Families Leeds Jan-Feb 2014

 Leeds’ Favourite Parenting Magazine // JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2014 // ISSUE 32

STOCKELD

PARK

Where magic is made & adventures

begin

Open daily 15th – 23rd Feb Half Term

10.30am - 6.00pm. (Disco On Ice 6.00pm - 8.00pm Fri only)

Active adventures!

Enchanted Forest, Real Ice Rink , Maze & Indoor Play!

Perfectly located between Harrogate & Leeds LS22 4AN

www.stockeldpark.co.uk

Entrance £12 for all activities including ice skating & skate hire. £8 for all activities excluding ice skating.

Please email info@stockeldpark.co.uk for details of group lessons, parties and young skater sessions.

WIN… WIN… WIN… Family Ticket to THE ICE CUBE  The coolest day out in Leeds is back for 2014! The Ice Cube returns to Millennium Square for the 14th year and you’re invited. Pull on your skates and head onto 500m2 of real ice.

There’s low capacity sessions for beginners and a special nursery area for under 7s. For the more adventurous there’s even the chance to take lessons. To be in with a chance of winning a super family ticket simply send your name and address to editor@familiesleeds.co.uk.

Entries close on 23rd January and the winning family will be notified by email. If you aren’t lucky, head to www.leeds.gov.uk/icecube to find out more.

25 Personalised Party Bags

by KT 

 A3 Limited Edition Print by Justin Leeming We love introducing you to talented local parents and Justin Leeming is one such Dad. He’s been creating gorgeous pieces of art for friends and family for years, but turned that talent into a business in 2013. To thank Families Leeds for our support, Justin is giving away limited edition A3 prints to three lucky readers.

“Since launching JGL Design last year, the response and support has been fantastic,” says Justin. “2014 is about getting more of my work into homes across Yorkshire and with this prize, I’m doing just that.”

Just send your name and address to editor@familiesleeds.co.uk Entries close on Friday 7th February and winners will be notified by email. To see more of Justin’s work visit www.jgl-design.co.uk

COVER PHOTO: Thanks to Rachel Porter from Harrogate for letting us use the fabulous picture of her son Barney and his snowman friend for our front cover.

PRINTED BY: Warners, Bourne, Lincolnshire PE10 9PH

We’re always looking for ways to make planning your child’s next party a little easier. These fabulous personalised party bags from

By KT are the perfect way to bid farewell to your guests. Designer Katie Giles has come up with a huge selection of themes including Army, Ballet, Superhero, Unicorn and Pirate. These are bespoke bags tailored to your child’s celebrations and are guaranteed to make it an event to remember. To be in with a chance of winning this super prize, simply send your child’s name, address and date of birth to editor@familiesleeds.co.uk by Friday 7th February. If you aren’t lucky, take a look at the fabulous range at www.bykt.co.uk There’s a 15% discount for all Families Leeds readers with the code FAMILIES15.

Families Leeds® is distributed free of charge to schools, nurseries, playgroups, clubs and classes, selected retail outlets and sports centres. Distribution is across ALL LS postcodes. Families Leeds® is part of a larger group of magazines headed by Families SW London®. All franchised magazines in the group are independently owned and operated under licence. We take every care when preparing this magazine, but publishers and distributors – which include schools – cannot be held responsible for the claims of advertisers nor for the accuracy of the contents nor any consequences.

Welcome Back…

I

ALWAYS WELCOME THE NEW YEAR with a mixture of anxiety and excitement.

Anxiety because I’m about to turn another year older and I’ve still not become the BBC Washington Correspondent or completed a Triathalon. Excitement because this year I might do both of those things.

However, having celebrated the big 4–0 last year I have become more relaxed about life and its achievements. I’m an alright mum. I’m not bad at my job and I have a few friends. The realization that I may never report live from the White House is slowly sinking in, but so is another reality. Generally speaking, I’m pretty happy with my lot so why would I change things?

I do however have a positive resolution up my sleeve for 2014, handed to me by an old Families’ friend. Chose three people and pledge to make or bake something for them before the year is out. It’s not onorous or overwhelming. It’s a homemade cake for a school gate friend who looks like they need a brew. It’s some biscuits for a stressed out colleague. Most of all it’s about spreading a bit of kindness in a world where it can be in pretty short supply.

So join me in ‘Paying it Forward’ in 2014 and reflect on this. If the people you show kindness to, go on to share kindness, haven’t we helped make our world just a little more pleasant? And that’s got to be worth a few batches of brownies.

I hope 2014 is kind to you!

Sarah Butters familiesleeds.co.uk

What’s inside 7

Mums mean BUSINESS meets KATIE TURNER

8

Families Review LITTLE STARS

9

Families Review ZUMBATONICS

12 Helping your children through DIVORCE 14 Families Leeds meets BECKY ADLINGTON 15 Get on your BIKE 18 PARTY News 21 WHAT’S ON featuring the best ICE RINKS CIRCULATION: 18,000 copies printed NEXT DEADLINE: Thursday 7th February.

If you want to advertise contact adverts@familiesleeds.co.uk CONTACT US: PO BOX 403 • BARDSEY LEEDS LS17 1EP • 07764 943 789 editor@familiesleeds.co.uk DESIGNED BY: JUSTIN LEEMING www.jgl-design.co.uk • 07745 038 005

Yorkshire’s coolest wintertime attraction Friday 24 January - Sunday 23 February Millennium Square, Leeds Ice Rink Nursery Rink Capital FM Snowslide Winter Rides and Attractions Dolomites Café

www.leeds.gov.uk/icecube

@millsqleeds

4

FAMILIES LEEDS | January/February

Families Also in Boston Spa, Knaresborough & Wetherby

NCT NEARLY NEW SALE 23rd March Ilkley NCT Clarke Foley Centre www.nct.org.uk/nns

NEWS…

Get Your SKATES ON… Wrap up and head to Millennium Square this January as the city’s real ice rink opens. The Ice Cube celebrates its 14th season in the city and it promises to be better than ever. There’s 500m2 of real ice to explore, a nursery area for under 8s and marshalls on hand to lend a helping hand. For beginners, there’s low capacity sessions and penguin skate aids for pint sized skaters in need of some support. The rink opens on weekdays at 12.30pm and at weekends and over half term at 10am. Book your session at www.leeds.gov.uk/icecube

‘OUTSTANDING’ Report for NEW Twinkles Nursery Staff at Leeds’ newest city centre nursery are celebrating after receiving an ‘Outstanding’ at a recent OFSTED inspection. Twinkles which is on Church Walk opened last March. The report says its’ 67 children are ‘extremely happy and settled in a warm and welcoming environment’. It also observed ‘nutritious and healthy meals’ as well as a ‘high level of parental involvement’. Twinkles owner Jill Johnson says she’s ‘proud and delighted’ with the report. www.twinklesnurseries.com • 0113 247 1731

STOCKELD Easter Opening If you, like us, are bracing yourselves for the closure of Stockeld Park in February, we have some good news. Following the huge success of last year’s Summer Adventure, the doors to the Easter Adventure will open on Saturday 5th April. Visitors will have access to all the hidden treasures in the forest such as the Teepee Encampment, Tangle Tree Climb and Woodsands Cove. There will also be face painting, craft activities and treasure hunts. Stockeld Park is also open for Simply Skate from 15th – 24th February. The Easter Adventure runs from 5th – 22nd April. www.stockeldpark.co.uk

Have a GREAT BRITISH BREKKIE!

Based in Chapel Allerton | Leeds Mondays & Fridays

Baby Boppers 3-12 months 9.30am Happy Hoppers1-3 yrs 10.30 am For bookings, fees & venues seek our website.

It’s time to get your eggs scrambling, your bagels toasting and oranges squeezed.

Whatever your favourite breakfast, the charity Winston’s Wish is asking you to host a fundraising brekkie from 10th – 16th February. The charity supports bereaved children and needs to raise £2 million a year. If you host a breakfast party, ask your guests to make a donation. Register free at www.greatbritishbrekkie.org.uk and set to work on your menu!

FAMILIES LEEDS | January/February 5

NEW Blackboard for Rawdon Library Children in Rawdon are enjoying a fabulous new blackboard to practice their artistic talents on, thanks to the efforts of local people. The library was recently saved from closure and is now run by the community. Facilities have been upgraded and there’s now a toilet and baby changing.

Come along to Story Time on a Thursday morning. 0113 391 0440

Slim Down with COOK North Leeds If you’re feeling like you’ve overindulged over the festive period, why not head to COOK North Leeds for New Year inspiration. There’s a fabulous range of low calorie but high taste Skinny Pots that take the stress out of healthy eating. They’re perfect for those of you trying the 5:2 eating plan. We’ll be stocking up our freezer with Pad Thai, Chicken Laksa and Sweet Chilli Chicken but there’s a host of others to choose from. This month also sees the launch of the OMG range of pots. At less than 400 calories and 14g fat, we can’t wait to get our hands on them. For details on home delivery in the North Leeds area and the full range of meals in the freezers in Moortown, head to www.cookfood.net/northleeds

Teach your baby the enjoyment of water!

Sing and play through our structured awards programme and see your baby progress to a confident little swimmer.

Babies from 6 weeks old to 6 years old.

Swims at... Batley l Ossett l Leeds l Bradford l York l Harrogate l Pocklington

For details call 01757 229880 or visit babyswimmers.co.uk

LEEDS BOY swims for KENDAL Huge congratulations to City of Leeds Swimmer Zak Moran who completed a mile long sponsored swim for a fabulous local charity.

Zak took up the challenge to raise funds for Kendal’s Fight Against Neuroblastoma.

Kendal’s family is trying to raise up to £500,000 to secure treatment in the United States. Zak completed the 1 mile swim at The Grammar School at Leeds in 27 minutes and 42 seconds raising £358. Great effort Zak!

LEEDS Youngsters Star in BBC RADIO DRAMA Children from Pyjama Drama classes in Leeds are taking part in a national radio series. The 10 part programme about the world of work will air on CBeebies Radio in the New Year. Leeds’ class leader Sara Hall has been part of the project along with Pyjama Drama founder Sarah Owen, “Young children love to pretend,” explains Sarah. “We’ve created a series of drama workshops which place them in a grown ups shoes.”

Diary of a

The ➚

IMPERFECT MUM…

IIFamilies Leeds columnist Claire Bottomley reflectsII IIon the pressure of Show and Tell Thursday.II

W

Sometimes, if we’ve driven and parked close enough, the car can be our saviour.

We race back there, hearts beating fast, and rummage, shaky-handed through the detritus therein. I hold stuff up, mad-eyed and ask things like: “jelly shoes? – you could tell them about swimming in the sea!” He either shakes his head sadly or smiles with relief, at which point we return triumphant to the playground.

My predicament is even worse if we’ve walked, as happened last week.

I plunged my hands into my pockets in the vain hope of something interesting having unfathomably found its way into them.

There was nothing, save a rogue chocolate wrapped in pumpkin foil, left over from Halloween.

I held it out doubtfully. “How about this?” I asked. “You could tell them all about the treasure hunt we had?”

HENEVER I commit the most mortal sin a mother can, I vow it will never, ever, happen again. I start the next week with renewed dedication to organisational high standards. All items of uniform are present and correct, the contents of the book bag are as they should be and we’re at school in plenty of time for the bell. The calendar is consulted for any special events, the water bottle is washed and refreshed.

As we enter the school gates on Thursday, I relax a little. It’s nearly the weekend. I smile as my son joins his friends. Then I freeze as I realise they are all clutching things – waving them exuberantly in the air. My stomach lurches as I identify a pink unicorn, a swimming certificate and a homemade pirate ship.

I’ve done it again. He looks up at me.

“It’s Thursday.” he says. “We forgot show and tell.”

To my surprise, he smiled and embraced the suggestion.

When I picked him up later, he still had the chocolate, albeit now rather squashed.

“We lost it all morning and everyone looked,” he said, un-wrapping it and popping the flattened sweet into his mouth.

This time, I thought, I will be true to my pledge. In a bid to end the cycle of failure, I dedicated the whole week to a crafty project with him – making and decorating a papier mache bowl.

It’s Wednesday, and our creation has reached completion, just in time for show and tell.

So I’m starting to feel a bit better about the whole thing. He can be really proud of this one, I’m sure he’ll enjoy showing it off to his friends and telling them how he made it. Just must remember to take it to school…

under 4g of fat

iced Moroccan-Sp en ick Ch

Full of Flavour

NEW Roasted Vegetable and Chickpea Curry Beef Bourguignon

FR

off your shopping

Valid until February 7 2014

T

when you spend $30

O

Less than 400 calories

OM

OUR KITC

N HE

$5

Sea Bass with Asparagus Tips & Linguine in a Lobster & Saffron Bisque

e Hom ery v i Del YO

EN

All our OMG pots have less than 400 calories & 14g of fat. They also taste amazing.

UR KIT

CH

ONLINE: COOKFOOD.NET INSTORE:

0113 2370377

FAMILIES LEEDS | January/February 7

mumsmean

{BUSINESS} t in aII ke over the world. No ta to ts an w er rn Tu IIKatie forII of way. Katie’s secret rt so ’ nd Bo es m Ja II‘baddie from e forII g and she’s invited m in nc da is n io at in m IIglobal do to do it.II ll me how she’s going te to ee ff co ng ni or IIa m

K

ATIE IS THE BRAINS, and the dancing feet behind Kids 2 Dance.

She launched the pre-school dance classes 18 months ago in Leeds and they’ve gone from strength to strength. Her rock solid reputation for providing fun and educational dance sessions mean she’s now filling classes and waiting lists in every venue she has. With demand increasing Katie has decided it’s time to go global.

Well, almost.

“I’m getting enormous demand for classes up in Wharfedale, in North Leeds and Harrogate. It’s demand I can’t keep up with,” explains Katie. “I’ve been successful and now I want to help other people have a successful business. So I’m launching the Kids 2 Dance franchise opportunity. I want to find mums with a passion for dance and the enthusiasm to run their own business.

I’ll give them all the support and skills they need to make it work.”

Kids 2 Dance is a tried and tested formula that works. The classes are divided up into pre-walkers and walkers and the children are introduced to a range of dances packed with lots of fun. However, Katie has

the competitive world of franchised combined her experience as a successful businesses will work – even if it takes a dance teacher and a mum to create a little time. programme that’s educational as well as “The growth of Kids 2 Dance might not energetic. This is development through happen immediately, but I will get there and dance and laughter, according to Katie.

I’ll get there when the right people come “My kids don’t know they’re learning. on board. I want to take over the world and They think they’re having fun with ribbons, get everyone dancing!” scarves and pom poms but while they’re And as I say goodbye, I can’t help but dancing, they’re learning letters, sounds, think she probably will have the world numbers, counting and colours. We’re dancing before too long. preparing them for school while they’re having fun!”

Katie wants to begin rolling the Kids 2 To find out more about franchise Dance franchise out in the Yorkshire area. opportunities with Kids 2 Dance in From there she’d like to expand across Wharfedale, North Leeds and Harrogate the North of England but the key for this email info@kids2dance.co.uk or call ambitious mum is getting the right people 07834 266 350. to join her team.

“You’ve got to love kids and you’ve got to love dancing. However, the sort of person I’m looking for doesn’t have to be a qualified dance teacher. They do need to be enthusiastic and ambitious – it’s going to be hard work. But I will be Our dance and movement classes are a great introduction a hands on franchisor which is why to physical exercise for kids aged 6 months to 4 years I want to recruit in Yorkshire.”

Singing Dancing Skipping Hopping Music Instruments It’s enough to make me put the Colours Numbers Balance Confidence Coordination For Sale sign up at Families Leeds Interaction Fun Certificates and take up Katie’s challenge. Her Contact Katie to find out where your local classes are... enthusiasm is infectious and she T: 0113 287 6252 M: 07834 266350 www.kids2dance.co.uk truly believes that expanding into

Wetherby, Selby & Kippax on 0113 210 3505 Horsforth & Morley on 01757 248 884 Roundhay on 0845 678 7778 www.stagecoach.co.uk

Now enro

lling

ring T p S e h t for

erm

LITTLE STARS WHEN: Tuesday Afternoon • WHERE: Roundhay Methodist Church

||Gemma Dean is arranging mirrors, bottles|| ||filled with rice and trays of paint around a|| ||church hall in North Leeds. It’s the calm|| ||before the storm because in an hour, this|| ||place will be filled with inquisitive babies|| ||and toddlers, poking, prodding and painting|| ||everything in site. Little Stars Session Leader|| ||Gemma certainly hopes so.|| “Today we are looking at shapes,� she explains. “We’ll be focusing on circular shapes and we’ll also be experimenting with textures.

Some of the objects will roll, some will bounce and some are squashy. The children will be feeling them all and we’ll be talking about them.�

The theme is everywhere, from the bags the children will excitedly search through at circle time to the soft play cylinders they’ll jump and roll on in the movement section. Little Stars is all your child’s favourite activities ‘rolled’ into a one hour class.

There’s singing, learning, climbing, exploring and then there’s the chance to get creative. It’s getting the paint coated thumbs up from all the children in today’s class. “It’s a full body sensory adventure,� says Gemma who has a background in childcare and education. “This is child initiated play.

We simply give them the equipment and the opportunity but it’s the children who decide how to use it.�

The circle time begins with a song and then the distribution of the weekly bag. Children pull out objects connected to the theme and this week there’s squishy balls everywhere. After that the soft play adventure is revealed and the children are invited to rock on soft play toys, roll on the floor and crawl through tunnels. It looks like fun but actually these children are learning a really important lesson. “Children need to be allowed to make their own mind up about what they want to do,� explains Gemma. “It’s good to have structure and routine and we do but children need to make their own decisions.

So if they want to play instead of sit at circle time. That’s fine.“

After movement comes creative time and the theme here is self portrait. As the trays of paint, glue and feathers appear on the plastic lined floor, there’s a race to remove clothing. Some of the younger children are taking the theme literally and painting themselves.

Others are creating on the paper provided. All are having a lot of messy fun that, to the parents’ relief, someone else will clear up.

At each stage of this class the children – who range in age from just a few weeks old up to 4 – are all getting something different out of it. The older ones listen more, can jump higher and roll faster and are more considered in their creativity. However, the babies are no less rewarded. With two dedicated instructors in the room, every child is supported to get the most out of the class. That’s why it’s popular with parents with more than one child. “There aren’t many classes that offer the same the same activities for 3 month olds and 3 year olds, knowing they’ll get something different out of it,� says Gemma from Little Stars. “It doesn’t matter how many children you have under 5, they can all come to this one class and access the activities on different levels.�

Little Stars is running sessions on a Tuesday in Roundhay, West Park on a Wednesday, Boston Spa on a Thursday and Garforth on a Friday. www.littlestarsleeds.co.uk • 07775 298 627

( . 0*,

+/

$( + , .',(% ,/# /(+*, . ., ,/+,*%, .#+ *,/# -( .% (##.#+ ,# , ( , &.)$*. .)/+,* .('-0# ,/,

0- /, ,*#+ ,.#$ 0/'+* .-(',/+( .

10/.-0/,.+*)0/-('+0*&.%0*'(%'.$#"

+#',*

' .! . !. , .,* $+/+,# '+* #+ *,/# %0 $ . ..'+* #+ *,/# %0 $

, $ (/.% (##,#. . /0 +*.#,##+0*#.+*. 0/ # +/,. .

,% . , #+',.)0/. ,'(+ #

Classes in North Leeds To try a class or for more information please contact Sara on 0844 504 0964 or email sara@pyjamadrama.com

ZUMBATONICS WHO: Danceworks • WHEN: Saturday 10.15am WHERE: The Scout Hut, Fir Tree Lane, Alwoodley Now celebrating 10 years in Leeds!

||If you thought Zumba was just for grown ups, think|| ||again. In a scout hut in North Leeds, a group of under 10s|| ||are spending this Saturday morning rocking their hips|| ||and shaking their arms to the beat of Zumba. This is|| ||Zumbatonics, the children’s version of the hugely popular|| ||fitness craze, and it’s proving pretty popular here in|| ||Alwoodley. Leading the class is Lucy Mills.|| “This is a dance and fitness programme so very different from any of the traditional dance classes children may have done before,� the Danceworks Instructor explains. “It’s more about having fun and getting fit than it is about perfect technique.

You don’t need to get every step right, so it’s not just for children with a dance background.

Zumbatonics is for everyone!�

This 45 minute session is non stop. From the minute the music starts and the warm up begins, the children are on the move. The group work on a new dance every week, as well as revisiting routines they’ve already learnt. This Saturday Lucy will be teaching a fifth dance, but first it’s time to run though the more familiar four. This is how the class helps build up fitness. “This is a great class for children who aren’t keen on sport, but want to get fit and be active,� explains Danceworks’ Laura Jakes. “Parents are concerned about kids spending their spare time infront of TVs and iPads. This is about getting them up, out and moving in a really fun environment.�

And fun is the key in these classes. Lucy asks the children to pretend they’re drying their back with a towel, brush away their hair from their shoulder and play their air guitar with passion. At the end of each dance the children are red faced and fighting for breath and there’s a brief time out for a drink.

Then it’s back to the dancefloor for more. The fast pace isn’t just popular with the children, it’s a hit with the instructor too. “I like the fact that it’s fast and fun. I’m not stopping and correcting steps and techniques,� says Lucy. “With Zumba it’s

family bonding through nt and creative play music, moveme

Fun, educational music classes for babies, toddlers & pre-schoolers FREE trial session!

Call Elizabeth on 0113 232 8131

www.rhythmtime.net/eh2

about keeping going, again and again until they’ve got it. The parents also like it because they leave here very, very tired!�

As the high energy session draws to a close, it appears Lucy is right. As parents arrive to collect, the children can barely muster a Harlem Shuffle off the dancefloor, never mind more Zumba! www.danceworks-leeds.co.uk • 0113 295 0126

JOIN US FOR OUR CHRISTMAS PARTY!

OPEN FOR PLAY 7 DAYS A WEEK

CALL FOR DETAILS

Classes for pre-school children from babies to age 4

Join in the fun!

Free Taster Sessions

call us today!

07775298627

email littlestarsleeds@hotmail.com

Join us on Facebook: Little Stars Leeds

Adventure Play Area ~ Separate Toddler Area

Opening Times: Mon-Fri 10am-5pm Sat-Sun 10am-6pm

Suitable for ages 0-11 especially pre-schoolers www.littlebeesplay.co.uk

Unit B, Seacroft Trade Park, Coal Road, Leeds, LS14 2AQ. Tel 0113 2329822

10

FAMILIES LEEDS | January/February

thinking about adoption?

Class NEWS… NEW SESSIONS

Everyone deserves to be part of a ‘forever family’ Families that Last finds permanent homes for some of the 6000 children waiting in the care system.

To find out more about the children we are currently family finding for get in touch with us today. visit: familiesthatlast.org.uk

call: 0300 456 2656

This super new pre-school class is thriving, launching two new centres for 2014.

Little Stars will be in Boston Spa on a Thursday morning and in Garforth on a Friday morning from this month. That’s in addition to the sessions in Roundhay and West Park. These hour long classes combine music, movement and creative play for children from birth to school age. See our review on page 8 to find out more. www.littlestars.co.uk

text: ADOPT YORKS to 60777

LAST FEW PLACES after families that last Registered Charity 1000888

There are only a few spaces left in the Friday and Saturday DanceBugs classes in Alwoodley. These hugely popular classes run by the fabulous Laura Jakes are a super introduction to dance, developing coordination, listening skills and imagination in pre-school children. Sign up to secure your space or visit www.danceworks-leeds.co.uk to see the range of dance classes on offer.

because kids can’t wait to have a family

NEW TO LEEDS

CREATING THRILLS & SKILLS FOR LIFE With outstanding Performing Arts tuition, your very own movie screened at the cinema, free Trinity exams and our WestEnd show - what are you waiting for?

PQA Harrogate are enrolling now.

Academies run on Saturdays To enrol your child and for further information please visit www.pqacademy.com or call us now on 084567 32022

We’re delighted to welcome Rugrats Rugby to Leeds. This is a non contact rugby playing programme for boys and girls from 2 years old. Classes currently run in Morley on a Saturday and Clifford on a Sunday. There are new sessions launching at Kids Clubhouse in Horsforth on a Monday and in Chapel Allerton on a Tuesday and a Saturday. To come along to a taster sessions email contactus@rugratsrugby.co.uk • www.rugratsrugby.co.uk

VISITING DANCERS Sign up for one of two fabulous workshops organised in the New Year by Elevations Dance in Chapel Allerton. In January a world champion street dancer will be putting children from 7 – 12 through their paces with break dance and hip hop moves.

Then on 8th February, former Royal Ballet Head Boy Michael Berkin will be in Leeds to deliver a Sleeping Beauty workshop to children from 4 years old. Both events can be booked through the website www.elevations.com

FAMILIES LEEDS | January/February 11

What do you do at…

Pauline Quirke Academy Families Vale of York Editor Belinda Maunsell has visited Pauline Quirke Academy in Harrogate to find out what’s on offer at these exciting new out of school activities.

S

TUDENTS arrive at 9.30am for their classes and in no time the main hall at Harrogate Grammar School is buzzing with chatter against a background of songs from well-known musicals.

Principal Kellie Taylor soon has everyone organised into groups to give out notices, hand out the previous week’s awards and sing some happy birthdays.

Soon everyone’s warming up for this week’s session with a dance routine to ‘Firework’ by Katy Perry. All the staff are just as involved as the students and what strikes me is just how full of energy everyone is. There’s no stopping even the smallest of performers who at the age of 4 are bopping away with the older teenagers.

Groups are divided according to age at PQA. I join the youngest group – the ’Poppets’. These children are all aged 4 – 5 and getting down to some ‘monster’ dancing! They’ve been making monsters and have all had their faces painted in preparation for a performance for parents. Poppets classes are shorter than the main school classes lasting 90 minutes, which is perfect for younger children’s attention spans. Typically classes include movement, dance, poetry, speech, singing, as well as teamwork, confidence-building and social skills.

The class leaders had loads of enthusiasm and the final performances were full of scary monsters. Parents get a chance to stay and watch at the end of the session each week and our Poppets were particularly excited to learn that next week’s lesson would be ballet.

‘Each week we look at different things,‘ Kellie tells me, ‘and next week we have some Masterclass sessions being held. ‘There’ll be street dance with an expert who has danced with Kylie & Ollie Murs working with the older children and the Poppets’ ballet Masterclass teacher has danced in ‘The Nutcracker’ and ‘Billy Elliot’.

It’s such a great opportunity for the students and they always have a fabulous time.’

My next destination is Film & Television with children aged 10 – 12.

This is really exciting and not something I’ve seen happening before in an out of school class. There are 15 in the group and they’re

making their own film. Over a number of weeks they’ve scripted and filmed scenes from their own play. Students take all the roles from acting to directing, filming and even choosing camera angles. The whole process is time-consuming and requires lots of patience and self-discipline as scenes need to be rehearsed and filmed – sometimes with several takes and from different angles. I’m particularly impressed with how readily the students quieten for filming to begin and how many ideas they have for different camera angles and shots.

My final group of the day is ‘Green Group’ made up of around twenty 6-9 year olds who are working on a performance of Peter Pan in their Comedy & Drama class. The story has been improvised by the children and after a physical warm-up they get down to re-capping and then rehearsing new material. The children are welleducated in Drama techniques, know their lines and when to come in. I do notice a couple of lively characters in class but they are given plenty to occupy them making sure they keep on task and out of mischief! The class finishes their session with some stage combat work which they love!

It strikes me that it is the perfect place for both lively and shy children. Lively kids thrive when their energy is directed into something where showing off is positively encouraged, and shy children can learn how to express themselves in the comfort of a supportive group. It’s for anyone who might want to widen their circle of friends, meet new people as well as learn valuable life skills – and, of course, it’s a fabulous way to learn how to master some of the key skills needed to be a performer.

PQA take children aged 4-18. Get in touch to book a FREE taster session.

Kellie Taylor – Principal PQA – Harrogate Tel: 07928 835 516 Email: kellie@pqacademy.com Web: www.pqacademy.com/locations/harrogate

12

FAMILIES LEEDS | January/February

Helping your child through DIVORCE About 40% of marriages end in divorce and in a great many cases, there are children to consider. Leeds based Counsellor for Young People Jennifer Dutton talks to Families Leeds about the best way to guide you child through the trauma of separation.

HOW DO I TELL MY CHILD WE’RE SPLITTING UP? You need to gather the children of the house together and explain the situation as honestly as possible. It’s important to tell your child that in life, not everyone stays in love with the same person forever, and that’s OK. Explain what ‘divorce’ is. Tell them Mum and Dad don’t want to live together anymore, but will still be friends. Reassure them that both parents will still be involved in their life. Tell them that you both still love your child, but that you don’t love each other.

It’s important they know that no matter what the challenges, you will work together to sort it out.

MY PARTNER IS THREATENING TO TURN MY CHILD AGAINST ME. WHAT CAN I DO? Parents can become so engrossed in their own thoughts, feelings and emotions they lose sight of the most important and vulnerable people within the family – their children. There’s likely to be bitterness but your job as a parent is to put the animosity to one side and let your children know that they won’t be used as a bargaining tool. That sort of behaviour can lead to future mental health and social problems. A parents’ priority during this difficult time is to make sure the children feel safe and let them know that there is support available if they feel they need it.

WHAT REACTION CAN I EXPECT? Be assured there will be a reaction. This is a life changing event for your child and it’s important that you watch for any changes in behaviour. Older children tend to hide their emotions because they don’t want to upset either parent. You may find they become reclusive, begin self-harming, fall behind or begin getting into trouble at school. They could become aggressive with one or other of the parents. They’re angry because their ‘normal’ has been taken away.

Also, they can feel abandoned and that they’re going to fail at everything. Because their family has broken down, children of divorcing parents can think that nothing works. If your separation co-incides with the onset of puberty, it’s going to be a particularly difficult time for your child.

In younger children, you may see regression. There could be a return to bed wetting and more ‘clingy’ behaviour with carers and parents. They’ve lost their stability and so need to keep reassuring themselves.

REMEMBER: n BE HONEST: Use language that your children will understand.

They may not know what ‘divorce’ is. Keep it simple n KEEP IT CIVIL: Try and keep relations with your estranged partner as civil as possible. Using your child as a pawn in your divorce will only harm them n OFFER COUNSELLING: They may never want or need it but it’s important they know there’s someone there to listen.

Jennifer Dutton is a Counsellor for Young People in North Leeds. She specialises in bereavement and works with children at St Gemma’s Hospice. To contact her directly call 07739 801044.

WHEN DO I SEEK COUNSELLING FOR MY CHILD? You should explore counseling BEFORE you speak to your child about the divorce. Typically a child will show signs soon after you have delivered the news and it’s at that point you can offer external support. If it’s on the table from the beginning of this difficult journey, it’s always there for them to take up. Very often children internalize their feelings for fear of upsetting a parent.

A counsellor is someone separate from all the emotion and personal relationships.

! ! ! ! ! ! !! ! !

7654321150/3.-6-6,03+60*1+3)4)0('.(0(4.*'0#"! " " )&4*-%-*0(10 $.$-4)0#0*'-"53460%130!.346() 0 '-"5 -6543) 0 +3)43-4)0#0 *'11") 0 #"! " ! ! "

• • • • •

4*1,6-(-1601%0-""64))0 0 -,'0(4 &43.(+34) 0 46-6,-(-)0#0 46-6,1*1**."0 4&(-*.4 -.0 6%.6(0#0 '-"50 ! 0 6%.6(0#0 '-"50 '1 -6,0 +36)0 + &)0(10'4.5)0

" # " " ! " " !

# ! !

! ! " "

7654321150/3.-6-6,0 - -(450.340 0 &&31 450(1054"- 430 -3)(0 -50.(0 13 0*1+3)4) 00 +30%+""03.6,401%0*1+3)4)0*.60$40)44601601+3024$)-(4 0 130 1340-6%13 .(-160*16(.*( 0 /4" 0 0 0 0130 0 000 .-" 0 .-" +65432115 (3.-6-6, *1 + 0

0800 644 6230 advancedfostercare.co.uk advancedfostercare.co.uk

FAMILIES LEEDS | January/February 13

Coping with Separation

IN THE NEW YEAR surgeII cases of separation and divorce IIAlong with gym memberships, dsII ith from Emsleys Solicitors in Lee Sm w dre An ar.

Ye w Ne the of rt IIin the early pa tion many will make.II IIgives some advice on the resolu

T

HE 4TH JANUARY is often rather brutally termed ‘Divorce Day’ in the press. It’s the first day back at work after the festive period and a day when people begin to make divorce enquiries. The theory for this surge is simply that people think “let’s just get through Christmas and make a fresh start in the New Year”.

Unlike the average fitness programme, separation or divorce are somewhat more final with more wide-reaching implications.

It is far from an easy decision to separate from your partner and most people will have put the needs of their children first over the celebratory period, ensuring that they have not been exposed to conflict or ill-feeling.

If you have managed to cope and maintain a happy aura through the festive season – a time which can be stressful for anyone let alone those going through difficult family periods – why not then try to carry this through the next difficult period?

This you may think is easier said than done. Unfortunately the very nature of a separation means that it will sometimes result in conflict; whether relating to your finances, children or any other external factor. However, if you can both agree from the outset to try and maintain good relations and a relatively positive spirit throughout the duration of the separation and/or divorce for the good of your children, you may well succeed.

Admittedly this will not be easy and hostilities will rise from time to time. Even with the best will in the world, it is inevitable that conflict will rub off onto your children and indeed other family members, sometimes with irreparable results. My advice is simply

to try your best not to involve the children in your anxieties and frustrations; you can always let off steam to your close friends (or even your solicitor!).

There appears to be a perception that a divorce, separation or dissolution of a civil partnership is always a bitter affair. Certainly the cases which get reported in the press will suggest this to be the norm. My experience however is that such cases are quite rare and there will often be solicitors working away in the background trying to minimise the conflict between their respective clients.

Discussions with your partner early on in the process about the effects of the situation on your children and agreeing how you will handle things will go a long way to helping your children cope with the situation.

If things start to get out of hand, there are many ways in which disputes can be resolved in family law including mediation, collaborative law and arbitration. Any one of these methods may be suitable to your individual circumstances and I would recommend that you take advice on alternative dispute resolution when making your first call to a solicitor – this initial consultation is normally free of charge. Searching for a solicitor who is a member of Resolution (www.resolution.org.uk) would be a good start; Resolution is a group of family solicitors committed to resolving family law issues in an amicable way.

All Emsleys’ family solicitors are members of Resolution. www.emsleys.co.uk

looking for expert legal advice? we can help.

There comes a time when everyone needs advice from an expert.

It might be when you are buying or selling a property or perhaps you need a will to plan for the future and protect your assets.

“Very professional, capable and effective service.

I would definitely use again and recommend to others.”

Whatever your situation, whether you need help following the breakdown of a relationship, have an employment-related legal matter, are in dispute with someone, or seeking compensation for an injury of some kind, we are here to help.

Speak to our legal experts on 0113 232 1030 or visit www.emsleys.co.uk

Family Law - Wills & Probate - Conveyancing - Dispute Resolution - Employment Law - Personal Injury - Commercial Property

14

“

FAMILIES LEEDS | January/February

It baffles me why PARENTS aren’t taking their KIDS SWIMMING

”

As an Olympian and ‘I’m a Celebrity’ survivor Becky Adlington OBE launches her own swim school, Families Leeds talks to the retired swimmer about why every child should learn to swim.

Why launch Becky Adlington Swim Stars?

After the Beijing Olympics I began thinking about what I’d like to do after I’d finished my competitive career and I knew it would be something at grass roots. I’ve always thought teaching swimming could be done better, that it could be done differently. It’s something I’m passionate about. I’ve used the 4 years in the run up to London 2012 to encourage children to get involved in sport so it seemed completely natural to set up my own independent swimming programme.

I’ve been involved in the writing of the programme and finding the teachers. The quality of teaching has been really important to me. I want my teachers to be passionate about what they do and to be engaged. The programme is aimed at children aged between 3 – 11 years old. I want them to come along and have fun.

Why do you think it’s important children get involved in sport?

Sport has given me so much more than medals. I’ve met my best friends through sport, I’ve learnt about teamwork, respect, dedication. I know the children coming along to my school will be really young but I don’t think you’re ever too young to learn all those things.

Why were you not drawn to working with older competitive swimmers?

Because that is coaching and not teaching. I’ve spent so much time in the company of elite swimmers. I wanted to get back to the love of swimming. I want to get young children to love swimming. I love seeing their faces when they’re in their armbands and they’re learning to swim. They can’t swim, but they love it! That’s what it’s all about for me. Once we’ve taught them to swim, if they want to take it to the next level, I hope we will have given them the tools to go on and do that. We will have given them good technique and a love of swimming.

My programme isn’t about creating future Olympians, it’s about giving kids a life skill and having fun.

What do you think when you hear that 40% of 11 year olds can’t swim 25 metres unaided?

When I hear that, it truly shocks me. I don’t think children should swim to become Olympic athletes, but because it’s a life skill. We live on an island. We have rivers in our country. Swimming is one of the only sports that you will use for the rest of your life, and it could potentially save your life.

It baffles me why parents aren’t taking their kids swimming. My parents made me learn to swim, not so I would win medals, but so I would be safe when I went on holiday.

They knew I could save my own life and also save someone elses too.

You are the hero of a great many young swimmers out there. Infact my daughter, Isobel, has a picture of you on her wall. Do you ever tire of hearing that?

I’m not fussed about the glamour side of being a ‘celebrity’. When I hear that someone like Isobel has been inspired by me, or that a child has got into swimming because of me, that’s what it’s all about. I want to be a good role model and inspire kids to get involved in sport. Hearing that I’m doing that makes it all worthwhile.

Becky Adlington Swim Stars is launching in West Yorkshire in 2014. www.beckyadlingtonswimstars.com

SIGN-UP TO BABY SWIMMING Are you inspired by Becky? Your child is never too young to learn how to swim. Sign up to one of our local, recommended swim schools and make a splash in 2014.

BABY SWIMMERS www.babyswimmers.co.uk For babies from 6 weeks old. Classes at Pennyfields School in Meanwood, Temple Moor High School, The Hilton in Leeds, The Forum in Leeds. Also classes in York, Harrogate, Bradford & Wakefield. 01757 229 880 SPLISH SPLOSH www.splishsploshswimmingschool.com For babies from 3 months. Sessions at The Grammar School at Leeds, Mercure Parkway Leeds Hotel, Moorlands School and Temple Moor High School 0844 264 1102 WATER BABIES www.waterbabies.co.uk Fun, innovative baby swimming classes across Yorkshire. 01943 862 802 PERSONALISED SWIM BAGS FROM WHILE ISLA SLEEPS Every budding Becky Adlington needs to look the part when they turn up to the pool. We love these personalised swim bags from Yorkshire based While Isla Sleeps. They’re £25 and come in a car design for boys and a gorgeous Red Riding Hood print for girls.

Order yours at www.whileislasleeps.com

FAMILIES LEEDS | January/February 15

GET ON

YOUR

BIINK20E 14

A recent survey revealed that 43% of children are unable to ride a bike by the age of six.

But learning is a key life skill and a major milestone in a child’s life, giving them a real sense of freedom and independence. We have asked Yorkshire based cycling experts Pedal Go to give us some tips to get your toddlers on their bikes.

1 2 3 4 5

The most important thing to remember when setting out to teach your child to ride a bike is that you need to make it enjoyable. It can be quite daunting for little ones and if they are enjoying themselves, they will forget to be afraid.

Riding a bike requires a child to think about a lot of things at once.

A child needs to be able to balance, steer, control speed, pedal and stop using the brakes. Breaking it down into smaller challenges makes it more achievable and enjoyable.

Most children can balance well enough to ride a bike, but many are not confident in their ability to do so. Balance bikes are a good starting point. A bike with the pedals removed works just as well as a specifically made balance bike. It is important that the child can comfortably reach the floor with their feet flat and a slight bend in their knees.

Encourage your child to sit firmly on the seat of the bike or balance bike and push with their feet to gain momentum. Once your child is confident pushing the bike along whilst remaining seated, suggest they try doing a few big pushes and lifting both feet off the floor to glide. Make sure they have strong arms and are confident in steering their bike before introducing pedals.

Make sure your child can stop! When they start to pedal, they will be able to independently travel faster than they have ever done before. Start by asking your child to walk next to the bike, pushing it with both hands on the handle bars and ask them to squeeze the brakes when you say stop. When they are doing this well, ask them to glide on their bike and squeeze both brakes when you say stop.

Remind them to put their feet down as the bike comes to a stop.

clock face. This is their top pedal. Ask the child to put their foot on their top pedal and push it down, lifting their other foot to glide. They may need a little bit of support the first couple of times, I suggest placing you hands lightly on either side of their back instead of holding the bike seat as it allows the child and the bike to move naturally. When they are confidently gliding from a single pedal stroke, ask them to put their other foot onto the other pedal and watch them ride. Remember to make it fun. Ready, Pedal, Go! Pedal Go runs bike riding courses across Yorkshire. For toddlers, there are sessions on Wednesday in Horsforth, Thursday in Otley and Harrogate and on Friday in Wetherby. For primary school aged children, there are after school classes on a Thursday in Otley and Wednesday in Harrogate • www.pedalgo.co.uk

WEEK Y WEEKLLLY

LOC CAL

CLAS SSES

AND FINALLY‌ Once your child is gliding, steering and stopping confidently, it is time to introduce the pedals. Ask the child to sit on the bike with both feet on the floor. Set one of the pedals to the position of the number two on a

cla asse es held ld.....

16

FAMILIES LEEDS | January/February

FREE CHILDCARE‌ Do you know YOUR RIGHTS? ||If you have a three or four year old,|| ||you’re entitled to 15 hours of free|| ||childcare every week. Jill Johnson,|| ||owner of Twinkles Nurseries, takes a|| ||look at how you access that funding|| ||and answers some of the questions|| ||parents have been asking her about|| ||the changes.|| When is my child eligible for the funding?

All children become eligible the term after their third birthday.

So if your child is born in July, they can access funding from September after they are three.

How many hours of free childcare am I entitled to?

Up to 15 hours a week. You can take these hours to suit you and your nursery. If you don’t use all 15 hours every week, that’s fine.

Just claim for the hours you do use. This is paid directly to the day care provider over three terms during the year, beginning the term after the child’s third birthday for a maximum of six terms.

How many weeks are funded?

38 weeks a year, which is split into 3 terms. These weeks are set by the local authority. This equates to 570 hours a year. If your nursery is term time only, there will be no charge for these hours at all.

If your nursery provider is open all year round, you will have to pay for the additional weeks that your provider is open.

What hourly rate is funded?

This should be the nursery’s normal hourly rate. So if you pay £40 per day for 10 hours, the hourly rate deducted should be £4.

If you attend for mornings or afternoons only and the fee is ÂŁ28 for a five hour session, the hourly rate deducted should be ÂŁ5.60.

The local authority in Leeds pays providers ÂŁ3.70 so the provider has to cover the rest.

Can parents choose where they use the funding?

If you choose a nursery provider for all your childcare during the week, then you will be able to use all your funding there. However if you child attends a school nursery for more than 15 hours then you school will receive all the funding as a priority.

What about 2 year olds? Are they entitled to any free childcare?

Yes, if you meet the government’s criteria. If your child is subject to a care plan, if you receive certain benefits or your child has special educational needs, they are eligible for 15 hours a week of free childcare.

To find out if your 2 year old is eligible, visit www.family informationleeds.co.uk or email FEEEQueries@leeds.gov.uk

Twinkles Nurseries are based in Wetherby, Boston Spa, Knaresborough and in Leeds City Centre. Twinkles White Rose is planned for 2014. Register your interest now. www.twinklesnurseries.com

Brought to you by Leeds Pilates Place

It’s no WALK in the PARK

3FTUGVM BOE 3FTUPSBUJWF 4MFFQ GPS #BCJFT BOE $IJMESFO fˆ…|{‰‰ …„w‚ w‰‰ ‰Šw„y{ „ ~{‚† „} �…‹ˆ „|w„ŠB Š…zz‚{ˆ …ˆ y~ ‚z ‰{ŠŠ‚{ wŠ x{zŠ ƒ{ w„z Š~ˆ…‹}~ Š~{ „ }~Š ˆ{‰Š…ˆ „} ~{w‚Š~B ~wˆƒ…„� w„z xw‚w„y{ � Š~ „ �…‹ˆ |wƒ ‚�D

iFOE UIF NJTFSZ PG NPOUIT PG TMFFQMFTT OJHIUTw 5FM t .PC t &NBJM JOGP!HFOUMFTMFFQTPMVUJPOT DP VL

XXX HFOUMFTMFFQTPMVUJPOT DP VL

Developed by mum of three, Claire Sparrow in 2005, Pramercise is the original pram-based, full-body work out targeting all the key mummy areas in a fun and social way! Join us at Roundhay, Horsforth and Kirkstall.

Also available at our beautiful baby friendly, fully equipped Pilates studio are specialist pre and post natal Pilates classes taught by highly qualified teachers.

Enjoy your first class for FREE!

www.leedspilatesplace.co.uk • 0113 225 0791 @pramercise

FAMILIES LEEDS | January/February 17

Get Cooking with Cathie…

Our New Year’s Resolution is to get our children cooking and we’ve recruited an expert to help. We’re delighted to welcome Stir Krazy’s Cathie Reuben to the Families Leeds’ team. She’ll be guiding us through a simple, child friendly recipe each issue.

To celebrate, we’re starting with a Birthday Cake.

Step 7:

A

T STIR KRAZY KIDS we like to KISS! Keep. It. Super. Simple. Instead of challenging yourself to the most adventurous cake, worthy of first place in the Great British Bake Off, why not experiment with colours and flavours to make the simple sponge into a work of art.

Good Luck!

For the icing, beat the butter, milk and vanilla and half of the icing sugar for a couple of minutes until it’s a smooth, creamy consistency. Add the rest plus food colouring to reach the desired shade and mix.

Step 8: Step 1:

Step 3:

Preheat the oven to 180°C/gas mark 4.

Then put the flour, baking powder and sugar in a mixer and combine. (Muscles are fine here too if you don't have a mixer)

Divide the batter between identical bowls.

Weigh them to ensure you end up with three equal sized sponge layers.

When the cakes are cool, remove the greased paper and put the first layer of sponge on a plate. Spread with 1cm of buttercream. Add a second layer of sponge and repeat to make a three-tier cake tower.

Step 4:

Step 9:

Add /2 a teaspoon of sprinkles to each bowl. Then for different shades of sponge add your food colouring 1/2 teaspoons at a time to each bowl until you get your desired colour. Leave the third uncoloured.

Finally, cover the sides and top of the cake with butter cream, spreading evenly with a spatula. Decorate with more sprinkles – go wild! Then stand back and admire your work!

Step 2: Add the eggs, butter, milk and vanilla extract then mix.

1

Ingredients:

Step 5:

Cake mix (makes one 3 layer 20cm cake) 315g self-raising flour 1½ tsps baking powder 335g golden caster sugar 6 large free range eggs 335g unsalted butter at room temperature 5 tbsps milk 1½ tsps good quality vanilla extract ¾ tsp red food colouring 1½ tbsps hundreds and thousands

Pour the batter into the greased and lined 20cm sandwich tins and put in the pre heated oven. If all three won’t go on the the middle shelf, rotate them while baking.

Pink vanilla buttercream icing: 230g unsalted butter, at room temperature 120ml semi-skimmed milk 2 tsps quality vanilla extract 1kg icing sugar, sifted food colouring and sprinkles

Step 6: Bake for 20–25 minutes test whether they’re done by skewering each cake, when it comes our clear they’re cooked.

Once removed, leave in their tins for 10 minutes before turning out onto a wire rack.

Has Cathie inspired you to get cooking? Sign up to one of Stir Krazy’s holiday camps or birthday parties.

Find out more at www.stirkrazykids.co.uk

Beautiful Personalised Gifts * bags * cushions * bunting * www.whileislasleeps.com info@whileislasleeps.com 07985 166 842

CELEBRATING

10 YEARS COMPETITIONS & PROMOTIONS THROUGHOUT 2013

Huge range of toys for all ages FREE gift wrapping Birthday club Collectors club Loyalty scheme

REVIEW your toy for a chance to WIN back your money

112a Harrogate Rd, Chapel Allerton, LS7 4NY • 0113 266 7500 20 Town Street, Horsforth, LS18 4RJ • 0113 258 8777 www.armadillotoys.co.uk • facebook.com/armadillotoyshop

18

FAMILIES LEEDS | January/February

Let’s Party Stockeld Park Invites You to Party After the success of the Summer Adventure, Stockeld Park is opening for Easter and wants to host your next party! Your guests will get entry, a reserved area of the café for the duration of your visit, as well as party bags, invitations and a dedicated party host. For parties over Easter and through the Summer season, choose from three slots at 12, 1 and 3. Bring your own cake and for every 5 children you pay for, 1 adult can come along for free. Online booking is available. www.stockeldpark.co.uk

Go Medieval at Armadillo Everyone loves dressing up and these fabulous medieval outfits from Armadillo Toys will take your child back in time. The Medieval Soldier outfit has a chain mail effect tunic and mock leather belt, and is finished with a helmet and sword.

The ’Royal Highness’ Princess outfit is a must for those who think they may have blue blood in the family.

This richly finished pink velour outfit is trimmed with gold lace and pink roses. Both are available from Armadillo’s shops in Chapel Allerton and Horsforth. www.armadillotoys.co.uk

Fitness, Fun & Friends!

MUSICAL THEATRE & STREET DANCE for children from 3–11 years across Leeds BOOK NOW FOR SATURDAY CLASSES IN ARMLEY, CROSSGATES & SEACROFT FLEX DANCE PARTIES ARE ALSO AVAILABLE

07921 222 710 w w w. f l ex d a n c e i n c . c o m

15% OFF Personalised party bags To celebrate 2014, bespoke party bag producer

By KT is offering all Families Leeds readers a great New Year discount. Place an order with the Leeds based company using the code FAMILIES15 and you’ll received 15% of your order. There’s a super range of bespoke party bags to chose from including the new personalised jute bags. We love the badges which let everyone know whose party you’ve been to.

Enter our competition to win set of personalised party bags By KT on page 2. www.bykt.co.uk

Isla’s Bags Celebrate Stress Free of ideas at Cookridge We love finding new products to share with you. These personalised duffel bags from While Isla Sleeps are a fabulous birthday treat. Have them made in either pink or blue with the name on the side to guarantee that it makes it home. Perfect for nursery, pre-school or even after school activities. Choose from 12 designs, all with a £20 price tag. www.whileislasleeps.com

‘Try’ a Rugby Party Our readers have been waiting for a pre-school rugby class to come to Leeds and now it’s here! Rugrats Rugby is running sessions and parties across North Leeds.

The parties range from an hour to an hour and a half of rugby fun, all under the watchful eye of a Rugrats coach. Use your back garden, the local park or another venue of your choice. Suitable for children from 3 – 7 years old, these are bound to be worth a ‘try’. www.rugratsrugby.co.uk 07740 858 759

Leeds Adel Leeds North Wetherby Garforth Guiseley

0113 266 0965 0113 266 2381 01937 844 737 0113 232 0004 01943 879 910

If you’re looking for a stress free party, head to Cookridge Hall. They’re now offering a wide range of themes for girls and boys including a Pool Party, Space Hopper, Mini Diva, Superhero or Princess.

The parties are an hour and a half and include party tea and a host. To find out more email kids@cookridgehall.co.uk www.cookridgehall.co.uk

‘Ace’ Tennis Parties If your child is more Andy Murray than David Beckham, you might want to consider a Tennis Tykes party. For children from 3 years old, these parties are always recommended by our readers. There’s an hour of tennis related fun before the children are released to make a ‘racquet’ at their party tea. You don’t need to go along to the classes to book a party, so call Caroline on 07843 342 662 to find out more. www.tennistykes.co.uk

20

FAMILIES LEEDS | January/February

10 New Year Resolutions I ALREADY KNOW I WILL BREAK

IIWe all make them and we all break them. Families Leeds’ columnist Claire BottomleyII IIlooks at the 10 New Year resolutions she’s already given up on.II

1 2

Cakes a strict No Rice I will operate 1, y be an ar ill nu w Ja e er From ceforth, th en H y. lic po r seat. The foot on the Car Floo n by the front bi a as e us r le also applies empty bag fo visible. This ru rly ea cl be ill gloves, the well carpets w ins, odd socks, sk na na ba s, and – erm – to: apple core eet wrappers sw , gs ba y rt contents of pa ee cups. takeaway coff ot even power. Ever. N umb to pester cc su is running t t no ke ill tic w I , my parking ng yi cr is by s raining. when the ba ve split and it’ ha gs ba ng pi or out, the shop ngeing, crying amount of whi her ot an t ye Even then, no e to procure m e rc fo ill w nder Surprise/ tantruming ant cookie/a Ki gi a e/ in az ag CBeebies m a plastic toy. ironed items e always clean, ar e er th re su obe, ready for I will make my son’s wardr in g in ng ha wet-wiping of uniform e scraping and or m o N y. da damp clothing the next ieving crumpled tr re e or m no er again will I jumpers; ming bag. Nev im sw t’s s gh ni isation that it’ from last e horror of real th ith w m 3a wake at ng machine. d in the washi all still wet an ssin; a ruthless assa ren’s toys like ild ch y , m t at th ou I will sort er play with so Y gs they no long SIGNIFICANTL removing thin cise, there are er ex e th of d be at the en ted. I will not an when I star play en ok br FEWER toys th at th ummy I love m ut “b d: de ve persua !” or gi up urite thing ever vo fa y m s It’ toaster! a task. o momentous because it is to reach crisis work until we t ar of s le pi of ding der a mound No more hoar disappearing un of larly er gu ng re da ill in w I point, egg boxes. d an er itt gl , rs ionery coloured feathe od quality stat t proud of in go os m k or w e file th rest away. and throw the laying’ Top phone while ‘p y m on ls ai em thing the I will not read ry well, but ba ve l al is g in sk ta r and Trumps. Multie grocery orde eting my onlin pl m are. co le tm hi gh w ni baby and safety um is a health m tal y m en g pm in lo on ph the deve voted solely to de ch e, ea t, tim y os lit m Qua ature fore children will fe y m of s st re inte and every day. t menu, and no r weekly family ou n lity as bi de ta oa ap br ad ill r Iw d on thei se ba ls ea m e r freezing choose to mak eir suitability fo /th by ba e th r finger food fo fussiness. /to fit in with extra portions

3

4

5

6

7

8 9

ils sically, this bo e for myself. Ba more o N . ts en I will make tim hair appointm ) sh r(i la gu re ce down to rs my entire fa my fringe cove d an t cu will I wait until h, a was to a salon for rves before I step in irdresser obse ha e th ch hi w g rin du , blow-dry ‘it needed it’. re a party for ty of time befo I will allow plen don’t end up card, so that I e th e rit w to my son g his shoes on ’ while shovin ‘G t no ‘J’ g shoutin of the door. stling him out for him and bu st in exactly d active intere an en ke a ke arching and I will ta my phone, rese on e ar re es m ga what nal value befo y and educatio lit bi s ita es su oc g pr in assess In the wnloading. NB: do r ei th ly ng et cr isi author to become se t allow myself of this I will no id games. addicted to sa

10

, ’ What s on ?

FAMILIES LEEDS | January/February 21

GET YOUR . . .

N O S E T A K S

in Leeds...

at Stockeld Park...

WIN

A FAMILY TI CKET ON PAGE 2

IIICE CUBEII II IIMILLENNIUM SQUARE JANUARY – II IIOPENS FRIDAY 24TH UARYII IISUNDAY 23RD FEBR ecubeII IIwww.leeds.gov.uk/ic ivity h energy after school act If you’re looking for a hig ds.

Lee in be Cu Ice , head to the or some cool winter fun d in ere cov n bee has nium Square It’s the 14th year Millen 500m2 of real ice. y of impressed with the qualit Last year we were really ting ska ing giv ny ma h the ice wit marshall supervision on re’s a the rink safe for all. The tips as well as keeping penguin h wit ed ipp der 8s, equ great nursery area for un the for ns sio ses ty low capaci skate aids and dedicated less confident skater. en m 12.30 until 8pm. Op Open on weekdays fro y lida ho m ter f February hal weekends and over the at line on n sio ses hour long from 10am. Book your is also ube. Individual tuition cec k/i v.u www.leeds.go available.

IISIMPLY SKATEII IISTOCKELD PARKII IINEAR WETHERBYII TH –II IIOPENS SATURDAY 15 RARYII IISUNDAY 23RD FEBU .ukII IIwww.stockeldpark.co en and term. Stockeld Park is op Forget chilling this half ans. From tiny Torvills and diddi De the ice rink is ready for g into the ply skate, before headin 10.30 daily you can sim Adventure lore the fabulous new Enchanted Forest to exp l also be t Summer. The maze wil Playgrounds unveiled las play area. open as will the indoor ng Group lessons and you le ilab ava are ns skater sessio as ll we as on the ice, d penguin skate aids to len s les to d a helping han confident skaters.

Make a date in your diary to practice your dance moves for the st Disco on Ice on Friday 21 m.

8p – 6 m February fro If you fall over, you can always blame it on the boogie!

, ’ What s on this

FEBRUARY . .

M R E T F L HA

Saturday 25th & 26th January

Monday 17th – Friday 21st February

Teddy Bear Hospital THACKRAY MUSEUM www.thackraymuseum.org If you’ve got an injured furry friend, head to the Thackray Museum for some emergency TLC this weekend.

There will be experts on hand to heal poorly teddies.

Skeleton Science THACKRAY MUSEUM www.thackraymuseum.org As part of the Thackray Museum’s newest exhibition, Skeleton Science, there are lots of half term activities going on. In the month of Valentine’s Day, get close up and personal with the heart. Find out how it works, and why you need to take care of it. Activities from 1 – 4pm.

Saturday 1st & Sunday 2nd February Chinese New Year TEMPLE NEWSAM www.leeds.gov.uk It’s the year of the horse. Discover the Chinese collections and get crafty to see in the New Year.

Saturday 15th – Sunday 23rd February Scarecrow Festival RHS HARLOW CARR www.rhs.org.uk Scarecrow themed fun at Harlow Carr. There’s a secret garden trail, lots of craft activities and you can even build a scarecrow.

Saturday 15th February – Sunday 2nd March Space is Ace EUREKA! www.eureka.org You’re invited to the Eureka! Space Station to explore the wonders of the universe. Step aboard the Space Station and find out what it’s like to live and work there. You can even join in with some astronaut aerobics.

Tuesday 18th February Decorate a Plate THWAITE MILLS www.leeds.gov.uk This mill once crushed flint and china stone for the pottery industry. Go along between 1 and 3pm to decorate your own china plate to take home.

Wednesday 19th February Sputnik Space Race ABBEY HOUSE MUSEUM www.leeds.gov.uk A day of space themed science activities. How do you blow up a balloon using vinegar? What does astronaut ice cream taste like?

Thursday 20th February Family Fun Challenge ABBEY HOUSE www.leeds.gov.uk Come along for the launch of a new family trail. Work together to solve clues and activities. 10am and 2pm.

Friday 21st February We love… Le Tour LEEDS CITY MUSEUM www.leeds.gov.uk Free fun activity day sponsored by The Grammar School at Leeds looking forward to Le Tour Yorkshire.

FAMILIES LEEDS | January/February 23

Friday 21st February Russian Circus Crafts ABBEY HOUSE www.leeds.gov.uk Craft session inspired by the Russian Circus. Inspired by the Winter Olympics in Sochi. 10am and 2pm.

EVERY WEEK TUESDAY Muddy Monkeys Kirkstall Abbey Messy creative fun with nature. Held in the ruins if the weather is nice!

BRAND NEW

SKELETON SCIENCE FAMILY EXHIBITION Opens February Half Term

HEALTHY BODIES January

Find out ways to keep healthy and active.

Painting with berries and smoothie making.

SKELETON SCIENCE February

FRIDAY Messy Monkeys TERM TIME Abbey House Museum Creative play for under 5s. 2 – 4pm Tiny Tigers Leeds City Museum Craft activities for under 5s. 10am start.

SATURDAY Rory’s Saturday Club Leeds City Museum Art and craft activities from 11am.

SUNDAY Arty Smarties Abbey House Museum Relaxing craft activities in the Victorian Streets. 2 – 4pm.

DON’T MISS… From Friday 28th February – Saturday 15th March

Hy Brasil OPERA NORTH www.operanorth.co.uk You’re invited to a mysterious, enchanted island off Ireland which only reveals itself once every 7 years.

Hy Brasil tells the story of that day through the sounds of the sea and the animals that live within it.

Lose yourself in a world of noise from 2pm – 8pm, Tuesday – Saturday.

Make your own skeleton to take home with you and take part in heart dissection during half term.

Award winning museum, open daily from 10am-5pm

Learning Café - serving hot food and tasty treats

Tickets last all year

Unique birthday party venue

On-site parking only £1

WWW.THACKRAYMEDICALMUSEUM.CO.UK WWW.THACKRA AY YMEDICAL YMEDICALMUSEUM.CO. UK

Beck Beckett ett Street, Street, L Leeds eeds LS9 7LN Enquiries: 0113 0113 2 244 44 4343 / inf info@thackraymuseum.org o@thackraymuseum.org

MOORFIELD SCHOOL FOR BOYS AND GIRLS AGED 3 11 YEARS

Moorfield School

Where every day p is Open Day! Pinleaasneytdimroe 11 Ben Rhydding Road Ilkley LS29 8RL

01943 607285 www.moorfieldschool.co.uk

Maths & English tuition centre For 5 to 14 year olds of all abilities t Courses mapped to the National Curriculum. t Adapts to the individual needs of your child. t Convenient for families - Open 7 days a week. t Award-winning tuition - voted Education Investor Supplementary Education Provider of the Year.

“Explore Learning members’ improvement in maths was 30% higher than that of the comparison group after controlling for gender, age, year group and special educational needs.”

Independent Efficacy Study by the Institute of Education at Reading University (2013). See www.explorelearning.co.uk/efficacy.

are s c ild her ! h C uc pted Vo acce