Families Pennines Issue 9 July-August 2012

FREE Issue 9

July/August 2012 www.familiespennines.co.uk

Pennines

Here comes summer lots of things to do

Really big school getting ready for senior school

The Copper Tree helping your child grieve

The really useful magazine for parents in the boroughs of Calderdale, Kirklees, Oldham, Tameside and Littleborough

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Welcome to Families Pennines Thank you to everyone who took the trouble to complete the reader survey. Comments like “a great mix of information and local adverts” “good magazine” and “very useful!” are really encouraging.

I know many parents found the ‘10 things to know before you start school’ feature really helpful – so in this issue we’re trying to help with the transition from primary to senior school.

The ‘summer’ weather is already looking challenging – but we’ve lots of ideas for things to do whether you’re wearing wellies or flip flops.

Have a great summer, Louise

CONTENTS Pages 4 & 5

News – what’s happening near you

Pages 6 & 7

The Copper Tree

– helping children cope with death Pages 8 - 9

Now for really big school

– helping parents and children make the transition Contact us editor@familiespennines.co.uk Tel: 01457 870112 www.familiespennines.co.uk Next issue: September/October Families Pennines is free to our readers thanks to our advertisers.

Design by Russell Finneran 01457 873300 www.stonehousecreativeservices.co.uk Printed by Warners Midlands PLC Tel: 01778 391035 www.warners.co.uk Front cover: Anthony Robling www.roblingphotography.com Copyright Families Pennines July/August 2012 Families Pennines is one of a group of magazines established in 1990. It is a Families Franchise independently owned and operated under licence. We take every care preparing this magazine, but the publishers and distributors cannot be held responsible for the claims of advertisers nor for the accuracy of the contents nor for any consequences. Any original materials submitted for publication are sent at owner’s own risk and, while every care is taken, neither Families not its agents accept liability for loss or damage.

Page 10

Swim safe this summer – tips for babies and toddlers Page 11

Halifax festival

– 10 day of amazing events Pages 12 & 13

Take the family challenge – things to do together Page 14 & 15 KirkleesLightRailwayNoType.pdf

What’s On – July & August

12/6/12

14:27:19

At The

Kirklees Light Railway Park Mill Way, Clayton West, Huddersfield HD8 9XJ

Saturday 14 & Sunday 15 July and Friday 17 to Monday 20 August 2012

call 01484 865727 to book

Visit our website for further details

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News

What'shappening happeningnear nearyou you What's

Lydgate pupils conquer Hadrian’s Wall Ten pupils from Lydgate School, New Mill near Huddersfield completed the gruelling 84 mile Hadrian’s Wall National Trail this spring and raised £1,800 along the way.

Creation Station nomination Littleborough mum & businesswoman, Neela Jackson, has been shortlisted for a top national award – and she’s only been in business for less than a year!

“Parents tell me our class is the highlight of their child’s week – to hear that and be nominated for an award is so rewarding and exciting,” she says.

Delighted Neela – who runs Creation Station in the Pennines, providing art & craft activity classes and birthday parties for children aged 0-11 – has been nominated

by Pennine parents for a Netmums favourite pre-school class award.

The Creation Station Little Explorer classes run on Mondays at the Parish Centre in Uppermill and Wednesdays at Jitterbugs Play Centre in Littleborough. To find out more details of other classes in the Pennines, contact Neela on 0844 854 9092 or email neela@thecreationstation.co.uk

Pride of Tameside

The owner of two successful Tameside nurseries has been named as Businessperson of the Year in the Pride of Tameside Awards.

Carole Melia turned redundancy into an opportunity, opening The Little Red Day Nursery in Ashton-under-Lyne and The Fire Station Day Nursery in Mossley.

Judges praised Carole for her proven track record of sustaining child care establishments and her ability to turnaround failing businesses and make them a success.

Carole, who plans to expand the business with a third nursery in Radcliffe, Bury, paid tribute to her team, “It’s fantastic to win this award. We’ve done so much in Tameside and it’s great to be recognised”.

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Teacher Judy Rowland explained, “They are an amazing bunch of young people. Our school caters for children aged 4-16 with complex learning difficulties and none of the pupils had been away from home for such a long time before.”

The group averaged 9 miles per day in some challenging weather – including a hail storm.

“There was real pride in seeing them develop independence and organisational skills along the way – they made me feel that teaching is just the best profession to be in!”

The pupils were sponsored by friends and relatives and the money raised will go towards supporting outdoor activities at Lydgate School.

Do you have a story to share with our readers?

Email the details to editor@familiespennines.co.uk or ring 01457 870112

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Serious scooters

Scooter enthusiasts and novices have a new venue in the Pennines for all their push, stunt & custom scooters and accessories. ProXtreme Sports is a familyrun business, just off Junction 26 of the M62.

The Todd family were inspired to open the shop by the enthusiasm of 10 year old Reon Todd for the sport. “On holiday in Devon last year, Reon was desperate to buy a scooter from a specialist shop there,” explains Dad, Richard. “It was really popular with the local children and we knew that children in the Pennines would be just as enthusiastic.”

Parents can find buying a scooter a little daunting – long gone are the days where a scooter came in a box and was easily assembled. Now there are all sorts of accessories and customising options. That’s where ProXtreme Sports can be a real help.

They offer a free fitting service for parts purchased from them. They also have a bar cutting and scooter repair service.

They’re open every day and plan to expand into other extreme sports such as BMX, skateboards & inline skates. For more information ring 07790 260 562 or visit them at their shop, 248 Bradford Road, Liversedge WF15 6EB. Visit www.familiespennines.co.uk/competitions to try and win a £30 gift voucher.

Raising a glass to help MS Parents and teachers from Heathfield School raised over £3,000 for the Multiple Sclerosis Society through an auction and raffle at their annual PTA Ball.

The MS Society funds research, gives grants, campaigns and provides information, support, specialists and a listening ear for those whose lives are

affected by the condition.

The Ball took place at Berties in Elland, with music provided by Soul Rights, sponsored

by Colin Exley of Stoneywood Motors.

Ladies received a table gift of either a hot stone back massage or facial donated by Stoodley Beauty. Auction and raffle prizes were donated by parents.

New website for KLR Kirklees Light Railway has a new website – making it easier to plan a day out this summer and see exactly when the trains are running. There are

details too about the Olly the Owl club for children and information about each of Yorkshire’s six great little steam trains.

Visit www.kirkleeslightrailway.com

3 cheers for Hipperholme The Hip Hotshots gave themselves three cheers as they secured 1st, 2nd & 3rd places in the UK Cheerleading Association Spring Championships in Manchester.

The Year 9 girls from Hipperholme Grammar School secured 1st in Street Cheer & 2nd in Pom Dance, whilst the Year 7 girls came 3rd in their Pom Dance category.

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Looking forward to the National Schools’ Cheerleading Championships this summer, coach Dawn Murray, said, “I feel incredibly proud of the entire team.”

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‘The Copper Tree’ Three years ago Sarah Butters had to tell her then 5 year old daughter about the death of a young relative. She searched for a book to help her.

Three years on, she’s found that book and has been along to chat to its Yorkshire author, Hilary Robinson.

The Copper Tree is £6.99 and available to order from www.amazon.co.uk or through the official website www.thecoppertree.org

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Death. It’s a topic no one wants to think about but almost all families will have to deal with at some point. For most, it’s the passing of an elderly relative, but for some it’s the loss of someone much younger. It’s not a topic traditionally tackled in children’s fiction, until now.

The Copper Tree is the story of a class of children who learn how to cope with the death of their teacher, Miss Evans. We witness the youngsters finding out she’s unwell, her final visit to the school and how they deal with the news of her death.

“The aim of the book is to celebrate the life lost and find a way to continue the memory,” explains Hilary. “Experts call this Continuing Bonds Theory. The children in Miss Evans’ class are encouraged to remember the character and qualities she imparted and to pass them on. It means the person who has died, lives on in a sense.”

The children in the class all have their own personalities and their own memories of Miss Evans. One child remembers how her teacher taught her to share, another remembers she’d taught him about how plants grow. Each child chooses words that are then inscribed on copper leaves which will hang on a Copper Tree made by the school caretaker.

“The idea for the tree came from the Tree of Life at St Gemma’s Hospice in Leeds,” says Hilary. “It’s a beautiful copper tree and bereaved relatives can hang a leaf inscribed with the name of the loved one they lost. I’ve always thought that it’s a really wonderful idea.”

The book was inspired by Hilary’s own loss.

Seven years ago her sister-in-law Caroline died from breast cancer. Caroline was head teacher at Cross Hall Infant School in Morley.

As Hilary reads through The Copper Tree explaining various pictures and references, it’s clear this book is a very personal tribute to a very brave lady. There’s a part where the children receive a letter from Miss Evans “in shaky writing” which is a reference to one of Hilary’s own memories of Caroline.

“I remember my daughters getting an Easter card written by Caroline. She’d been determined to make the card herself but her fine motor skills had started to go and so the writing was shaky.”

However sad the theme, this isn’t a sad book. It is a story about loss, but it’s also a story about the gifts we give each day to each other. It’s written from the point of view of Olivia, one of the children, so there are places where the narrator’s mind wanders - to observe a three legged dog winning a race at Sports Day, or a classmate’s obsession with bats.

The beautiful illustrations and simple story disguise a book that’s been well researched and given the support of experts in the field of child bereavement. Hilary was keen to make sure she handled the delicate subject matter with sensitivity and responsibility and as a result, she’s won the support of leading charities and hospices around the country.

“There were three main considerations,” explains the author. “Firstly the importance of using real people, not animals. Secondly, you’ve got to avoid euphemisms. If you tell a 5 year old they’ve ‘lost’ someone, they’ll think you’ll eventually find them. Finally there should be no whimsical notions of heaven. What do we really know?

It’s up to parents and teachers to explain as they feel fit.”

Hilary would like The Copper Tree to be used as a resource in schools and shared in classrooms across the country as a way of encouraging children to communicate. The message the book gives is that a life lived is to be celebrated and those touched by that life should pass on what they’ve learnt. To Hilary and her family, the publication of The Copper Tree is a celebration of the short but full life her sister-in-law Caroline lived. Her

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Useful Websites Child Bereavement Charity www.childbereavement.org.uk Child Bereavement Network www.childhoodbereavementnetwork.org.uk Winston’s Wish www.winstonswish.org.uk

What do I say to my child? n Tell them the truth. Excluding them can make them feel left out and resentful. By talking to them YOU control the information and keep communication channels open. n Use clear, real language. n Let your child know it’s OK to ask questions.

They will have worries and concerns. Speaking about them can help keep them in perspective.

Younger children will ask the same question over again. Be patient. n Don’t hide your emotions from your child.

By showing you are upset, you are giving them permission to show they are upset. n Keep your boundaries in place. Children become confused when the boundaries they’ve lived with disappear. If they’re badly behaved, tell them. If they’ve got a routine, stick to it. You’re giving them a stability at a time when life feels very unstable. n Look out for changes in behaviour – anger, anxiety, worry, fear of being abandoned. Their fears may be irrational but listen and respond in a straightforward and truthful manner. n Consult the professionals. If you feel your child isn’t communicating or coping then ask for support.

spirit, courage and memory will now live on in the pages of this amazing book and in the hearts of those who read it.

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School just got bigger!

A lot is written and discussed about getting your preschooler ready for ‘big’ school – but what about when it’s time to move from primary to secondary school? It’s a big change for the children AND their parents.

Margaret Ansell has supported lots of children and parents through this change. Here she shares what she has learnt with Families Pennines.

Before the transition:

When to help and when to let go

After the transition:

The transition from primary to secondary school can be an anxious time for parents.

During the primary school years, it’s fairly easy to support your child at school. You will probably know their teacher, other members of staff and parents, as well as being familiar with school policies and routines. The thought of losing the control this familiarity offers is as daunting for parents as it is for children and you may well wonder how best to continue to support your child.

You may also worry specifically about your child’s ability to cope with the new environment and crucially, whether he or she will make friends.

Your anxieties may be eased by adopting strategies that help with the transition. Here are some tips and tools which should help you prepare for and manage the early months:

Margaret Ansell owns and runs The Study Zone in Twickenham www.thestudyzone.co.uk

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Shield your child from your anxiety They can make this transition. Critically, they need to know that you believe in them and their ability to deal with difficulties and challenges.

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Relax the organisation Towards the end of Year 6, step back from the organisation of your child’s school life e.g. packing school bags. You may secretly want to savour these last few months of dependency but your child needs a taste of independence. If they are slow to take up the reins, don’t take over and don’t despair, they will get there eventually.

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If your child will walk to school or travel independently on public transport, practise the new journey Start by travelling together but without interaction.

Then move simply to following behind your child. Finally, let them do it alone and meet them there. Travel at busy times. Allow your child to make mistakes and find solutions. This equips them with the skills to handle the unexpected like bus detours and road closures.

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Be there. Make sure a parent or trusted carer is available before and after school to provide food, notice if your child comes in late, listen to their successes and concerns and be aware of subtle changes in mood; someone to empathise and with whom to discuss problems. Watch and listen, help out if asked but don’t take over. Become an Enabler rather than a Fixer.

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Support the development of friendships. It is of great importance to older children that they mix socially and establish secure friendships and they need to do this whilst still young enough to turn to you for support when they make mistakes. Gradually they will learn to make informed choices about friends.

It’s appropriate for this age group to have access to a basic mobile phone and computer but the dangers of social networking should be discussed and boundaries agreed upon.

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Support organisation and routines. Create “To Do Lists” or “Timetables” to put on the fridge, agree places to keep bags, kit, and books. Label uniform and valuables. Establish routines so they can get to school punctually. Don’t expect too much too soon, many won’t crack this for years!

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Understand what homework they have and know when it has been completed and handed in. Agree a routine that will help your child to complete and hand in all homework on time, without devoting too much time to one piece and little or nothing to others. However, remember it is their homework not yours; help, encourage, motivate but accept their best.

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Schedule time to relax. Your child will be exhausted by the effort of holding it all together. Tears are likely over the most trivial things and they may regress and demand more care. Trust that they can cope and make sure there is time for sleep, friends, homework, more sleep, watching TV, playing computer games and yet more sleep! Avoid weekend breaks and reduce extra-curricular commitments to the minimum. Now is not the time for your child to begin new activities or classes.

And lastly, schedule time to relax yourself! All will eventually be well.

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Swim safe this summer Baby Tips n Take time to introduce your little one to water, splash around in the bath first to gain confidence. Using toys and songs will encourage them. n Invest in a good swim nappy before taking your baby swimming. n On holiday ensure you have a good sun protection suit that covers their skin. n Ideally a pool should be 32C for baby swimming. If it’s cooler, invest in a baby wetsuit that will keep baby snug.

Whether you’re holidaying at home or abroad, water has a great appeal for children. There’s lots of fun to be had – but it’s important to make sure it’s done safely.

Holmfirth based experts, offer some helpful tips for parents this summer.

For more information go to www.swimbabes.co.uk

Children’s Shoes

Now stocking waterproof coats from Sugar Pink special offer £24.99

n Limit time in the water to a maximum 30 minutes or when you can see baby is getting cold or tired. n Try not to feed baby at least one hour before swimming and be prepared for one hungry & tired baby after swimming.

Toddler Tips n Always ask your toddler to enter the pool safely, either down the steps with adult supervision or as a safe “swivel” entry. (2 hands at the side & turn their bottom towards you in the water & slowly lower themselves in) n Only encourage jumping in if an adult is present & the child is standing & walking confidently. n Ask the child to take a big step into the pool so that they are clearing the side & leaning forward so that they don’t throw their head back and bump it. n As a rule of thumb, jumping in should be in water the depth of 1 ½ times the height of your child. n Ensure your little one keeps their head out of the water, even in swim aids they can still dip their head. n Some little ones also like to “drink” the water. Do not let them.

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n Never allow your little one to run around near poolside, watch out for trip hazards & slippery floors.

Did you know? n Babies have a natural affinity with water – up to six months they have a primitive stroke action & a gag reflex that enables them to hold their breath under water n Babies do NOT have to wait till they’ve had their jabs before learning to swim n Drowning is the second leading cause of unintentional death in children under the age of five

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Halifax Festival box office

01422 349422 www.halifaxfestival.co.uk

HALIFAX FESTIVAL Ten days of amazing cultural events across Halifax

Saturday 7 July

HALIFAX FESTIVAL

Friday 6 July Let’s Celebrate! A musical celebration for Calderdale. Calderdale Music Service and guests celebrate the borough’s musical diversity. Halifax Minster, 7.30pm. Tickets: £7, Concession £5, Under 21s £3.

Mugenkyo Taiko Drummers Thundering rhythms on huge taiko drums.

Bring family, friends, something to sit on and enjoy the majestic Piece Hall at its best! 7.30pm Tickets: £15, Concession £12, Family £45 Mad 4 Brass Bands Day. Join the inaugural Halifax Youth Brass Band. email info@modefor.co.uk for registration details.

Inspire Centre, Calderdale College, 9am – 12pm. Tickets: £5 per delegate (bring packed lunch).

Handmade Parade in Halifax. Make your own parade art & join artists with giant puppets & a funky street band in parades at 12 & 3:30pm.

Woolshops Shopping Centre 10am – 4pm. FREE babyballet Live with Twinkle the Bear and Friends! Square Chapel Centre for the Arts, 1.30pm. Tickets: £5 Saturday 7 & Sunday 8 July Eureka! 20th Birthday Bash – a party weekend for all the family. 10am – 5pm. FREE with standard museum admission Saturday 7 & 14 July Making Music Workshops. Learn about rhythm & performance with Leeds College of Music & Halifax Organ Academy at Halifax Minster. Ages 10-17. 10am – 12noon & 1pm-3pm FREE Sunday 8 July The Railway Children by E. Nesbit.

Heartbreak Productions present an evening of outdoor theatre at Eureka! 6.30pm Tickets: £12, Concession £10, Family £38 Tuesday 10 July Ignite The World of Sport through the eyes of Theatre. Dance theatre, acrobatics, comedy & stunning visual effects combine for a hugely entertaining evening for all the family. Victoria Theatre, 7.30pm Tickets: £17, Under 16s £15 Much Ado About Nothing by William Shakespeare. Heartbreak Productions present Shakespeare’s classic comedy amid a flurry of 1940s Air Force uniforms. Manor Heath Park, 7.30pm. Tickets: £12, £10, Family £38 In My Shoes Rationale Dance Co. Expect high energy, lots of laughter& a ton of hiphop dance moves that will blow you away!

Featuring the Square Chapel Street Dance group. Square Chapel Centre for the Arts, 8pm.

Tickets: £5, Concessions £3, Under 21s £3 Tuesday 10 & Thursday 12 July Adventurous Activities with CI Adventures at The Boiler House. Street surfing, circus skills, rope course, ladder climb, bouldering & climbing, zip line, archery & caving. All safety equipment provided, dress for sporting activity.

For adults & children age 6+. 6.30pm – 8.30pm Tickets: £6 (prebooking essential)

Thursday 12 July The Ugly Duckling. Sealegs Puppet Theatre invite you to float downstream in this gentle, new musical adaptation of Hans Christian Andersen’s classic tale. Duration approx. 45 minutes. For ages 3+. Square Chapel Centre for the Arts, 10.30am & 1.30pm. Tickets: £5 Saturday 14 July The Vikings are Coming! Fresh from the JORVIK Viking Centre, a full day of living history, have-a-go activities & DIG for Viking treasure!

Piece Hall, July, 10.30am – 4pm. Tickets: FREE (Small charge for some activities) Big Jubilee Sing. Calderdale Choirs, Schools & you can celebrate the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee together. For more information ring 01422 284417. Crow Wood Park 11am. FREE Sunday 15 July RSPCA Furry Friends at Eureka! Enjoy a fun afternoon with the RSPCA’s Furry Friends!

Ring Lauren on 07432 896283 or email laurenmoore@rspca-halifaxandhuddersfield. org.uk for more information. 12pm – 3pm Tickets: FREE with regular museum entry.

UNMYTHABLE All the greatest Greek myths in just one hour - get ready for the journey of a lifetime. An adventure for everyone aged 8 to 88. Temple Theatre, Piece Hall, 2pm. Tickets: £9, concessions £7, family ticket £25 Summer Celebrations! A Festival Finale Halifax Concert Band brings the Halifax Festival to a close. A great programme of all-round entertainment and something for everyone!

Square Chapel Centre for the Arts. 7.30pm Tickets: £9, concessions £7, family ticket £25

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Skills for Life The Leading National Physical Play Programme ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ●

Structured 45 minute sessions Jumping, rolling, climbing, balancing Fun songs and rhymes Specially designed children’s equipment Separate classes for ages 7 months to 7 yrs Tuesday – Northowram, Halifax Wednesday and Saturday – Huddersfield Thursday – Holme Valley Friday – Denby Dale

To book, phone 01484 689467 or visit www.tumbletots.com/huddersfield

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Take the family challenge Summer 2012 is all about active fun – it is the Olympics, after all. Getting out and about in the UK is going to be a lot cheaper for all us cash-strapped families than going abroad. Joanna Moorhead investigates some of the best activities to enjoy as a family wherever your travels take you.

Swing through the forest

GoApe! Tree top adventure

A tree-top adventure makes for an adrenalincharged day out with the children – and while you’re up there, you get some brilliant views as well! Personally, I’ve never been so happy to be back on solid ground as when I got down from the terrifying heights of the forest course I tried out with my kids...but on the upside, at least I did make it down, and relying on them to help me through the most white-knuckle parts of the course went a long way in terms of family bonding!

Until recently Go Ape! was restricted to over10s, but there’s now a new course at two of the company’s 27 centres nationwide – Thetford near Brandon, and Moors Valley Country Park near Bournemouth. It’s designed for children as young as four, although they also need to be at least a metre tall, and it’s an hour-long course which, like the over-10s Go Ape! courses, takes children (and their parents) through a network of looping obstacles five metres above the forest floor, including the spider’s web, log balance and jungle crossing, before finishing on a tree-to-tree zipwire.

Prices: Go Ape! costs £30 for adults, £20 for 10-17 year olds. The new junior course costs £15 for any age.

For more information see www.goape.co.uk

Climb the rocks Rock-climbing is apparently one of the fastest-growing sports in Britain, and giving it a try makes for a great family day out. Like all the best family challenges it’s about supporting one another, learning new skills, encouraging people when they need it, and celebrating new-found abilities and courage!

Family climbing courses abound – try www.yumping.co.uk/climbing/west-yorkshire to find ones in the Pennines – and most are for complete beginners and take children from about eight (although some specialise in working with younger children).

Look for a course where you have a dedicated instructor: you’ll learn (amongst other things) how to belay (i.e. hold the ropes safely) and how to make the most of the rock’s features for your hands and feet.

If you’re looking for a family challenge in a rainy period, look up climbing walls in your area and see if you can hire an instructor for a family session there instead.

Bluebell railway by Derek Hayward

Ride the tracks For a family with people who can’t get around very easily, e.g. elderly grandparents, you can’t beat a trip on a steam railway.

Most of these railways, preserved from Victorian times, are in areas of breathtaking natural beauty – the glorious Sussex countryside whisks by if you take the Bluebell Railway, for example, or if you’re in North Yorkshire try the Embsay, which still runs from its original 1888 station near Skipton in Yorkshire through some of the most glorious Dales countryside.

Prices from around £5 per adult, £2 per child.

For more information on the lines mentioned here see www.bluebell-railway.co.uk and www.embsayboltonabbeyrailway.org.uk Or see www.steamrailwaylines.co.uk for the lines across the UK – and don’t forget Kirklees Light Railway www.kirkleeslightrailway.com

Take an underground walk There’s something strangely thrilling about taking a walk through a cave, into the very inside of the earth – the atmosphere is quite different from anywhere else you’ll ever go.

And, of course, every child needs to understand the difference between those stalactites and stalagmites. Some of the best caves in the country are at Cheddar Gorge in Somerset, the White Scar Cave at Ingleton in Yorkshire, where you can take an 80-minute tour through some of the country’s most awesome subterranean rock formations, and Wookey Hole near Wells in Somerset, home (apparently) to the Witch of Wookey. Not suitable, though, for a buggy or a wheelchair.

Tickets from around £15 for adults, £10 for children, depending on how extensive the caves are and how much else there is to do at the attraction.

For more information on the caves mentioned here see www.whitescarcave.co.uk; www.cheddargorge.co.uk; www.wookey.co.uk

Fly a kite Every family has a kite or three, usually given as birthday or Christmas presents and with fiendishly difficult-looking instructions. We sometimes thought about taking our children to fly them, but something always held us back – usually doubts about how to do it, and whether the area we were planning to kite-fly in was actually big enough.

Mark Parker kitevibe.com But a lesson from Kevin Baker of Southern Breeze, a kiteflying operation based at Baiter Park on Poole harbour, set us straight: Kevin showed us how to make sure we were in a suitable kite-flying area (you need to use your thumb to check the height of the surrounding obstacles, to make sure they’re far enough away), and you need to

www.urbanascent.co.uk

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e give the kite a forceful yank to get it into the sky. More adventurous families can progress to kite-buggying and kite-boarding, in which you use the power of an airborne kite to propel yourself along on a vehicle on the ground.

Kite-flying tuition costs around £50 for a Mark Parker kitevibe.com half-day’s family tuition. For more information on Kevin Baker see www.sbkites.co.uk. For information on kite flying lessons in your area see www.kitevibe.com

Go mountain biking Like a lot of city families we have a houseful of bikes, but we tend not to do anything more adventurous than go to friends’ houses or the local shops on them. Mountain biking is a whole different experience. We tried it on the South Downs, where the gentle (and not-sogentle) inclines make for great off-road cycling adventures. You don’t have to use an instructor but if you’re taking kids with you, and you want to get a real thrill out of your day (plus you won’t need to get the bikes there, because the instructor will provide them) then I recommend a course.

to mountain bike: the children (who need to be over about seven) were a lot better than the parents, but even the parents managed things they’d never have believed they could do!

put one thing in – and sign the log book of course. The treasure is hidden everywhere and anywhere – in cities, in the countryside, even underwater. For more information see www.geocaching.com

Expect to pay around £40 per person for mountain biking tuition, including bike hire. For information on the Surrey Hills tours see www.allbikedup.com; for details of courses near you see www.abc-of-mountainbiking.com

Go canoeing

Try potholing Potholing has a scary reputation, and it’s not for the fainthearted (or those with claustrophobia).

But if you’re a brave clan and up for an adventure, it can be an extraordinary experience to journey into the underworld dressed in what pureOutdoor guided caving resembles a miner’s gear, and to edge your way through spaces you didn’t believe you’d ever fit through.

Coming across underground chambers is magical – as is seeing the daylight come back into view when you finally make your way out!

Potholing with an instructor costs around £40 per person for a session. For information on where to find an instructor, see www.caving.uk.com

Find a geocache

all biked up

Our teacher, Richard, gave us lots of confidence to try out manoeuvres we’d never otherwise have tried (cycling over logs, for example – and yes, it’s a lot scarier than it looks when you’re in the saddle!). He also revealed the number one rule of mountain biking, which is never look down. You have to look straight ahead, focusing on the furthest point of the trail, because if you look down you’ll change your centre of gravity and fall off. We loved our day learning

Geocaching is one of those things that sounds totally perplexing to anyone who’s never tried it, but is a huge hit with almost everyone who has.

The idea is to find some ‘treasure’ – treasure that’s hidden in a box, and is findable using a hand-held satnav system (any will do). The treasure in question usually consists of a plastic box like a lunchbox with a whole host of miscellaneous bits and pieces in it – things like small toys, CDs, pens, anything. The rule is that when you find your treasure you’re allowed to take one thing out, and you must

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Canoeing centres up and down the country offer equipment hire and instruction for families who want to dip their toes in the water. Your instructor will help you learn how to paddle, how to turn and how to negotiate rapids – and he or she will also ensure that you’re canoeing in a suitable place, and in suitable weather, for the age of your children (which is crucial, because accidents can happen quickly in canoes). What’s especially lovely about canoeing is that, as well as the skills to learn, you can also have a day out that’s close to wildlife – look out for fish, water birds and dragonflies. If you’re lucky you might even spot an otter or a water vole.

Hiring a canoe and instructor costs around £150 for half a day. For more information see www.canoe- england.org.uk or try the courses at Hollingworth Lake near Littleborough www.link4life.org/holwac

Get into metal detection There’s something almost absurdly exciting about setting off with a metal detector and seeing what you’re going to turn up – even though it will, in all probability, be complete rubbish. Because there’s always that chance of finding treasure – or even, and this is almost as good, remnants of the way other people lived, in another age. To use a metal detector effectively, you need to use a sweeping motion – and it’s best to go somewhere with plenty of space, perhaps where other interesting finds have been made. Children are just thrilled with the idea of a machine that goes bleep the whole time, and which might lead to some discovery. Another big plus is that this is an adventure anyone can enjoy – great for families with small kids in buggies or anyone in a wheelchair (though you need to choose your terrain wisely).

For more information see www.ncmd.co.uk

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What's On July/August Monday 2, 9, 16 July

Bookstart Busy Babies Baby bounce and rhyme sessions for babies and toddlers. Sessions will take place on Monday mornings at 11:00 – 11:40am. All children must be accompanied by an adult at all times. £2 per child or free for Passport to Leisure holders. For more information please contact Ben on 01422 392620. Hebden Bridge Library, Cheetham Street, Hebden Bridge HX7 8EP

Sunday 1 July- Friday 31 August

Geocaching in the Peak District A series of 15 National Trust geocaches have been placed around the Peak District for you to find. Visit www.geocaching.com & search username NT Peak District for co-ordinates, hints & information. For more details, contact Lucy Chadburn, 01433 670368 PeakDistrict@ nationaltrust.org.uk

Saturday 7 & 21 July

Saturday Art Club, Smith Art Gallery, Halifax Road, Brighouse HD6 2AF

Saturday 14 July

Saturday Art Club, Bankfield Museum, Boothtown Road, Halifax HX3 6HG While the adults go shopping the children can take part in a creative and fun workshop.

The Club is for children aged 8 -12 years old. We explore a variety of arts and crafts activities using the gallery exhibitions and museum collections for inspiration. £5 per child 10.30-12.30pm. e-mail jeffrey.andrews@ calderdale.gov.uk or ring 01422 352334

Saturday 14 & Sunday 15 July

Day out with Thomas Join Thomas & his

Tuesday 3 July

Shibden Park Pram Walk For children aged 0-5 & their parents/carers. 10.30am-noon. £1 per child.

Passport to leisure holders free. Contact Shelley Bullas on 01422 392638. Shibden Park, Lister’s Road, Halifax. HX3 6XG

Tuesday 3, 10, 17, 24, 31 July

Icky sticky kids Messy play group for under 5’s. Children must be accompanied by adult.

10-11.30am. £3 per child. Ring Nichola for details – 07973 234928. Holme Street Arts Centre, Hebden Bridge, HX7 8EE. Hade Edge Parent, Baby & Toddler Group Friendly drop-in sessions. Play, reading time and songs. 10.30am-noon. Adult £1; child 50p, includes drink & snack around 11am. Church Hall, Hade Edge. Email playgroup@mail.com

Thursday 5, 12, 19 July

Bookstart Busy Babies Baby bounce and rhyme sessions for babies and toddlers. Sessions take place on Thursday mornings at 10.00 – 10.40am and 11.00 – 11.40am. All children must be accompanied by an adult at all times. £2 per child or free for Passport to Leisure holders. For more information please contact Ben on 01422 392620.Central Librar y, Northgate,Halifax HX1 1UN

Saturday 7 July

King Arthur & the Sword in the Stone family fun Children’s games based on the story of King Arthur & the sword in the stone. 4.30-5.15pm Child £2. Booking essential: 01765 643164.

Fountains Abbey, Ripon HG4 3DY Open Air Theatre – King Arthur & the Sword in the Stone Bring a picnic for an evening of outdoor theatre in the Abbey ruins.

6-8pm. Tickets: adult £12; child £10; family £40. BOOKING ESSENTIAL. Ring 0844 2491895.

Fountains Abbey, Ripon HG4 3DY

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Saturday 21 July – Sunday 2 September Eureka! Playfest 2012 A six week outdoor festival for families to enjoy playing together.

Move-it Mondays – active play with outdoor games; Tell-a-tale Tuesdays – storytelling, creatures & characters; World Wednesdays – culture, colour & creation through carnival, craft, music & dance; Theatre Thursdays – explore story, threatre & puppetry with shows & workshops; Funtime Fridays – fun & giggles; Saturday Sounds – make a noise & a clatter with music, drums, symphony & chatter; Science on a Sunday – feel the power of forces, bubbles & get a bit gross! Free with standard admission. Eureka! Ring 01422 330069 or visit www.eureka.org.uk Discover y Road, Halifax HX1 2NE

RSPB Old Moor summer holiday activities friends Percy, Toby & Mavis at Kirklees Light Railway, with Sir Topham Hatt, the Fat Controller, making sure everyone behaves. Trains depart from Clayton West every 30 minutes, 10.00-16.00. Family ticket £34; adult £10.50; child £8.50; under 2 FREE. Advanced booking recommended. 01484 865727 www.kirkleeslightrailway.com KLR, Clayton West, Huddersfield HD8 9XJ

Monday 23,30 July & 6,13,20,27August Tuesday 28 August Friday 27 July, 3,10,17, 24,31 August

Drawing, dipping & discovery days Enjoy painting, sticking, gluing, doing & explore the reserve to see what bugs, birds & pond life you can see. 10am-3pm.

Sunday 15 July

Wallace & Gromit’s Grand Day Out at Quarry Bank Mill Garden Take a picnic and enjoy seeing your favourite characters on a big screen.

Ring 01625 527468 for details. Quarr y Bank Mill, Styal, Wilmslow. SK9 4LA.

Saturday 21 July

Ruby Flew Too A mummy duck, a daddy duck and five eggs. Four hatched but the fifth did nothing. “It will,”said the mother duck,”in it’s own time.” For age 3-7. 55 minutes. Tickets: child £4.50; adult £6t. 11am & 2pm. Lawrence Batley Theatre, Queen’s Square, Huddersfield HD1 2SP Ring 01484 430528 www.theblt.org

Tuesday 24, 31 July & 7,14,21 August

Tuesday Tales Our professional storyteller tells tales of wildlife & wonder in the heart of our nature reserve. 11am & 1pm. Suitable children of all ages

Saturday 21 July-Friday 31 August

Wild & wonderful Trails and craft activities at Swanley Grange. 11am-4pm. Ring 01765 608888.

Fountains Abbey, Ripon HG4 3DY

Saturday 21 July-Sunday 2 September

Summer holiday fun at Hardcastle Crags Arts, crafts, trails, stories, bushcraft, nature activities & more throughout the holidays.

11am-4pm Ring 01422 844518 for details.

Hardcastle Crags, Midgehole Road, Hebden Bridge HX7 7AZ

Wednesday 25 July & 1,8,15,22,29 August

Wild Wednesday Join us in the classroom for nature themed craft activities, go pond dipping on the reserve with a wildlife expert, or simply enjoy being out in the fresh air in beautiful surroundings. 10am-3pm

tel: 01457 870112

For more events visit www.familiespennines.co.uk/whatson Thursday 26 July & 2, 9, 16, 23, 30 August

Thinkbomb! Have you ever wondered why birds have different types of feet? Why do bats go ‘splat’? How do butterflies eat? Come along & find the answers. Our team of nature enthusiasts will be on hand with interactive talks & activities for all the family. 11am & 1pm

Friday 27 July & 31 August

Fun dog show at Tatton Park farm 10 novelty classes, including saddest eyes, waggiest tail & scruffiest dog, plus fun agility course. Show champion trophy & rosettes to 6th place. £1 entry fee per class. Site entry fees also apply.

12-5pm. For details ring 01625 374400

Saturday 28 July

Family outdoor climbing day at Brimham Rocks Join Harrogate Climbing Centre to climb these famous rocks. Maximum 2 children, aged 7+, to 1 adult. 10am-4pm. All tickets £35.

BOOKING ESSENTIAL. Ring Harrogate Climbing Centre 01423 815024

Robin Hood & the Friar of Fountains Abbey Join the Knaresborough Mummers for a lively performance of the legend of Robin Hood & the Friar of Fountains Abbey. 20 minute performances throughout the day. 11.30am3pm. Ring 01765 608888. Fountains Abbey, Ripon HG4 3DY

Explorer backpacks, pond dipping kits and binoculars are available to hire every day. Café open every day. Children must be accompanied by an adult. Activities free. RSPB reserve entry fees: adult £4; child £2; family £8. 10am-3pm. For details ring 01226 751593, www.rspb.org.uk/oldmoor RSPB Old Moor Lane, Dearne Valley Nature Reser ve, Wombwell, Barnsley S73 0YF

Tuesday 24 July & 21 August

Above & below: caving & gill scrambling in Langstrothdale Explore the mysterious gills & secret caves of the Dales with a qualified guide. Be prepared to get wet! 10am-3.30pm.

Adult £30; child £15. BOOKING ESSENTIAL. Ring Emmeline Butler 01729 830416. Malham Tarn malhamtarn@nationaltrust.org.uk

Tuesday 24 July & 14 August, Wednesday 1 & 22 August

We’re going on a bear hunt

Wednesday 25 July, Tuesday 7 & 21 August The Gruffalo

Tuesday 31 July, Monday 6, Friday 17 & Thursday 23 August

Shark in the park Storytelling, crafts & walks based on the books by Michael Rosen, Julia Donaldson & Nick Sharratt at Shibden Hall, Halifax, HX3 6XG. 10.30am. Tickets £4 per child; £2 for passport to leisure. BOOKING ESSENTIAL. Ring Shelley Bullas on 01422 392638.

Wednesday 25-Friday 27 July

It’s a Monk’s life Dress in monks’ robes & learn about their daily life. Ages 7+. Meet at the visitor centre. 2-3.30pm. Ring 01765 608888.

Fountains Abbey, Ripon HG4 3DY

Thursday 26 July, Weds 1, Tues 7, Mon 13, Fri 24 & Weds 29 August

Den Building Find out how to use natural materials to build a shelter. 1-3.30pm Free event.

Ring 01422 844518. Hardcastle Crags, Midgehole Road, Hebden Bridge HX7 7AZ

Sunday 12 August

Bouncers Disco Dance & bounce to music at Bouncers Play Centre. £4, includes hot dog. 5.30-7.30pm.

Ring 01457 810300. Bouncers Play Centre, Huddersfield Road, Diggle OL3 5PJ

Thursday 2 August

Animal Kite making Create a wonderful kite using traditional techniques at Lyme Park.

Ring 01663 762023. Lyme Park, Disley, Stockport SK12 2NR

Thursday 2,9,16,23&30 August

Stream dipping at Marsden Moor Head for Eastergate to discover the weird & wonderful world of underwater creatures. Wellies recommended & bring a picnic! 11am-2pm £1 per child. Ring 01484 847016. Meet at Eastergate Bridge, end of Waters Road, Marsden.

Friday 3,10,17,24&31 August

Fun Fridays at Marsden Moor Different activities every week. 11am-2pm. £1 per child.

Ring 01484 847016. Meet at Marsden Moor Estate Office, The Old Goods Yard, Marsden.

Saturday 4-Monday 6 August

Wednesday 15 & 29 August

Friday 17-Monday 20 August

Day out with Thomas Join Thomas & his friends Percy, Toby & Mavis at Kirklees Light Railway, with Sir Topham Hatt, the Fat Controller, making sure everyone behaves.

Trains depart from Clayton West every 30 minutes, 10.00-16.00. Family ticket £34; adult £10.50; child £8.50; under 2 FREE. Advanced booking recommended.

01484 865727 www.kirkleeslightrailway.com KLR, Clayton West, Huddersfield HD8 9XJ

Monday 20-Friday 24 August

Make a splash! Find out why the River Bollin was the driving force behind Quarry Bank Mill.

Have fund experimenting with water, make a paper boat or try a water trail. 50p per trail.

Ring 01625 527468 for details. Quarr y Bank Mill, Styal, Wilmslow. SK9 4LA.

Get Medieval! Join the costumed re-enactors around their medieval encampment. Watch & take part in activities & demonstrations based on 15th century life. 11am-5pm. Ring 01765 608888. Fountains Abbey, Ripon HG4 3DY

Tuesday 7, 14, 21, 28 August

Icky sticky kids Messy play group for under 5’s. Children must be accompanied by adult.

10-11.30am. £3 per child. Ring Nichola for details – 07973 234928. Holme Street Arts Centre, Hebden Bridge, HX7 8EE. Hade Edge Parent, Baby & Toddler Group Friendly drop-in sessions. Play, reading time and songs. 10.30am-noon. Adult £1; child 50p, includes drink & snack around 11am. Church Hall, Hade Edge. Email playgroup@mail.com

Friday 10 & Saturday 11 August

The Owl who was afraid of the dark Music, puppetry & storytelling bring this gentle, reassuring tale of the barn owl who was afraid of the dark to life. For ages 4-7. Tickets: child £4.50; adult £6. 11am & 2pm. Lawrence Batley Theatre, Queen’s Square, Huddersfield HD1 2SP Ring 01484 430528 www.theblt.org

Saturday 25 August

The Little Big Club – Live in Concert – Now with Thomas the Tank Engine See Fireman Sam, hear Barney sing 'I Love You', join Bob the Builder, Wendy & Spud for a special performance of 'Is this the way to Sunflower Valley', see Angelina Ballerina & Alice dance & welcome all the way from the Island of Sodor...

Thomas! Tickets £12; under 16, £10. Ring 01422 351158 www.victoriatheatre.co.uk Victoria Theatre, Fountain Street, Halifax HX1 1BP

Families Pennines tries to get the details right – but sometimes things change so please check before you travel.

Want your event listing? email the details to editor@familiespennines.co.uk

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15

Summer sale now on www.benetton-huddersfield.com

BENETTON

0-12 & Ladies Store Ground Floor

PETERS Department Store 25-31 King Street Huddersfield

Check out our unique swim, holiday and outdoor shop online and in Holmfirth.

Baby and toddler swimming lessons at warm, local pools for ages 1 to 18 months.

Hand painted murals for children’s bedrooms and playrooms Personalised canvases Any design you want

Ring 01457 873103 or 07773 036593 www.swimbabes.co.uk t:01484 683570

www.kidswallcompany.co.uk

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