Families Leeds and West Yorkshire March/April 2019

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IN THIS ISSUE

Supporting your child through SATs Food allergies: what you need to know

B

What’s on this Easter

GUIDING CHILDREN AGED 5)11 TO BUILD STRENGTH & AWARENESS, ALL WITH FEELING. Classes at the Grove Centre, Horsforth, LS18 4BH Tuesday 4.45pm & Friday 4pm E. bodymindandheart@hotmail.com • T. 07903 366 753 W. bodymindandheartyoga.com

Coming to your school soon.

Issue 63 March/April 2019

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i

every teacher who has inspired me.

M I N I DRAMA EVERY WEDNESDAY

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VENUE & TIMES

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Northowram Methodist Church Hall 9.15am - 10.00am - 2 years to 4 years The Dancing House, Gomersal BD19 4LF 11.15am - 12.00pm - 2 years to 4 years The Grove Centre, Horsforth 2pm - 2.45pm - 2 years to 4 years

Fully qualified teachers from two years old.

COST Advanced booking for half a term £5/session

One off bookings £5.50/session

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Open Day

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BRONTË HOUSE

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WELCOME BACK

CONTENTS… 4–5

NEWS From around West Yorkshire

6

MY CHILD CAN’T EAT THAT A guide to food allergies

8–9

WHERE TO GO THIS EASTER

5

Ideas for days out in March and April

Please contact Claire Bottomley to advertise in this magazine…

07799 667 041 editor@familiesleeds.co.uk Make sure you pick up a copy of our next issue, out early May! CIRCULATION: We distribute 25,000 copies of the magazine free of charge through schools, nurseries, playgroups, clubs and classes, selected retail outlets and sports centres. Read by more than 60,000 parents. If you would like copies for your establishment please let us know.

DESIGNED BY: Justin Leeming • 07745 038 005 www.justinleeming.crevado.com PRINTED BY: Charlesworth Press, Wakefield www.charlesworth.com Families Leeds is part of Families Print Ltd, a franchise company. All franchised magazines in the group are independently owned and operated under licence. Families is a registered trademark of LCMB Ltd, Remenham House, Regatta Place, Marlow Road, Bourne End, Bucks SL8 5TD. The contents of Families Leeds are fully protected by copyright and none of the editorial or photographic matter may be reproduced in any form without prior consent of Families Leeds. Every care is taken in the preparation of this magazine, but Families Leeds Ltd; our distributors, the franchise company, Families Print Ltd, and Lifecycle Marketing cannot be held responsible for the claims of advertisers nor for the accuracy of the contents, or any consequence thereof.

The winner of our Ice Cube ticket competition was Lizl Human. Congratulations to her and thank you to all who entered.

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11

TESTING TIMES How to support your child through SATs

14 – 15

WHAT’S ON? Theatre, activities and special events

Welcome back...

9 14

Isn’t it great when you read something that completely chimes with what you’re going through? This poem was sent in by a reader, and it basically describes my life right now.

I’m sure many of you will relate or remember this stage. Thank you Kate.

Claire Bottomley (Editor) I DON’T LIKE IT! – A CAUTIONARY TALE by Kate Edwards This is a tale to warn you all The tale of the child, The toddler so small, Who, when they reach the age of ONE Grow little opinions to warn everyone.

To tell the world of the grown-ups so large ‘You didn’t really think you were in charge?’

It starts with a face That says…

‘I’m really not sure If, of this meal I would like any more.’

‘I may try it today just to make you feel That you have prepared the most delicious meal But rest assured, tomorrow instead I may just tip it over my HEAD! Or on the floor, The dog or the cat, I may just MOULD it into a HAT I may decide that you dear mummy Should wear my meal upon your TUMMY! And as for you my DARLING daddy, You’ve not begun to see my PADDY!’ For as they grow, these little ones Learn words to express their opinions ‘Don’t like it!’

‘NO!’ ‘Bleurgggh’ and ‘YUCK!’ You very rarely have the luck

To hear ‘Thankyou mummy for your culinary skill Of this tasty meal I will eat my fill!’

Now all this is fine If not for the WORST The thing to make mums on the edge fit to burst The crockery and cutlery age old debate The ‘THIS IS NOT AN APPROPRIATE PLATE!’ ‘I clearly asked for GREEN, not BLUE!’ ‘And SPOTS, not STRIPES, How naïve of you!’

‘This knife is too big’ ‘The cup is too round’ ‘Keep looking ‘til the correct one is FOUND!’ And of course Once the knife, fork and plate deal is sealed, The meal has simply lost its appeal!

‘I’m full!’ the littlest ones declare But they always have room for the PUDDING fare – The yogurt, the jelly, the custard to pour No ‘I don’t like it!’ to be heard any more.

And when it’s all done, And meal time is through, We’ll do it again in an hour or two.

But as we message friends to reveal our woes Or swap stories of how we’ve been kept on our toes We SMILE with such fondness, as if to say ‘I wouldn’t have it any other WAY!’ Families Leeds 3

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Families NEWS…

FREE activities at Huddersfield LITERATURE FESTIVAL

Step up for the WALK OF ART Entry is now open for the 2019 Horsforth Walk of Art – so get in touch if you live in the area and do something creative to inspire and engage others. Organisers are also looking for venues, so if you have a shed, garage, conservatory or house that can be paired up with an artist, or you would like to create something special for your front garden, get in touch. Follow news and updates on Facebook and Twitter, or email horsforth-woa@outlook.com

School Governor Role…

Horsforth Featherbank Primary School is looking for a co-opted Governor complete the school’s full governing body.

Applications are welcome from people within the local community, ideally with an interest in building maintenance.

If you would like to apply or to find out more, call 0113 2589 412 or email lorraine.scudder@featherbank.leeds.sch.uk

There will be something for the whole family at the award-winning Huddersfield Literature Festival from March 21 to 31. From undersea exploration and Elmer the Elephant to parenting tips, autism-friendly events and a whole day of free family activities, there’s something for all ages to get stuck in to.

Marine biologist Dr Jon Copley – who worked on David Attenborough’s popular BBC series Blue Planet II – will take you on a journey to the bottom of the sea with his family-friendly talk ‘Ask an Ocean Explorer’.

Elmer the Elephant, who is celebrating his 30th birthday, will be meeting and greeting families at the Packhorse Centre in Huddersfield.

And for stressed out parents – there are proactive parenting tips from Mandy Saligari.

There will be dancing, food and fun for all ages, a chance to dress up as your favourite fictional character and free activities including crafts, storytelling, book stalls, free fresh fruit cocktails and a family film.

For more information, visit www.huddlitfest.org.uk or call 01484 951 108

Time to apply for SCREEN ACTING DIPLOMA… The Yorkshire Academy of Film and Television Acting (YAFTA) is open for applications to its Acting for Screen Youth Diploma, with auditions to be held on March 30.

Based on Kirkstall Road in Leeds, opposite the Emmerdale Studios, the academy provides screen acting classes and diploma courses for both young people and adults who are passionate about pursuing careers as professional screen actors.

The Acting for Screen Youth Diploma is a 12-month, part-time, blended learning course aimed at young people aged between 11 and 16 who are looking to develop their skills and technique to become professional screen actors.

Charlotte Armitage, YAFTA Managing Director, said,“Whether your child has had previous drama training or looking to pursue a dream to work in the acting industry, we support and guide our students through a structured syllabus specifically designed to help them develop their craft as well as their industry skills, knowledge

and experience.

“With previous YAFTA students securing paid acting work in everything from Emmerdale, to Casualty, Coronation Street, to Holby City, we’re incredibly proud of the YAFTA team and our actors.”

The youth diploma is designed to fit around existing education commitments to help young people to progress from beginner to professional actor within 12 months. It also provides an opportunity of representation with an accredited agency upon completion of the course.

Successful applicants will be invited to attend an audition on March 30, with an additional audition date in April to be confirmed.

For more information, visit www.yafta.co.uk/acting-for-screenyouth-diploma or email info@yafta.co.uk

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FAMILIES NEWS

Anyone for ALL STARS CRICKET? As summer approaches, children interested in getting involved in cricket can sign up to All Stars Cricket – a programme to help develop key skills in a fun and safe environment where parents can join in too and help create moments to treasure.

Aimed at children aged five to eight years old, to give them a great first experience in cricket, sessions are accredited by the England and Wales Cricket Board and delivered nationwide at over 2,000 centres.

Following registration, All Stars Cricketers receive a kit bag full of goodies to help them get their summer of cricket started and fully look the part when they attend their eight weekly sessions. This year there is a brand-new Cricket World Cup themed activity book full of top tips and games, and it’s a great place to keep the weekly stickers you get to celebrate All Stars achievements.

For more information, visit www.allstarscricket.co.uk. Sessions begin in May.

Fancy a SUMMER HOLIDAY in the Alps?

If you fancy a mountain holiday without the snow, family-friendly travel company Chilly Powder is now offering summer stays in the Alps.

With reasonably priced flights from London airports to Geneva, then a short drive to Morzine, there is a warm welcome waiting from Chilly Powder’s Paul and Francesca Eyre.

“With the main chalet – Au Coin du Feu – plus two chalets next door, you can organise your own meals, or join the party at Au Coin du Feu for dinners that you usually only dream of,” said Francesca.

“Family friendly early evening meals for the children and a daytime

crèche for little ones not quite as active as you, with drinks in the bar for the grown-ups – or in the Jacuzzi on the terrace – we will make you wish that this was home!”

She added,“Summer offers enough green (the mountains) and blue (the sky) to set you up for the whole year – and plenty of fresh air to fill your families’ lungs.”

For more about Chilly Powder chalets for summer and winter visit www.chillypowder.com and more about summer in Morzine visit en.morzine-avoriaz.com/activities/summer-activities

Lakeside PLAYGROUND gets a reboot…

A group of parents have successfully fundraised to give a children’s playground in Roundhay Park a re-vamp.

The Friends of Roundhay Park team of parents raised £159k in under a year through events, grants and support from local families and businesses. The money has replaced the worn-out equipment in the under-sevens area near the Lakeside café. They also added a new historical timeline, featuring unseen images from the last 200 years, to the area.

Michelle Schneider, a Roundhay parent who visits the park regularly, said,“We use this playground about three or four times a week. The location is fantastic but the playground was always such a let-down.

The ground was full of holes and the equipment was falling apart. It’s fantastic to see some regeneration and the community coming together to fund it. A big thank you to the Roundhay Playground Appeal.”

Sara Dawson, fundraiser and local mum who created the historical timeline, said,“Roundhay Park is iconic it deserves a first-class play park and we are so excited to make this a reality. The Lakeside Playground is accessed by children from all over Leeds, they will all benefit from a better playground.”

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HEALTH

MY KIDS CAN’T EAT THAT! Tackling Food Allergies & Intolerances By Christine Bailey If your child suffers with any type of food reaction, you are not alone. The latest surveys estimate that true food allergies affect up to 8% of children. Between 1997 and 2007, the number of reported cases of food allergy in children increased by 18%. In a similar timeframe, peanut allergy more than tripled in those under age 18, going from 0.4% in 1997 to 1.4% in 2008. This does not take into account the number of children with food sensitivities and intolerances, coeliac disease (an autoimmune condition triggered by eating food containing gluten) or related atopic conditions such as asthma, eczema and allergic rhinitis.

What is a Food Allergy?

An allergy occurs when your immune system responds aggressively to a harmless environmental substance. This can include foods but also things like pollen, animal dander, dust, mould, nickel, copper, and latex.

These allergens can affect various parts of the body and cause a range of symptoms which may affect: n the nasal passage (itchy, stuffy and/or runny nose, postnasal drip) n the mouth area (tingling sensation, swollen mouth and lips, itchy throat) n the eyes (swollen, itchy, red eyes) n respiratory (wheezing, coughing, difficulty breathing, shortness of breath) n the skin (hives, rashes, swelling) n gastrointestinal (stomach cramps, vomiting, diarrhoea) Symptoms can occur from minutes to days after exposure, ranging from mild to severe.

Different types of food allergy trigger different types of immune response. A true food allergy is known as an IgE-mediated food allergy. This can be associated with anaphylaxis – a severe, potentially life-threatening allergic reaction. Many people prone to anaphylaxis carry self-injecting epinephrine (epi) pens in case of emergencies.

The most common food allergies in children are to: n cow’s milk n eggs n fish and shellfish n peanuts n soybeans (and related products) n tree nuts (e.g. almonds, pistachios, hazelnuts, walnuts, cashews, pecans, Brazils, macadamia nuts) n wheat and gluten containing grains (barley, rye) 6 Families Leeds

Testing If you do suspect your child may be reacting to certain foods, speak to your GP about allergy testing. Depending on the suspected type of reaction, tests may involve skin prick tests or blood tests. In some cases, you will be referred to an allergy clinic to undertake these tests. If certain foods are identified, it is essential these are completely removed from the diet. You will also need to avoid cross contamination with these foods when not eating at home.

Nutritional Support One of the concerns many parents have when their child is diagnosed with a food reaction is what they CAN eat and how to ensure they are getting the required nutrients.

Fortunately, there are now many supermarket free-from products available for easy substitutions. Some are fortified with certain vitamins and minerals. For instance, many milk alternatives contain added vitamin D and calcium to support bone health. Remember though, just because a product is free-from does not mean it is healthy. Many free-from products are highly refined and nutrient poor and can upset a child’s blood-sugar levels.

Prepared foods, such as free-from breads, can be useful, but cooking from scratch frequently is the healthiest and safest option.

If you are concerned about your child’s diet, ask your GP to refer you to a nutritionist or dietician to guide you through a new meal plan and recommend nutritional supplements.

Immune Supporting Foods Supporting the health of your child’s immune system is important since it is the imbalance

in the immune response that triggers their allergy. This means looking at your child’s digestive health since over 70% of the immune cells lie in the gut and probiotic supplements and fermented foods like yogurts (coconut or dairy), kefir (coconut or dairy), sauerkraut, water kefir, kombucha and kimchi are often recommended. They may not all be tolerated by your child but consider including some daily. Children also need plenty of fibre to support gut health. Avoid white refined foods and include plenty of starchy vegetables (carrots, sweet potato, potato, beetroot, yams) and some wholegrains like rice or oats.

In addition, healthy fats, particularly the essential omega-3 fatty acids and monounsaturated fats (found in avocado, olives and nuts) reduce inflammation and help modulate the immune response and support gut health. So, if your child can eat fish, aim to serve it 2 or 3 times a week, especially oily fish (salmon, trout, mackerel, sardines). These also provide vitamins A and D which are important for a healthy immune system.

EASY SUBSTITUTES… Having a food allergy does not mean your child will miss out on their favourite foods.

There are many savvy ways to replace common allergen foods with alternatives in your cooking.

Take eggs for example – these can be replaced with various alternatives in many recipes.

In baking, you can replace one egg with any of the following: n 1tbsp agar flakes soaked in 2 tbsp hot water to dissolve n 60g of apple puree n ½ a mashed banana n 1tbsp chia seeds soaked in 3 tbsp water for 10 minutes before use n 2 tbsp chickpea flour in 3 tbsp water n 4 tbsp drained liquid from a can of chickpeas (known as aquafaba) n 1 tbsp ground flaxseed soaked in 3 tbsp water for 10 minutes before using n 60g Greek yogurt, coconut yogurt or soy yogurt n 2 tbsp potato flour, arrowroot or cornflour with a little water Christine Bailey is the author of My Kids Can’t Eat That: How to Deal with Allergies and Intolerances in Children (Nourish Books 2018).

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FAMILY FUN SATURDAY 13 - FRIDAY 28 APRIL EASTER EGG TRAIL • POM POM BUNNIES DECORATE CHOCOLATE EGGS • SPRING LAMBS HORRID HALIFAX TALK • ILLUSTRATION WORKSHOP FACE PAINTING & DRESS-UP

Easter holidays at Nostell Monday 8-Sunday 28 April Go wild outdoors with clay creatures and campfire cooking or get crafty indoors. Bring your bike and whizz around the woodland cycle trail. #nationaltrust

Book online at thepiecehall.co.uk The Piece Hall, Halifax, HX1 1RE

Supported by

The Piece Hall is a registered charity, number 1156948

Fo Of Fun Buckets

r Everyo

Call 01924 863892 for details nationaltrust.org.uk/nostell

© National Trust 2019. The National Trust is an independent registered charity, number 205846. Photography © National Trust Images.

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Families Easter

FAVOURITES From CSI investigations to medieval jousting; from mad hatter’s tea parties to campfire cooking, check out the wealth of activities on offer around Leeds and West Yorkshire this March and April. There’s really no need to be bored during the Easter holidays. Here are a some top picks…

Lotherton Hall, East Leeds

The Deep, Hull Visit the award-winning aquarium and encounter over 5,000 animals including magnificent sharks and rays, a colony of Gentoo penguins, Loggerhead sea turtles and hundreds of tropical fish.

Throughout the Easter holidays, The Deep’s special agents will be taking a trip to the native coastline in CSI Seashore to find out all about the species that can be discovered at the seaside. Help them solve dastardly crimes as you go, and you might event earn a CSI badge of your own.

There’ll also be interactive presentations, family crafts, divers feeding the animals, touchpool sessions, an interactive magic floor, fossil brushing station, soft play area and face painting.

Check the website for timings. The Deep’s Day Plus Pass scheme means you pay once and visit as many times as you like for free for the next 12 months. www.thedeep.co.uk.

Fall down the rabbit hole this Easter with four weeks of family fun at Lotherton. Get lost in the brand-new Wonderland Village, follow the white rabbit’s trail and get creative with kooky crafts. Join a Mad Hatter’s Tea Party each Wednesday during April, along with Flamingo Fun in the Nestbox Education Centre. On certain days also look out for the Easter Bunny for hopping games and challenges. www.leeds.gov.uk/museumsandgalleries

The Piece Hall, Halifax The Piece Hall is a stunning location to explore this Easter.

Set in the heart of Halifax, it has a fantastic programme of family events, workshops and activities to keep the kids entertained.

They can decorate their own Easter eggs, meet Ryeland ewes and lambs, join a local artist to create an illustration, plus a Family Easter Egg trail and other fun activities. Check out the website for full details. www.thepiecehall.co.uk

Pamper Parties Glitter Parties Parent & Child Packages Parties for children aged 5-14yrs in a real salon.

Treatments performed by qualified therapists.

Call Claire on 01943 870189 Or email: Claire@tumbletownadventureplay.co.uk

Uptown Beauty Salon Tumble Town Adventure Play South View Business Park Guiseley LS20 9PP

8 Families Leeds

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WHAT’S ON?

Thackray Medical Museum, Leeds Nostell, Wakefield Nostell’s house and parkland are a treasure trove of adventure for families – with stunning architecture and furniture design inside and wildflower meadows, lakes, woodland and an adventure playground outside.

There’ll be a Cadbury Easter Egg hunt running over Easter from April 15 to 22, and a range of activities including muddy play, cooking on a campfire, wild art and crafts. Check the websites for dates, times and occasional additional prices. www.nationaltrust.org.uk/nostell

Calling all investigators! A crime has been committed.

Can you help solve it? That’s the message at Thackray Museum, where Junior CSI will be taking place on weekdays between April 1 and 26.

Use your finest detective skills to gather evidence from around the museum galleries to take back to the ‘lab’ for analysis. Get your white coat on and discover how fingerprints, hair, DNA and insects help scientists get to the truth. There will also be the chance to learn about the history of forensics here in Yorkshire. www.thackraymedicalmuseum.co.uk

Royal FENRTERYE! Armouries, Leeds

Ben & Holly’s Little Kingdom at Victoria Theatre, Halifax Join Ben and Holly, and their friends on this exciting, enchanting and magical musical adventure packed full of games, songs and laughter.

This beautiful story of elves, princesses and childhood innocence will be performed on March 22 and 23. Children under 12 months do not need a ticket and can go free. www.victoriatheatre.co.uk

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The museum will be bringing medieval England to life from March 30 to April 14 with activities including sword schools for little knights, have-a-go archery, daily storytelling performances and live combat demonstrations.

On April 6 and 7, the Armouries’ impressive outdoor arena will be transformed into a battlefield to give visitors an insight into the brutal War of the Roses.

Over the weekend the arena will become a living museum as historical interpreters uncover the history of the conflict. Twice a day the arena will become a battlefield for a re-enactment.

On April 13 and 14 visitors can get up close to the action at A Day of Knights and see the knights from Team UK in training for an international tournament which will take place on Easter bank holiday weekend. The sessions will take children aged six to 12 behind the scenes to meet the knights and learn what it takes to be a jousting champion.

The International jousting tournament itself will be held from April 19 to 22, with tickets available via the website. www.royalarmouries.org

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Queen Ethelburga’s Collegiate Queen Ethelburga’s has provided students with a vibrant and supportive school community since 1912. Welcoming day students from 3 months to 19 years and boarders from 6 years to 19 years.

Outstanding academic results • Extensive co-curricular programme Excellent pastoral care for all • Minibus service across Yorkshire Academic, sport, music & drama scholarships available Open day - 16th March • Infant / Junior school open morning 5th April Queen Ethelburga’s, Thorpe Underwood Hall, Ouseburn, YO26 9SS www.qe.org | admissions@qe.org | 01423 333330

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Education

Supporting Your Child with Exam Stress As SATs tests approach in May, it can be a pressured and overwhelming time for the children sitting them and their parents. Here, children’s councillor Vicky Bellman shares some advice…

Stress and anxiety in young children is particularly heightened as they deal with performance-related concerns, and their behaviour may suffer during a stress peak.

It’s important to do what you can to respond from a place of calm. Invite them to join you in feeling calm, rather than you joining them in emotional chaos. With that in mind, here are a few tips on supporting your child at this time:

building blocks for emotional wellbeing. Make sure that your child is getting enough good food, water and sleep!

Free time is Vital

Yes, of course exams are important. But everyone involved needs to remember it's not the end of the world if there’s a hiccup and things don’t go as well as expected. There is almost always another chance.

It’s a difficult balancing act, but it’s important to remember that primary school age children need plenty of free time – structured studying has to be balanced with plenty of unstructured free time.

Relaxation and fun are vital. Getting outside to play and spending time relaxing with family and friends are super-important at this time.

A useful analogy to share with your children is that human beings are basically machines. We need fuel, and we also need to switch our engine off every now and again. Otherwise, we risk overheating!

Help Manage Expectations

Make Time for You

Working longer than is advisable for their age, or expecting grades significantly higher than their capabilities could well be detrimental to your child’s emotional and mental well-being. It’s important you guide your children appropriately in this area.

You can’t pour from an empty cup. Your children need more from you when preparing for and going through exams or tests. To be able to give more you need to be able to have more fuel in the tank.

Keep it in Perspective

Encourage Good Work Habits Primary school children may find it hard to sustain concentration for longer than 30 minutes without a break. It’s important not to schedule too many study sessions in one day – one or two would be the appropriate maximum for this age group on a weekend or school holiday day, but less if they are also managing homework. Otherwise your child will become stressed and it’s much harder for them to learn under pressure.

Remember the Building Blocks

Connection is Important Make sure you have family down time; perhaps, watching a movie one night with popcorn, or going for a family walk, or day out.

Don’t just save the treats for the exam results, as this reinforces to children that they have more value when they achieve more. Let them know that their wellbeing and enjoyment of life is as vital when they’re striving for success, as well as when they’re achieving it.

Vicky Bellman is a counsellor at Fegans, a charity which counsels children and provides support for parents.

For more parenting advice on stress and mental health, visit: www.fegans.org.uk/parent

Again, when it comes to the real basics, we can easily forget the

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FREE

EDUCATION

LAST MINUTE! Simple World Book Day Costumes With World Book Day on March 7, you may not have the time, energy, funds or inclination to provide a glitzy costume for your child to wear to school.

So here is Families list of book-related characters that require minimal accessories and that might work for your child this year: • TOM GATES SERIES by Liz Pichon White t-shirt, which children can decorate themselves with fabric or normal pens in the Tom Gates doodle style, plus a paper plate for face.

• DIARY OF A WIMPY KID by Jeff Kinney White shirt, black shorts and black backpack.

• BOY – LOST & FOUND by Oliver Jeffers Red and white striped top, hat and penguin toy.

• TINKERBELL – PETER PAN by J M Barrie A fairy costume.

Book characters that wear Pyjamas/Nightdress: WENDY – Peter Pan by JM Barrie SOPHIE – BFG by Roald Dahl TOM – Tom’s Midnight Garden by Philippa Pearce BOY – Polar Express by Chris Van Allsburg www.worldbookday.com/dressing-up

Creative Writing Workshops

Free, drop-in creative writing workshops for children will be held at libraries around Bradford in April, run by Explore Learning.

Put A Spring in Your Step workshop will be held on April 16 at Great Horton Library, where children can jump straight into comprehension activities and learn some fantastic skills. Can they predict what will happen next? And why did that character say that? Designed especially for children aged seven to nine years, it takes place between 1pm and 2pm.

Journey to the King’s Throne workshop will be held at Bolling Hall Library and Museum on April 18, Eccleshill Library on April 23 and Laisterdyke Library on April 25. All knights go through many quests and this journey to the king’s throne is no different. Travel back to medieval times, where children will joust their way through many grammar tournaments. Designed especially for children aged five to 11, they run between 1pm and 2pm. www.bradford.gov.uk/libraries

Early Years at THE MOUNT SCHOOL At The Mount School in Huddersfield, children can begin their early years education as soon as they turn three.

Headteacher Janet Brook said,“Early Years education should ignite children’s curiosity and enthusiasm for learning, so they develop their capacity to learn, form positive relationships and thrive.”

She added,“At The Mount School, we know that children learn best when they are healthy, safe, secure and happy. Our Early Years classes provide a welcoming and stimulating environment with learning and development opportunities planned around the needs and interests of each individual child so that every child is included and supported.”

A wide range of active and interactive activities and extra curricular provision give children the opportunity to find out about people and places, design and technology, art, music, drama and dance. www.themount.org.uk

Life Experience at QUEEN ETHELBURGA’S Emma Chapman, Head of Co-curricular at Queen Ethelburga’s, explains how students get involved in a wide range of activities at the school…

At Queen Ethelburga’s, we believe the more direct experience of the world around them that students have, the better equipped QUEEN ETHELBURGA’S STUDENTS they are to deal with life beyond WORKING WITH BBC YORK school.

We call it a Co-Curricular Enrichment programme because it is just that.

Our students have over 100 activities to choose from and they discuss what and how they participate with their tutors, to get the best out of what is on offer, whilst maintaining a good balance with their studies.

It helps them to build stronger friendships and social skills, develop a real team spirit and also gives them different tools to positively manage their time and both their physical and mental health. We run a Performing Arts academy on a Saturday morning, offer a huge range of sporting opportunities, as well as music and drama activities and clubs around academic subjects. This is in addition to the many more niche pastimes, such as fencing, parkour and Lego club.

It builds their confidence, leadership and resilience, and gives them a taste of responsibility and autonomy, as they navigate their way through the different challenges each activity presents. www.qe.org 12 Families Leeds

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1–26 April (Weekdays) Just minutes from Leeds city centre. On-site parking and refreshments. Beckett Street, Leeds, LS9 7LN

thackraymedicalmuseum.co.uk Fri 22 March, 4pm Sat 23 March, 10am, 1pm & 4pm Box Office 01422 351158 www.victoriatheatre.co.uk familiesonline.co.uk

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What’s On?

THE DEEP, HULL

Have you got an event you’d like us to list?

Email our What’s On editor, Lisa Ross, at lisa@familiesleeds.co.uk

Code Club at Leeds Central Library – March 9 Municipal Buildings, Calverley Street, Leeds, LS1 3AB 0113 247 6016 www.leeds.gov.uk/leisure/libraries You will discover easy to follow projects which will help you to learn a variety of coding languages by making games, robots, animations and websites. Code Club is a global network for children aged 7–11 (accompanied by their parents). 11am to 12pm.

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.

Queens of Industry at Leeds Industrial Museum – Except Mondays, to September 1 Armley Mills, Canal Rd, Armley, Leeds, LS12 2QF 0113 263 7861 www.leeds.gov.uk/museums andgalleries Discover untold stories of women in industry from the early 20th Century to today.

Exhibition: Beavers to Weavers at Leeds City Museum – except Mondays, to June 1 Millennium Square, Leeds, LS2 8BH 0113 224 3732 www.leeds.gov.uk/museums andgalleries An environmentally friendly exhibition displaying beautiful objects made by animals, from beavers to weaver birds.

Michael Morpurgo: A Lifetime in Stories at Leeds City Museum – to June 16 Millennium Square, Leeds, LS2 8BH 0113 224 3732 www.leeds.gov.uk/museums andgalleries This exhibition is an exciting insight into the life and work of Michael Morpurgo, author of War Horse.

Exploring the imagination and story-telling of the muchloved children’s writer with original manuscripts and immersive experiences to let your imagination run wild.

Every day during opening hours. An exhibition from Seven Stories, The National Centre for Children’s Books.

Story time at Leeds City Museum – Tuesdays, Thursdays and Sundays to June 16 Millennium Square, Leeds, LS2 8BH www.leeds.gov.uk/museumsandgalleries Drop in to the Michael Morpurgo exhibition and enjoy story time with one of the visitor assistants. 11.30am to 12pm. This event will not run during school holidays.

All dates are subject to staffing, if you’re making a special visit call 0113 378 5100 to check on the day.

Matilda the Musical at Alhambra Theatre – to March 23 Morley Street, Bradford, BD7 1AJ 01274 432 000 uk.matildathemusical.com Matilda The Musical is the multi-award winning musical from the Royal Shakespeare Company, inspired by the beloved book by the incomparable Roald Dahl.

Rainbow Bears at Leeds City Museum – Last Wednesday of the month, to May 22 Millennium Square, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS2 8BH www.leeds.gov.uk/museumsandgalleries Explore some of the stories in the Michael Morpurgo exhibition. A craft session for under 5s and their carers.

10am–12.30pm.

50 years of Lotherton at Lotherton Hall – daily Lotherton Lane, Aberford, Leeds, LS25 3EB 0113 281 3259 www.leeds.gov.uk/museums andgalleries Lotherton hosts three exhibitions to celebrate its 50th anniversary as a museum, representing the past, present and future of Lotherton. All three are free with admission into Lotherton.

Bedknobs and Broomsticks at Hyde Park Picture House – March 2 73 Brudenell Road, Headingley, Leeds, LS6 1JD 0113 275 2045 www.hydeparkpicturehouse.co.uk During WWII in England, Charlie, Carrie, and Paul Rawlins are sent to live with Eglantine Price, an apprentice witch. 12pm.

Anything Could Happen at Seven Artspace – March 3 31(a) Harrogate Road, Chapel Allerton, Leeds, LS7 3PD www.anythingcouldhappenleeds.com Join the growing throng of young storytellers and have your children’s make believe brought to life, live on stage. 1pm.

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Rabbit Girl and the Search for Wonder at Leeds Central Library – March 9 Municipal Buildings, Calverley Street, Leeds, LS1 3AB 0113 247 6016 www.leeds.gov.uk/leisure/libraries Playful, poignant and with a little sprinkling of magic, Rabbit Girl & The Search for Wonder is a new show inspired by stories about the joy of storytelling, coping with loss and finding wonder in the world again.

Perfect for under 8s and their grown-ups too.

12.30pm and 2pm.

Christopher’s Caterpillars at Square Chapel Halifax – March 3 10 Square Road, Halifax, HX1 1QG 01422 349 422 www.squarechapel.co.uk In his latest adventure, Christopher Nibble and his best friend Posie have been busy growing plants and food in their garden whilst taking care of their six hairy pet caterpillars. Written especially for children aged 2–7 (and their big people too) and told with Topsy Turvy Theatre’s own blend of energetic storytelling, handmade puppets, original music and stunning scenery, Christopher’s Caterpillars is a bright and beautiful tale of minibeasts and mystery! 2.30pm.

Ned Go to Bed at Bingley Library – March 7 Myrtle Walk, Bingley, BD16 1AJ 01274 438 780 www.bradford.gov.uk/libraries Hear about Ned’s adventures with author Cathy Oakley Calvert and then create your own Ned storyboard with illustrator Margaret Swift. Free drop-in family event for younger children. Books will be available to buy and to have signed. 10am to 11am.

Ned Go to Bed at Burley Library – March 7 Grange Road, Burley-In-Wharfedale, Ilkley, LS29 7HD 01943 863 714 www.bradford.gov.uk/libraries See above. 1.45pm to 2.45pm World Book Day Activity Afternoon at Heaton Hub, Bradford – March 7 St Martin’s Church, Haworth Road, Bradford, BD9 6LL www.bradford.gov.uk/libraries Decorate the library with “Story Bunting” or make a mini story-book to take home. Listen to library volunteers reading aloud their favourite picture books every half hour. Free family event. 2pm to 6pm.

World Book Day Make Your Own Dalmatian at Laisterdyke Library, Bradford – March 7 673 Leeds Road, Bradford, BD3 8EL 01274 434 724 www.bradford.gov.uk/libraries Make your own Dalmatian based on the book 101 Dalmatians, one of this year’s World Book Day books.

Free event for families with children up to 11 years.

5pm start.

Zog at Leeds Town Hall – March 8 to 9 The Headrow, Leeds, LS1 3AD 0113 247 8384 www.leedstownhall.co.uk Much-loved Zog by Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler comes to life in Mike Shepherd’s magical adaptation with Johnny Flynn’s sumptuous folk score featuring live musicians. 4.30pm Friday and 10.30am Saturday.

Superheroes Dance Workshop at Yorkshire Dance, Leeds – March 9 St Peter’s Square, Leeds, LS9 8AH www.yorkshiredance.com Discover your dance superpowers at this fun workshop with heroic dance artists Laura ’LightSpeed’ Liddon and Danni ’Danger’ Byars. Ages 2–8. 9.30am to 10.30am.

Make a Dance in a Day at Yorkshire Dance, Leeds – March 9 St Peter’s Square, Leeds, LS9 8AH www.yorkshiredance.com Work with professional choreographer TC Howard to explore what it means to be a girl, a woman, a mother or a daughter through dance. Ages 8 – 108! Under 18s need to go with an adult. 10am to 5pm.

Rainforests – Baby Friendly Curator Talks at Leeds City Museum – March 12 Millennium Square, Leeds, LS2 8BH 0113 224 3732 www.leeds.gov.uk/museums andgalleries Curator of Natural History, Clare Brown, will discuss the mystery of the world’s rainforests, why they are there and what lives in them. The museum’s baby friendly curator talks are for new mums and dads; they welcome movement and noise from babies and toddlers along with the opportunity for them to play, colour in and sit on comfy cushions. 10.30am.

Disney on Ice at First Direct Arena – March 13 to April 28 Arena Way, Leeds, LS2 8BY www.disneyonice.com Figure skaters portraying the roles of Disney characters in performances derived from various Disney films. Daily.

Family Yoga – Adventure into the Woodland at We Are Wellness – March 17 2 North Hill Road, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS6 2EN 07403 868 551 www.wearewellness.co.uk Family Yoga adventure into the woodland. Parents stay with their children. 3.30pm.

Ben & Holly’s Little Kingdom at The Victoria Theatre – March 22 to 23 Fountain Street, Halifax, HX1 1BP 01422 351 158 www.victoriatheatre.co.uk From the makers of Peppa Pig comes this BAFTA award-winning television animation live on stage.

10am, 1pm and 4pm.

My First Days Out with Thomas at Kirklees Light Railway – March 23 to 24 Park Mill Way, Clayton West, Huddersfield, HD8 9XJ 01484 865 727 www.kirkleeslightrailway.com Join Thomas the Tank Engine and his friends, Percy, Toby, Mavis and Emily as they visit the Kirklees Light Railway from the Island of Sodor.

Code Club at Leeds Central Library – March 23 Municipal Buildings, Calverley Street, Leeds, LS1 3AB 0113 247 6016 www.leeds.gov.uk/leisure/libraries You will discover easy to follow projects which will help you to learn a variety of coding languages by making games, robots, animations and websites. Code Club is a global network for children aged 7–11 (accompanied by their parents). 11am to 12pm.

Billy Shakes: Wonderboy! Workshop at Leeds Central Library – March 24 Municipal Buildings, Calverley Street, Leeds, LS1 3AB 0113 247 6016 www.leeds.gov.uk/leisure/libraries This hands-on drama workshop is a fantastic introduction to the life, stories and characters of William Shakespeare for young people and their families. Suitable for families with children aged five to 11. Part of the National Shakespeare Week programme. 11.30am – 12.30pm and 1.30pm – 2.30pm.

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What’s On? AniMalcom at Square Chapel, Halifax – March 26 10 Square Road, Halifax, HX1 1QG 01422 349 422 www.squarechapel.co.uk Malcolm doesn’t like animals, which is a problem because his family love them, in fact, they’re wild about them. A vibrant, energetic and gloriously funny musical from the award-winning Story Pocket Theatre. 7pm.

Hansel and Gretel at Carriageworks Theatre – March 27 to 30 The Electric Press, 3 Millennium Square, Leeds, LS2 3AD 0113 376 0318 www.carriageworkstheatre.co.uk Children’s Theatre presents this lovable classic folktale, told with suspense and charm. Hansel and Gretel are sent into the forbidden forest to gather berries by their uncaring, heartless, stepmother.

Be Curious at the University of Leeds – March 30 The University, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS2 9JT 0113 243 1751 www.leeds.ac.uk Have you ever wondered what happens in a University?

Go along for a day of free, family friendly activities at the University of Leeds. 10am to 4pm.

Medieval Easter at the Royal Armouries Museum – March 30 to April 14 Armouries Drive, Leeds, LS10 1LT 0113 220 1999 royalarmouries.org Entertain the family during the Easter Holidays with an action-packed programme of medieval-themed events and activities. Daily from 10am.

CSI Seashore at The Deep – March 30 to April 28 Tower St, Hull HU1 4DP 01482 381 000 www.thedeep.co.uk Throughout the Easter holidays The Deep’s special agents will be taking a trip to our native coastline in CSI Seashore to find out all about the species that can be discovered at the seaside. Help them solve dastardly crimes as you go, and you might event earn a CSI badge of your own. Other holiday activities include interactive presentations, crafts and face-painting.

Fantastical Beasts Exhibition at Temple Newsam – Daily from March 30 Temple Newsam Road, Off Selby Road, Leeds, LS15 0AE www.leeds.gov.uk/museumsandgalleries From gryphons to gargoyles and wyverns to wolves, explore the hidden beasts lurking in the walls of Temple Newsam.

Mother’s Day Special at Kirklees Light Railway – March 31 Park Mill Way, Clayton West, Huddersfield, HD8 9XJ 01484 865 727 kirkleeslightrailway.com Mum deserves to be spoilt this Mother’s Day. Why not treat her to an all-day rover ticket for half price? The ticket for Mum will be valid all day on all trains.

Junior CSI at Thackray Medical Museum – weekdays April 1 to 26 Beckett Street, Leeds, LS9 7LN 0113 244 4343 thackraymedicalmuseum.co.uk Calling all investigators! A crime has been committed.

Can you help solve it?

Grandad’s Island at The Carriageworks – April 2 to 3 The Electric Press, 3 Millennium Square, Leeds, LS2 3AD 0113 376 0318 www.carriageworkstheatre.co.uk Benji Davies’s award-winning book is brought magically and sensitively to life on stage by the team behind Flat Stanley and Red Riding Hood.

Ready Steady Lift Off at The Carriageworks – April 3 The Electric Press, 3 Millennium Square, Leeds, LS2 3AD 0113 376 0318 www.carriageworkstheatre.co.uk An immersive theatre show for 3 to 8-year-olds combining live performance, music, storytelling and painting in one interactive theatre show. 10.30am, 12.30pm and 2.30pm.

Aliens Love Underpants at The Carriageworks – April 5 to 6 The Electric Press, 3 Millennium Square, Leeds, LS2 3AD 0113 3760318 www.carriageworkstheatre.co.uk The best-selling children’s book is delightfully brought to life on stage for the very first time. For families with children aged 3+.

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E.T. The Extra-Terrestrial in Concert at Leeds Town Hall – April 14 The Headrow, Leeds, LS1 3AD 0113 247 8384 www.leedstownhall.co.uk Showing of the film with John Williams’ Academy Award winning score performed live by the Czech National Symphony Orchestra. 7.30pm.

Making Monday: Pom Pom Bunnies at the Piece Hall, Halifax – April 15 Blackledge, Halifax, HX1 1RE 01422 525 217 www.thepiecehall.co.uk Go and make a cute pom pom bunny rabbit at the activity cart.

BEN & HOLLY, AT VICTORIA THEATRE, HALIFAX Spring Fair at The Donkey Sanctuary – April 7 Swan Lane, Eccup, Leeds, LS16 8AZ www.thedonkeysanctuary.org.uk A seasonal celebration with the donkeys – the perfect leap into Spring.

Anything Could Happen at Seven Artspace – April 7 31(a) Harrogate Road, Chapel Allerton, Leeds, LS7 3PD www.anythingcouldhappenleeds.com Join the growing throng of young storytellers and have your children’s make believe brought to life, live on stage. 1pm.

Easter Activities at Nostell – April 8 to 12 Nostell Priory and Parkland, National Trust, Doncaster Road nr Wakefield, WF4 1QE 01924 863892 www.nationaltrust.org.uk Loads of Easter family fun all week at Nostell.

On Monday get stuck into muddy wild play in the adventure playground. On Tuesday set out on an outdoor adventure to Engine Wood to learn all about cooking on a campfire (£2 per person). On Wednesday try out wild art in the adventure playground and on Thursday and Friday roll up your sleeves and discover the designer in you making Chippendale-inspired crafts in the Workshop in the house. Regular admission prices apply. All activities take place 11am–3pm.

AniMalcolm at The Carriageworks – April 9 The Electric Press, 3 Millennium Square, Leeds, LS2 3AD 0113 3760318 www.carriageworkstheatre.co.uk Malcolm doesn’t like animals, which is a problem because his family love them, in fact, they’re wild about them. A vibrant, energetic and gloriously funny musical from the award-winning Story Pocket Theatre. 4pm.

Gung-Ho! at Harewood House – April 13 Harewood, Leeds, LS17 9LG 0113 2181010 www.harewood.org Gung-Ho! – the world’s biggest inflatable 5k run – is coming to Harewood. 10am to 3pm.

Family Easter Egg Trail at the Piece Hall, Halifax – April 13 to 28 Blackledge, Halifax, HX1 1RE 01422 525217 www.thepiecehall.co.uk Woolly the Sheep has lost his chocolate eggs, can you help him find them? £1 per trail. Trails available from the welcome centre. Each Completed trail will receive a chocolate treat.

Miniature Train Rides at Ravensrpings Park in Brighouse – April 14 Cawcliffe Road, Brighouse, HD6 2HP bhme.co.uk Ravensprings Park is a private park owned by the Brighouse and Halifax Model Engineers. The park is open for public rides on selected Sundays (mainly the second) from April to October, providing rides on two different railway tracks. There is a large safe grassed area for children to play with refreshments and ice cream available in the club house. 1.30 to 5pm.

Adults £3 Children £2.

Cadbury Easter Egg Hunt at Nostell – April 15 to 22 Nostell Priory and Parkland, National Trust, Doncaster Road nr Wakefield, WF4 1QE 01924 863 892 www.nationaltrust.org.uk Follow your map to find clues and games, discover more about Nostell’s spring residents, and claim your yummy Cadbury chocolate prize. Admission ticket needed. £2.50 per hunt sheet. Hunt runs daily 10am–3pm.

Decorate A Chocolate Egg at the Piece Hall, Halifax – April 17 Blackledge, Halifax, HX1 1RE 01422 525 217 www.thepiecehall.co.uk Join the Chocolate Box team to learn about the history of chocolate and do some tasting. Children will get to decorate their own chocolate egg and create a beautiful box to carry it home in.

International Jousting Tournament at the Royal Armouries – April 19 to 22 Armouries Drive, Leeds, LS10 1LT 0113 220 1999 www.royalarmouries.org One of the greatest spectacles in Yorkshire – authentic jousting in the heart of Leeds.

The Gruffalo and The Gruffalo’s Child at Leeds Town Hall – April 20 The Headrow, Leeds, LS1 3AD 0113 2478 384 www.leedstownhall.co.uk Terry Davies conducts the Orchestra of Opera North in René Aubry’s inspired scores to accompany the screening of this animated double-bill. 4pm.

Spring Lambs at the Piece Hall, Halifax – April 22 Blackledge, Halifax, HX1 1RE 01422 525 217 www.thepiecehall.co.uk Meet some lovely Ryland Lambs and Ewes in the courtyard.

Annie The Musical at Bradford Alhambra – April 22 to 27 The Alhambra Theatre, Morley Street, Bradford, BD7 1AJ 01274 432 000 www.anniethemusicaltour.uk Direct from the West End on a UK tour. Set in 1930s New York during The Great Depression, brave young Annie is forced to live a life of misery at Miss Hannigan’s orphanage. Her luck soon changes when she’s chosen to spend a fairytale Christmas with famous billionaire, Oliver Warbucks.

Illustration Workshop at the Piece Hall, Halifax – April 24 Blackledge, Halifax, HX1 1RE 01422 525 217 www.thepiecehall.co.uk Children can join local artist Chris Mould to create their own illustration in a special 1 hour workshop.

Peter Pan Easter Panto at the Victoria Theatre – April 25 2 Fountain Street, Halifax, HX1 1BP www.victoriatheatre.co.uk Starring Bobby Davro as Smee, Tracy Beaker’s Dani Harmer as Wendy and Disney Art Attack’s Lloyd Warbey as Peter Pan. 2pm and 6pm performances.

Leeds Bubble Rush at Harewood House – April 27 Harewood, Leeds, LS17 9LG 0113 2181010 www.harewood.org Join St Gemma’s Hospice for the biggest, brightest, happiest and most colourful 5k. 10.45am to 3pm.

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