit - Harewood House (save 10% with the code SPRINGFAMILIES when you book to visit before July 4), Temple Newsam, Yorkshire Sculpture Park, Lotherton Hall, Kirkstall Abbey or a trip to the seaside, hike on Ilkley Moor or a day in the park! May/June 9
FOOD
Family-friendly al fresco dining recipes Get the family into the kitchen to help prepare some perfect food for eating outside.
Sticky chicken drumsticks
Easy traditional lemonade
Nutella fairy bread
Rainbow Jam tarts
Cheesy spinach muffins
Super sausage rolls
Layered rainbow salad pots
Child-friendly hummus with crudites
Simple tuna salad with pasta
10 May/June
Familiesonline.co.uk
Have a family fun day out at Temple Newsam
Familiesonline.co.uk
May/June 11
Ey up Leeds. Been a while.
Plan a day out at one of our eight museums & galleries across Leeds and we’ll keep the kids entertained for you. Now that’s a great idea.
museumsandgalleries.leeds.gov.uk 12 May/June
Familiesonline.co.uk
FATHER’S DAY
DIY Father’s Day gift ideas Help your child make something special for Dad this Father’s Day.
Lego photo pen holder
Scribble mug
Dad Rocks paperweight
Zig-zag Father’s Day card
Keepsake box
Printable Father’s Day book
Remote caddy
Dad’s special supper
Father’s Day card
Familiesonline.co.uk
May/June 13
EDUCATION
Time to book a summer camp? If you are looking for a fun-filled holiday camp to cover some school holiday childcare, United Adventure Camps by United Education is a leading holiday day camp provider for children aged from 3 to 14. Camps are full of adventure, nature and discovery, where children of the same age can have fun together. They are held at various locations across Yorkshire, including Ghyll Royd School in Ilkley, Ilkley Grammar School, GSAL in Leeds and Moorlands School in Leeds. Camps create environments for children to learn, grow and prosper through a host of multi-activity programmes, specialist camps, sports academies and excursions. Common activities on camp include team sports, crafts, archery, games, drama and bushcraft to name a few. Programmes engage and excite, with staff maintaining high standards as they inspire and guide, always putting the children first. MORE INFORMATION.
Outdoor learning with Busy Birds Exciting new outdoor learning sessions for under-fives and their parents and carers have arrived in Leeds! Busy Birds follows the forest school ethos, with opportunities for children to dig, plant, paint, hunt for bugs, make mud pies and more. It’s run Charlotte Walker and Grace Webster, both teachers and life-long friends. “We both shared a vision of setting up inspiring opportunities for children to explore, play, learn and enjoy getting muddy outdoors, whatever the weather!” they explained. Classes launched last year at a Yolk Farm in Boroughbridge and at Stockeld Park near Wetherby. Now they are also being offered at Herd Farm in Leeds. Sessions are for children who are crawling up to age five. MORE INFORMATION. 14 May/June
Familiesonline.co.uk
EDUCATION
I don’t want to be THAT parent…..
Making science fun for kids
By Annabel Gray
By Oli Ryan
In my Facebook group Ask a Teacher, we always have a number of members stating that they don’t want to be ‘that’ parent with regard to expressing their concerns to teachers. I’m here, as a teacher, to tell you why teachers actually WANT you to be ‘that’ parent! READ MORE
Scientific processes happen all around us daily – just waiting to be discovered by curious, young scientists. Explore science with your kids outdoors, in the kitchen and even at bath time. Experiment with butter churning, toilet paper chromatography and making a rain gauge. READ MORE
Why we should prioritise stories this summer
looking for expert legal advice? we can help
By Sarah Campbell
• • • • • • •
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With summer on the horizon, we need inspiration for activities that help our children recover lost learning, support their mental health and bring some much-deserved fun to family life. What’s the one thing that embraces all these goals? READ MORE Familiesonline.co.uk
*Based on Emsleys’ client satisfaction survey results: January 2018 - February 2021
www.emsleys.co.uk May/June 15
Where big futures start...
Big futures start early. Come and experience our new school in action to see how we’re helping 3 - 7 year olds to fulfil their extraordinary potential through learning that is fun, personal and brimming with the very best provision and opportunities. 16 May/June
Margaret Street Wakefield WF1 2DG T. 01924 231618 pre-prep@wgsf.org.uk Familiesonline.co.uk
EARLY YEARS
Helping pre-schoolers re-engage with each other By Sarah Mundy Yesterday I was on the beach playing with my 3 year old son when a little girl ran up. She was interested in his toys, got straight in there, and then tried to give him a hug! Her awareness of personal space, even by pre-Covid standards, was non-existent and her excitement at seeing another child was simultaneously heart-breaking and warming. Her father explained that she had barely socialised with any children over the last year. Definitive evidence around the impact of lockdown on young children is yet to emerge. However, many parents are concerned about the lack of social experiences their children have had. They have missed out on things like toddler classes which help them learn the skill of being with others. In the early years, a child’s key relationship with their primary caregiver frames their view of themselves and the world around them. When secure, it acts as a buffer to adversity, meaning that children who have been doing okay at home will feel more able to confidently explore the world again, despite being potentially behind socially. Despite this, it wouldn’t be surprising if children are behind Familiesonline.co.uk
socially. By age 3, children actively seek to play with peers, but they need help in navigating social situations. Friendships can be complex and children need to learn about managing disagreements, understanding feelings (theirs and others), taking-turns, listening and co-operating. So, how do we support our children to feel ready to go back to preschool and help them (re)learn social skills? READ MORE
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May/June 17
EDUCATION
Addressing Post-Covid Learning Loss By Emma Martin As our worlds slowly open back up and children are in school once again, for many parents a key question will be how they can support their child’s learning postCovid. There has been much in the news about children being ‘behind’ and needing to ‘catch up.’ However, just as important is their emotional wellbeing, in particular connection, play, making sense of the world and resilience. By focusing on mental health, we can help our children to be in the best possible place to learn. Re-build and strengthen connections Children do need to catch up this summer – but to catch up with friends and family. Social connections have been hugely impacted by the pandemic, so it is important that we give children the time and space they need to enjoy being social again (and not just via a screen!). By giving time to rebuilding social connections, parents will be helping their child to feel good about themselves and to practice all the skills they need to help them get on with others in a positive way. Making sense of experiences One of the most important things parents can do this summer is to help children make sense of the pandemic so they don’t store 18 May/June
concerns. We can do this by helping them to share the challenges and successes of their own ‘Covid story’ through conversations, role play or painting and drawing. Read Emma’s suggestions for helping your child process the pandemic.
Bella Learning Games
Fun educational games to download, print and play.
Reception, Year 1 & Year 2 Packs
Available Now!
For examples, tips and advice, find Bella Learning Games on Facebook and Instagram.
www.bellalearning.co.uk Familiesonline.co.uk
EDUCATION
Addressing Post-Covid Learning Loss Cont... Let’s play! With opportunities limited during lockdown, by giving children the opportunity to play we can help them to develop their social, emotional and cognitive skills. Most importantly, play helps children to have positive thoughts about themselves which is exactly what we need to encourage right now. Nurture resilience Many people have commented on how resilient children have been during this tumultuous time. Whether your child has ridden the rollercoaster with ease or found it more challenging, placing a focus on problem solving and resilience is a sure-fire way to help your child make progress at school. One way to support your child’s ability to bounce back when things get tricky is to spend quality time doing an activity of their choice with them, whether it’s playdoh, kicking a ball about or playing a board game. By doing so, you are giving them a sense of safety and letting them know you are there for them. Let’s prioritise their wellbeing Think back to your own childhood and the things you enjoyed – being free to play, being yourself and being with friends. Let’s not give our children the message they are ‘behind,’ but instead celebrate their wonderful achievements during this tricky time. Familiesonline.co.uk
Emma Martin is an educational psychologist employed full-time by E-ACT multi-academy trust. She supports the trust’s primary academies in Bristol and is coauthor of its national Relationships and Recovery Curriculum.
School holiday camps full of adventure Childr en aged 3-14
0113 4830280 www.united-education.co.uk May/June 19
EDUCATION
Wakefield Grammar Pre-Preparatory School is opening soon! A co-educational pre-preparatory school from the governors at The Wakefield Grammar School Foundation will open in Wakefield in September.
Emma Gill
The Wakefield Grammar PrePreparatory School will offer inspirational early years and Key Stage One curriculums with girls and boys learning together in an immersive setting and play-based, child-initiated way to unlock each child’s full learning potential. With the new pre-prep school, the governors behind Wakefield Girls’ High School and QEGS aim to offer something special to the mix of schools already in the area. Talking about Wakefield Grammar Pre-Preparatory School, Head Emma Gill, said: “We’re offering a very personal learning experience: we are providing unique opportunities for children to learn through an exciting range of activities both inside and outdoors, igniting their curiosity and enthusiasm for learning. Girls and boys can choose how they want to learn based on their preferences, passions and interests and in this way we are very different from what you typically find in a traditional classroom. We know that big futures start early - and we are providing our youngest girls and boys with wonderful opportunities to make their learning 20 May/June
journey even better. They will make friendships for life on the way and be well prepared for more structured learning at later ages and stages.” Over the next few months, the team at Wakefield Grammar Prepreparatory School will be offering some taster events for all interested families. These include a Peter Rabbit Experience, a Jungle Experience and a visit to The Forest School. Families interested in the events and places at the school can contact the school by either telephone on 01924 231618 or via email preprep@wgsf. net to book a place or arrange a visit. The school is currently full for Year One and accepting applications for nursery and reception places. Further details are available at www.wgsf.org.uk or call 01924 231618. Familiesonline.co.uk
A Leeds Playhouse and Bunkamura co-production By Ella Hickson Based on the novel by JM Barrie
18 NOV – 22 JAN 0113 213 7700 @leedsplayhouse leedsplayhouse.org.uk Families Partner
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May/June 21
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EARLY YEARS
Making Maths fun for pre-schoolers Annette Peterson runs The Number Train, a fantastic pre-school class which helps children grow in confidence as they prepare for school. Through singing, dancing, playing games and making crafts, they explore numbers, shape, counting, positional language, measures and so much more in a fun and interactive way each week.
Annette Peterson
Here, Annette, an experienced primary school teacher, offers some top tips for helping children with maths… number train, they see what the numbers 1. Talk about numbers, shapes, size, time, look like as they say them. money, measuring in everyday life. Maths really is everywhere and by pointing it out 5. Don’t worry about going up through the number system at this stage - instead to children they will then notice and make deepen their understanding of numbers links themselves. to 10. Look at how numbers are bigger or 2. Try and make maths active. For example, smaller than each other, which numbers when singing nursery rhymes use objects comes next, how they go together. Our or counters to role play the songs so they number system is based on 0-10 so can see what happens when we take having a visual image of each number will away or add more. help them later on. 3. Stick to informal, practical activities using 6. With all activities, give lots of positive things THEY are interested in rather than praise. Try and hide any fear or dislike just rote counting aloud. Use playdough, that you may have of maths. Praising how paint, Duplo and their own toys. Focus hard they have tried and allowing them on the understanding of maths and time to think and correct themselves will don’t worry about writing numbers and help them believe in themselves and to completing worksheets. They will look at have a growth mindset in the future. writing numbers in school. Number Trian classes are held in Horsforth 4. Practise counting forwards and and Oakwood (or online) during term time backwards 0-10 using objects and a only and are suitable for children aged number line or track (for example, make a two-and-a-half to five years. number train of numbered carriages 1-10). By counting aloud and moving along the FIND OUT MORE.
Classes available in
Outdoor Learning for Under 5s busy.birds@hotmail.com
www.busybirds.co.uk Familiesonline.co.uk
Alwoodley Horsforth Headingley Meanwood Moortown Roundhay
May/June 23
HOLIDAYS
Family-friendly UK city breaks We’ve picked nine top UK cities with heaps on offer for families. So start planning your trip now!
London
Cardiff
Bristol
Manchester
Edinburgh
Southampton
Oxford
York
Norwich
24 May/June
Familiesonline.co.uk
HOLIDAYS
Win a family holiday with Away WIN Resorts! Win a three or four night stay for four people in luxury accommodation at an Away Resorts park of your choice. Fall in love with a new type of holiday at one of its fabulous UK locations - where your accommodation is off-the-scale amazing and new experiences abound. Explore the New Forest at Sandy Balls, go wakeboarding at Tattershall Lakes or hit the golf course at Boston West, both in Lincolnshire. Sample the local cuisine at Mersea Island, soak up the sun beachside or mountainside at Barmouth Bay in Wales, discover the new-look Hayling Island gem, Mill Rythe, or enjoy a bucket-and-spade holiday at Whitecliff Bay on the glorious Isle of Wight. ENTER HERE. T&Cs.
Five things to take on a staycation
Beach Towels. An essential for having a dip! Wind-breaker jackets. You’ll be lucky to avoid a breeze when holidaying in the UK! Pack waterproof and windproof jackets. A portable BBQ. Not essential but happy faces are guaranteed when you whip up some delicious burgers and hot dogs. A picnic hamper. Taking a hamper will ensure everyone stays hydrated, nourished and happy. Games. Whether it’s cricket on the beach or card games by moonlight, pack something fun that all the family will enjoy. Familiesonline.co.uk
Promoting a positive attitude to Maths Pre-School classes Monday to Friday Call 07852 989523 email: numbertrain@hotmail.com
www.numbertrain.co.uk
Would you like to promote your business to 32,000 local parents in Leeds & West Yorkshire? Call 07799 667041 or email editor@familiesleeds.co.uk to book your space today. May/June 25
HOLIDAYS
Top UK camping locations Availability for 2021 at time of publication but booking fast.
Whittlebury Park
Pop-up site at Silverstone during the British Grand Prix 13-19 July.
Home Farm Glamping
North London’s nearest glamping escape.
Andrewshayes Holiday Park
Award-winning and something for all budgets in East Devon. 26 May/June
Trevornick Holiday Park 5* holiday park in stunning Holywell Bay in Cornwall.
Camp Elwood
Pop up site from 26 July-9 August in Norfolk.
Little Retreats
Glamp in castle grounds on the Pembrokeshire coast.
Sacrewell Farm
Beautiful Cambridgeshire location. Adjacent to rare breed animal farm.
Walnut Grove Camping
Quiet, well-maintained site in Hampshire. 20 mins from Stonehenge.
Green Hill Farm Holiday Village
Dog-friendly, luxury holiday homes in the New Forest. Familiesonline.co.uk
HOLIDAYS
Top tips for a great camping holiday Before you go….
Have a packing list Turning up with tired, hungry kids and no tent pegs isn’t funny! Pack eye masks, earplugs, hats, socks and blankets. Invest in a thick self-inflating mat (SIM). Don’t rely on Sat Nav/Google Maps Phone signal can be unreliable and can take you to the wrong place. Pack a paper map and compass (that you know how to use!) Plan your meals Take ingredients with you. This avoids last minute panics and unnecessary spending in on-site shops. Take plenty of snacks!
When you are there…
Don’t break the rules Camping involves sharing the peace and quiet of the countryside with others. Keep the noise down and be respectful, especially at night. Don’t leave food unattended It will attract unwanted animals. Tidy up outside your tent before spending the day exploring or going to sleep. Don’t leave a trace Leave the campsite as you found it. Take your rubbish with you or use on-site bins and dedicated recycling stations; Put out your campfire.
Making it cheaper…
Borrow equipment, buy second hand, rent a tent from Tentshare A great idea if this is your first trip… and it may be your last! Take your own duvets, pillows and blankets They may be more comfortable than sleeping bags. Book outside of peak season With the right clothes, autumn is a great time to camp. Collect wood If cooking on a campfire, do this when you arrive. It’s likely to be cheaper than buying firewood at the campsite. Buy a portable grill Cheaper than numerous disposable BBQ’s and better for the environment.
Familiesonline.co.uk
Advertise your business in our next issue. Call Claire on 07799 667 041 Fun climbing for all the family * Climbs 2½ years to adult * Birthday Parties and Café * Guides/Scouts/Group climbs * Corporate / Exclusive Hire
Email us on info@clipnclimbilkley.co.uk Call us on 01943 603829 for more information Or to book climbs simply go to our website: www.clipnclimbilkley.co.uk May/June 27
HOLIDAYS
The perfect weekend away We’ve found some top UK days out in areas of the country that have lots to offer families. Perfect options for an overnight or weekend stay.
Llechwedd Slate Cavern
The Needles Chairlift
Peppa Pig World
Overnight on the Isle of Wight.
Overnight in the New Forest or Southampton.
Legoland
Overnight in Windsor or Maidenhead.
Bewilderwood
Overnight in North Norfolk.
The Eden Project
Jorvik Viking Centre
Bram Stoker’s Dracula Experience
Dinosaurland Fossil Museum
Overnight in York. 28 May/June
Overnight in Whitby.
Overnight in Snowdonia.
Overnight in South Cornwall.
Overnight on the Jurassic Coast.
Familiesonline.co.uk
SUMMER FUN
TryOut a week at residential summer camp for just £295! This summer any child ages 9 to 15, who has never attended a residential summer camp can stay at a TryOut camp, run by experienced providers, for just £295 for a week (including accompanied travel). The initiative is organised by The Summer Camps Trust to help share with children the joys of summer camp. Camps take place at Nettlecombe Court, a magnificent Field Studies Centre in beautiful grounds near Taunton, Somerset from 8-15 August and at Camp Redwood, a fabulous tented camp in the heart of Sherwood Forest in Nottinghamshire from 15-21 August.
Recent UK attendees comment: ‘It was the best week of my life so far’, ‘My leader made me feel happy and safe just like my mum would do’. Parents said: ‘She came home with so many friends and memories and having had so much fun’ and ‘It was the happiest I have ever seen him’.
Get ready for games of all kinds. Explore areas of wood, hills and countryside. Enjoy tracking activities, unravel mysteries and stimulate the imagination. Participate in entertainment, songs and stories around the camp fire. Sleep under the stars, climb or enjoy water activities. Or relax and chat in the sun. Leave screens and peer pressures behind, reconnect with the natural world and with being a child again. Exactly what our children need right now.
So don’t delay, find out why summer camp is the best week of the year for millions of children worldwide. More information and booking. Or, for a brochure, email chris@summercampstrust.org
Attend a TryOut camp totally FREE! 6 places available
APPLY HERE
T&Cs
Being part of a small group, looked after by a well-trained 18 or 19 year-old leader who is like an older brother or sister, can be a unique experience and help children grow in confidence, social skills and positivity. Familiesonline.co.uk
May/June 29
HOME IMPROVEMENT
Top tips for sprucing up your garden By Svetlana Blakeley-Sargeant The simple joy of being able to entertain in the garden is something we’ll definitely never take for granted again! But what if your garden isn’t quite up to the job? Our tips will help you: Set the scene for new plant life; Rekindle your love affair with your lawn; Vertically ‘green up’ a small, urban garden; Use container gardening for quick transformation; Transform an uninspiring garden; Embrace sustainability; Enjoy family-orientated garden activities and ideas. Set the scene for new plant life Start with a good garden clean up. Remove dead plants and Outdoor accessories for summer
Ornamental fire pit
Patio heater
Garden bar
Garden table
30 May/June
winter weeds like chickweed and bittercress, prepare your flower beds and improve the soil. Give your trees and shrubs a trim and tidy up your hedges. Rekindle your love affair with your lawn Lawns act as a contrast to colourful blooms and focal evergreens and offer an inviting play area for your kids. De-thatch, aerate, and address weeds and bald patches. Overseed your lawn if needed and feed it with a slow-release fertiliser. Mow regularly. READ MORE Claim £10 off your first booking with Fantastic Services! Use code FANTASTICFAMILY10 when you register and create an account HERE Be it help with the house, garden, or any other domestic service, Fantastic Services is the place to find help. With an easy online booking process and live quotation, home maintenance becomes easy. Same and next day visits. 7 days a week. Fixed price. Familiesonline.co.uk
A world class education for your child. Firmly established as one of the leading non-selective independent schools in Yorkshire, Huddersfield Grammar School places the development of character at the heart of all it does and provides a futurefacing curriculum for children age 3-16 in a nurturing and happy environment. • • • • • • • • •
Engaging Excursions Spanish Lessons Forest School Rich Extra Curricular Programme Dance Classes Out of School & Holiday Clubs Peripatetic Music Tuition Swimming Lessons Early Years Funding
Leading independent school for girls and boys age 3-16
Huddersfield Grammar School Royds Mount, Luck Lane, Marsh Huddersfield, HD1 4QX TOP 100 PREP SCHOOL Familiesonline.co.uk
ISA Awards 2019 Winner
www.hudderfield-grammar.co.uk - Tel: 01484 424 549 e: admissions@huddersfield-grammar.co.uk Follow us on May/June 31
Birthday Party Countdown Planner
Plan your party the easy way using our cut-out planner and checklist! 3 months before
6 weeks before
4 weeks before
★ Set a budget and a date
★ Send out a ‘save the date’ by email
★ Prepare invitations
★ Make a guest list
★ Pick your theme
★ Book a venue/ entertainer
★ Plan the party food you wish to order
★ Buy/make party decorations ★ Order cake
✸ ✸ ✸ ✸ ✸✸ TIP
TIP
TIP
TIP
Don’t forget cost of venue, party entertainment, food and decorations.
Popular options may need to be booked even earlier!
Ask for an RSVP.
Choose a theme your child loves.
1-2 weeks before
1-3 days before
★ Sort out the party bags
★ Buy party food
★ Plan party games ★ Send out reminder by email
★ Pick up cake ★ Write list/timings for party day
✸ ✸ ✸ TIP
TIP
TIP
Allow research time and get the birthday boy or girl to help.
Don’t just leave this to chance. Roughly plan enough games to last for at least half the party.
Reconfirm party food if ordered from a supplier.
32 May/June
CLICK TO DOWNLOAD
TIP
TIP
Get your child to hand out invites at school/ nursery.
Decorations can make or break the party vibe!
Party Day
✸
Enjoy the day and take lots of pictures!
TIP
Leave plenty of time to get to the venue…
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BIRTHDAY PARTIES
Party ideas for different ages By Simone Ryder If, despite a year without socialising, you are a parent who feels that party planning is yet another of the daunting challenges to be faced on the hazardous path to parenting success, then read on…. Love or hate party planning, we hope this thumbnail guide will help you on the road to a successful event
co-operating. Keep the party to about ninety minutes to avoid overstimulation. By age four, children Age 1-2 are full of energy and imagination, Your child’s first party is your which makes them wonderful celebration – the anniversary of partygoers. Plan short games and becoming a parent. Your 1 year old will have no idea what’s going on, so keep things moving as they may you can make this a celebration for still find it hard to wait their turn. Treasure and scavenger hunts work adults only, if you prefer. well but many parents opt for soft Two year old can catapult from play venues or similar to allow little excitement to temper tantrum ones to burn off energy. Entertainers in minutes — so you need to at your home or hired venue are be prepared. Most age twos also popular. Plan for a party of one are still very possessive of their to two hours. toys so do put away your child’s favourite things beforehand. And Age 5-6 avoid opening gifts at the party Five year olds know parties are very since most of the guests won’t important and may have all sorts of understand they can’t just take the wonderful (and wild) suggestions birthday child’s new things home! about the event. Theme parties Organised games aren’t really work well at this age. Children are necessary since children still play usually ready for games that involve independently at this age. instruction like Hokey Cokey and Simon Says. They are acquiring Age 3-4 fine motor skills necessary to use Now your child is likely to be scissors and string beads so they’re familiar with celebrations. Singing and circle activities work better than ready for simple crafts too. Plan for a party of about two hours. group games as they will usually enjoy playing with other children More ages and stages. briefly but may still have trouble Familiesonline.co.uk
May/June 33
HEALTH
My Ways to Feel Better Poster
Help your children to handle difficult feelings. Download and pin up this poster from Partnership for Children with ideas to help them feel better.
My Ways to Feel Better Poster When I feel angry, sad or worried, I can choose to do one of the activities on this poster to help me feel better. Which will I choose?
Dance to your favourite song
Have a drink of water
Think of the three best Think of a happy memory of your moments of the day friends/family
Talk to a friend
Think of three solutions for your problem
Do some colouring
Smell your favourite smell
Hug a toy
Do five star jumps
Ask for help
Take some deep breaths
Write down how Think of a happy Watch television time you are feeling
Have a nap
www.partnershipforchildren.org.uk
Say you’re sorry
Make a list of things you are good at
Imagine your favourite place
Do a full body stretch
© 2020 Partnership for Children. Registered Charity number: 1089810. All rights reserved.
DOWNLOAD POSTER HERE 34 May/June
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HEALTH
Overcoming emotional eating
Staying sun safe this summer
By Pranita Salunke
By Dr Sweta Rai
Struggling with the kind of pressure the last year has delivered can create stress in the body. One of the results can be falling victim to emotional eating - eating beyond hunger, to comfort or reward ourselves. So how can you overcome this problem? READ MORE
Summer often means spending more family time outdoors. So it’s important to be aware of the risks of over-exposure to the sun and how best to protect your skin and that of your loved ones. This applies even when outside in the UK.
Supporting brain health
Outdoor toy giveaway!
Studies show that Omega-3 fish oils improve brain function, concentration and behaviour. In fact, a clinician-led year-long trial of Omega-3 and 6 brain health supplement Equazen was shown to lift reading scores in mainstream children ages 9 to 10 years. Equazen is a clinically proven range of Omega-3 with 6 supplements for children, which supports brain health, by offering the recommended amount of 250g of Omega-3 DHA, blended with Omega-6 GLA. Watch out for our Equazen giveaway coming soon! Familiesonline.co.uk
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AquaPlay Lockbox
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May/June 35
FAMILY LIFE
Helping your child make friends
Your Child’s Relationship Legacy
By Poppy O’Neill
By Neil Wilkie
Rejection, big life changes, sensitivity and shyness can impact children’s ability to make or keep friends. Without guidance, they can feel baffled by friendship up and downs. What techniques can parents use to help their children build fulfilling social lives? READ MORE
Who teaches us how to have a loving and fulfilling relationship with another person? How parents relate to their children in the first three years, will shape their attachment style and influence their relationships for what is likely to be the rest of their lives. READ MORE
Two homes – the practicalities
Foster care: are you eligible?
Over the years at Only Mums & Only Dads, we’ve heard many separating parents express their concerns about their children having two homes. How will everyone cope? What can be done to make it easier for everyone? We have some answers to these questions and others. READ MORE
Foster Care Fortnight® organised by The Fostering Network, runs from 11 to 24 May. It raises awareness of fostering and celebrates the fostering community. There are some common myths and misconceptions about who can or can’t foster. Let’s attempt to clear some of these up. READ MORE
36 May/June
Familiesonline.co.uk
WORK
I don’t want to return to my workplace… By Mandy Garner As lockdown eases, you may find yourself under increasing pressure from your employer to return to the workplace. For some, this will be a welcome relief; for others, a source of stress. If it’s the latter, what are your options? Firstly, if your reluctance to return to your workplace is due to concerns about safety, it’s important to know that, while government guidance on working from home is likely to change, businesses will still have to show they are Covid-secure. You can report a business to the Health & Safety Executive if you are worried.
any legitimate concerns of your employer.
Firstly, you need to consider what works best for you and your family. If you have school-aged children and little wraparound care available, hybrid working means you can get the benefits of both face to face contact and remote working and One of the outcomes of the pandemic is that previously resistant still be around at least part of the week to do the school run. But employers have seen that remote there are also other considerations, working is effective, although including your own motivation. Can remote working through Covid-19 has been far from normal. For many, you easily stay motivated when working alone? it’s been much more isolating and difficult. Once you have established how you want to work, think through how So your employer may be open this might affect your colleagues, to discussing with you different your ability to do your job and your ways of working. Many businesses career prospects. Whilst many jobs are anticipating greater hybrid can be done remotely, different jobs working, with people working lend themselves to different forms of some days from home and some in the workplace. Others may need flexible working. more persuasion. It’s important to Read more about remote working be clear about what you want, to options and getting the most out of think through the possible impact hybrid working. on your colleagues and to address Familiesonline.co.uk
May/June 37
WHAT’S ON
What’s on in May & June Please check the details with the venue in case they have changed. Some venues have strict restrictions in place and may need to be prebooked. Ongoing (house opens May 18) Temple Newsam Temple Newsam Road, Leeds LS15 0AE Book ahead for this country estate in Leeds. Discover a working farm Re-opens from May 18 Ongoing and historic house Abbey House Museum UP + OPEN at surrounded by scenic Abbey Walk, Kirkstall, Harewood parkland. Leeds LS5 3EH Harewood, Leeds Book ahead and enjoy LS17 9LG Until June 21 this family-friendly Feathered and Spring Surprises Trail museum exploring farmyard friends are The Piece Hall, social history and ready to welcome you Halifax, HX1 1RE childhood in Victorian into the bird garden The Spring Lambs and era Leeds. and farm experience, friends have taken up the adventure playground awaits. And residence in The Piece Re-opens from May 18 Hall Courtyard, but Leeds Art Gallery from May 15 families can you track them The Headrow, Leeds can enjoy a new all down? Download LS1 3AA outdoor play space the Piece Hall Go Experience a world Woodland Wonderland, Play AR (augmented of art in the heart of plus a new circular reality) mobile app and the city, holding a walk opens from May search out a series significant collection 17. of characters around of modern and the iconic courtyard. contemporary British Ongoing (house Once you have found art. opens May 18) a character, there is a Lotherton fun interactive element Re-opens from May 18 Lotherton Lane, to enjoy, each with a Leeds City Museum Aberford LS25 3EB unique animation or Millennium Square, Book ahead and game you can play. Leeds, LS2 8BH be charmed by an Free and available on Book ahead and visit Edwardian country app store. six galleries and a estate, hall and wildlife programme of family park within expansive friendly exhibitions in grounds on the the heart of Leeds. outskirts of Leeds. 38 May/June
Familiesonline.co.uk
WHAT’S ON
What’s on in May & June Please check the details with the venue in case they have changed. Some venues have strict restrictions in place and may need to be prebooked. Re-opens from May 18 May 29-31 Leeds Industrial The Great British Museum Food Festival Canal Road, Leeds Harewood House, LS12 2QF Leeds LS17 9LG Book ahead and With kids cooking discover industrial activities, live music, heritage with mini zoo and more. collections of textile May 27 & 28 machinery, railway Fairy Poppins and the May 31 - June 2 equipment and heavy Naughty Winter Ghost Zog engineering. Leeds Town Hall Leeds Playhouse www.leedstownhall. (outdoor all-weather Re-opens from May 18 performance) By Freckle Productions Thwaite Watermill and Rose Original Gather round as Thwaite Lane, Productions, based Henderson, Brown Stourton, Leeds LS10 and Wallis, a trio of on the book by Julia 1RP rambunctious travelling Donaldson and Axel Book ahead to visit a Scheffler. Various times, players, tumble out of museum of the Leeds a van with a tall tale to suitable for age 3+ but milling industry set in a tell. With music, magic all ages welcome. former mill on an island and very bad jokes, in the River Aire. June 3 let them transport Jurassic Park you to the deep dark Re-opens from May 19 woods, where an Harewood House, National Science and 800-year-old forgotten Leeds, LS17 9LG Media Museum With The Luna Drive In fairy and a brave(ish) Bradford, BD1 1NQ child called Freddy try Cinema. Doors open Book ahead 8pm, film 9.30pm. to save spring from and explore the the freezing clutches transformative impact June 5 of a naughty ghost. of image and sound Hilarious and a tiny bit Grease technologies on our Harewood House, spooky for scaredylives. Eight floors Leeds, LS17 9LG parents (a lion roars of FREE galleries softly more than once). With The Luna Drive In and three cinemas Cinema. Doors open Join Fairy Poppins, including the UK’s first Freddy and three very 8pm, film 9.30pm. IMAX. silly storytellers on this magical adventure. For all ages. Familiesonline.co.uk
May/June 39
WHAT’S ON
What’s on in May & June Please check the details with the venue in case they have changed. Some venues have strict restrictions in place and may need to be prebooked. June 5 & 6 June 12 June 15 Once Upon A Crime Peter & Friends Back to the Future Kirklees Light Experience Harewood House, Railway, Clayton West, Kirkstall Abbey, Leeds, Leeds, LS17 9LG Huddersfield, HD8 9XJ LS5 3EH With The Luna Drive In Once upon a time, in Sneaky Experience Cinema. Doors open Story Book Land, the presents a magical 8.15pm, film 9.45pm. Cursed Book of Villainy adventure with Peter was stolen and whoever Rabbit, 9:30am - 5pm. June 16 has it holds the power Jurassic Park to take over the world! June 12 Harewood House, The only people who The Greatest Leeds, LS17 9LG may be able to stop this Showman With The Luna Drive In dastardly deed are… Harewood House, Cinema. Doors open other villains, and they Leeds, LS17 9LG 8.15pm, film 9.45pm. need your help to find With The Luna Drive In out who has the book Cinema. Doors open before it’s too late! 8pm, film 9.30pm.
Giveaway!
Disney princess wooden toys
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