Families Leeds Mar-Apr 2015 issue

ďƒŹ Leeds’ Favourite Parenting Magazine // MARCH/APRIL 2015 // ISSUE 39

Fantastic gifts, toys, creative activities and clothes for your snappy dresser!

Newly opened at 45 Cold Bath Road, Harrogate and online. www.littlealligators.com

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.

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Welcome Back I’m not a big fan of change. Whether it’s how I drink my coffee or how I make my favourite sandwich, I like things to stay the same.

But things are about to change here at Families Leeds. It’s six years since I wrote my first Editor’s column. In it I remember asking you, my readers, to consider welcoming the magazine into your lives as you would a new friend. I promised that the articles would try to support you, inform you and on occasions, they’d make you laugh.

I hope I’ve kept that promise. It’s been my favourite part of being Editor of this fabulous magazine and it’s the one I’ll miss the most.

Sharing our stories is what makes motherhood a little easier on those difficult days. I hope, on the odd occasion, I’ve helped.

Families Leeds has been my baby. I launched it, had sleepless nights as it grew and most recently had to wake up to the reality that it was time for it to move on. And it goes into the arms of a super local mum and friend of Families Leeds Claire Bottomley.

Claire has been my columnist for 3 years, sharing her life with her two young sons with us all. She’s a hugely talented journalist and I know you couldn’t be in better hands. To her I say,“It’s not going to be easy but it is going to be worth it.”

A bit like motherhood really.

What’s inside 7 Mums Mean Business meet Little Alligators 9 What would you do in an EMERGENCY? 12 Keeping up with the DIGITAL NATIVES 14 How important are TIMES TABLES? 16 EASTER Gifts 18 What’s On EASTER CONTACT US: PO BOX 403, BARDSEY, LEEDS LS17 1EP 07764 943 789 • editor@familiesleeds.co.uk CIRCULATION: 17,500 copies printed DESIGNED BY: JUSTIN LEEMING www.jgl-design.co.uk • 07745 038 005 PHOTO: Thanks to our cover stars – Isobel & Eliza Butters and Angus & Grace Brindle. The image was taken at The Easter Adventure at Stockeld Park www.stockeldpark.co.uk PRINTED BY: CHARLESWORTH PRESS • Wakefield www.charlesworth.com 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.

Sarah Butters www.familiesleeds.co.uk

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.

Families

NEWS… BIATHLON SISTERS Go for Gold!

Leeds sisters Ellie and Eve Jones are preparing to compete in the national School’s Biathlon Competition. 10 year old Eve and 13 year old Ellie are both ranked 1st in their age groups. The girls, from The Grammar School at Leeds, are both City Of Leeds Swimmers. They’ll compete later this month at the Olympic Park in London. Joining them in the Under 10 Boys category is George Potts from Froebelian School.

Good Luck to all our talented young athletes!

STAY SAFE Online…

It’s a message we all want our children to be aware of. Richmond House School in Far Headingley has run a series of activities and assemblies to teach children about online safety. To support Safer Internet Day the school ran a poster competition and Year 6 held an informative assembly. Children also took home online safety information packs to share with their parents.

“The intention is to make the subject fun for the children so they are engaged and take notice of the dangers,” says Mrs Kate van Opstal, Head of ICT at Richmond House School.

Give your child the best start Free trial!

Multi-sensory music classes for babies, toddlers & pre-schoolers Call 0113 232 8131

Celebrating over 10 years in Leeds!

rhythmtime.net/eh2

FREE Explore Workshops Are you looking to boost your child’s learning? Explore Learning in Moortown is offering two days of free workshops for children from 5 years old. The sessions seek to boost maths and English learning and will be run on 31st March and the 14th April.

Spaces are limited so call the Moortown centre on 0113 821 4519 to reserve your place. www.explorelearning.co.uk

SILVER GIFTS at Jackrabbits March is the month for Mothers, but the clever folk at Jackrabbits Pottery in Oakwood are already planning for Fathers’ Day. They’ve just launched a range of bespoke silver jewellery, courtesy of Wow Silver.

Capture your little ones hand or foot print in a pair of silver cufflinks, or treat yourself to a personalised piece of jewellery. Prices start from £66 for a round, oval, diamond or heart shaped pendant. And it’s quick! From their handprint to your hand in 14 days. www.jackrabbitspottery.com

Bardsey SoccerCamp Wed 8th – Fri 10th April Wed 15th – Fri 17th April • 9am – 3pm Ages 5 – 12 years and all levels of ability welcome. £70 for 6 days £40 for 3 days or £15 for each day per child.

Soccer Juniors will be running two Easter holiday sports camps at Bardsey Sports Club.

There are limited spaces available so please contact Soccer Juniors on 07841 336675 or email jonny@soccerjuniors.co.uk for more information and an application form.

Alternatively more details can be found on our website: www.soccerjuniors.co.uk

Easter Family FILM FESTIVAL Fancy getting up close and personal with a Gruffalo this Easter weekend? What about singing along to Frozen with Anna, Elsa and Olaf? Book your tickets for The Film House – a fabuous family film festival at Leeds Town Hall. The iconic city building is being transformed into a cinematic hub for the holiday weekend showing family favourites and hosting some super workshops.

For a full programme head to www.thefilmhouseleeds.com.

FAMILIES LEEDS | March/April 5

STOP PRESS… NCT NEARLY NEW SALE • ILKLEY • SUNDAY 22ND MARCH • 10AM – 12PM at The Clarke Foley Centre in Ilkley. For more information contact Jenny on wharfedalenct@hotmail.com

Sign up to WATERBABIES Waiting lists are now open for parents looking to sign their children up to Waterbabies.

The ever popular sessions teach babies how to swim and build water confidence in a fun and friendly environment. Your child must be under 12 months old to begin these multi award winning sessions. Register your interest at horseyhorsey@waterbabies.co.uk

Taster Days at GSAL NURSERY Rose Court nursery is offering free taster sessions for parents and toddlers. Taking place throughout March, parents are invited to bring their little ones to experience creative activities, play and snack time.

Rose Court nursery was rated as outstanding by ISI in recognition of its child centred approach. For further information or to book on one of the sessions please contact louise.marshall@ gsal.org.uk or 0113 229 1552.

Are you Pregnant?

You’re invited to an Expectant Parents’ Evening at Mothercare Crown Point on 10th March. You’ll get to talk to staff about car seat fitting and pram choices, as well as picking the brains of guest experts.

There’s advice on first aid, maternity bra fitting and much more.

The event runs from 6 – 8pm.

Open Days: Early Years Tues 31st March 9-11.30am Whole School Sat 25th April 10-12am

Host Families Wanted…

Would you open your home to an international student? Bright World is looking for guardians in Yorkshire to offer international students at local boarding schools a home from home during short school holidays. The host families will be paid, but according to Bright World, they also bring a wealth of cultural experience into the host homes. If you are interested in the guardianship programme, head to www.brightworld.co.uk to find out more.

”Excellent” across the board Richmond House School is an independent preparatory school providing an excellent education for boys and girls 3-11 years, within a happy, caring, family environment.

Visit www.rhschool.org for more information

U New Yurt our outdoor classroom U Top mark of excellent in all categories in our most recent ISI Inspection U Outstanding 11+ exam success U Small class sizes U 10 acres of sports fields U Outstanding in Music, Sport and all academic subjects U Specialist teaching U Pre and after school care from 7.30am - 6pm U Holiday clubs 170 Otley Road Leeds LS16 5LG 0113 275 2670 enquiries@rhschool.org

The ➚

Diary of a

IMPERFECT MUM…

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DAD This issue, our Dad columnist Mike Smith takes a look at the issue of selective hearing in his children.

In her final column before taking over as Editor of Families Leeds, Claire Bottomley reflects on the favouritism going on under her roof.

Children are sooooo unfair. They demand fairness, in equal measure, from their parents at ALL times. They watch, hawk-like, as we hand things out – praise, affection, mini Jaffa-cakes – lest we short change them in any way, shape or form.

Conversely, fairness is something children themselves can be very free and easy with. I’d go as far as to say that my children display blatant favouritism in their dealings with us, their poorly done to parents.

“Oh great, so I get to spend more time with daddy!” was how my 6-year-old greeted the news that I was going away for two nights.

Ever since he was very small, he has been prone to moping around the house in the late afternoon asking: “When will daddy be home?” and checking the window like a loyal Labrador. As someone who has forfeited a pre-pregnancy body and countless nights of sleep for this child, I crave a jury’s deliberation on the rights and wrongs of the case.

Thankfully, my youngest has redressed the balance and is undoubtedly a mummy’s boy. “I think he thinks he is your husband,” says my husband.

It’s true, while he finds his daddy’s company pleasant and entertaining for the most part, there are times in the day when he views him with the intolerance of someone who would just, please, like five minutes alone with his beloved, without this gooseberry hanging around.

And at times, when he is tired and slightly irrational, he goes into medieval despot mode. He will only be brought a banana, a dummy, or a spoon by his mother, the chosen one. If anyone else deigns to do so without instruction they will feel his EXTREME WRATH. It’s tough, being on the end of such miscarriages of justices, for both parties. But then, there’s the odd time when a bit of unfair bias from our children can actually be rather welcome. At 8pm, for example, when we’re both feeling a tad tired and are one hurdle away from clocking off from hands-on parenting for the day. The sofa, a box set and half-eaten packet of chocolate buttons are calling.

We each try to keep our voices casual and avoid eye contact as we raise the question of whose turn it is to do bedtime. Then a little voice pipes up and delivers his verdict: “I want daddy to take me to bed.”

The magic words that make it feel like perhaps life’s not so unfair after all.

Over the years, we’ve built up a little collection of parenting books, covering everything from potty training to staying safe online. It’s all good sensible stuff.

We’ve also got one on talking and listening. Again, it’s full of supposedly good advice, but it’s now going in the bin, as the author made the fatal mistake of assuming that children don’t listen to you. All I can say is that that author now has a standing invitation to spend a few days in the Smith household to find out how wrong they were. Even though conversations with the boys often resemble talking to a brick wall, I have discovered that they have a network of always-on listening devices scattered throughout the house, and they pay great attention to them.

Those devices are so sensitive that I’m sure they cadged them off GCHQ. They’re very effective indeed at amplifying the faint rattle when I open the sweet tin (just to check it’s not empty, you understand) while filtering out unwanted noises like ‘wash your hands, please’, ‘use the wardrobe, not the floordrobe’, ‘shut the door, please’ and so on.

Years ago, I had a pretty good singing voice, although it has now gone from being fit for a cathedral to being only just fit for the shower. However, I can still hold a tune, and since the boys were very small, I’ve often sung to them. Their reactions have gone from wide-eyed wonder, through worrying about the cat being tortured outside to ending up with loud demands to ‘stop singing!’

It hasn’t put me off, though; on the contrary, it’s become a bit of a challenge. Nowadays, they sing noisily back at me.

When that started, I had plenty of ammunition up my sleeve.

I used to collect vinyl singles – and not just any old singles. Oh, no.

I went through a phase of collecting what might be politely called ‘novelty records’ and still possess enough of them to clear a dance floor in an instant. So when the demands to stop singing turned into retaliation in kind, I was confident that this was one battle they were not going to win.

But pride comes before a fall. The other day, the war was reaching a climax. Under intense bombardment from improvised toilet songs, I unleashed Crazy Frog at them, which is a song I hate.

It didn’t have the slightest effect. Obviously the noise filters were working flat out and I wasn’t getting through, as usual.

Then, a day or so later, as I was leaving for work, my phone rang. “Listen to this, Daddy!” said a triumphant little voice. There came a rustling sound, which turned out to be the iPad being held up to the phone. Then – “Ring-ding-ding- ding-dinga-ding-ding!

Ring-ding-ding-ding-dinga-ding-ding!” I fled in terror. They’d been listening to me all right, and had devised an exquisite revenge. So, be very careful what you wish for. And if you still have that Cheeky Girls CD lying around, I suggest you lose it NOW.

FAMILIES LEEDS | March/April 7

mumsmean

{BUSINESS} IIRachael Howard and her business partnerII IILois Rendle are still unpacking boxes. They openedII IIthe door to Little Alligators back in November of last year and alongII IIwith a steady stream of shoppers coming in to the store on Coldbath RoadII IIin Harrogate, there’s also been a lot of deliveries.II

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HERE’VE been arrivals from Germany, France and the four corners of the UK. However, today’s box is from Denmark and is packed with colourful bags of build your own bracelets. “These are brilliant,� Lois says. “My boys love making belts and headbands out of these. They’re fabulous.�

That enthusiasm is extended to every item in their bright, light shop and I can see why. Everything here is different from the gifts and trinkets you’d see in most toy shops. There’s not a bag of loom bands or set of Barbie dolls in sight. Every item on the shelves has a story behind it and a fan in either Rachel or Lois. “I have four boys,� says Lois,“so that’s four sets of birthday.

They’ve had some super gifts from friends and family around the world and a lot of what you see here is inspired by that.� “We’ve tried and tested most of what’s here,� adds Rachel. “Many are gifts our own children have been bought and we’ve now gone out and sourced it and brought it to Harrogate.�

Both Rachael and Lois arrived here after spending time working and living abroad – Rachael in Dubai and Lois in Germany. Both have friends and relatives in Europe and beyond and have clearly taken inspiration from those relationships and experiences when setting up Little Alligators. They’re also using the skills they built up pre motherhood to make the business a success. Rachael’s background is in retail and Lois’ is in IT. That means you’ll probably see Rachael in store, but Lois is the power behind the website. “My boys are 8,6,4, and 2 so I still need to be at home quite a bit,� says Lois. “Running the website works perfectly for me whereas Rachel’s daughter is at school so she’s able to spend more time in the shop.�

And it’s here, on the shop floor, that Rachael’s been gauging the response from local parents. Since opening in November last year, they’ve been busy and their quirky selection of gifts are proving popular. Lois is finding it hard to stay away and takes no time in sharing with us her in store favourites when asked. “I love the Build a Robot game. As soon as it comes in, it goes out!� she says. “But I’m also really pleased with the Tin Tin clothing range. The t-shirts have been really popular.�

“I think the twirly skirts are amazing,� pipes up Rachael, spokesperson for girls! “They’re colourful and individual so everywhere my daughter goes in hers, she gets a compliment.�

These enthusiastic mums are keen that Little Alligators isn’t seen only as a toy shop – although there are some great toys to tempt you. There’s also party supplies, books, girly accessories, pens and cool clothing. On the walls are colourful prints from Denmark looking down on fabulous animal themed melamine crockery.

It’s an emporium and most people who pop in end up leaving with something. “We’re not a toy shop,� confirms Rachael. “We sell beautiful things for children. We hope you come in and say ‘I love that’ and most people do!�

And as the door to Little Alligators opens, another Harrogate mum utters those very words.

Little Alligators, 45 Cold Bath Road, Harrogate HG2 0NL www.littlealligators.com

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Contact Sara Hall on 0113 834 6522 or email sara@pyjamadrama.com

Let’s teach your baby to swim!

www.waterbabies.co.uk

8

FAMILIES LEEDS | March/April

ASK the DOCTOR? “Take action today, put them away�

IIThat’s the message from ROSPA – The Royal Society for the PreventionII IIof Accidents – a national body aiming to prevent accidents in the homeII IIand garden. Accidents in the home lead to 2.7 million visits to A&E each year and 5,000II IIdeaths. Our resident expert Dr Georgina Hudson talks to Children’s Emergency MedicineII IIConsultant Dr Jones about household accidents involving children.II What are the most common injuries children present with?

Young children often present with burns and scalds, after swallowing foreign bodies or with suspected accidental poisonings and falls.

Older children commonly present with fractures (broken bones).

Children of all ages are not very good at assessing risk. So it’s important that as carers we do that for them. Use stair gates and window locks with younger children. Teach road safety and encourage older children to wear a cycle helmet.

The commonest causes of burns and scalds in children are hair staightners and hot drinks. Remember hair staightners get very hot and stay hot for a long time and children learn and play by imitation. A baby’s skin is 15 times thinner than an adults so much more likely to be damaged.

Simple first aid at home for burns and scalds can remarkably improve outcome. Run the affected area under cold water for 10 to 15 minutes. Don’t put any creams or ointments on, wrap loosely in cling film (unless on the face). Give analgesia, paracetamol or Ibruprofen according to the manufactures advice. If the area affected is bigger than a 10p or is on the hands, feet, face, genitalia or over a joint seek medical advice promptly.

You mentioned children present to A&E after swallowing foreign objects. Are there any particular objects parents should be particularly aware of?

Button batteries – these are found in many household gadgets and toys, they give an electric charge and create caustic soda which burns the skin. They are not just dangerous if swallowed they can cause nasty burns in the ears and nose.

Washing machine liqui-tabs – these are brightly coloured and look a bit like sweets but the alkaline substance inside burns the skin causing swelling and damage.

Our 3 hr classes cover the topics of; CPR / Choking / Meningitis / Burns & Scalds Poisoning / Bleeding / Minor Injuries

northleeds@bumpsandbashes.com 07899 993916 (Katie)

Come to one small group class or organise a private class in the comfort of your own home.

e-cigarette refills – nicotine is highly poisonous to children, people often keep refills in easy reach places such as in handbags.

Medications – no lids are child proof they just slow them down a bit and many tablets look like sweets.

Don’t let the child eat or drink, don’t make them sick and don’t wait for symptoms to develop go straight to A&E taking the package or container with you.

Keep cleaning products, spare batteries and medication out of sight and out of reach, preferably in a lockable cupboard.

Check your toys and gadgets have a tamper proof battery compartments, ones with a screw fitting.

Keep cords for window blinds short, unfortunately children have strangled themselves with longer ones.

Do you have any advice on when parents should dial 111, see their GP or attend A&E? If your child might have swallowed a button battery or any cleaning products or nicotine containing substance, call 999 or go to A&E immediately.

If your child is unwell following ingestion of a foreign body go to A&E immediately. If your child is well but you think they have swallowed a foreign body (other than the ones above), call 111 for advice.

Small area burns or scalds may be appropriately managed by your pharmacist but if the burn is larger or in a special place (as above) go to A&E. If your child has a minor illness it is more appropriate that they are seen by their GP or that you ring 111 for advice than attending A&E. For further Information visit: The Royal Society for Prevention of Accidents www.rospa.com Child Accident Prevention Trust www.capt.org.uk

What would YOU do in an

Combined Childcare Pre-school • Early Years • School Club 07954 166 653

EMERGENCY? IIWith so much debate about avoiding unnecessary trips to A&E, would youII IIknow when to seek medical help and when to do it yourself? Bumps and BashesII IIoffers first aid classes focused on babies and children. Katie Giles runs the sessionsII IIand offers 10 tips to keep your family safe.II

1 2

Make sure each member of the household knows where the first aid box is kept and clearly mark it ‘First Aid’.

When contacting the emergency services it is important that the information you give is clear, concise and sufficient. This can be achieved by remembering the acronym LINE (Location, Incident, Number of casualties and the Extent of their injuries).

3 4

To check the response of a baby tap their foot as they are not able to communicate.

If the infant is breathing normally but is unresponsive contact 999 and hold the child in the recovery position, facing towards you with the head tilted down (like an upside down cuddle). This will allow fluids to flow away from the infant and will allow you to monitor their breathing and levels of responsiveness.

5

Anaphylaxis is an extreme allergic reaction that is life threatening. The symptoms include difficulty breathing, a rash, itchiness and swelling of the mouth, tongue, face and neck. Call 999 if any of these symptoms occur.

6

Remember the acronym RICE for a sprain: Rest, Ice, Compress and Elevate.

7

If your infant has been stung by a bee don’t try and pick the stinger out with tweezers, instead remove embedded stingers by brushing them off with a blunt edge such as a credit card.

8

When treating a burn, flush the area of the wound with tepid water for a minimum of 10–20 minutes and remove any restrictive clothing in case of swelling. Do NOT remove anything that is stuck to the burnt skin.

9

If you fear your child my have drunk a poisonous liquid, do NOT encourage vomiting as this may cause further damage to their airways.

10

Nosebleeds are a common occurrence in children. Sit them down and ask them to lean forward. In the case of an infant you will have to position them. Pinch the soft part of their nose and ask them to breathe through their mouth if possible.

If after 30 minutes the nose is still bleeding then seek medical assistance.

Bumps and Bashes deliver baby and child first aid classes to parents, grandparents and carers. Each 3 hour course will teach you simple life saving techniques and will give you confidence should you need to use them. Classes available across Leeds and Harrogate.

07899 993 916 • northleeds@bumpsandbashes.com www.bumpsandbashes.com

n Full day care for children from 3 years old, from 7.45am until 6pm, 50 weeks of the year.

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n Term time only places also available. n Holiday Clubs. n Before and After school care for children from 3 to 11 years. n Free 15 hours given to pre school children.

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West End Lane, Horsforth, Leeds, LS18 5JP • 0113 2585 800 Adel St John the Baptist Primary Adel Leeds, LS16 8EX • 0113 2612 262

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FAMILIES LEEDS | March/April

What we REALLY WANT on

Mothers’ Day Forget overpriced perfumes and 50 Shades underwear. Families Leeds asks you what you hope to find next to your home made breakfast and brew this Mothers’ Day. Place this in front of your other half, and keep your fingers crossed for the 15th March. itely the best. cards are defin e ad ers.” m e om “H my two daught sake box from ep ke a in s ad ale.

I have lo rley in Wharfed Sally Clegg, Bu

“Photographs of me with my children. I so wish I’d been behind the lens less as they were growing up so there was more of a record of us all as a family. I should have known this as it’s what I tell other people but somehow I've not done it myself. My present to myself this year is to use the self timer more!”

Photographer Susie Lawrence, Headingley

“Monty made me a word search last year with the title ‘Things I love about my Mum’. His idea!”

Cathy Poole, Leeds

e some and sons mad I store all “My husband otos of us all. ph y ed m co vered on st present large boxes co with them. Be rt pa to ar be I can’t sorts in them.

I cried. A lot!”

I’ve ever had.

Thorner June Wheatley,

“I’d like lots of help around the house for the day, all meals cooked, all washing up done, no arguing, going out for a lovely walk together or snuggling on the sofa to watch a film together depending on weather. I’d also like homemade cards that I can save to look back at when they are older.”

Rachel Swann, Alwoodley

“A year of fam ily photos in on We have a co e frame! rridor of them now. Absolutel y divine.”

Eleanor Richar dson, Harrogat e “A long walk with our puppy Ruby followed by a family meal at our favourite restaurant with no electrical devices in sight.”

Sarah Butters, Wetherby

Is your child reaching their full potential?

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It’s certificates week at Baby Ballet and everyone is excited. The girls have come dressed in their best pink sparkles and the class’ only boy – Mikey – has arrived in a bow tie. But before the awards, there’s some dancing to be done.

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Photo: Hopscotch Shoes HE SECRET of Baby Ballet is that perfect blend of dancing, the friendship of some very cuddly teddy bears and lots of pink. The formula of the classes hasn’t changed since I went along with my daughter six years ago, and neither has the enthusiasm of the dancers. The joy for these toddlers is pulling on a tutu and moving to familiar tunes with their friends. “Baby Ballet is unique,� says Louise Bradbury who is running today’s class. “I think that’s because of the music and props we use and the energy we bring to each class.�

Louise is all smiles as she invites all 11 children to join in with the warm up. The group stretches, claps and bends along to the music before the popular Baby Ballet props come out. There’s wands for would be Princesses and flags for those not keen on the sparkle. There are hoops to be jumped into and out of and before long the group are reprimanding their naughty toes for failing to point. It takes me back. “This is a lovely class because you can see the bonding between the parents and their children,� says Louise. “You can also see the progress they are making. Some come in and refuse to do anything, but before long they’re in the middle, dancing.�

Parents like Baby Ballet because it’s a gentle introduction to music and movement and, if you’re like me, the thought of getting your daughter in a tutu is irresistible. But it’s so much more than that.

These classes help with balance, co-ordination but most of all, it gives the children confidence.

Louise runs sessions for babies, from 9 months old, Tinies – for 18 months – 3 years, and then there’s a Movers class for pre-school children which has a focus on independence. In that class, dancers are left by their parents and work towards putting on a summer show. Today is a Tinies session and after the group have been dancing scarecrows and hidden from crocodiles it’s time for every child to take centre stage as they receive their certificate. Following beautiful curtseys and a solitary bow, Wetherby, Selby & Kippax on 0113 210 3505 it’s time for these dancing stars to choose a baby ballet bear and put Horsforth & Morley on 01757 248 884 them to bed. And as the lights dim www.stagecoach.co.uk and the noise disappears, I’m pretty sure it’s not just Twinkle Bear who will be catching forty winks.

T

Book NOW for the New Term

Baby Ballet classes are running in Alwoodley, Adel, Boston Spa, Crossgates, Colton, Crown Point, Garforth, Guiseley, Headingley, Horsforth, Morley, Oulton, Pudsey and Yeadon. www.babyballet.co.uk

Keeping up with the

DIGITAL NATIVES Do you know a Sound Cloud from a dojo? Your child probably does and now, so do parents at Moorlands School. Sarah Butters has been along to find out how social media is changing the way the school communicates with its mums and dads.

M

artin McElhone is ever so slightly regretting his most recent Friday fun poll on Twitter. The Head of Moorlands asked his followers if the school should get a dog and rather predictably, the ‘yes’ camp is in the lead. It’s one of the many ways Martin and his team is using social media to connect with parents and pupils both during the school day, and after the gates have closed.

“We have a lot of working parents,” explains Martin,“and although we like to invite them in to assemblies and events, often they can’t come. For instance, as part of the creative curriculum in Key Stage 1, parents are asked to come in every 6 weeks. When they can’t make it, they feel like they’re missing out. We wanted them to share the experiences with their child too.”

Moorlands Twitter account lets you see exactly how the school is inviting parents into the school every day, virtually. There are pictures of sporting events, cycle training and an after school climbing wall club. The tweets reveal a vibrant school that’s interacting with the parental community and making sure that they’re involved whether they can make an assembly or not.

“Year 6 were learning about Brit Pop and performed in an assembly,” says Martin. “Some parents couldn’t come so we

recorded the performances, uploaded them onto SoundCloud and posted the link on Twitter. They got to enjoy the performances without being there.”

It’s not just school performances that make it onto Twitter.

Parents can also keep track of their children when they’re on a trip. A recent visit to London to see Matilda was recorded on the social networking site and it received some pretty famous interest.

“We’d been learning the songs from Matilda so took the children to the West End to see the show,” says Martin.

“We tweeted Andrew Lloyd Webber and we got a retweet.

The buzz the children got from that was amazing!”

But it’s the use of this type of technology in the classroom where Moorlands is leading the way. Every child has a ‘dojo’ or a virtual cartoon character they’ve made of themselves. That character lives on the classroom’s interactive white board and is used by teachers to acknowledge good behaviour and reward it. For instance, if your child has scored well in a spelling test, been kind to a fellow pupil or worked hard in a particular subject his ‘dojo’ will record that and the parent will receive an immediate notification. It’s a great way to promote conversation at home time because the parent has a virtual insight into what’s gone on at school that day.

“It’s replaced the communication book and the credit system here,” says Martin. “It’s an immediate thing and each child has their own specific goals – that’s why the children and their parents like it.”

The most recent technical experiment was a classroom link up using Skype between children at Bronte House and a Reception class at Moorlands. The older children read a story to the 4 and 5 year olds via their computer and in return were treated to a tour of the school. It’s joined up learning that has no boundaries.

Musical Minis Diddi Disco Classes here

Leeds Adel 0113 266 0965 • Wetherby 01937 844 737 Guiseley 01943 879 910

FAMILIES LEEDS | March/April 13

“This week it was Bronte House and Moorlands,” says Sam Cadman from Moorlands. “Next time it could be Moorlands and a school in Australia or America. There are no limits to this type of learning.”

The children here are, according to Martin, digital natives.

The parents are the digital immigrants and he’s had to convert some to the idea that this sort of virtual communication and learning is good news. He says the playground chatter and the feedback he’s had lead him to believe he has and now he invites Moorlands mums and dads to join in with the Twitter conversation at weekends.

“I’ve asked parents to tweet about the challenges and adventures they get up to using the hashtag #wearemoorlands and #intrepidmoorlanders,” says Martin. “They are now tweeting from swim galas, park runs, football matches and cycle rides.

This is bringing the Moorlands community together even when they’re not physically together.”

And if Twitter has its way, that Moorlands community may include a dog in the not too distant future. www.moorlands-school.co.uk

14

FAMILIES LEEDS | March/April

TIMES TABLES… Do they really

MATTER? According to the government, all 11 years olds should start Secondary School knowing ALL their times tables. How confident is your child? How can you help them learn? We ask Kip McGrath’s Bill Moody for his top 10 tips on how to support your mini mathematician. n

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Establish how important times tables are. They are the building blocks for many maths topics – fractions, percentages, algebra – but they will also help your child access important secondary school subjects like chemistry, physics and biology.

Constant repetition will help speed up recall so it’s important parents support the learning of times tables at home. Get your little one to recite with you while washing their hair or on the school run.

If you learn your tables you are getting three for the price of one.

Tables can be written backwards of course: 2x3=6 and 3x2=6 but they can also be written as divides: 6÷3=2 and 6÷2=3 and they can also be written as fractions: 1 ⁄2 of 6=3 and 1⁄3 of 6=2 Most students are motivated by knowing something is useful. Remember a relatively simple times table gives you access to two other types of sum that don’t have to be calculated. That saves your child time and effort – something MOST children are looking to do! If you tell a child that by knowing their times tables, they already have the answers to many fraction problems and they’ll switch on.

Use as many different learning methods as possible. Some will suit better than others. Sing and look for patterns in the numbers. For instance, have you noticed that the tens in the 9 times table count up, while the units count down.

Look…

9 18 27 36 45 54 63 72 81 90 99 109

How do YOU support TIMES TABLE LEARNING?

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Fulneck School, Pudsey, Leeds LS28 8DS enquiries@fulneckschool.co.uk

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Use physical activities to reinforce. Play catch, or bounce on the garden trampoline while you chant. Your child is keeping their mind and their body fit at the same time!

Use a stack of coins – about a dozen each of 1ps, 5ps, 10ps and about 24 x 2ps. This helps the more visual learner.

Throw 2 dice and ask your child to multiply the two. Dig out a pack of cards and remove the Aces and Kings. Use the Jacks as 11s and Queens as 12s. Deal two cards and ask your child to multiply them. Set them against a sibling or a friend to fire up the mathematical rivalry! Set a limit on turns so they can see an end in sight.

I like to give students a tables grid and colour in individual times tables as they are learnt. Each one gets coloured in twice and the child can see an end in sight. This also highlights the tables still to be learnt.

Have fun with it! There aren’t that many and once learnt times tables are invaluable!

Bill Moody runs Kip McGrath in Adel. www.kipmcgrath.co.uk • 0113 266 0965

y, by constant e old fashioned wa th ing having rn lea ink th “I question without er any times table sw an n a visual ca as ey o th to at ns repetition mea ck of the car se ba e th on list a rder!” fingers! I have y maths is made ha to count on their of times tables an ll ca re ick qu t ou ale reminder. With rley in Wharfed Sally Clegg, Bu

FAMILIES LEEDS | March/April 15

nt tables practice se “We get a lot of think the t n’ do I – r he former teac ing home but – as a . I think rote learn ing actually works tis ac pr , e ar ed ish ey bl th ta way , once es with tables. Then is the way to go ns. Until the rote tio es ickfire qu you move onto qu work.” ished, it doesn’t learning is establ Alwoodley Rachel Swann,

ical “I play mathemat t out and again. I shou gunslingers now aw their dr to st fir tion and the es qu ble ta es tim a (or shoot) pocket and shout finger from their that round!” the answer wins Menston Justin Leeming,

s her times tables “My 14 year old know other important ones like from 2 to 12 and a few les are a stepping 25s and 15s. Times tab stone to better maths.”

Bill Moody, Adel

n y childre ad that m m chool. e s t m a s e by rote “It driv rn a le ld ‘that’s to raged e, I’m to u m o c o n h e t a ’t rcy ing aren called Pe rce learn to reinfo d an app e y s tr les u I b e n ta ’v e e Wh learn ’. W we do it ur child to o y is s th e g not how to s oura cite my 4 hich enc , even I re Parker w w o N . s g ” ne! son through ritating tu hugely ir therby e W tters, u B h a r Sa

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A ll privat can rec a ely edu ite their cated. N times ta clearly n one of b les. I trie ot hard them d at ho enough me for at scho . I wish y ol, day ears bu they we in day o t re drille But the ut until d in to them y aren’t they kn . They u e w them Susie L se their . awren fingers.” ce, Hea dingle y

Forget Eggs & Shop Local Easter Gift Guide Did you know that the average child receives 9 Easter eggs? That adds up to a massive 13,000 calories! Why not give a gift that lasts longer than the school holidays this year. We’ve got some super sugar free suggestions from a few of our favourite local shops. Enjoy!

IISPRING CUPCAKE SETII

IICRAYON BOXII

£10 From Little Alligators No one said chocolate was banned, but why not add it to your favourite cupcake mix and cook up a spring themed batch of buns. A great gift to put away for April shower bake days and the result will make the whole family happy!

£5 From Little Alligators These chunky, colourful crayons are produced locally and are popular with pre-schoolers. Choose from a butterfly, duck, rabbit and an egg.

IIANIMAL MASKSII

IICHICK EGG CUPII £7 From Jack Rabbit Pottery You’ll be having boiled eggs for breakfast every morning once you’ve created this feathered friend.

Head to Jack Rabbits Pottery in Oakwood to paint your own in time for Easter.

Sports Camps for 5–14 year olds swimming • football • athletics • rugby • golf • cricket netball • baseball • rounders • basketball • and more EASTER DATES: WEEK 1: 7TH–10TH APRIL • WEEK 2: 13TH–17TH APRIL SUMMER DATES: WEEK 1: 20TH–24TH JULY • WEEK 2: 27TH–31ST JULY WEEK 3: 3RD–7TH AUGUST • WEEK 4: 10TH–14TH AUGUST • WEEK 5: 17TH–21ST AUGUST

The Grammar School at Leeds • OFSTED registered www.activesportingclub.co.uk • 0777 5850 986

£4.50 From Little Alligators The perfect disguise for this year’s Easter egg hunt. Pull on a fabulous fox mask or a sparkly rabbit and you’re ready! Guaranteed to add glamour to an Easter gathering.

IIEASTER BOWLII £10 From Jack Rabbit Pottery Whether it’s to fill with Mini Eggs (they’re allowed because they are mini!) or to have your Easter Sunday pudding in, this heart shaped bowl is something you can make this year, and enjoy for many to come.

Jackrabbits Pottery Paint your own pottery studio A: 633a Roundhay Road, Leeds, LS8 4BA T: 0113 318 9315 W: www.jackrabbitspottery.com

FAMILIES LEEDS | March/April 17

IIBUILD A ROBOTII

IIRUSSIAN DOLLSII

ÂŁ14 From Little Alligators Already a best seller at Harrogate’s Little Alligators and a fabulous gift for the Easter holidays. Great for a parent/child project if you’ve a younger child or a ‘go and entertain yourself for an hour’ idea if they’re older.

ÂŁ10.50 From Little Alligators These figures are quite literally out of this world! The six doll set fits neatly into the largest robot, but your little one will love nothing more than taking them apart, before putting them back together again.

IIBUILD A FLOWER BRACELETII ÂŁ6 From Little Alligators A refreshingly retro alternative to those irritating loom bands.

No more hoovering up elastic explosions. These plastic flowers allow you to create bracelets, belts and headbands without fear of losing your fingers through a lack of circulation.

IISHOP LOCALII LITTLE ALLIGATORS 45 Coldbath Road Harrogate HG2 0NL www.littlealligators.com

IICHICK FIGUREII £9 From Jack Rabbit Pottery Capturing a creative moment with your child is great and there’s no better place to do it than at Jack Rabbit’s in Oakwood. I still have the fired creations made by my two marking Mothers’ Days and birthdays past. Make this Easter the year of the chick!

IITHE SUPER BOOKII IIFOR SUPER HEROESII

JACK RABBITS POTTERY 633a Roundhay Road Oakwood LS8 4BA www.jackrabbitspottery.com

Fun Netball Camps

ÂŁ9.95 From Little Alligators Another best seller from our friends at Little Alligators in Harrogate.

Create your own crusader.

There’s activities and drawings that are bound to keep your superhero busy over the holiday.

Monday 13th - Thursday 16th April : 10am to 3pm at The Grammar School at Le ee eds, Alwoodley Gate es s, Le ee ed e ds LS17 8GS Yorrk kshire Jets Fun Netball Camps are rru un by Jets playerrs s and coaches with a mix xtture of fun and match play to provide those attttending with a week of fun, enjoyment and improvement of netball underrs standing.

We aim to cater for all abilities and netball experriience from 8 to 14 yearrs s of age.

The days consist of skills, drriills, team games and the last afftternoon of the week is run as a tourrn ru nament where all the playerrs s are mixed up and parrtticipate in fancy dres sss!

include a Yorkshirre e Jetts s tt---s shirrtt.

Book your place and pay online at

ww w ww w w.elite-netball.co.uk Contta act Anna Carrtter for more information on anna@elite-netball.co.uk 45 5 or call 07791 012 94

TOP 3 EASTER DAYS OUT

Looking for some cracking fun this Easter? Look no further than the next few pages. You can visit the Easter Bunny, join an egg rolling competition and even help Little Bo Peep find her sheep. Fingers crossed for some Spring sunshine!

Photo: Jonathan Pow

THE EASTER ADVENTURE

EASTER EGGSPLOITS

||28th March – 19th April||

||Good Friday 3rd –||

||STOCKELD PARK||

||Bank Holiday Monday 6th April||

||www.stockeldpark.co.uk||

||FOUNTAINS ABBEY||

Join the Easter Bunny, Little Bo Peep and some newly hatched chicks at this festival of Easter fun. Giant eggs have popped up all over the Enchanted Forest to celebrate Easter and you’re invited to follow the trail . Try your hand at creating your own chocolate bar and then head to the maze to help the accident prone Little Bo Peep with her sheep. As well as the themed Easter fun there’s roller skating, the fabulous adventure playgrounds through the forest and some egg-stra special craft sessions.You’d be hopping mad to miss this!

||www.nationaltrust.org.uk|| Combine Easter with top chocolate producer Cadburys and you’re probably onto a winner. Set in the beautiful grounds of Fountain’s Abbey, these Easter celebrations promise mouthwatering fun. Throughout the weekend you can egg-splore this beautiful spot in your hunt for giant eggs before munching on your chocolate prize. Joining the trail is £2. The weekend ends in style with a cracking day of competition on Monday. Join in with the Abbey’s traditional Egg Roll. Bring your hard boiled eggs, decorated if you’ve got an artistic side, before taking on the yolk-les in an egg and spoon race then the annual Roll.

Egg-shell-ent fun!

FAMILIES LEEDS | March/April 19

STOCKELD

PARK

Where magic is made & adventures

begin

The Easter Adventure Bunny & Giant Egg Hunt!

28 March - 19 April

Open daily: 10am - 6pm

EASTER AROUND THE MUSEUMS ||School Holidays|| ||LEEDS MUSEUMS & GALLERIES|| ||www.leeds.gov.uk|| Wherever you are in Leeds, there’s Easter fun on your doorstep.

At Kirkstall Abbey you can join the Bunny Scarecrow Trail (3rd – 9th & 11th – 19th April) where you’ll hunt for famous rabbits. Head to newly refurbished Lotherton Hall to enjoy their two week Spring Festival (2nd – 19th April). There’s craft, trails and garden games as well as a great playground, bird garden and picnic spot. The Easter Eggstravaganza is back at Temple Newsam (3rd – 19th April) where you’re invited to search for clues throughout the house and win a prize. And how can you resist a trip to Home Farm to join the animals in welcoming the Spring.

Fresh air & Spring-time family fun awaits!

See website for Easter activities & Egg-stra’ special events!

Outdoor Fun & Indoor Play Located between Harrogate & Leeds. LS22 4AN

www.stockeldpark.co.uk

20

FAMILIES LEEDS | March/April

What’s on this Easter…

Enjoy and please say that you saw it in Families Leeds!

STOCKELD PARK

Sunday 15th March

Monday 30th and Tuesday 30th March

Water Wheel Workshop FOUNTAINS ABBEY www.nationaltrust.org.uk Make a splash at the 800 year old mill and discover how the water wheel works – then make your own.

Spaces are limited. 11.15am and 1.15pm.

Water Wheel Workshop FOUNTAINS ABBEY www.nationaltrust.org.uk Make a splash at the 800 year old mill and discover how the water wheel works – then make your own.

Spaces are limited. 11.15am and 1.15pm.

Saturday 28th March – Sunday 12th April

Wednesday 1st April

Easter Holiday Trail FOUNTAINS ABBEY www.nationaltrust.org.uk Help Holy Henry and Gorgeous Georgia get ready for Easter. 10am – 4pm.

Pond Dipping FOUNTAINS ABBEY www.nationaltrust.org.uk Meet the tadpoles, water lice and water boatmen in their own environment. Pick up a net, identification chart and pot and tick off another of those 50 challenges to complete before you’re 11¾ From 2pm.

Easter Crafts – Little Lambs FOUNTAINS ABBEY www.nationaltrust.org.uk Swanley Grange was once a sheep farming hub and this holiday its been transformed into a woolly workshop.

Create a lamb key ring to take home. 11am – 3pm

Sunday 29th March Spring Family Nature Walk FOUNTAINS ABBEY www.nationaltrust.org.uk Be at one of Yorkshire’s most beautiful spots as nature wakes up from the winter. Hour long walk starting at 2pm.

Thursday 2nd – Sunday 19th April Spring Time Festival LOTHERTON HALL www.leeds.gov.uk Spring has arrived at Lotherton. Lots of family activites to enjoy from 11am.

Easter Egg Trail LOTHERTON HALL www.leeds.gov.uk Follow the egg-cellent clues and find the eggs.

FAMILIES LEEDS | March/April 21

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Friday 3rd – Thursday 9th April Bunny Scarecrow Trail KIRKSTALL ABBEY www.leeds.gov.uk Join the trail around the abbey and look for famous bunnies. 10am – 3pm.

Friday 3rd – Sunday 19th April Time Travellers Treasure Hunt LEEDS CITY MUSEUM www.leeds.gov.uk Tick tock goes the Harrison Clock. Step inside and navigate your way around the museum and solve the challenges.

Easter Eggstravaganza TEMPLE NEWSAM HOUSE www.leeds.gov.uk Join the Easter egg hunt around the house.

Friday 3rd – Monday 6th April Egg and Spoon Races STOCKELD PARK www.stockeldpark.co.uk Head to the main field to take park in this cracking Easter challenge. Prizes for winners.

Fun with the Easter Bunny ABBEY HOUSE www.leeds.gov.uk Lots of craft activites and the promise of an Easter Bunny sighting.

Decorate an Egg LEEDS CITY MUSEUM www.leeds.gov.uk Create an egg inspired by history. Try your hand at a Henry the Egg or an Elizabeth the Yolk. Sessions at 11am and 2pm.

Don’t Miss…

IITHE FILM HOUSEII IIGood Friday 3rd –II IIBank Holiday Monday 6th AprilII IILEEDS TOWN HALLII IIwww.thefilmhouseleeds.comII Would you like to meet a snowman?

How about sharing a snack with a Gruffalo? The film world’s favourite characters are heading to Leeds this Easter and you’re invited to share in some cinematic fun.

Leeds Town Hall is being transformed into a family attraction for the Easter weekend as part of the Leeds Young Film Festival and you’ve got a VIP invite.

There’s daily Sing-a-Long-a-Frozen screenings with Anna, Elsa and our favourite – Olaf. Fancy dress isn’t just encouraged – it’s compulsory! If you’re more of a Gruffalo fan, he’ll be visiting for some scrambled snake and a screening of his short films over the Easter weekend. And it’s not just the ‘human’ stars who’ll be taking centre stage. The famous De Lorean from Back to the Future will be spinning into town for the event.

As well as watching fabulous films, you can learn how to be a TV presenter, find out more about Lego animation and watch the Minions take over in some fabulous workshops.

This is bound to be a popular event so head to www.thefilmhouseleeds.com to book your tickets and take a look at the full programme. There are early bird discounts as well as family tickets. And if you’re worried that springtime in Leeds may be too warm for Olaf, he tells us that some trips are worth melting for! 0113 224 3801

22

FAMILIES LEEDS | March/April

Tuesday 7th April Funny Faces Craft ABBEY HOUSE www.leeds.gov.uk Craft sessions at 10am and 2pm.

Tuesday 7th & Wednesday 8th April Loony Loom Bands LEEDS INDUSTRIAL MUSEUM www.leeds.gov.uk Try your hand at loom band making as well as more traditional weaving. 1pm start.

Tuesday 7th – Saturday 18th April INDUSTRIAL MUSEUM

Friday 3rd – Monday 6th April Cadbury Egg Hunt FOUNTAINS ABBEY www.nationaltrust.org.uk There is little more exciting than an egg hunt organised by a leading chocolate company. Hunt for the giant eggs and then treat yourself to the chocolate prize. 11am start.

Easter Egg Hunt BOLTON ABBEY www.boltonabbey.com Want to meet the Easter Bunny? First you have to complete the Easter Egg Hunt through Strid Wood.

You‘ll find it hard to miss the oversized glittery eggs along the trail! Dogs are welcome!

Sunday 5th April Spring Festival THWAITE MILLS www.leeds.gov.uk Enjoy a fun filled day exploring. Take a boat ride, get your face painted and join in the family fun. 11am start.

Monday 6th April Easter Eggsploits FOUNTAINS ABBEY www.nationaltrust.org.uk The best egg competition in this neck of the woods.

Bring along your hard boiled eggs and get ready to use it.

There’s an egg and spoon race, a prize for best decorated and an egg roll. 1.30pm start.

Monday 6th – Friday 17th April Be a Victorian THACKRAY MUSEUM www.thackraymedicalmuseum.co.uk Head back in time to 1842 along the Victorian Streets We will transport you back to the dirt and grime of Victorian Leeds where you will be surrounded by the smells and sounds of Victorian life. Find out how people lived and what was making them ill. Will you survive Victorian healthcare?

Mystery Matinee LEEDS INDUSTRIAL MUSEUM www.leeds.gov.uk Enjoy a film at one of the smallest cinemas in the world.

2pm start.

Wednesday 8th April Silly Science Eggsperiment ABBEY HOUSE www.leeds.gov.uk Egg inspired science activities. Can you crush an egg?

How do you know if an egg is boiled? Sessions at 10am and 2pm.

Mad Hatter’s Dress Up LOTHERTON HALL www.leeds.gov.uk Beware the rabbit hole at Lotherton! Dress up and join the Mad Hatter and friends for a day in Wonderland.

11am start.

Spring Animals LEEDS DISCOVERY CENTRE www.leeds.gov.uk Craft activities. 10am start.

KIRKSTALL ABBEY

FAMILIES LEEDS | March/April 23

FREE

FAMI LY ART WOR K S HOP S EVERY SATURDAY 11AM-3PM SUITABLE FOR ALL AGES

BOLTON ABBEY

Thursday 9th April Easter Family Fun ABBEY HOUSE www.leeds.gov.uk Work with your family to solve clues and take on challenges. Sessions at 10am and 2pm.

Enjoy free Family Art Workshops as part of our new exhibition Painting In Time from 3 April to 5 July. Look out for additional

paintings and make works of art using paint, bikes and machines.

Free, drop-in sessions - no booking required.

www.thetetley.org The Tetley, Hunslet Road, Leeds LS10 1JQ

Thursday 9th & Friday 10th April

Large car park next door or a 7 minute walk from Leeds Train Station, 6 minutes from Trinity Leeds

Den Building FOUNTAINS ABBEY www.nationaltrust.org.uk Get ready to get muddy and use all that nature has to offer to build your own den. Booking essential on 01765 608 888. Sessions at 11am and 1pm.

Friday 10th April Frightening Faces ABBEY HOUSE www.leeds.gov.uk Craft activities. 10am and 2pm.

Experience the grimy streets of Victorian Leeds and explore scientiďŹ c breakthroughs

Saturday 11th – Sunday 19th April Bunny Scarecrow Trail KIRKSTALL ABBEY www.leeds.gov.uk Join the trail around the abbey and look for famous bunnies. 10am – 3pm.

Tuesday 14th April Wild Things Animal Crafts ABBEY HOUSE www.leeds.gov.uk Craft inspired by wild animals including lions, tigers and bears. 10am and 2pm.

Wednesday 15th April Silly Science ABBEY HOUSE www.leeds.gov.uk Science activities inspired by animals. The topic is camouflage and canines. 10am and 2pm.

MARCH

Get creative in our fun design challenge activities

APRIL

Easter Holidays

Discover life as a Victorian by taking a tour of our 1842 Street with our Victorian Guide

Open Daily

On-site cafĂŠ and parking

Tickets last all year

Unique birthday party venue

WWW.THACKRAYMEDICALMUSEUM.CO.UK Beckett Street, Leeds LS9 7LN Enquiries: 0113 244 4343 / info@thackraymuseum.org

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