Familes Leeds Sep-Oct 2014

ďƒŹ Leeds’ Favourite Parenting Magazine // SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2014 // ISSUE 36

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Open Day Sat 4th Oct

1:30 - 4:30pm

Leeds Adel Leeds North Wetherby Garforth Guiseley

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Welcome Back…

I

like September. When I wave my children off for their first day of the new term, I like to take a moment to pat myself on the back that I’m not bankrupt after the endless days out that the summer holidays inevitably bring. I also take a moment to celebrate that I’m no longer the equivalent of a referee at a wrestling match.

Whoever said girls are easier hasn’t met my deadly duo.

However this September is tinged with some sadness. Isobel is about to begin her high school journey. I know she’s not flying the nest just yet, but it certainly feels like she’s about to learn how to use her wings without any help from me. I have, however, been informed of the strict rules attached to parenting an 11 year old.

It began with the school shoe shop.

“What about these?” I innocently ask, offering a perfectly pleasant pair of patent lace ups.

“Oh my goodness,” Isobel shrieked (with additional hand gestures).

“I will literally die if you make me wear those. EVERYONE is wearing ballet pumps.”

Then I innocently asked, during a quiet summer moment, where I take her into school from September.

“Oh my goodness. NO-ONE goes into school with their parents.

EVERYONE gets the bus. I will literally die if you take me to school.”

Finally the subject of a school coat. Should I get one from the uniform shop? Cue gasp and now familiar outraged hand gesture.

“NO-ONE wears a coat. If you buy it I just won’t wear it. I will literally die if you make me go to school in one.”

So against all my better judgement, and in an attempt to avoid her ‘literally’ expiring before she makes her first walk into ‘big’ school, I have bought the ballet pumps, ditched the idea of a school coat and agreed a compromise on the subject of the journey to school.

We tossed around the idea of her exiting a moving car while I slowed down to a moderate speed about half a mile from the school but thought it unwise. Instead I will take Isobel to school in some sort of disguise and drop her off without speaking to her, or any other child I may recognise.

Wish me – and her – good luck and let’s hope for a mild winter!

NEXT DEADLINE: Thursday 9th October. 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 CIRCULATION: 17,500 copies printed DESIGNED BY: JUSTIN LEEMING • www.jgl-design.co.uk 07745 038 005 PRINTED BY: CHARLESWORTH PRESS • Wakefield www.charlesworth.com Thanks to Justin Leeming for his Monster High inspired image of Lucinda, Alice, Elliott & Amelia in the woods.

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.

Book NOW for the New Term Wetherby, Selby & Kippax on 0113 210 3505 Horsforth & Morley on 01757 248 884 Roundhay on 0845 678 7778 www.stagecoach.co.uk

Sarah Butters familiesleeds.co.uk

Families

NEWS…

WATERBABIES STAFF awarded New Diploma Congratulations to Arran MacDonald and two members of his Waterbabies team who are among the first in the country to be awarded a prestigious new swimming qualification.

The ASA Level 2 Extended Diploma focuses on child development, child protection and the innovative delivery of swimming lessons.

“It’s exciting to be part of this – it’s groundbreaking in the swimming world!” explains Arran, franchisee of Waterbabies in Yorkshire. “I’m also proud of my teachers.

It’s fabulous to know we are delivering the very best baby swimming tuition.” www.waterbabies.co.uk • 01943 862 802

Froebelian welcomes NEW DEPUTY HEAD It’s a new term and there’s a new Deputy Headteacher in place at The Froebelian School in Horsforth. Former Leeds Girls High School pupil Sharon Stratford is returning to Yorkshire with her husband and two children, Ben and Emilia. They’ll be joining their mum at school this term.

“Froebelian has such an outstanding reputation and I’m looking forward to playing a major role in shaping its success in the future,” she told Families Leeds.

Fight tiredness with NEW MULTIVITAMIN Looking to face the new term full of beans?

Pharmaton Vitality has been clinically proven to reduce tiredness and restore vitality if taken daily over a 12 week period. Clinical trials have shown that the supplement, packed with vitamins, minerals and ginseng G115 can fight fatigue and aid well being. We’ll be giving it a try!

Nessie spotted at STOCKELD PARK beautiful handmade cake pops baked to order fun themed party pops

the new way to eat cake helen@popaliciouscakepops.co.uk

07759 029138 www.popaliciouscakepops.co.uk

He’s escaped from Loch Lomond and set up home here in Yorkshire. A sculpture of Nessie has appeared in the Enchanted Forest at Stockeld Park. It was inspired by the winning entry into the annual Design a Sculpture competition, submitted by local schoolgirl Isobel Mowatt.

“We were delighted with Isobel’s imaginative design,” says Stockeld Park’s Creative Director and Owner Susie Grant. “It’s wonderful that we can turn a child’s dream into reality each year.”

To enter this year’s competition, take a look at www.stockeldpark.co.uk to find out more.

TOY SHOP FREE GIFT WRAPPING See our competitions and promotions on Facebook or Twitter 112a Harrogate Rd, Chapel Allerton, LS7 4NY 20 Town Street, Horsforth, LS18 4RJ www.armadillotoys.co.uk facebook.com/armadillotoyshop

FAMILIES LEEDS | September/October 5

Jackrabbits Pottery

Learn to Read for FREE Sign up to a nationwide effort to get your child reading. Reading Eggs provides a comprehensive range of online reading lessons and ebooks that teach children from 3 – 13 years old literacy skills. 90% of parents who have used Reading Eggs report an improvement in their child’s reading skills. If you’re interested in signing up to the free trial, go to www.readingeggs.co.uk/leeds and let us know what you think. The offer runs until the end of September.

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

Ring & Reserve for TOP DEALS at TREASURES Wetherby toy shop Treasures is launching a new catalogue this month with a ring and reserve option for customers.

They’ve teamed up with 250 other Toymaster retailers across the country to create the catalogue, which will be packed with fantastic offers – great news if you’re looking for some early Christmas presents.

“Working together means we can offer very competitive prices and a larger range of toys, which is great news for our loyal customers” explains Treasures owner Zhara Armstrong.

Collect your catalogue from Treasures on High Street, Wetherby. www.treasurestoys.co.uk • 01937 589 187

Leeds School praised for DYSLEXIA SUPPORT Fulneck School in Pudsey has been ranked amongst the best in the UK for its provision for dyslexic students. The report by the Council for the Registration of Schools Teaching Dyslexic Pupils paid tribute to ‘a happy friendly school with a relaxed atmosphere’. It also noted that ‘teaching and highly qualified and experienced support staff show good knowledge of dyslexic individuals and support their learning’.

Fulneck’s Principal Deborah Newman said she was delighted that the school’s Dyslexia Unit had maintained its accredited status. www.fulneckschool.co.uk

NEW STAFF WANTED at Armadillo Looking for part time work in a fun, friendly environment? Established toy shop Armadillo is looking for new staff to join its team in Chapel Allerton.

“I’m looking for a flexible, part time member of staff – perfect for a local mum looking for some extra income,” explains Lisa Clay from Armadillo.

The position is available now and although retail experience is preferred, it’s not essential. Contact Lisa on 0113 266 7500

Spooky tours, creepy crafts and scary scarecrows for halloween family fun this half-term

Abbey House Museum Leeds Industrial Museum Discovery Centre Kirkstall Abbey Leeds Art Gallery Leeds City Museum Lotherton Hall Temple Newsam Thwaite Mills Watermill

www.leeds.gov.uk/schoolholidays LeedsMuseumsandGalleries @LeedsMuseums # SchoolHolidays

The ➚

Diary of a

IMPERFECT MUM…

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DAD In this issue our Dad Columnist Mike Smith reflects on the challenges of ‘say as I say, not as I do’ parenting.

Families Leeds columnist Claire Bottomley is surprised to find out that her eldest is proving to be something of a ladies man.

Unfathomably, my five-year-old son seems to have a lot of luck with the ladies. I’ve been informed of a fair amount of romantic interest by the parents of smitten girls.

“They all want to marry me,” he tells us, wanly.

Last term, it even made it into his school report, which stated that he was “Very popular with the girls in the class”.

Now, call me disloyal, but I can’t help but wonder if the girls in question might be selling themselves a little short. After all, they are a charming bunch – bright, funny and kind-hearted – with otherwise impeccable taste in party dresses and Frozen merchandise.

Maybe it’s because I’m his mother, and as such I have a unique perspective into the world of this would-be mini-Harry Styles. But when you’ve heard someone shout,“Muuu-uum, I need a tishoooo.

A giant piece of snot’s come out of my nose,” it’s hard to see them as a romantic figure.

But then again, when I witness him in action with a female audience, it’s not as though he turns on the charm then either.

In fact, he greets them with all the enthusiasm of Nora Batty.

We met up with a lovely girl from school recently. Her mother told me she’d been excited all morning about seeing him. When they did come face to face, he looked into the middle distance, mute.

When the ice had been broken and he’d relaxed somewhat, he spent most of his time talking to himself and pretending to shoot things, or practicing karate kicks into the air, while she smiled on politely. As the day wore on, she was lucky enough to be shown the scab on his knee and told a few bad knock-knock jokes. Finally, she generously shared some loom band apparatus with him and they settled to making those.

As (play) dates go, it was a success, but quite what his secret is remains a mystery. Like with any romantic entanglement, I can’t help but wonder if the reality would live up to the fantasy. Quite frankly, it’s a wonder that the fantasy lives up to the fantasy.

Maybe it’s an age thing. Each generation has to reinvent romance for themselves. And for my son’s age group, its definition is a man who is often monosyllabic, moody and unco-operative. Actually, then again, maybe it isn’t an age thing at all...

I’ve always tried to be as open with the boys as possible, and to explain decisions and instructions in terms that I hope they understand. It’s worked fairly well, but in the last few months, the Age of Reason has well and truly given way to the Ages of Argument. Not only are they asking far more questions, they now have answers for most things and back answers for everything else.

Though it’s great to see them questioning and learning, it does get tricky when it concerns things that they haven’t mastered and can’t yet do so without risking life and limb.

It’s a constant effort not to fall back on the attitude I so disliked in my own parents – ‘do as I say, not as I do.’

Although we’re having some success in drumming the Green Cross Code into them, we do still have the occasional debate about whether it is or isn’t safe to cross in front of that oncoming truck. And no, we’ll leave the demonstration, thank you.

Another banned activity is climbing onto the garage roof to retrieve a stray football. But you do it, Daddy. Yes, but I’m less likely to miss my footing. But you didn’t miss your footing, Daddy, so I won’t. And off we go again.

They have an answer for everything. You didn’t fall through the attic floor, so I won’t. You didn’t cut your fingers off with that electric saw, so I won’t. You spoke to that person in the street you didn’t know, so I will.

I’m sure it will get better, but at the moment it needs a starving salesman’s persuasiveness combined with a dictator’s autocracy to get the message through, and even when they finally do stop trying to befriend the slavering dog that’s about to worry its muzzle off, the questions still keep coming.

However, I have scored one small success, which involved me being briefly ahead of Mark Cavendish in the Tour de France.

I managed to crash my bike before he did.

A highlight of the Grand Depart was following the peloton along the closed roads. The boys loved it, but inevitably Dad was fussing like a mother hen, as a few official cars were still around.

After we’d been going for a while, I turned round to encourage them. “Keep it up, boys!” I called out. “Watch where you’re going!”

As I turned back round to take my own advice, a crash barrier shot out in front of me. My bike stopped, but I didn’t.

Believe me, the taste of tarmac is vastly over-rated. But as a demonstration of the fact that Dad sometimes does dispense good advice, it was pretty hard to beat.

I’m writing this just before our summer holidays, so the coming weeks will doubtless see Dad nagging them about the dangers of free-roaming cattle, adders and rip tides. I just hope I can persuade them to stay safe without needing the RNLI to fish me out of the sea.

FAMILIES LEEDS | September/October 7

mumsmean

{BUSINESS} IIPhoebe and Olivia Moss-Allison areII IIvery proud of their Tumble Tots T Shirts.II IIThey’re also very proud of their MumII IIBecky who is relaunching Tumble TotsII IIclasses across Leeds this month. The girlsII IImay be a little too old for the pre-schoolII IIphysical play sessions but that isn’tII IIstopping them from getting involved inII IIthe new family business.II

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ECKY bought the Tumble Tots franchise over the summer in an attempt to create a good work/life balance for her family. Until now, she’s been a counsellor at a debt collection agency but has been in search of a change of direction to coincide with Olivia beginning school. And this is certainly that.

“It’s a really different challenge,” says Becky with a huge smile on her face. “I’m going from working for a charity helping people deal with debt, to running around with pre-school children at Tumble Tots. I think I’m going to come home from work a lot happier!”

Tumble Tots is one of the country’s top pre-school classes but has been absent from the local timetable for a few years. Becky wanted to bring it back to Leeds after enjoying it as a child herself and says that she thinks parents will love the physical challenges that the classes offer. In a world where the focus is very much on getting our children active, Tumble Tots ticks all the boxes.

“It’s big exciting equipment in bright bold colours,” says Becky.

“There’s so much to do. There are beams, ladders, bars, tunnels and much much more. It’s a structured class so the children are learning agility, climbing, co-ordination and balance. Parents will be amazed at what their children – some as young as 6 months old – can do.”

The classes begin with Gym Babes – a session for babies from 6 months to walking. There’s a less structured feel for the younger children but just as many challenges. When a baby can crawl, they can climb and here they can explore with the support of the Tumble Tots team. Then they’ll progress through to a class for walking – 2 year olds, 2 – 3 year olds and a session for 3 – 4 year olds which is run without parents.

“Mums and Dads can be a little worried about leaving their 3 year old but actually it means they push themselves. They try bits of equipment they wouldn’t have and come on in leaps and bounds. That independence is also great preparation for school.”

As well as giving her Tumble Tots plenty of challenges, Becky is keen to make Mums feel welcome. She reflects on the endless classes she went to with Phoebe and Olivia and says that the she’s determined to give parents and their children a positive experience.

“I tried lots of classes and I remember coming back from some of them in tears. It’s really important to me that every mum feels

welcomed into class and every child leaves having had a great time. I can’t wait to get started and remind parents across Leeds what a great class Tumble Tots is.”

Tumble Tots is running across Leeds from September.

For more information about the session nearest to you take a look at www.tumbletots.com 0113 887 4661

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FAMILIES LEEDS | September/October

WIN… WIN…WIN… a Sleigh Ride with Santa & VIP Trip to STOCKELD PARK IIWe’ve teamed up with Stockeld Park to give one lucky family the chance to joinII IISanta on his sleigh ride through the Enchanted Forest on 15th November. You’ll getII IIVIP access to the sleigh which will pass by the waiting crowds pulled by Santa’s II IIreindeers and you’ll get to pay him a private visit to let him have all yourII IIChristmas wishes.II The fabulous prize also includes a VIP pass to all the great activities at this superb attraction. You can head to the REAL ice rink, have a go on the Nordic ski trail, get lost in the magic maze and finish your day with a twilight walk retracing your sleigh ride through the Enchanted Forest.

To be in with a chance of winning this magical prize, simply email editor@familiesleeds.co.uk with the words SLEIGH RIDE in the subject line. The winner will be notified via email. Closing date is 31st October.

For a full list of events at Stockeld Park take a look at our What’s On guide or head to www.stockeldpark.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.

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MESSY LITTLE ME

WHEN: Wednesday 10am WHERE: Firthfields, Garforth

||It’s just after breakfast on a Wednesday morning in Garforth but a group of near|| ||naked babies are tucking into popcorn, rolling in flour and sitting in giant bowls of|| ||Angel Delight. While I spend a moment contemplating the possibility that I’ve walked|| ||into a giant pre-school food fight, I’m given a warm welcome by Messy Little Me’s|| ||Jenny Gandy. Jenny has been running the sessions across Leeds since Easter and says|| ||that it’s all about free but very messy|| ! ! ! ! ! ! !! ! !

||play. And I mean VERY messy play.||

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“Most of the babies head to the paint mat. They like to paint their hands and feet,� explains Jenny. “But today we have a popcorn mat, a spaghetti station and an Angel Delight area. There’s lots for them to touch, feel and have fun with.�

It’s enough to bring even the most laid back mum out in a cold sweat but this invitation to make as much mess as possible is being enthusiastically accepted by all the children here today. 19 month old Max delights in the prints he is making with his own body while in the flour and water station, 17 month old Robbie is doing a fine impression of a home made Yorkshire Pudding. This is messy play – extreme messy play. “Parents tell me it’s a breath of fresh air,� says Jenny. “It’s nice to look round and see mums bonding and chatting because they’re relaxed while their children explore. It’s not about development.

It’s about fun.�

In amongst the edible paint and the odd piece of popcorn is mum Abbie from Hillam. She’s been coming along to the sessions with Max for 2 terms and says she’s finally found a stress free sixty minutes to share with her son. “He enjoys himself for the whole hour – it’s as simple as that.

He’s quite a livewire so a more structured class wouldn’t work.

This is just great fun.�

Parents are encouraged to dress their children ready to get really messy and today everyone has taken that advice. Mums are also warned that white is best avoided – advice Christine from Garforth wishes she’d taken before turning up this morning with Robbie. “It’s our first session but I just love the fact that they can get messy. This is stuff I would never do at home, but I’d love to.

It’s relaxed, informal and great fun.�

In a world where we’re being offered the chance to get our babies to bend it like Beckham, and our toddlers to talk french it’s refreshing to come along to a class where the only aim is to see your little ones having fun. It won’t get them into a better school or help them to become future Olympians, but you will see them smile. And believe me, when you’ve seen them attempting to swim in Angel Delight, you’ll be smiling too.

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Messy Little Me sessions are running in Garforth, Mumspace in Mothercare Crown Point, Great Preston and Harrogate. www.messylittleme.com • 0746 367 7744

10

FAMILIES LEEDS | September/October

Vicki’s TRIPLE CHALLENGE diary Earlier this year Families Leeds’ friend Vicki Gilbert set herself a challenge.

She wanted to complete three physical challenges in 2014 to raise funds for a charity close to her family’s heart. No mean feat for most mums, but for Vicki the challenge has been extra tough. The mum of three from Yeadon, who also owns Tiny Signers, lost her leg to a cancer misdiagnosis before having children. This is her inspirational diary.

I

N the past few years I have started cycling again and last year began some outdoor swimming. Around the same time as I decided to try the outdoor swimming I started with a trial running blade and quickly decided I was going to try and progress my running so purchased one myself! Even though I could only take a few steps at that point, the seed was planted that now I could run, swim and cycle. Maybe one day I might be able to do a triathlon? Then I heard about www.triathlonpink.co.uk in Leeds and it was the perfect event to aim for. The distances were achievable with training so before I could change my mind I made a video and posted it on YouTube and Facebook, challenging my friends to join me!

I then decided to take on two further swimming challenges to make it a triple.

If I was suffering, I wanted it to be for a cause and opted to raise money for a something close to my family’s heart. My mother in law tragically passed away last year from cancer. She received amazing care and compassion during her final weeks from all the staff at Bradford’s Marie Curie Hospice.

Triathlon Pink, Leeds One of my biggest worries about the triathlon was the transitions. When I realised I could cycle in my blade and had a few adaptations to the bike, I felt much more confident and grateful I didn’t have to change legs as well!

Leeds’ first Triathlon Pink took place at the John Charles Sports Centre in July. My great

friend Lorna and her sister in law rose to the challenge too and it was great to compete together. The swim was easy, the bike was OK and the 1km run was HARD! It was great to take part with many others though who have not done a triathlon before and we were able to support and encourage each other along the way, even high fiving as we passed! My aim was to complete the challenge, which I did and was so chuffed!

The Great Manchester 1 mile Swim Salford Quays Last year I trained for and completed my first 1 mile outdoor swim. The new leisure centre at Holt Park helped!

The swim was held on a really wet day so we were drenched before we entered the water. I had a dreadful sore throat so my aim was literally just to finish and not worry about the time. It was cold and hard to get your breath at first and my goggles permanently leaking (not recommended whilst wearing contact lenses!) but my husband came to the rescue hurling another pair into Salford Dock for me! Once I got into my rhythm I was fine and kept a steady pace, managing to dodge the

breaststrokers and finish strongly. To be honest I was glad when it was over but I just kept thinking of why I was doing it and all the sponsors I have.

The Final Challenge – Loch Lomond I am now preparing for another open water 1 mile swim, this time in Loch Lomond.

This will complete my triple challenge!

Having done Manchester I feel a lot more confident. I can’t wait to swim in the beautiful surroundings of the Loch although I expect it to be rather chilly! So I wonder what next year’s challenges will be?

If you’d like to support Vicki’s Triple Challenge and donate to Marie Curie head to www.givey.com/gilbertvicki

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FAMILIES LEEDS | September/October 11

“We want to help parents enjoy their babies�

Struggling with sleep? Worried about weaning? Meet Gail Atkinson, Learn Post Natal Skills newest recruit. Along with Vicki Iball from Learn Baby Massage, she’s launching new post natal courses across Leeds to help support mums through the early days of parenthood. Families Leeds went along to meet her.

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AIL ATKINSON knows that post natal support is a life saver. She’s been helping NathanReynolds NathanReynolds

mums across North Leeds for 14 years in her role as a community nursery nurse.

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She’s lost count of the amount of times mums have told her that the post natal

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! ! ! group that she used to run provided key support to struggling mums. ! " ! " " #" “They tell me they simply would not have survived without that group,� explains Gail. “So many times I’ve had mums suffering from Post Natal Depression who told me that had my group not been there, they just don’t know what they’d have done. Well now

it’s not there anymore.�

The erosion of post natal support in this part of Leeds has led Gail to leave her job and set up her own private post natal classes with established baby massage specialist Vicki Iball. Together they’ll run a series of 90 minute sessions over 5 weeks offering support on issues from weaning to weight gain. The aim is to give mums some reassurance and confidence about the job they’re doing. “I come into contact with a lot of professional women in this part of Leeds who have had demanding, high powered jobs,� Gail explains. “They’re used to being in control and then suddenly, they’re in charge of a baby and they can’t control it. It’s doesn’t follow the rules set in any of the books they’ve read. That’s where I come in.�

The classes are a mixture of Gail’s wealth of knowledge on subjects like safety around $#"! $ #"! ! ! ! ! # # " " # # ! " ! " the house, play and development and minor ailments as well as some social time with The Orchard Therapy Centre Town T own Street . Horsforth . Leeds LS18 5BL other mums who are facing similar sleepless nights. Basic lifesaving skills will also be www.leedsosteopathy.com www.leedsosteopathy.com covered as well as the offer of support with colic or reflux. Gail also plans to give support on choosing childcare.

Each week has a theme but it’s the mums who will decide on what questions they want to ask. Gail believes her 14 years of experience means she’s got an answer for just about everything! “All babies are individuals just as all adults are. They don’t conform to a rule book. But in these Post Natal Skills sessions we want to give 3FTUGVM BOE 3FTUPSBUJWF 4MFFQ parents the tools to cope with those individuals, to trust your instincts, GPS #BCJFT BOE $IJMESFO to speak up when something feels wrong, but first and foremost, fˆ…|{‰‰ …„w‚ w‰‰ ‰Šw„y{ „ ~{‚† „} �…‹ˆ „|w„ŠB Š…zz‚{ˆ …ˆ to enjoy your baby.� 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 www.leedsosteopathy.com www.leedsosteopathy.com

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12

FAMILIES LEEDS | September/October

The Do’s & Don’ts of

STARTING YEAR 7

challenges of High School.II the on e tak to e tim it’s d an er IIPrimary School is ov ilies Leeds Editor Sarah ButtersII Fam r? ge na ee tw ur yo or u yo – IIBut who is more nervous part ofII ur (not so) little one on the next yo rt po sup to ys wa st be the at IItakes a look IItheir educational journey.II DON’T be anywhere near the school gates at either drop off or pick up. If you have to be within a half mile radius of the school at either ends of the day, wear a disguise or, preferably, make yourself invisible. You are now THE most embarrassing thing in the world to your child. Don’t fight it.

DO encourage your child to get into a routine quickly. Bags should be prepared the night before – chances are they’ll be heading out of the door earlier than they did in primary school. Help them to create a system and then back off and let them learn to use it. One tip I heard is buying a cheap set of magazine racks, labeling them Monday through Friday. Once each piece of homework is done, return it to the rack of the day it needs to go back to school.

DON’T attempt homework without a plan. Gone are the days of finishing tasks in the back of a car on the way to school or in front of the TV at teatime. Things get serious this year and it’s best to start high school how you mean to go on. Find a quiet place without distraction and designate that for homework. Agree a daily time when it will be done so as to avoid conflict.

DO attach your child’s planner to them. This will be the most important thing in their life and in the short term, in your life too. The classroom will no longer be a place where parents are welcomed for a before school chat so communication will be done via email or the planner. Encourage your child to use it and not lose it from day 1. It means they’ll know when homework needs handing in, when they need a PE kit or cookery ingredients.

DON’T be content with one copy of your child’s timetable. It’s not enough. Confiscate it, photocopy it and then decorate your house with it. Popular places include the fridge, back of the front door and even the house bathroom. In the early days, knowing their timetable means YOU can prompt them to remember key items. In the long term it will be a reminder for THEM! DO stock up on plastic food containers in every shape and size. Food Tech will require you (sorry, your child) to measure and prepare items for their class at home.

If you (sorry, your child) don’t have an array of plastic containers, you’ll face filling their new SuperDry satchel with chopped onions and egg whites.

DON’T expect to find out anything about your child’s day.

Your knowledge of your not so little ones life will be gifted to you in sporadic grunts. Questions about their day will be answered with ‘fine’ or ‘what?’ More lengthy conversations may come in the form of arguments. On these occasions you are likely to be told in no uncertain terms that you do indeed know nothing and that your actions are ‘ruining my life’.

DO invest in spare items.

For uniform, head to the Used Uniform Shop and buy a few spares in case items are left at a friend’s house or lost. And on that subject, make sure you label everything. It will take time but will save money in the long run. Also invest in spare stationary for homework. Items like glue and maths utensils are useful to have in so as to prevent a late night trip to Tesco. It will also mean there are NO excuses for completing homework!

DO invest in a roomy bag so they can carry all the books, folders and utensils from class to class. However make sure it’s not so big as to give them a long term back injury. They are moving classrooms not houses.

DO strap yourself in for an emotional rollercoaster. When they put on their big blazer (well, they’ll grow into it) and hitch up their skirt you might be mistaken for thinking they’re all grown up. But they’re not. Yes, they need to learn to stand on their own two feet, but be there to listen to friendship fallouts and exam stresses. It’s your job to stick them back together each night and send them back for more in the morning.

The Froebelian School

Open Day Saturday 4th October 2014 10am – 12 Noon Clarence Road, Horsforth, Leeds LS18 4LB

“The best investment you will ever make for your child”

• Fantastic sport, music, technology, art and drama

• Staff to pupil ratio of 1:10

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• Competitive fees

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14

FAMILIES LEEDS | September/October

Families Leeds’

GUIDE to OPEN DAYS… Going to look round a school – whatever the age of your child – can be daunting. It’s hard to know what to look out for and what questions to ask.

To help, we’ve put together a guide to getting the most out of your next school Open Day.

Before you visit… n You’ve probably looked at the most recent OFSTED but have you looked at previous reports? These are a good indicator of an improvement or a decline in standards. It’s important to look at the history of the school and the targets they have been set.

This could reveal weaknesses but also gives you the chance to discuss concerns at the Open Day.

On the day…. n Is it well organised? A well planned Open Day is the sign of a well run school. n If you’re viewing a secondary school, take your child with you.

After all, they could be spending the next 7 years there and it’s important they’re enthusiastic. If you’re looking at primary schools, leave your child at pre-school. ‘Big’ school can feel pretty overwhelming and realistically, they’re unlikely to have an opinion! n Are pupils involved? These are the best ambassadors the school has. If you’re looking at a secondary school, are there Year 7 pupils to chat to? Ask them about the subjects they like and about the extra activities on offer. Remember, a school with a full extra curricular timetable is a school with an enthusiastic and dedicated staff. n Take time to look at the work on the walls. Is every child valued?

n Can you access all areas? If you can’t ask why. If you’re looking at a primary school, ask to see lunchtime. It gives you an idea of how the school organizes one of the most chaotic parts of the day. Do children with packed lunches sit away from those eating school meals? Are older children kept away from those at the bottom of the school? n Whether you’re visiting a primary or secondary school, it’s important to understand the policy on bullying. Ask teachers how they deal with the issue and be concerned if they aren’t clear about the school’s procedure. In the secondary sector, ask pupils about their understanding of bullying policies. n Trust your instincts and allow yourself to see the bigger picture. Do the children look happy? Do the teaching staff look engaged? Are they enthusiastic about what they are doing?

Do they acknowledge you when you walk into class?

FAMILIES LEEDS | September/October 15

OPEN DAYS: September/October 2014 Bronte House

The Grammar School at Leeds

www.brontehouse.co.uk • 0113 250 2811 Thursday 18th September • 10.30am – 12noon Thursday 16th October • 10.30am – 12noon

www.gsal.org.uk • 0113 229 1552 Wednesday 17th September • 9am – 12noon Saturday 11th October • 9am – 12noon

Woodhouse Grove

Froebelian

www.woodhousegrove.co.uk • 0113 250 2477 Saturday 20th September • 9.30am – 12noon

www.froebelian.com • 0113 258 3047 Saturday 4th October • 10am – 12noon

Richmond House

Ashville College

www.rhschool.org • 0113 275 2670 Tuesday 30th September • 2 – 7pm

www.ashville.co.uk • 01423 566 358 Saturday 4th October • 1.30pm – 4.30pm

The Grammar School at Leeds

Open events For girls and boys aged 3 to 18

2014/15

Visit us between 9am and 12pm Wednesday 17 September Saturday 11 October Thursday 6 November

Tuesday 25 November Tuesday 17 March Wednesday 29 April

Entrance exam – Friday 23 January 2015 For further information please contact our Admissions Manager, Angela Boult T: 0113 229 1552 E: admissions@gsal.org.uk

www.gsal.org.uk

Term-time Holidays - would you risk it?

IIWould you risk prosecution for the sake of a family holiday? Two thirds of parentsII IIsay 12 months on from the introduction of fines for term time breaks, they would stillII IIconsider heading away before the school holidays. As parents continue to petition theII IIgovernment to change the rules, we ask mums across Leeds what they think.II

of children out “I took my 2 Spring Bank ays after the d 4 r fo ay holid n fined. The school for a ) I’ve not bee ed ss o but if I cr s er r (fing 10 sessions Holiday. So fa as less than w it se a fine. au to ec e subject thinks it’s b will make m at headteacher th st. For us ay d co er for anoth the holiday t u to o ed em ar p th m take try co in summer ount is so pal dation alone o am m e m fin co e ac th r I think means I can 2,000 fo o a job that n another £ d ee I b s e lu p av l h o o ld in school it wou d at sch ford a holiday child is behin af t er o th n t ei u N b s. t r a week day ou holiday ildren out fo cation day in ch u n ed ke r ta ei e th av rt if the suppo hool who h s just a tax so ers at our sc em idiotic. It’ st holidays. Oth sy s their e m th ar h d ed. I fin of school fin t u n o ee b ild e ch av a h a taking hool to fund believes that go back to sc ld government u o !” sh d ey ee n e mo p to sp child back u education, th to bring the t an st si as g teachin Yorkshire JANE, West

“I did it last year and will do it again this year. We usually go to Florida at October half term and I’m not spending all that money just to go for a week, so we go for a fortnight. I believe my children learn as much being with the family on holiday as they would do at school – it’s just different experiences. I remember 3 or 4 years ago my daughter going back into preschool after being in Florida and talking about manatees. The play leaders had to go online to see what a manatee was! I also think you have more time to spend with your children when you’re on holiday as work, household chores, doesn’t get in the way. It’s one on one time – invaluable in my book.”

SAMANTHA, Leeds

I haven’t a is packed nd would n’t. The sc from the st hool sche they atten art of term dule d all lesso to the end a ns and tak school trip n d I think it e part in a s and sho is importa ll events a ws. These nt that nd activitie of time fo are as imp r holidays s such as sp o rt a n t as lessons . That said eech day, in my opin we are in of the earl a private sc ion. We g ier end of et plenty h ool and ca term in th n take adva e summer n tage holidays.”

ANON, Le eds

“I haven’t been able to take my children out of school to go on holiday because my husband is a teacher but I have many friends who have and I would if our circumstances were different. The difference just 3 or 4 days can make to the price of a holiday can be the deciding factor as to whether it can be afforded or not. Holidays provide great experiences and allow families to spend quality time together away from the treadmill of day to day life. A child who has a good attendance record asking to be excused from 3 days of school prior to the start of a holiday so the whole family can afford a break together can only be a positive for the child and the family.”

SAM, West Yorkshire

FAMILIES LEEDS | September/October 17

Open Afternoon: Tuesday 30th September 2pm - 7pm

Term Time Holidays The Facts n Time off during term time will only be given under ‘exceptional circumstances’ according to Department of Education guidelines. That guidance continues that ‘it’s unlikely to be approved for the purposes of a family holiday’. The decision lays with your school’s headteacher. n A recent survey revealed that despite the threat of a fine and prosecution, 66% of parents would still risk a term time break.

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

Visit www.rhschool.org for more information

U Top mark of excellent in all categories in March 2013 ISI Inspection U Outstanding 11+ exam success U Small class sizes U 10 acres of sports fields U Specialist teaching in a wide range of subjects 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

n If you do decide to take an unauthorized absence, your headteacher can impose a penalty notice of £120 per child, per parent. Fines paid within 21 days are halved. However, if you don’t pay your fine within 28 days, you’ll face court proceedings. n A petition signed opposing the changes was delivered to the House of Commons over the summer. n Private school parents are exempt from the rules.

Open Morning “I took my son out of school last February and it was unauthorised. We have family living abroad and due to the heat the summer months are just not a good time to visit with young children.

We looked at travelling in the Easter holidays but the costs were just too high. As a result we opted for 2 weeks in February – one week of school holiday and one week of term time. It’s important for children to spend quality time with their families and holidays enable parents and grandparents to give children their undivided attention.

Children also have many great learning experiences on holiday that they do not get from the classroom so I believe holidays are an important part of a child’s education.”

ANON, Wetherby

Saturday 27th September 9.30am - 12noon Outstanding independent day & boarding school for girls & boys aged 3 to 18 in Leeds, West Yorkshire * Nursery from age 3 * Before & after school care and holiday club * Varied academic curriculum including languages * Extensive extra-curricular opportunities including golf, swimming, speech & drama and music

Fulneck School www.fulneckschool.co.uk

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

0113 257 0235

18

FAMILIES LEEDS | September/October

My Disney

Diary

IIPupils from Stagecoach schools across Leeds got theII IIchance to head to Disneyland Paris to perform before theII IIprestigious street parade. 14 year old Georgia Tetley fromII IIMorley was one of 200 Stagecoach students from acrossII IIthe UK in the performance. She explains how she and herII IIfriends from Stagecoach Horsforth and Wetherby got there.II “In November last year the auditions for performing at Disney began. I was so excited. We learnt a dance, and filmed it three or four times until Ken, our Principal, was happy, then sent it off to Stagecoach HQ. We all waited anxiously how we’d done.

We finally got feedback from Disney saying that they were happy with the dance and that we had been given the chance to perform at Disney. We were overwhelmed knowing it was a once in a lifetime chance to do such an amazing thing. We spent a lot of time learning the routine and Disney asked for an update video and again were happy with our progress. Then I was counting down the days till we were going to Disney!

When the day finally came we got on the bus at 8.30pm and travelled through the night. The hotel was so cute. It was cowboy themed. Later in the day we had a welcome buffet thrown for us at the New York Hotel. We walked through a dark tunnel with stars all round. It was really pretty, then it led into a room full of all the other Stagecoaches who were

performing. It suddenly became very real and overwhelming. We were presented with certificates and got to meet and have a photo with Minnie and Mickey. That was so exciting.

Next day we had to get up extremely early for rehearsals in the Disney TV studios before the park opened. They went well and the people were really lovely. We then got a few hours in the parks before we were to perform.

While we were getting ready for the performance I started to get nervous. We sat backstage until it was time to walk through the backlot and line up. We got in our positions. The Dance teachers and Principals then moved away and the music started. I felt tears coming to my eyes, I was so excited and proud to be where I was. All through our rehearsals we were told to smile, but in the parade my smile was genuine, we were all so happy to be there.

The dance went so well, and as we ended our teachers met us, screaming and following us down the street just as excited

as we were. Then it was over and we were backstage hugging and congratulating each other, and we made our way to meet our families. I felt like a celebrity going round the park in my yellow Stagecoach t shirt!

I’ll never forget the feeling of 40,000 people cheering and clapping us on. I’ve never had a feeling like it – it was such an amazing opportunity, I wish it could have lasted forever.”

Georgia is a student at Stagecoach Morley. There are also Stagecoach session in Horsforth and Wetherby.

To find out more go to www.stagecoach.co.uk

FAMILIES LEEDS | September/October 19

NEW Curriculum Guide This September children across England will be returning to school with a new curriculum to face. While this has been in the government’s plans for a while now, nearly 70% of parents across the UK have said they are totally unaware of the changes. We’ve asked Explore Learning to explain the changes and what they mean for your child.

For most children and parents the new curriculum will appear more challenging. Many concepts in maths and English will be introduced earlier than previously, and initially this may feel like quite a jump.

English While there is a continued focus on phonics, there is also to be a larger emphasis on grammar, punctuation and spelling. There will be more concentration on Shakespeare, with children and pupils expected to have studied two of his plays between the ages of 11 and 14.

Maths In maths, knowing times tables (12 x12 by the end of Year 4), calculating with fractions, using written methods of calculation and having strong mental maths skills will be more important than ever, and there will be more opportunity to develop problem solving skills in maths – something which we are very excited about.

Computing Children will be taught to write code and pupils aged five to seven will be expected to ‘understand what algorithms are’ and to ‘create and debug simple programs.’

Science New content on the solar system, speed and evolution is to be introduced at primary school level. In secondary schools, there will be a clearer sense of separation between physics, biology and chemistry.

There will also be a focus on climate change.

History The history curriculum will take primary school pupils through British

history from the stone age to the Normans. They will also be able to study a later era, such as the Victorians. ‘Significant individuals’ whose lives will be given closer attention and compared in different eras include Christopher Columbus and Neil Armstrong, Rosa Parks and suffragette, Emily Davison, Queen Elizabeth I and Queen Victoria.

Secondary schools will teach British history from 1066 to 1901, followed by Britain, Europe and world events from 1901, including Winston Churchill and the Holocaust.

So, why have the changes been introduced? Well, as many mums will have read, the UK aren’t doing their best in the world’s league tables. In new research commissioned by Explore Learning we found that nearly three quarters (72%) of parents worry that British children aren’t leading the field in standards of education – a result of them failing to make the top 20 in reading, maths and science.

My advice to any parents keen to understand the new curriculum and help them with their homework is to attend any information sessions that your child’s school offers. In addition, for those not put off by a bit of reading, the programmes of study for each year are available from http://bit.ly/1seUEiQ. Once the school term begins, if you’re concerned at all with a change in progress at school, always consult your teacher first.

You may also like to attend a learning centre such as Explore Learning where we can support, stretch and challenge children in those new topic areas at a pace and level that they are comfortable with. The most important thing is to maintain a child’s confidence and positivity towards learning; it makes such a powerful difference to a child’s success in education.

Explore Learning is based at Moortown Corner in North Leeds.

For more, visit www.explorelearning.co.uk

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FAMILIES LEEDS | September/October

WELLIES are now on This month, Moorlands School launches a forest school in its grounds. Bushcraft instructors will spend a day a week teaching children skills like problem solving, self reliance and improvisation in a wonderful woodland environment. Families Leeds finds out why wellies are now an essential part of the school uniform.

I

T’S been a busy summer in the woodland neighbouring Moorlands. Joshua Hemingway has been hard at work setting up an outdoor classroom, equipped with seating and a temporary shelter, for the start of the new term. Benches have been fashioned from what he’s found in the woods and the campfire has been lit on more than one occasion. Welcome to Moorlands newest classroom. The roof is a bit leaky, you might be sat next to a minibeast but the view is fabulous.

Setting up a forest school here has been a dream of Head Martin McElhone since he arrived 12 months ago. Then, he visited local schools across Yorkshire and was inspired by the outdoor learning environment at Malsis near Keighley. After identifying a suitable space, Martin set about making that dream into a reality and from this term the pupils here will get to learn here. “A classroom isn’t always the best place to learn,� explain Martin. “An outdoor space gives children the chance to experience learning in a different setting. It can bring educational experiences to life. I can see how other schools have embedded it into their curriculum and I’m delighted we can do it here.�

Children from across the whole school will spend one day a week in this leafy environment. They’ll learn survival skills, build dens, identify wildlife, learn to build fires and bake bread. They’ll learn how to work together as a team to solve problems.

They’ll learn to stop and see the environment around them. Bushcraft instructor Joshua Hemingway says this sort of learning teaches the children so much about themselves and the world around them. “I teach the children to recognise that every problem has a solution.� Joshua continues,“It’s just about striving hard to find that solution. The beauty of outdoor learning is that more of our intelligences are called upon. In my experience, traditional classroom based learning emphasizes mathematical or linguistic intelligence. What we look at is spatial, physical, interpersonal, intrapersonal and naturalistic intelligences.�

Martin and his team are clearly excited about the new venture. They’ve spent time over the holidays with Joshua learning the skills their pupils will learn. There’s also enthusiasm from parents. The PTA have put money aside for an outdoor structure and some additional forest school facilities but the main focus is not on building. It’s about getting outdoors and learning.

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FAMILIES LEEDS | September/October 21

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“Not all students are immediately at ease in the academic setting of a classroom,� explains Martin. “I’m looking forward to seeing some of the students who struggle in the classroom showing that they can be top of the class in this new environment.�

Researchers say that children who enjoy time in a forest school benefit from improved communication skills, self confidence and an improved learning capacity when back in the traditional classroom. It changes children’s attitudes towards the outdoors and can help encourage leadership and teamwork. It’s no wonder there’s such enthusiasm here at Moorlands. “From this term, waterproofs and wellies are now on the uniform list,� says Martin. “I think this sends out the message that Moorlands is a school where children can be children and if they’re happy and learning along the way – what a bonus!�

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

and movement to introduce and then develop body awareness and self confidence as well as an introducing children to the basics of ballet. Classes across Leeds.

07702 965 932 (Leeds Central) / 07917 833 847 (Leeds North) DANCEBUGS www.dancebugs-leeds.co.uk Pre-school dance classes run by Laura Jakes aimed at developing listening skills and co-ordination in a fun imaginative class. Sessions in Moortown for children from 3 years old.

0113 295 0126

North Leeds TUMBLE TOTS Physical play programme for pre-school children www.tumbletots.com/northleeds northleeds@tumbletots.com 0113 887 4661 • 07931 243 990

DIDDI DANCE

Give your child the best start

WHY NOT T RY… TINY “Book SIGNE or just RS d Fun, e Funky, energetic dance class ducatio rop-in if it w orks b nal an s o etter f ngs an d frien for children from 18 months. or you dly atm d storie ! o s . s phere.

Refresh to take Classes cover a host of dance Music, ments home a t n o supp d resou out at ort lea styles including salsa, hip hop, rces one of rning. o Try it u r Vicki G free ta disco and Bollywood. Themes sters!” ilbert, Tiny S igners change regularly. Free trial class available. Classes across Leeds and Harrogate. www.diddidance.com

Free trial!

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

Celebrating over 10 years in Leeds!

07917 757 566 FLUTTERBABIES www.flutterbabies.com Samantha Dalton runs a range of classes to help your babies develop. Try Baby Swimming,

rhythmtime.net/eh2

Baby Yoga, Baby Massage and Music Magic. Sessions across Leeds.

01937 558 500 / 07768 538 527 IN 2 DANCE www.in2danceacademy.co.uk

NEW CLASS FROM SEPTEMBER

Pre-school dance session run by this popular North Leeds dance school. Teenie Boppers is for children from 3 – 5 years old.

Your first class is free and they’re based in Alwoodley.

07762 761 291 KIDS 2 DANCE www.kids2dance.co.uk A well structured, fun packed dance session created by Katie Louise Turner that’s now been extended across Yorkshire.

Sessions across Leeds and in Wetherby, Collingham and Boston Spa for pre-school children encouraging individuality, expression and the physical skills of co-ordination, balance and agility.

07541 811 354 (Wetherby & Boston Spa) / 07851 100 075 (Leeds North) MESSY LITTLE ME www.messylittleme.com Extreme messy play session where children are invited to paint themselves, roll in flour and explore a host of familiar products to stimulate their senses. Jenny Gandy is holding sessions in Garforth and Great Preston, promising mess without the stress.

Read our review on page 9!

0746 367 7774

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

…

WHY I LIKE ME E L T IT L MESSY ren can that the child ct fa e th ve ould never “I just lo is is stuff I w Th . sy es m laxed, get really love to. It’s re I’d t u b e, m o do at h d great fun.” informal an

WHY I LIKE… RHYTHM TIME “Mollie was engaged from day one. The teachers are fab and ensure a fast paced, happy and lively 30 minutes.

I am amazed at the progress that she has made and love to see her taking a more independent role in the toddler class. We love it!”

WHY N OT TR Y… DIDDI “We g DANC e t dancin a ll E t h e child g with ren on our da We’re t n heir fe c ing gam the on et and ly pre-s es, fun dance c h exercis o styles o ol danc es and ver the e class props. course to cove to Boll of our r 14 dif ywood progra f erent , hip h mme f op to r rom dis Cath H o c k co a ale, Did nd roll !” di Dan ce

MUSICBUGS www.musicbugs.co.uk Interactive music and singing class for children from birth.

Family Bugs is a mixed age class for children from 6 months – 4 years. Baby Bugs is for children from 4 weeks old. Classes use nursery rhymes, action songs, puppets and props to give children an introduction to music. Classes across Leeds with NEW sessions from September in Adel, Alwoodley, Otley and Moortown.

0844 578 1043 PYJAMA DRAMA www.pyjamadrama.com Drama and creative play classes for children from 18 months old. Magical sessions that children lost in a world with no costumes, props, technology or toys. All they have is their imagination. Sessions across Leeds.

0844 504 0964 RHYTHM TIME www.rhythmtime.net Quality music courses for children from birth created by a music teacher to encourage development. Sessions organised …

WHY I LIKE IES B A B R E FLUTT vely getting fun. It was lo at re g and as w a and babies “Baby Yog er mothers th o e th to be l g al in h g and hav together wit r baby cryin u yo as t w u o a th ab y s. Saman not to worr the exercise f o le d id m d calm in fed in the ry friendly an fantastic, ve ” all the noise!

in 3 different age groups. Baby sessions are from birth – 15 months. Toddler classes from 15 months – 3 years and Pre-School classes from 3 – 5 years. Sessions in Roundhay, Pudsey, Barwick in Elmet, Horsforth, Scholes, Alwoodley and Horsforth.

0113 232 8131

WHY I LIKE… TENNIS "I can’t TYKES quite be Tennis T ykes cla lieve tha sses, Mil t follow simple h lie – wh ing the itting ra o is 3 ½ llies ove – is able to r the net. been aro engage I wish Te und wh in nnis Tyk en her o es had lder bro the sam ther wa e age!" s

Mess WITHOUT the STR

ESS!

m. 0746 367 7744 • www.messylittleme.com e. info@messylittleme.com messylittleme

FAMILIES LEEDS | September/October 25

WHY I LIKE… KIDS 2 DANCE “The classes vary between movement and playing, and Tom especially loves it when the hoops come out! It’s a great way for him to interact with other children and the classes keep us both fit, which is a bonus!”

TENNIS TYKES

TUMBLE TOTS

www.tennistykes.co.uk

www.tumbletots.co.uk/northleeds

Fun educational tennis play and coaching for children from

A popular class that develops physical skills like agility, balance,

2 years old. Caroline Buncall uses modified tennis equipment

co-ordination and climbing. Children from 6 months old can

with sticker incentives. Pre-school sessions in Wetherby,

come along to class and take on the brightly coloured and

Harrogate and Ilkley.

challenging Tumble Tots apparatus. Sessions across Leeds.

07843 342 662

0113 887 4661

NEW CLASS FROM SEPTEMBER

TINY SIGNERS www.tinysigners.co.uk Fun friendly signing class headed up by Vicki Gilbert. Babies and toddlers are welcome to join Signing Sam as he learns how to communicate through songs and signs. Vicki runs drop in sessions as well as bookable classes. Drop in at Horsforth, Rothwell, Pudsey, Yeadon and from September, Moor Allerton library. A 10 week session of bookable classes is available at both Horsforth and Yeadon. Very popular and always recommended Families Leeds readers.

07742 296 160

WHY NOT TRY… PYJAMA DRAMA “Drama, pretending and role-play are some of the most instinctive things children do. At this young age, drama is how children make sense of the world around them; they recreate events happening to them, use their imaginations to explore different worlds and role-play characters to see how they fit into it all.

Pyjama Drama allows children to do it all!”

Sara Hall, Pyjama Drama

Our dance and movement classes are a great introduction to physical exercise for kids from walking to 4 years Singing Dancing Skipping Hopping Music Instruments Colours Numbers Balance Confidence Coordination Interaction Fun Certificates To find out where your local classes are contact...

Tadcaster/York Area: T: 07541 811354 E: kat.turnbull@kids2dance.co.uk Leeds North: T: 07851 100075 E: claire.corry@kids2dance.co.uk www.kids2dance.co.uk

TOP 3 TERRIFY

1

NEW FOR 2014

TRAIN TO BE A WITCH OR WIZARD THE HALLOWEEN ADVENTURE at STOCKELD PARK Monday 27th – Wednesday 29th October www.stockeldpark.co.uk Brush the dust off your broomstick and catch your black cat. It’s time to head to the magical Halloween Adventure at Stockeld Park for some truly spellbounding training. You’ll learn how to cast a spell and by the end of the 60 minute workshop, you’ll be a certified witch or wizard. Then you can head into the Enchanted Forest to put your new skills into practice! But please use your abracadabras with care!

2

COOK UP A FRIGHTFUL FEAST with Stir Krazy Kids

Friday 31st October www.stirkrazykids.co.uk Stir Krazy Kids goes spooky this Halloween with a wonderful workshop aimed at cooking up a scary storm. These themed cookery Classes are hugely popular and allow children to learn about food preparation using lots of fun. Expect a few frightening food experiences, but no matter how scary the menu the kids will love it. Book early as spaces are limited.

07725 083 959

FAMILIES LEEDS | September/October 27

YING DAYS OUT

3 WALK THE PUMPKIN TRAIL at Bolton Abbey

STOCKELD

PARK

Where magic is made & adventures

begin

Saturday 25th October – Sunday 2nd November www.boltonabbey.com Beware low flying witches and scary spiders in Strid Wood this Halloween.

You’re invited to take a walk through the magical woodland and hunt for pumpkins along the way. Each pumpkin will help you unlock the spell cast by the evil witch.

Collect your activity sheet at Sandholme Kiosk or at the Cavendish Shop and start your Halloween hunt.

The Halloween Adventure Opens 22 Oct for spooky fun!

Outdoor fun & indoor play Illuminated Enchanted Forest, Ice Skating, Fun Filled Maze, Nordic Ski & Spooky Events!

Stockeld Park is perfectly located between Harrogate & Leeds.

Sat Nav: LS22 4AN T: 01937 586333 Halloween special events inc Fright Nights for the brave!

Bewitching Tales, Wizard & Witch Training, Wizards Den & more!

www.stockeldpark.co.uk

, What’s on this

AUTUMN… Sunday 14th September Apple Day LOTHERTON HALL www.leeds.gov.uk/museumsandgalleries An apple a day, keeps the Dr away. What about trying 100 different apples? You could here at this fruity festival.

From 10am.

Classic Car Festival THWAITE MILLS www.leeds.gov.uk/museumsandgalleries Celebrate Heritage Open weekend at this classic car show. Entry is free and there are boat rides, stalls and lots of family activities.

Saturday 20th & Sunday 21st September Superhero Weekend EUREKA www.eureka.org.uk Come along and share your favourite superpowers as the National Children’s Museum puts the goodies against the baddies this weekend.

Friday 3rd October Light Night Leeds LEEDS ART GALLERY & LEEDS CITY MUSEUM www.leeds.gov.uk/museumsandgalleries A series of special performances and events from 5pm lighting up the city. See Leeds in a different light!

Wednesday 8th – Saturday 11th October Oh What a Lovely War LEEDS CITY MUSEUM www.leeds.gov.uk/museumsandgalleries To coincide with the 100th anniversary of World War 1, come along and see this fabulous musical, viewed from the perspective of the common soldier. Booking essential.

Friday 24th October Disco on Ice THE HALLOWEEN ADVENTURE www.stockeldpark.co.uk Come along from 6.30pm to join in the disco on ice.

The coolest place to spend your Friday evening!

Saturday 25th – Friday 31st October Visit A Wizard THE HALLOWEEN ADVENTURE www.stockeldpark.co.uk Head to the Wizard’s Den and meet Wizard Malin where, if you’re good, you’ll receive a magical gift. If you’re not, he’ll turn you into a frog. You choose. From 1pm.

STOCKELD PARK

Saturday 25th October – Sunday 2nd November Pumpkin Trail BOLTON ABBEY www.boltonabbey.com If you head down to Strid Wood this half term, you’ll be in for a spooky surprise! Wander along the Pumpkin Trail and hunt for clues to unravel the witch’s spell. The trail is free with admission to the Abbey.

Spooky Scarecrow Trail LOTHERTON HALL www.leeds.gov.uk/museumsandgalleries Always popular and this year organisers say it’s going to be better than ever. Follow the clues around Lotherton Hall and see the spooky scarecrows. Don’t forget to visit the witch’s cottage.

Hubble, Bubble, Toil and Trouble EUREKA www.eureka.org.uk Join witches, wizards, ghosts and ghouls for a week of Halloween fun.

FAMILIES LEEDS | September/October 29

Sunday 26th October Halloween Family Fun LEEDS INDUSTRIAL MUSEUM www.leeds.gov.uk/museumsandgalleries Spooky fun and activities from 1-4pm.

Monday 27th & Tuesday 28th October Storytelling in the Enchanted Forest THE HALLOWEEN ADVENTURE www.stockeldpark.co.uk Head deep into the forest to meet Stockeld’s storytellers and listen to their tales of mystery and magic.

Monday 27th – Wednesday 28th October Witch and Wizard Training THE HALLOWEEN ADVENTURE www.stockeldpark.co.uk Come along and join the School of Wizardry at Stockeld Park. Make spells, learn how to be a certified wizard or witch. These are 60 minute workshops including a craft activity and every magical graduate received a certificate and a broomstick. Spaces are limited so pre-booking is recommended on 01937 586 333. Sessions from 11am.

Tuesday 28th October Make a mini Scarecrow LOTHERON HALL www.leeds.gov.uk/museumsandgalleries To coincide with the spooky Scarecrow trail at Lotherton, come along and make your own! From 11am.

Halloween Crafts ABBEY HOUSE MUSEUM www.leeds.gov.uk/museumsandgalleries Be scarily creative at this fun craft session in the Victorian Streets. Sessions at 10am and 2pm.

Tuesday 28th October – Sunday 1st November Fairy Creatures Scarecrow Hunt KIRKSTALL ABBEY www.leeds.gov.uk/museumsandgalleries Hunt around the beautiful Abbey for scarecrows inspired by fairy creatures.

Wednesday 29th October Spooky Science ABBEY HOUSE MUSEUM www.leeds.gov.uk/museumsandgalleries Halloween themed science fun suitable for all ages.

No scientific experience necessary. Just lots of curiosity!

Lotherton Ghosts LOTHERTON HALL www.leeds.gov.uk/museumsandgalleries Learn about Lotherton’s dogs in the pet cemetery with lots of dog related craft activity. From 11am.

30

FAMILIES LEEDS | September/October

STOCKELD PARK

Wednesday 29th – Friday 31st October

Friday 31st October

Fright Night THE HALLOWEEN ADVENTURE www.stockeldpark.co.uk Forget fairies and princesses. For these 3 nights, the Enchanted Forest will be transformed into a world of terror where only the bravest are welcome. There are three areas of the park dedicated to Fright Night – the Forest, the Maze and the Marquee – with each venue more scary than the one before. Book online as this is a very popular event.

Crafty Crafts THE HALLOWEEN ADVENTURE www.stockeldpark.co.uk Come along and make some Halloween crafts.

Make a magic wand to take home.

Wednesday 29th October – Saturday 1st November The Big Draw: Woolly Explorers THE TETLEY www.thetetley.org Join in with the world’s biggest drawing festival. Treasure hunters and map makers can come along and discover The Tetley.

Thursday 30th October Things that Creep and Crawl LEEDS CITY MUSEUM www.leeds.gov.uk/museumsandgalleries Explore the natural science collection for all the things that creep and crawl. Learn how the Halloween creatures got their reputation. From 10am.

Scary Skeletons THWAITE MILLS www.leeds.gov.uk/museumsandgalleries Make your own scary skeleton decoration with flashing eyes. From 11am.

Tiny Tetley THE TETLEY www.thetetley.org Creative fun for under 5s. Messy play session. Free.

Spooky Spectacular TEMPLE NEWSAM www.leeds.gov.uk/museumsandgalleries Bring your little ghosts and ghouls to trick or treat through the darkened house and farm. Booking essential. From 5pm.

Spooky Family Stories LEEDS INDUSTRIAL MUSEUM www.leeds.gov.uk/museumsandgalleries Follow the story teller around the museum and uncover the mysteries of the haunted clock, the bewitched glove and the yellow ribbon. Booking essential. From 3.30pm.

Halloween Day LOTHERTON HALL www.leeds.gov.uk/museumsandgalleries Prepare to scare. Come in fancy dress and have a haunted tour of the hall. Lots of family activities. From 11am.

FAMILIES LEEDS | September/October 31

FAMI LY ARTS FESTI VAL S AT 25 O C T – S U N 2 N OV

This season we are hosting a range of fun events coinciding with Leeds schools’ October Half Term. There’s lots of cultural, creative and social activities happening, starting with the world’s biggest drawing festival!

We will be celebrating the March of the Robots project which will overtake the city across the week culminating with an evening of family fun.

If you would like to get involved, more information on the events and activities will be available on the website at www.thetetley.org

OPEN DAILY / FREE ENTRY / www.thetetley.org The Tetley, Hunslet Road, Leeds LS10 1JQ, UK Just a 3 minute walk from Briggate and 7 minutes from Leeds Train Station

SOMETHING FOR

EVERYBODY BANDAGES & BONES

FIREWORKS Saturday 1st November BOLTON ABBEY www.boltonabbey.com Head to the spectacular surrounding of Bolton Abbey for a bonfire and firework display. Live entertainment for all the family.

Sunday 2nd November STOCKELD PARK www.stockeldpark.co.uk The now famous Stockeld firework display is back for 2014 and is bigger than ever. A wonderful combination of music and fireworks this is a great event that’s great for young families as there’s a 5.30pm start.

September Join us to practice your bandaging skills as we investigate First Aid through the ages.

ART AS THERAPY October

Explore your creative side and design your own medical and archaeological drawings inspired by examples from the past.

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

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A Ashville shville C College, ollege, Gr Green een Lane Lane,, Har Harrogate, rogate, Nor North th Y Yorkshire HG2 9JP el: admissions@ashville.co.uk ville.co.uk www.ashville.co.uk TTel: e 01423 566358 | admissions@ash uk | w A AshvilleCollegeHarrogate shvilleCollegeHarrogate @A @AshvilleCollege shvilleC eC