Families Leeds Nov-Dec 2012

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 Leeds’ Favourite Parenting Magazine // NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2012 // ISSUE 25

Meet Father Christmas

By The Fireside At Harewood House – www.harewood.org/winter

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

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Make it a magical Christmas to remember Christmas carols, crafts and cards, traditional Victorian festive fun, winter wonderlands and so much more for all the family to enjoy.

leeds.gov.uk/museumsandgalleries LeedsMuseumsandGalleries

LeedsMuseums

What’s inside…

7 Welcome Back… I love Christmas and ever since becoming a mum 9 years ago, the build up has usually begun around September. Must-have toys are ordered. Plans are made for our festive feast and we get dates in the diary for a visit to Santa. Not this year. I lost my brother a few weeks ago in a hit and run accident. He was 35 years old and leaves two beautiful young children aged 8 and 6. It’s been a dreadful couple of weeks as you’d imagine. I didn’t much feel like writing an up beat editorial so instead I’ve decided to tell you about Paul. I hope you’ll bear with me. Paul was a devoted Dad. He was the first on the bouncy castle and the last on the adventure playground. If there was a water fight, he was in the middle of it. Where there was laughter, there was Paul. He taught my girls how to fish, how to make the best snowballs and how to enjoy the great outdoors. We spent many a weekend tackling the hills of the Lake District with Paul, his children and his dog Rosie. He’d greet the moans of ‘my legs are tired Uncle Paul’ with a brisk ‘its just around the corner’ and we’d always make it to the top of the hill. If there was a path to be explored or a pond to be gazed into, Uncle Paul was at the front with his children, and mine were close by. It’s hard to imagine how we’ll celebrate anything this Christmas but when you have children, you’ve got to find a way. Their innocence, their joy, is infectious and at the moment I could do with catching some of that. Eliza has asked that Father Christmas bring back my smile and Isobel is trying to remind me of all the things I love about this time of year. For us it’s never been about the gifts and the glitz. I’ve always tried to create a Christmas that’s about family and this year that won’t change. The only difference this December is there’ll be no one to challenge to a snowball fight and there’ll be a little more red wine left in the bottle. With the help of my beautiful girls, I hope I can find the strength to bring some laughter back into our family home this Christmas. Paul loved to laugh. In many ways, a happy Christmas is the best tribute we can pay to him. So that’s what I’ll aim for. Whatever challenges your family are facing this December, I wish you strength for the festive period and for better times ahead in 2013.

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Mums Mean BUSINESS meets Lola Green

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Can your 11 year old SWIM?

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So you want to be an OLYMPIAN?

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Dear SANTA… The Families Leeds Gift Guide

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Christmas COMPETITIONS

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SANTA CLAUS is coming to town

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PICK of the PANTOS

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What’s On CHRISTMAS SPECIAL

CIRCULATION: 18,000 copies printed NEXT DEADLINE: Thursday 6th December. If you want to advertise contact adverts@familiesleeds.co.uk CONTACT US: PO BOX 403, BARDSEY, LEEDS LS17 1EP 01937 579 065 • 07764 943 789 editor@familiesleeds.co.uk DESIGNED BY: www.jgl-design.co.uk COVER PHOTO: Thanks to Harewood House for our beautiful cover image. Father Christmas by the Fireside is at Harewood House every weekend from Saturday 24th November until Sunday 16th December. Book your visit at www.harewood.org/winter PRINTED BY: Warners, Bourne, Lincolnshire PE10 9PH

As seen on TV

Sarah Butters

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.

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FAMILIES LEEDS | November/December

Families

NEWS…

TREASURES Savings Club Launches… If you know what you want to buy for your child this Christmas, but you can’t find the money at the moment, Treasures of Wetherby has the solution. The shop has set up a Savings Club which allows you to set aside any must have gift and make regular payments against it in the run up to Christmas. “You decide how much you pay and how often you pay,” explains Zhara Armstrong from Treasures. “I hope it will help parents to budget while giving them the piece of mind that they’ve secured the Christmas gift their child wants.” To find out more about this free savings club, visit Treasures on High Street, Wetherby or call 01937 589 187.

SANTAS on the RUN There’s no greater sight than a sea of Santas out for a morning run. This December there are TWO opportunities to pull on a beard, throw a sack over your shoulder and take part in a Santa Dash to raise funds for local hospices. The first will take place on Sunday 2nd December with a dash through the Enchanted Forest at Stockeld Park raising funds for Martin House. The second is on Sunday 16th December through Leeds City Centre supporting St Gemma’s Hospice. To register and raise funds contact the charities directly. www.martinhouse.org.uk • www.st-gemma.co.uk

Wear a hat for BRAIN TUMOUR RESEARCH… Schools across Yorkshire are being invited to help raise funds to fight brain tumours. Wear a Hat Day is planned for March 2013 and will be a fun way of raising awareness for an often overlooked form of cancer. “Brain tumour research receives less than 1% of national cancer research spending in the UK. Yet this deadly disease kills more children and adults under 40 than any other cancer,” explains Sue Farrington-Smith, Director of Brain Tumour Research. Encourage your school to have their own Wear a Hat Day. To register your school’s interest contact sarah@braintumour research.org

Maths and English Study Programmes

EVEN MORE GORGEOUS

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Harrogate children’s clothing boutique, Still Gorgeous has expanded this Winter, opening a second floor at its Coldbath Road store. The shop, which stocks pre-loved designer children’s clothes, has been struggling to squeeze stock onto rails on just one level, so owner Clare Whittaker has expanded onto a second floor. “You can now sweep through the rails with ease,” explains Clare. “The second floor is dedicated to clothing for over 5s. You’ll find some super bargains. At the moment coats, party dresses, jeans and skiwear are proving hugely popular.” Still Gorgeous is closed on a Monday. 01423 560 402.

Festive Fun at KIDS CLUBHOUSE Celebrate at Horsforth’s top soft play centre this December. They’re holding a Christmas Party on Friday 21st December from 4pm with music, craft, a festive buffet and a visit from Father Christmas. If you can’t make that, you’re invited to a New Year’s Eve Party on Monday 31st December from 1.30pm to celebrate the end of 2012. Tickets to both events are £8 for over 4s and £7 for under 4s. Book early to guarantee your place. www.kids-clubhouse.co.uk • 0113 393 3340

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Make MONEY for CHRISTMAS Do you want to make some money from the toys, clothes and equipment that your family has grown out of? Free up some cash for Christmas by booking a table at the Garforth Nearly New Sale. Organised by local Dad Daryl Wintle this is a great opportunity to have a winter clear out. The sale will take place on Saturday 24th November at Garforth Welfare Hall on Main Street from 2 – 4pm. Entry is 50p for adults. To book your table, contact Daryl on 07968 830 914.

POPALICIOUS’ CELEBRITY FANS Ilkley based cake pop company Popalicious has another celebrity fan. Danny from The Script recently gave the thumbs up to the tasty bite size treats when he was presented with some during a recent visit to the North. “I’m delighted,â€? says Helen Mallik from Popalicious. “It’s been a great year and I know it’s going to be a busy Christmas. Having celebrity fans is the icing on the cake pops!â€? www.popaliciouscakepops.co.uk • 07759 029138

Party Time at TUMBLE TOWN Christmas arrives at Tumble Town Adventure Play in Guiseley this December with two fantastic parties. Join in the fun on either Saturday 15th or Friday 21st December with a mouthwatering buffet, craft activities, access to the fabulous soft play and a visit from a very special guest! Tickets go on sale on 31st October at £6 for children under 18 months old, and £10 for older guests. Book early to avoid disappointment. www.tumbletownadventureplay.co.uk • 01943 870 189

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FAMILIES LEEDS | November/December

The ➚

Diary of a

IMPERFECT MUM…

THE WORLD

DAD… Families Leeds columnist Claire Bottomley is looking forward to Christmas. We’ve just had a birthday in our house, so the excitement of a festive wake-up call is fresh in our minds. For those of us busy romanticising Christmas morning, let me share our latest experience with you… “Am I four now?” 5.20am. The Birthday Boy, reporting for duty. He and we know that there is a large parcel downstairs, and it’s not long before it’s being joyously ripped open to reveal a knight’s castle. Well, the elements of a knight’s castle, waiting to be assembled. I get on with a few preparations, leaving father and son to enjoy this rite of passage together. Animated, excitable chit chat from the young charge accompanies more sporadic orders from the leader of the operation – pass that turret; just hold this in place for daddy. Three rounds of fairy cakes later, I start to become aware of dissention in the ranks. The youngster is getting impatient and Mr Bottomley is becoming more and more tetchy. And the castle, I notice, is very much incomplete. This is possibly the worst time for one grandmother to arrive – let alone two. Innocent inquiries about the castle and whether it’s ‘supposed to look like that’ are given short shrift, cups of tea are declined all round and they retreat. We sit and stare. The boy is now under strict instructions NOT TO TOUCH ANYTHING. His father charges on, doing battle with the German toy manufacturers’ instruction manual, a mad glint in his eye. But it is to no avail. He’s a broken man. I know this because he turns to me for advice. He passes me the instructions, explains everything he has done and asks: where oh where has he gone wrong? There must be a piece missing, we both conclude. For the first time, our little boy looks crestfallen as he contemplates the castle being packed away ready for us to ring the toy company on Monday. But at the last minute, victory is snatched from the jaws of defeat. Staring at the box, a thought occurs to Mr B. The castle has been made with the option of an extension – so there are two different joining points. Triumphantly he adjusts the stonework and the whole thing clicks into place. We cheer in unison. We may have driven the well wishers away, but now we are most definitely ready to celebrate.

Our Dad columnist Jim Cardwell ponders on the power of advertising. “Bang, and the dirt is gone!” Sound familiar? Yes, it’s the tagline for a certain purple-bottled cleaning product whose qualities were once promoted on our televisions by a rather self-assured chap calling himself Barry Scott. Nothing wrong with that per se. But when Boy Wonder can go on to recite not just the slogan but the full script it makes me in awe of the power of advertising and a little nervous of the pestering that could accompany the festive season of present buying. We’ve started Christmas wish lists in our house. This allows us to do some well-in-time expectation setting in addition to helping relatives who ask us what presents would be welcomed. The former objective is particularly important since the wish list at times appears to be viewed as a ‘get list’. Cue conversations about Santa having to tighten his belt like the rest of us in these challenging times. Boy Wonder soon populated a list with all sorts of items, some of which we don’t recognise. The second piece of evidence I offer to support the power of advertising is that for each of these mystery toys he can not only provide a 20-second ‘elevator pitch’ overview of the toy’s key functionality, but as a throwaway comment he can also helpfully list a leading stockist. Give him a couple of years and I expect to receive a screen with the item requiring me solely to ‘confirm my purchase’. Little Miss Fidget is generally harder work on the present buying front. Since she tends to idolise her brother this means that the stock answer is that “I’ll have whatever he’s having”. Long may this status of being easily pleased continue. That’s not the only way in which I think the Short Suffering Wife and I are getting off relatively lightly. For our children only unleash full pester power when in pursuit of either audio visual time or food stuffs. I consider this lack of pestering for presents an endearing quality that is unlikely to last much longer as the kids are tutored by their peers and the television in the dark arts of influencing. Finally, the recent laugh out loud moment for us was when both Boy Wonder and Little Miss Fidget recently reached a bizarre but genuine state of excitement when passing through the cleaning aisle on a supermarket trip. The reason for the excitement? Spotting a shelf full of rival cleaning products (to the purple one). I doubt that ‘as seen on TV’ will be quite as entertaining for much longer, but it’s quite fun while it lasts.

FAMILIES LEEDS | November/December 7

IIILola Green is gettingII IIIready for ChristmasII IIIand seems to be moreII IIIexcited about it thanII IIIher two year oldII IIIdaughter Peggy.II

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{BUSINESS} She’s putting the final touches to her Bambino Green presence on the hugely popular Not on the High Street website in the hope that her ethically sourced gifts for young children will find a wider market. It’s a brave move by the Ilkley mum who wants to prick people’s consciences as they shop this Christmas. “The high street is filled with goods that seem to be getting cheaper and cheaper,� says Lola. “It just doesn’t sit well with me and I often wonder how the producers can make the products so cheaply. I think people, and especially parents, want to know where their money is going. With me, they can shop with a clear conscience!� Lola set up Bambino Green late last year after being made redundant while on maternity leave from working with a charity. She settled on launching an online shop, thinking it would make childcare more straightforward but as her daughter Peggy has grown, so have the demands on her time. Like so many businesses run by mums, Bambino Green is a full time job run on part time hours. “I thought I’d do most of the work while Peggy was asleep,� Lola laughs.

“The reality has been very different. I wanted a job I enjoyed and that I could work around my family so I could still be a full time mum. Bambino Green has given me that. By day I’m a full time mum. By night I run Bambino Green!� Much of Lola’s time is spent sourcing the beautiful but ethically produced products

II III“BAMBINO GREENI meIII IIIisn’t going to make IIIa billionaire, butIII y!�III IIIit’s making me happ she sells. At the moment she’s talking to a group of single mums in Kenya who are knitting a collection of animal jumpers that don’t stay in stock very long. The zebra and giraffe cardigans and hats are Bambino Green bestsellers. They’re a great example of the gifts Lola promotes. A product doesn’t make it onto the Bambino Green website unless she’s satisfied herself how and where it’s produced. In 2013 the search for products moves to Sweden. For the past few months Lola

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and her family have been dividing their time between Ilkley and Stockholm. It’s given Bambino Green a whole new country to explore and Lola some great ideas for the future direction of the company. “Fashion for children here is more unisex. It’s bright, bold colours – very different from the pastel shades we are used to in the UK. I’d like to bring some of these super brands back with me.� As Bambino Green prepares to celebrate not just a first birthday, but also its first real Christmas there’s much to reflect on. Lola says she’s learnt a huge amount over the past 12 months, and is looking forward to the challenges 2013 will bring. “I’m much more savvy than I was a year ago,� she reflects. “Some days I still feel like I’m on The Apprentice, like I’m failing miserably. But other days I can see it’s going well. Today is one of those days. Bambino Green isn’t going to make me a billionaire, but it’s making me happy!� Take a look at Lola’s super range of ethically sourced gifts for children from birth to 3 years old at www.bambinogreen.co.uk

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FAMILIES LEEDS | November/December

THE BOO DIARIES ||After publishing the first part of The Boo Diaries, we had a super response to Adel mum|| ||Bev Moore’s honest account of living with an autistic child. In her second article for|| ||Families Leeds Bev writes about coming to terms with her daughter Boo’s diagnosis.||

I

N the early days after my daughter Boo was diagnosed with ASD, my emotions were scattered in all directions. I knew intellectually that nothing real had changed, and that the diagnosis was just a group of words to describe a group of behaviours. Boo herself hadn’t changed into someone else, and I was still her mum and felt exactly the same way about her as I had before. We were still us. But everything else felt different somehow. With three little girls to look after I was always busy, and thankfully this kept me from dwelling too long on what might have been. So I just got on with the business of being a mum. But sometimes, as I was loading up the dishwasher or doing some other trivial everyday task, I’d remember the daydreams that I’d had about my future family and suddenly feel overwhelmingly sad that some of them might never come true. Then I’d look at Boo grinning away to herself and feel guilty for ever wishing that she could have been different. Seeing Boo in a hand-me-down dress brought back memories of her older sister at the same age: engaging, chatty, the centre of attention; an expert conversationalist. Such a clever, sociable little girl – we were so proud of her! But Boo was so different – often closed off, insular; happy in her own little world, but a real enigma. And we were proud of her too, but somehow it didn’t feel legitimate. Or, more accurately, I had a niggling notion that other people wouldn’t see it that way. I found it hard for a while to be around other people’s children, who were doing all the things my Boo was ‘supposed’ to be doing, but wasn’t. It was difficult to hear other mums chatting about the challenges they were having with their toddlers, because all I could think was, yes but your child is ‘normal’,

don’t you see how lucky you are? I felt angry, hard-done-by, short-changed. I fumed at home and ate far too much ice-cream. I read book after book about Autism, medical journals, magazine articles, scoured the internet for hours every night when the girls were in bed. I read all the information I could find about what could have caused the Autism. Vaccines? Genetics? Medication I might have taken when pregnant? Was it something I did? I examined the research, scrutinised the facts, searching for something or someone to blame. Inevitably, during my search for answers, I came across several ‘cures’ for Autism. I am unhappy with the word ‘cure’, because ASD is not a disease. But the idea that I might be able to do something to take away Boo’s Autism was like fire in my veins; this was now going to be my mission. I was going to join the ranks of the Mother Warriors, fierce protector of my child and taking no prisoners until she was free from the claws of this evil. This was my new obsession for a while. I looked into behaviour modification programmes, special diets, alternative vaccine schedules… it was exhausting! Some ideas made sense to me and some didn’t. Armed with information and fortified with advice from our team of health and education specialists, I took the decision to stop trying to fight Boo’s autism, and start trying to accept it. Amongst all the books and articles I had amassed about autism, I came across several references to a now infamous essay from the 1980s titled ‘Welcome to Holland’. The writer, Emily Perl Kingsley, reflected on her experience as a parent to her child with special needs, and likened the experience to planning a holiday to Italy… but instead ending up in Holland – an equally beautiful and fascinating place to visit, but indisputably different from Italy. The essay resonated with me because I too found myself in the middle of a situation I had not prepared for – one totally different from the experience I had expected – but beautiful and special all the same. Boo is six now, and absolutely gorgeous. She loves reading, playing on the computer, flags, pirate hats and ‘Five Counties’ cheese. Her ambition (this week) is to be a Paralympic long jump gold medallist. She has the most infectious belly-laugh in the world.

Our relationship is pretty much all on her terms. If I am interesting or funny enough (or providing snacks!) she’ll give me the time of day, but she makes no bones about the fact that she’d rather be snuggled on the sofa with her dad, watching sport. She’s not a great one for conversation; Boo is more of a commentator. If I ask her a question, she either a) ignores me, b) tells me to ‘shshsh, be quiet’ or c) gives me a very long and detailed answer… to a completely different question. Her cuddles are heavenly. As a parent, trying to figure out the best way to bring up a child with ASD can be a real tug of war. We spend a lot of time trying to teach Boo the right (that is, socially acceptable) way to behave. And each time she makes progress and learns not to behave in an ‘autistic’ way, she becomes a little more socially acceptable and a little less Boo. And in a way that makes me feel guilty for trying to change her, because people with autism are not wrong, not broken; just… different. So why then, are we trying to ‘fix’ her? I suppose the answer is, for her own good. We can’t always be there for her and she needs to be able to survive in the real world. And yes, a very pretty and precocious (not to mention LOUD) six year old child – who thinks nothing of addressing a roomful of strangers as if she were Master of Ceremonies – is very cute and endearing now, but if she does the same thing in high school, or as an adult, say, on public transport, people will have a totally different reaction. She has to gradually move from her own little world, into ours. Come to think of it, isn’t this true for all of our children, autistic or not? So while Boo is still young, I’m going to enjoy all her quirks, before they are all ironed out of her. If she wants to wear a pirate hat to dinner, I have no problem with it. When she wants me to wash ‘Gwen’ (a cow she met at the farm, who shares her birthday and lives in both of her ears), that’s fine. If her list for Santa includes, as it did one year, a squeaky turnip, then I will dutifully jot it down. We all laugh at the ‘bonkers-ness’ of it all, Boo included, and it lights up our family. I’d be willing to bet that everyone’s kids are, at times, socially unacceptable and nutty as fruit-cakes. Let’s enjoy it and celebrate it while it lasts!

TENNIS TOTS WHEN: WHERE:

9.30am Thursday St Margaret’s Hall, Horsforth

||There’s nothing unusual about a family business. Yorkshire|| ||is filled with them. But it’s pretty impressive when the|| ||younger partner in the family business is 3½ years old.|| Oscar Davis is his dad Luke’s right hand man. When there’s an exercise to be demonstrated, Oscar is ready. When there’s a ball to be retrieved, Oscar is ready. And when it’s time for tennis, Oscar is ready. Luke Davis has been running Tennis Tots in North Leeds for the past few months. He took on the franchise after 16 years of coaching in clubs around Leeds. Now he’s focusing on helping pre-school children to get to grips with the game of tennis. “It’s not just about picking up a racquet and hitting a ball as hard as you can,” explains Luke. “It’s about using tennis in an educational way. It works on balance, ball skills, hand eye co-ordination, speed, agility, concentration and enjoyment of sport.” Luke engages the children from the outset of the class. They can tell they’re in the company of someone who wants to have fun, but they all clearly want to impress him. Before long they’re balancing balls on their racquet, listening to the instructions and getting their happy feet ready for action. Our magical dance classes teach the basics One of the girls in today’s class is three year old Lauren. Luke not only 3 WEEK of ballet in a fun, informal environment and were voted a l teaches her, he also coaches her 60 year old grandfather. It illustrates Tria favourite pre-school activity in Leeds by Netmums. £15 the point that learning tennis at a young age gives you access to a sport Classes for children from 9 months to 5 years taught by professionally trained teachers in Horsforth, Pudsey, that you can play for a lifetime. Lauren was inspired to try tennis after Beeston, Morley, Tingley and close to the city centre. watching it over the summer. “Lauren’s father and grandfather play tennis but her first real exposure Contact 07702 965 932 • leedscentral@babyballet.co.uk www.babyballet.co.uk to it was at the Olympics,” explains mum Sandy. “I hope these sessions will give her the skills to enjoy sport. I don’t think she’s the next star. I just want her to enjoy a family sport.” And Lauren is enjoying it, learning how to side step and hit balls over the net under the guidance of Luke and with the help of her mum. This is a session where children depend on parental help, and the parents enjoy seeing their mini Murrays exceed expectations. “Oscar has been hitting a tennis ball since he was 18 months old. Since he started these sessions, I’ve seen a massive improvement in his numbers, colours and letters,” explains Luke. “A lot of parents don’t realise what their children can achieve on a tennis court. I suppose that’s my job and I love it!”

DANCEWORKS

Find your nearest session: Mon: Alwoodley (pm) Cookridge (pm) Wed: Guiseley (pm) Horsforth (pm) Thurs: Horsforth (am) Roundhay (pm) Fri: Alwoodley (am) Sat: Headingley (am) To find out more or to register your interest call Luke on 07753 800 723. www.tennis-tots.co.uk

At DANCEWORKS we have a range of classes to suit all types of students, from exam classes to fun classes. Street Jazz to Ballet. From little tots to boys classes. For more information CALL: 0113 2950126 AGE: 3-18 years WHERE: Fir Tree Lane, Moortown, Leeds

Book for 2013 NOW! Wetherby, Selby & Kippax on 0113 210 3505 Horsforth & Morley on 01757 248 884 Roundhay on 0845 678 7778 www.stagecoach.co.uk

DIDDI DANCE WHEN: WHERE:

Kids can Kids Cookk Coo Ages Ag gees 2 - 11 Hands-on recipes rec and gastronomic gastronom experiments. Pre-school classes . Cookery workshops . Parties

Call Katherine on 07737 966786 www.kiddycook.co.uk

10am Tuesday Morning St Joseph’s Church Hall, Wetherby

Dust off your diamante and give your boa an airing. The diddi dancers of Leeds are about to make Tuesday morning feel like Saturday night and you’re invited. Strictly is coming to one of Leeds’ most popular dance classes and it looks set to get a perfect 10 from parents. Cath Hale has been running these funky pre-school sessions for more than 2 years. They’ve exploded in popularity with over 19 sessions running every week. Wherever you live, there’s a class near you and if there isn’t it’s coming soon. Today Cath is welcoming some new groovers to her session in Wetherby and everyone begins with some stretches to a selection of toe tapping tunes. If you’re expecting sedate nursery rhymes, you’ll be disappointed. This is fast, furious and fun from the start. “It’s high energy so the children are on their feet for 45 minutes,” explains Cath. “I think it’s popular because it’s lots of fun but you can also see the children progress and build confidence.” On the face if it, the sessions look like a fun packed work out. However listen closely and you can see Cath challenging her mini movers to recognise colours, use a little French and count to the beat of the music. They’re also learning to follow instructions and working in a group – all vital skills for pre-school children. Each week is themed. Cath is pretty excited about the ballroom week, but the children have their favourites too. “The children LOVE the hip hop sessions because they have to put a hoodie over their head and act like a grumpy gangster. They also love Bollywood week because they can twist their hands in time to the music. I think the ballroom sessions are going to be fab in the run up to Christmas. The children can watch Strictly Come Dancing, and then come and join in!” And the children are doing just that. Out come the Diddi Dance props – the ribbons, glittery pom poms and hoops – and even the shyest of children is transformed into a disco diva. Cath challenges them to use the props as they move to the beat of the music. But the real challenge is to get the props back off the children when the music stops. Cath has most of Leeds covered but there are still plans to expand in 2013. She’d like to get children cha cha cha-ing in Harrogate and Knaresborough in the new year and add to her Leeds sessions with more classes in popular venues. There’s also plans to expand into nurseries to bring these funky sessions to the children of working parents. But why does Cath think the sessions are so popular? “I think as a parent, you can go to some classes which feel quite stressful. Your child might be expected to sit still when in fact they’re running about. At Diddi Dance we want the children to express themselves freely, by dancing.” And by the time the session comes to an end, it’s not just the children who are expressing themselves freely by dancing. It’s the mums too! Find your nearest session: Monday: Boston Spa (am) • Churwell (am) Tuesday: Wetherby (am) • Horsforth (am) Wednesday: Guiseley (am) Thursday: Ilkley (am) • Roundhay (am) Friday: Garforth (am)

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

For information on classes, or to register your interest contact Cath on 07917 757 566 or cath.hale@diddidance.com www.diddidance.com

FAMILIES LEEDS | November/December 11

Can your 11 year old swim? II1 in 3 children are leaving primary school unable to swim.II IIThat’s the finding of a report published earlier this yearII IIby the Amateur Swimming Association.II

Teach your baby the enjoyment of water! Sing and play through our structured awards programme and see your baby progress to a confident little swimmer. Babies from 6 weeks old to 6 years old.

We talk to Arran MacDonald from Waterbabies and Tracie Margo from Baby Swimmers to find out how you can make sure your child isn’t one of them. What’s your reaction to the news that 200,000 children leave primary school every year unable to swim 25 metres unaided? ARRAN SAYS: This is one of the main reasons Waterbabies teaches water confidence from birth. It’s not just about these children not being able to swim 25m. The simple fact is they may not be able to save themselves if they were to accidentally fall in – that’s the greater worry. Drowning is the third biggest cause of accidental death in the UK. Parents whose children can’t swim should be concerned about that. Do we prioritise swimming enough in our schools? TRACIE SAYS: Swimming isn’t prioritized, despite it being on the National Curriculum, as many schools are concerned about the time it takes up. I know some schools question why they’d take children swimming when they could be learning an academic subject. There’s also a presumption that most children learn to swim outside of school. However some parents can’t afford those lessons. That’s why swimming in school is so important. I think it’s important for swim schools like Baby Swimmers to form partnerships with schools to try and encourage more children to learn to swim. What age would you expect a child to swim 25 metres unaided? ARRAN SAYS: That depends on when a child starts to learn to swim. If they start under the age of 12 months then we see children leaving Waterbabies at 4 years old who can swim that distance unaided. This isn’t about being pushy parents. It’s about teaching them a love of a sport and making it enjoyable. The longer you leave it to teach your children to swim, the harder it will be and they won’t be achieving these distances until much later.

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

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

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The report from the ASA also said 1 in 3 parents don’t take their children swimming because they aren’t confident swimmers themselves. Is this your experience? ARRAN SAYS: If a parent is less confident in and around water, they are less likely to push their child to swim on any level. The simple message has to be that regardless of a parents ability, expectations or wishes, a child will learn to swim at their own pace. As long as it is done in a safe, nurturing and fun way, they should encourage their children to swim. It’s a lifeskill.

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Has you seen an ‘Olympic’ effect? TRACIE SAYS: Definitely. We have seen more parents wanting their young children to swim. I hope that Baby Swimmers will see at least one of our children go on to Olympic success in the future! To get future Olympians, we need our children to stick with swimming, after learning the basics. Do you think that will happen? ARRAN SAYS: If there is a hero for children to identify with, it will spur them on to success. Rebecca Adlington, Ellie Simmonds and Tom Daley are great role models and I think the future of swimming in this country is bright.

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Get swimming with your local swim school: Baby Swimmers: Classes from birth across Leeds and Harrogate. 01757 229 880 • www.babyswimmers.co.uk Splish Splosh: Classes from 6 months across Yorkshire. 0844 2641 102. www.splishsploshswimmingschool.net Swimsafe: Classes from 3 years old across Leeds and Harrogate. 07870 562 365. Waterbabies: Classes from birth across Yorkshires. 01943 862 802 • www.waterbabies.co.uk www.leeds.gov.uk to find your nearest council run swimming pool.

SO YOU WANT

TO BE AN

OLYMPIAN

Based at: Moorlands School – Leeds & Belmont Grosvenor School, Birstwith, Harrogate. Swimming Lessons take place on weekday evenings and Saturday mornings Intensive courses are also available during every holiday

We teach all standards of swimmers FROM 3 YEARS

For more information please call Nick on:

07870 562 365

IILondon 2012 is a distant memory, but there are lots ofII IIways to get involved in the sports that made the headlinesII IIover the summer. If your children have been inspiredII IIby Team GB, see how you can help them get involved.II

ICYCLINGI OLYMPIC HIGHLIGHT: Bradley Wiggins winning Olympic Gold in the Men’s Individual Time Trial HOW TO GET INVOLVED… Put a road bike on your Christmas list! Yorkshire’s leading bike specialists Cyclesense have responded to the demand for road bikes for younger riders, after the focus on road cycling over the summer. “We used to get the odd enquiry for children’s road bikes,” says John Stainthorpe from Cyclesense. “There has been a huge increase since the Tour de France and the Olympics. It’s made us source a quality brand. From November we will be stocking Italian brand Vicini for children from as young as 6 years old.” Prices on these bikes start at £399. For a full selection of bikes for children and adults, head to Cyclesense, Thorp Arch, Wetherby LS23 7FJ • www.cyclesense.co.uk • 01937 844 068 Local cycling club the Seacroft Wheelers (www.seacroftwheelers.co.uk) welcome junior members. There’s an under 12 membership and the club have a policy of encouraging and developing young riders. Juniors are also welcome at Cyclesense Cycling Club (www.cccforum.co.uk) which is based in Tadcaster. OTHER VENUES: Fancy a challenge this Christmas? Book your over 9 a place at the Manchester Velodrome to take part in one of their holiday sessions. Under the eye of expert coaches, your mini Wiggo will get to cycle in the place where many champions have trained before. Session includes bike and helmet hire. Sessions on Xmas Eve, 27th and 28th December. In the New Year there is availability between 2 – 4th January. Book early. These are hugely popular. www.nationalcyclingcentre.com • 0161 223 2244

ITENNISI

MOORFIELD SCHOOL FOR BOYS AND GIRLS

OLYMPIC HIGHLIGHT: Andy Murray’s Olympic Gold in the Men’s Singles HOW TO GET INVOLVED… Tennis is a sport you can learn as a toddler and still be playing in retirement so it’s never too late to get involved. However the earlier your mini Murray picks up a racquet the more enjoyment they’ll get out of it. There are clubs across Leeds but the council scheme is run out of the John Charles Centre in South Leeds. Tennis Co-ordinator Charlie Tatman oversees sessions for children from 2 years old up to the Junior Coaching programme for 11+. Take a look at www.leeds.gov.uk for a list of lessons on offer. There are also some great programmes for young children at clubs in Chapel Allerton (www.chapel-a.co.uk), Ilkley (www.iltsc.co.uk), Roundhay (www.roundhaytennis.org.uk) and Wetherby (www.wetherbytennis.org.uk). For sessions aimed at pre-school children, look at the sessions run by Tennis Tots (www.tennistots.co.uk) and Tennis Tykes (www.tennistykes.co.uk). Both have daytime classes running across Leeds and Harrogate.

ITRIATHALONI

Where each individual is celebrated and nurtured 11 Ben Rhydding Road Ilkley LS29 8RL 01943 607285

www.moorfieldschool.co.uk

OLYMPIC HIGHLIGHT: Leeds’ Brownlee brothers take Olympic Gold and Bronze medals in the Triathlon HOW TO GET INVOLVED… The Leeds Bradford Triathlon Club is based at Leeds Carnegie and has a strong junior section for children from 8 – 14 years old. Structured sessions run on a Saturday morning from 8.15am in

FAMILIES LEEDS | November/December 13

swimming, cycling and running. The junior section is currently full but email junior.club@lbt.org.uk to put your child’s name on a waiting list. “The wait list was about 15 long before the Olympics,” says Steve Coy from the club. “Now it’s over 70 so the summer of sporting success has had a huge impact on interest in our club.” www.lbt.org.uk

SWIMMING LESSONS Small class sizes • Teacher in pool • All ages & abilities

IGYMNASTICSI OLYMPIC HIGHLIGHT: Beth Tweddle taking an Olympic Bronze in the Uneven Bars

Classes at The Grammar School at Leeds Mercure Parkway, Bramhope Moorlands School & Temple Moor High School

HOW TO GET INVOLVED… Head to this fantastic new purpose built Leeds Gymnastics centre (Local call rate) in the heart of Seacroft. It opened only a few months ago and now is home to budding info@splishsploshswimmingschool.com www.splishsploshswimmingschool.com gymnasts and future Olympians alike. You can come along and under some expert coaches, work towards an award scheme from British Gymnastics. New members join the recreational program in the Elemental class. It’s an hour session which is a real introduction to all gymnastic disciplines. You’ll see your child work their way around all the equipment in the gym in group of 8 – 10 children with the help of the coaching staff. Gymnasts then move up to the Proficiency class which is 2 hours long. For pre-school gymnasts, there are parent and child sessions running every weekday at 9.30am. Children from 12 months can explore some of the equipment with the support of a parent, under the guidance of gym staff. It’s a great introduction to the sport. Taster sessions are available but some of the weekend recreational Give them a party they won’t forget! classes have lengthy waiting lists. Completely safe for 4–9 year olds. Leeds Gymnastics Centre, Limewood Rd, Seacroft, Leeds Bring your party to one of our indoor venues. LS14 1AB • 0113 265 6662 • www.leedsgymnastics.com Contact Geoff on 01422 351 981

0844 264 1102

www.go-kartpartyleeds.co.uk

OTHER VENUES: Wetherby Girls Gymnastics Club: Sessions with Gill Nobbs at Boston Spa School and at Bardsey Primary School. 01937 573 430 Leeds City Council Gymnastics Sessions: Available at leisure centres across Leeds. Pre-school GymMinis (1 – 3 years) and Gymnikins (3 – 4 years), moving to general gymnastics classes from 4 years old. Contact your local leisure centre directly or call Leeds City Council’s Gymnastics Co-ordinator Emily Drown on 0113 395 0165

A fun and educational tennis play and skills programme for children from 2 years E FRE IAL

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Classes in Ilkley, Harrogate, North Leeds & Wetherby For information call Caroline Buncall on 07843 342 662 • www.tennistykes.co.uk

Where the good Santas go Unit 657a, Thorp Arch Estate (Opposite Crazy Tykes) Wetherby, LS23 7FJ t: 01937 844068

www.cyclesense.co.uk

14

FAMILIES LEEDS | November/December

School

NEWS‌

New trim trail opens at ROSE COURT

GATEWAYS PUPIL takes national title

Pupils at The Grammar School at Leeds’ Pre Prep, Rose Court have welcomed the opening of a Trim Trail. The trail has been added to the playground in Headingley after years of fundraising by parents. It’s now in use every playtime by Year 1 and Year 2 pupils. “Our school council ‘Pupil Voice’ told us they would like a trim trail,� explains Stephanie Munro, Year 1 teacher at GSAL and Co-ordinator of the Playground Fund. “It’s been very popular and has lots of benefits. As well as exercise, managing risks and interacting with other pupils, it’s encouraging children to take turns. The youngsters who complete it feel a great sense of achievement!� www.gsal.org.uk

A Leeds schoolgirl is celebrating after being crowned Irish National Champion at the Dublin Horse Show. Orla Duffy, who is 9 years old, was the youngest participant in the event with her horse Mickybo. She rode alongside a number of Olympic athletes and says that her ambition is to compete for her country in the future. Orla from Linton near Wetherby began riding four years ago making her win at this major event in the European showjumping calendar a real achievement. Congratulations Orla! www.gatewaysschool.co.uk

CHRISTMAS FAIR welcomes Santa

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Santa is heading to Moorlands School and you’re invited too. The Christmas Fair will take place on the Saturday 24th November from 12 noon. There will be stalls selling crafts, gifts, plants and an extra special visitor. Entry is £1 for adults, but if you’re interested in taking a stall, contact Helen Gill on 07882 503 851. www.moorlandsschoolassociation.org.uk

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100% SUCCESS for drama pupils Year 5 pupils at Richmond House School in Headingley are celebrating 100% pass rate in recent Speech and Drama Exams for a second year running. All the pupils received a Merit grade or higher in the English Speaking Board Exams taken as part of Drama classes. “We’re delighted with these results,� says Julie Godsave, the school’s Deputy Head. “These exams contribute to the development of important life skills and help children grow in confidence.� www.rhschool.org

Little ones blossom at Rose Court Rose Court Nursery & Pre-Prep provides a nurturing beginning for children from three to seven years old. The school in Headingley, part of The Grammar School at Leeds (GSAL), offers a safe and welcoming environment for boys and girls... with fun playing a central part in the learning process.

and geography include visits and provide insights to other cultures. There are also lots of opportunity for activity outside the classroom, including gymnastics and games, plus arts, crafts, music, drama and dance.

Head of Rose Court, Anne Pickering, says: “Experience tells us that play is the key to successful early learning. We use organised play to help pupils become confident learners with good social skills.”

Children thrive at Rose Court and never look back with most pupils continuing their education at GSAL Junior School and on into Senior School.

Children are taught numeracy and literacy, moving on to learn about science and the environment. History

To find out more about the GSAL experience visit www.gsal.org.uk or call Angela Boult, Admissions Manager, on 0113 228 5121.

Make your child's dream come true - book a taster day Guided by a member of staff and a group of supportive, like-minded pupils, your child will have the opportunity to see what makes GSAL a truly magical and excellent teaching environment and pursue one of their interests whether that be sport, music, drama, art, science or cookery. Throughout their taster day with us, your child will experience our superb facilities first-hand, meet with our teaching staff, and will be fully encouraged to make their own magic to see what wonderful opportunities lie ahead here at GSAL.

But don’t just take our word for it; The Grammar School at Leeds recently received top marks across the board following a visit from the Independent Schools Inspectorate. The School was rated as ‘Excellent’, achieving the highest possible rating in every category, from academic success through to extra-curricular activities, demonstrating we really do offer excellence in everything we do.

Call us before all the places disappear on 0113 229 1552 or email tasterday@gsal.org.uk

16

FAMILIES LEEDS | November/December

Our dance and movement classes are a great introduction to physical exercise for kids aged 6 months to 4 years Singing Dancing Skipping Hopping Music Instruments Colours Numbers Balance Confidence Coordination Interaction Fun Certificates Contact Katie to find out where your local classes are...

T: 0113 287 6252 M: 07834 266350 www.kids2dance.co.uk

Christmas Cake Let’s make…

.Hidden Treasure. .Christmas Cake.... A really quick to make, chuck it in a bowl recipe, with all the flavours of Christmas. Get your kids to choose which fruits to hide in the mixture and guess which ones they’ve found in the finished cake.

.TOP TIPS. .FROM KIDDYCOOK…. Heat oven to 180ºC/fan 160ºC/gas 4. Grease and line the bottom of a 20cm cake tin. Sift the flour, spice and baking powder into a bowl and rub in the butter until it looks like breadcrumbs. Stir in the sugar and treacle and beat in the eggs until the mixture is glossy. Gently fold in the fruit until all the fruity treasure is hidden. Put the mixture into the cake tin and bake for 1 hour. It is ready when it turns a golden colour and a skewer comes out clean. Add the snow Royal icing doesn’t need to be neat and can be bought ready mixed. Sift icing sugar into a bowl, add water a few drops at a time until it makes peaks. Plaster your cake with the white stuff, the messier the better!

200g self-raising flour 200g dark muscovado sugar 2 tsp mixed spice 1 tsp baking powder 200g butter 1 tbsp black treacle 3 eggs, beaten 300g mixed dried fruit such as sultanas, pineapple, cherries, stem ginger or any other favourites

2 eating apples, grated

Just like play dough …but much more yummy. Add food colour gel to white sugarpaste or buy coloured sugarpaste and create your own cake toppers.

Easy does it Choose a forgiving recipe that won’t be ruined by a little flour going astray or some of the ingredients being eaten. Let’s get messy The golden rule about kids and cooking is to just let the mess happen. Contain the disaster zone with plastic sheets under chairs and give children spoons to scoop out flour and sugar instead of tipping the whole packet into the mixing bowl. I made it Even very young children can break eggs, mix, grate and measure out ingredients and the more they can do themselves, the more confident they will be, even if you help out with the hard bits. If you want a less messy version, perhaps make your own alongside and show your little one how to do it as you go. Book YOUR place... on the Kiddycook Christmas Gift Workshop on Sunday 16th December from 2 – 4pm. You’ll make an edible tree decoration, some snowball truffles, gingerbread and much more. Children from 4 years old welcome. www.kiddycook.co.uk • 07737 966 786

FAMILIES LEEDS | November/December 17

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For Babies…

£9.95 Santa Hat From BAMBINO GREEN

Monster Rattle From BAMBINO GREEN

If you’re worried about how and where things are made, you may want to take a look at Bambino Green’s great range of ethical gifts. This organic cotton Santa hat has been handmade in Kenya but will look great when baby braves the Yorkshire winter. “It’s cosy and cute and there’s not a synthetic fibre in sight,” says Lola from Bambino Green.

A scary gift with a kind heart. This fabulous rattle is ethically produced in Bangladesh and is suitable from birth. It’s popular with your little monster because it’s easy to grip with its long arms and long legs. “It’s also washable,” explains Lola Green. “So after a hard day of chewing, you can throw it into the machine and it will be good as new.”

Learn to Swim Gift Voucher From BABY SWIMMERS What do you get for the baby who has everything? Swimming lessons! This is a great idea from Yorkshire based swim school Baby Swimmers and is bound to be a hit. With a gift voucher, you’re giving the gift of fitness, fun and a vital life skill.

For Little Girls‌

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Every little girl needs their own doll’s house and where better to find one than Armadillo Toys. This Leeds toy shop is a specialist in wooden doll’s houses and this one from Le Toy Van is a best seller. If you buy the house, and a doll family for £20 then Armadillo will throw in FOUR sets of furniture free. There are five different styles of house to chose from so you’re bound to find the perfect present.

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£40 Sylvanian Families Camper Van From ARMADILLO TOYS & TREASURES OF WETHERBY Santa has been getting requests for Sylvanian Families for many years. Both Armadillo and Treasures stock a great range of these adorable characters and their accessories. This year, we think the camper van will be a favourite, bringing us dreams of summer sun. Inside there’s pull down beds for the Sylvanian characters to sleep in, a fold out table for entertaining and a kitchenette to prepare the evening meal. I hope we get an invite!

Personalised Canvas From 4 LITTLE ART

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... at the Christm

For the girl who has everything, except her name on her wall! These handmade pieces of personalised art are a fantastic addition to any bedroom. Girls can choose from a host of themes including ballet, fairy, horses, butterfly, flowers and hearts. As well as the canvases, there’s also clocks, door plaques and hanging hearts to chose from. A truly unique gift! Order by Monday 17th December for guaranteed Christmas delivery.

Crayon Rocks From BAMBINO GREEN

ÂŁ7.95

Christmas Angel Dress Up From CANDYBOWS

Join our team of festive folk for a magical 1-day Christmas experience at various locations. The workshops run from 9am-3pm allowing families a few child free hours before the big day too!

L10 voucher code: FFL10

From ÂŁ5.99

Little girls love to colour and these alternative crayons are great to nurture creativity. The 16 coloured rocks come in a muslin bag and, like all Bambino Green’s products, are ethically produced from natural ingredients. They’re a great little gift and a perfect stocking filler. “Kids love the smooth pebble shape making them really easy to grip even for the smallest of hands!� says Lola from Bambino Green.

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Le Toy Van From ARMADILLO TOYS

T: 0113 322 7988

E: info@fantasykidsclubs.co.uk info@fant asykidsclubs.co.uk W: www.fantasykidsclubs.co.uk www.fant asykidsclubs.co.uk

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The easy way to transform your little devil, into an angel without any naughty step! This fantastic set is great to get you out of making a homemade costume for the nativity, but it’s also a super Christmas day outfit. The set is made up of wings, a wand, a headband and a satin tutu. Suitable for children aged 2 – 7 years old. 10% off with the code Familiesleeds.

Free Jug of Juice just hand in this voucher! Play party cafe family fun activities

IIndependent ndependent Specialist Specialist Toy Toy Shop Shop

Soft Play & Party Venue

75a New Road Side, Horsforth, LS18 4QD

call 0113 393 3340

info@kids-clubhouse.co.uk www.kids-clubhouse.co.uk

Wooden Toys, Puppets, Baby Baby Toys, Toys, Wooden Toys, Puppets, Games & Jigsaws, Jigsaws, Craft Craft & SScience cience Kits, Kits, Games Lego, Playmobil, Playmobil, Sylvanian Sylvanian Families Families Lego, Animals, Knig hts & D inosaur Figures, Figures, Animals, Knights Dinosaur Castles, Doll’s Doll’s Houses, Houses, Farms Farms and Castles, more... much more... 112a Harrogate RE t $Iapel AllertPO t -4 /: t ToXO 4U t )PSTGPrUI t -4 3+ t

www.armadillotoyT.co.uk

For Little Boys…

FAMILIES LEEDS | November/December 19

£35

(reduced from £70)

Wilberry Wood Castle From ARMADILLO TOYS Shopping local could really pay off this Christmas if you bag this bargain. Originally £70, this great wooden castle will be a hit with every would be knight. With a fully rotating base for maximum creative play, and 10 wooden figures included, this is a fabulous gift that’s sure to be a bestseller.

£15

Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles From ARMADILLO TOYS

£35

Woofer From TREASURES OF WETHERBY A gift that’s bound to make you howl! This dog shaped guitar is suitable for children from 2 years old. Discover if your little one is the next Elvis or a real Hound Dog. There are 3 modes to chose from and 20 sing along tracks to ‘enjoy’. You’d be barking mad to leave this one off the list.

From £5.99 Personalised Canvas From 4 LITTLE ART If you’re all out of ideas, why not keep it personal. These bespoke canvases and gifts come in a range of themes for boys, including football, shark, rocket, pirate, dinosaur and rugby. Order early to guarantee Christmas delivery.

£25

Stackadoos From TREASURES OF WETHERBY A great product for budding builders. This 68 piece set of chunky pieces is easy to connect. It comes with an ideas book in an easy to store container and is suitable for children from 2 years old. A great gift.

Suitable for children from 4 years old. Not available until 1st December but already tipped to be a best seller this Christmas. This is another retro range from the 80s making a comeback in 2012 to tie in with the new Nickelodeon TV series. “We are really impressed with the quality and detail of this range,” says Lisa Clay from Armadillo. “They’re pre-selling fast and I know they’re going to fly out of the store.”

For Big Girls‌

ÂŁ12

from ÂŁ9.99

Wheelie Great Desk Set From SAY IT PERSONALLY Organising your desk is a hobby for most school age girls and with this handy gift, they can do it in style. This set contains good quality stationery disguised as all manner of things. There’s a bar of chocolate that's actually a calculator, a fake tube of toothpaste concealing a pen, and an eraser posing as a smart phone. There’s also brightly coloured highlighters, retractable pencils, an animal print pen, a smart note book and wheelie bin!

ÂŁ99.99

Friends Lego From TREASURES OF WETHERBY Suitable from 6 years old Friends Lego has been the success of 2012 with twice as many sets as predicted being sold in the first part of the year. It means the range is going to be at the top of many girls lists, but hard to get hold of. “I love the Adventure Camper Van,� says Zhara from Treasures which stocks a great range of Friends Lego. “There’s so much detail in this set including kitchen accessories, a BBQ grill and storage.� It comes with two of the Friends – Olivia and Nicole. With demand outstripping supply, it’s worth buying early.

Maxi Micro Scooter From CYCLESENSE Suitable from 6 years old Introducing the new pink Maxi Micro scooter which promises to be a hit this Christmas. Previously only available in black and purple, the new pink version is bound to be popular with girls who want to live in the fast lane. “We’ve already had people in buying their Christmas scooters and this pink version is proving hugely popular,� says John Stainthorpe from Cyclesense.

ÂŁ8.99

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Top Model Design Folder From TREASURES OF WETHERBY The newest addition to this best selling range. This folder comes with stencils and stickers allowing your little girl to turn fashion designer. There’s a full range of Top Model products in Treasures. Great for the creative child.

WHETHER YOU LOVE TO SKI, SNOWBOARD OR JUST FANCY A BIT OF FESTIVE FUN, WE CAN CREATE A CHRISTMAS EVENT OR PARTY JUST FOR YOU. SNOZONE CASTLEFORD COLORADO WAY GLASSHOUGHTON CASTLEFORD WEST YORKSHIRE WF10 4TA

Baby Ballet & Socatots classes here

OPEN FOR PLAY 7 DAYS A WEEK

Adventure Play Area ~ Separate Toddler Area Opening Times: Mon-Fri 10am-5pm Sat-Sun 10am-6pm

Suitable for ages 0-11 especially pre-schoolers

T: 0871 222 5671

www.littlebeesplay.co.uk

WWW.SNOZONEUK.COM

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

For Big Boys

FAMILIES LEEDS | November/December 21

Town theme with Shop, Cafe & Petrol Station Freshly prepared food daily • Separate baby area Private Parties catered for (centre closed for parties)

Batwing Battle Lego From TREASURES OF WETHERBY

from £34.99

Suitable from 7 years old The Super Heroes Lego range has been a hit and the Batman themed sets have been the most sought after. The Batwing Battle over Gotham City set includes a Batman and Joker minifigure and their vehicles. There’s also a comic book inside. “We’ve seen lots of demand for the Super Heroes range and I think they’ll be best sellers this Christmas,” says Zhara from Treasures. “Thankfully, we’ve got plenty of Lego sets to choose from!”

£5.99 Nano Blocks From TREASURES OF WETHERBY Suitable from 8 years old Lego for grown ups. These tiny building blocks require lots of concentration but the patient are rewarded with some superb structures. Choose from a 580 block 3D Space Station (£13.99) or more festive figures like the 140 block 3D Santa and 120 block Xmas Tree. Affordable and great fun.

Grit Mayhem Stunt Scooter From CYCLESENSE

£160

Stunt scooters are set to be huge this Christmas and this is one of the best. The Grit Mayhem is street tested and top rider approved. It’s great for a ride in the park, but it’s also fabulous for fun off the ramps. This is a top of the line stunt scooter and it’s available from Cyclesense at Thorp Arch. Pop in to see the great range of scooters and accessories. To be in with a chance of getting £50 off, enter our competition on page 23.

Are you looking for quality party bags, toys & gifts? At Treasure Toad you’ll find them and discover lots more: Filled party bags to save you time and money. Our unique book party bags. Lots of gift ideas under £10. 3 Delivery options to make life easy.

0844 474 8256 www.treasuretoad.co.uk

Unit 2 • South View Business Park Guiseley • Leeds • LS20 9PP (straight on past Argos, we're 3rd on left)

01943 870 189 www.tumbletownadventureplay.co.uk

Stockists

ARMADILLO TOYS: 112 Harrogate Rd, Chapel Allerton LS7 4NY 0113 266 7500 20 Town St, Horsforth LS18 4RJ 0113 258 8777 • www.armadillotoys.co.uk BABY SWIMMERS: www.babyswimmers.co.uk 01757 229 880 BAMBINO GREEN: www.bambinogreen.co.uk 07968 807 140 CYCLESENSE: Thorp Arch Estate, Wetherby LS23 7FJ www.cyclesense.co.uk • 01937 844068 SAY IT PERSONALLY: www.sayitpersonally.co.uk 01482 638 355 TREASURES OF WETHERBY: High Street, Wetherby LS22 6LT www.treasurestoys.co.uk • 01937 589 187 4 LITTLE ART: www.4littleart.co.uk

22

FAMILIES LEEDS | November/December

Top Five Christmas Books…

||Every stocking should have a book in and we’ve called in Leeds based author|| ||Emma Barnes to give us her favourite bookshop buys this Christmas.|| ||Happy Reading!||

Wolfie by Emma Barnes Sometimes a Girl’s Best Friend... is a WOLF! Lucie has always wanted a pet dog, but not one this big, or with teeth this sharp. But when Lucie’s new companion is in danger, it is up to her to sort things out, on an adventure that leads deep into snowy woods. This book by Leeds author Emma Barnes has wonderful illustrations by Emma Chichester Clark, and is suitable for 7 – 10 year olds.

Christmas Surprise by Hilary Robinson After the success of The Copper Tree, Yorkshire based author Hilary has written this touching Christmas story. When the elderly residents at Pine Tree Lodge are missing Bonnie, their retired guide dog, the Copper Tree Class are asked to go and cheer them up over the festive period. This new picture book for young children continues the adventures of the Copper Tree Class and leaves us hoping there’s another book around the corner. The real spirit of Christmas.

Father Christmas by Raymond Briggs For many, Christmas wouldn’t be Christmas without sitting down with The Snowman – either on TV, or in the book created by Raymond Briggs. But Father Christmas is also a classic – grumpy and curmudgeonly, he mutters “Blooming Christmas! Blooming reindeer!” as he struggles through the snow. It’s a sophisticated picture book for older children, who prefer graphic novels or stories like “The Wimpy Kid” without too much text.

The Killer Cat’s Christmas by Anne Fine A hilariously funny story from the former Children’s Laureate. Bad Cat Tuffy is causing mayhem at the holiday season, and relates the succession of disasters that led to him spending Christmas locked in the garage. Both children and adults will enjoy this story, and may want to read more about Tuffy – whose adventures begin in Diary of a Killer Cat.

The Hobbit by JRR Tolkien With the movie out in December, there’s going to be a huge renewed interest in this classic story of Bilbo Baggin’s adventures. A great family read-aloud, or solo read for advanced primary-age readers, this tale of lost treasure, wolves, winter, and dragons makes for a perfect fireside story, while nibbling on some Christmas cake.

WIN… your own copy of a CHRISTMAS SURPRISE We’re delighted to have 5 copies of Hilary Robinson’s new book to giveaway. This touching tale challenges children’s views on the elderly and is a super addition to any bookshelf. To be in with a chance of winning one, send your name and address to editor@familiesleeds.co.uk with the words CHRISTMAS SURPRISE in the subject line. We’ll pick a winner on 7th December and get it to you by Christmas. Good Luck!

FAMILIES LEEDS | November/December 23

WIN… WIN…WIN… IALL COMPETITION WINNERS WILL BE NOTIFIED BY EMAILI

WIN… STAR WARS ADVENT CALENDAR Countdown to Christmas with the help of the Darth Vadar and Treasures of Wetherby. Forget chocolate. This year advent calendars have gone out of this world. Behind each door of this Lego calendar is a fabulous Star Wars figure for your little Luke Skywalker to enjoy. By the time Christmas day comes, you’ll have a collection of 24 minifigures, vehicles and accessories. To be in with a chance of winning, simply send your child’s name, address and age to editor@familiesleeds.co.uk with the words STAR WARS in the subject line. Entries for this competition close on Thursday 29th November so we can get the prize to the winner in time for the first door to be opened! To see the full range of Lego calendars, head to Treasures of Wetherby. www.treaurestoys.co.uk • 01937 589 187

WIN… A £50 GIFT VOUCHER FROM CYCLESENSE Imagine winning £50 to spend on the bike your child has put at the top of her wish list, or the stunt scooter your son has been secretly hoping for. That’s the prize we can offer after teaming up with Cyclesense.

WIN… WILBERRY WOODEN CASTLE Every little boy likes to imagine they’re a brave knight, battling the enemy from a grand castle. Armadillo Toys would like to bring that fantasy to life this Christmas by giving away this super wooden castle worth £70. It comes with 10 wooden figures – great for creative play and the base on the castle rotates. To be in with a chance of winning this superb Christmas gift, simply email your child’s name, address and age to editor@familiesleeds.co.uk by Friday 7th December. Put the word CASTLE in the subject line. If you don’t win, head to Armadillo Toys in either Chapel Allerton or Horsforth to order yours for the discounted price of £35. www.armadillotoys.co.uk • 0113 266 7500

Based at Thorp Arch, Cyclesense is one of Yorkshire’s leading cycling and scooter specialists. You’ll get expert advice as well as a great selection of products to choose from. And if you win this competition, you’ll get £50 off your purchase this Christmas! To be in with a chance of winning send your name and address to editor@familiesleeds.co.uk with the words CYCLESENSE in the subject line by Friday 7th December. To see the fantastic range of bikes and scooters at Cyclesense, take a look at www.cyclesense.co.uk 01937 844 068

24

FAMILIES LEEDS | November/December

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THE CHRISTMAS ADVENTURE STOCKELD PARK • www.stockeldpark.co.uk • 01937 586 333 OPEN DAILY FROM SAT 10TH NOV UNTIL MONDAY 24TH DEC After being voted Britain’s Best Santa’s Grotto, the elves at Stockeld Park have built Father Christmas a brand new home. The luxury log cabin sits on the edge of the Enchanted Forest and is ready to welcome good girls and boys from across Yorkshire. Father Christmas will arrive on a sleigh on Saturday 10th November, pulled by a few of his trusty reindeers. It’s a parade not to be missed. “Santa tells us that The Christmas Adventure is his home here in Yorkshire,â€? says Chief Elf Amy Thornton. “He’s delighted with his new grotto and he can’t wait to show all his visitors around! His top tip is to visit in November to beat the queues!â€? Prices depend on the timing of your visit. A low season visit is ÂŁ7 per child with a high season ticket coming in at ÂŁ9. Pre-booking is available online and you can purchase photos and personalised memories of your visit after seeing Santa. Every child gets a quality gift, themed around Stockeld Park. Highly recommended by Families Leeds readers. SANTA IN WETHERBY TREASURES TOY SHOP • www.treasurestoys.co.uk • 01937 589 187 17TH NOVEMBER FROM 11AM – 1PM & 2 – 4PM Father Christmas is making a special visit to his favourite toy shop – Treasures of Wetherby. He’s happy to talk wish lists and top toys with all well behaved children from 11am – 1pm and between 2 – 4pm. You’ll also have the chance to write and post a letter in the North Pole Post Box in store and you’ll receive a reply before Christmas. Another magical booking by this super local shop.

Music is Fun with Jo Jingles! Music

Singing

Movement Classes

for babies & pre-school children 3 months to 5 years NO JOINING FEE

For details on classes in:

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WakeďŹ eld (Sandal, Stanley & Newmillerdam), Ossett, Pontefract, Normanton, Ackworth, Garforth, Wetherby, Boston Spa & Harrogate Call Paula on 01977 650455 jojinglesleeds@yahoo.co.uk www.jojingles.com/leeds

FATHER CHRISTMAS BY THE FIRESIDE HAREWOOD HOUSE • www.harewood.org/winter • 0113 218 1000 OPEN WEEKENDS FROM SATURDAY 24TH NOV UNTIL SUNDAY 16TH DECEMBER You’re invited to a storytelling session with a difference this Christmas. Hosted by Santa himself, these fireside sessions at Harewood House are bound to add a touch of magic to the Father Christmas experience. Prices start at £11.25 for Harewood members, and £12.50 for non members. Every child will receive an age appropriate gift. Pre-booking is available online. There are no photos produced on site, but you’re invited to bring your own camera to record this magical Santa experience.

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SANTA IN THE WOODS BOLTON ABBEY • www.boltonabbey.com • 01756 718 009 OPEN WEEKENDS THROUGHOUT DECEMBER Father Christmas has set up camp in a winter wonderland with his jolly elves, and you’re invited to come along for a visit. This December Santa’s home will be a Romany caravan in the heart of Strid Wood. You can meet him, leave a note for him on the wishing tree and make some magic dust to help the reindeers find their way to your home. Pre-booking of this unique Christmas experience is essential as it’s always popular. Tickets are £5 per child plus normal admission to the Bolton Abbey car park. You’ll be able to buy a photo of your meeting with Santa and his Chief Elf and afterwards, warm up from your woodland walk with a hot chocolate round an open log fire. Highly recommended by Families Leeds readers.

Call for your FREE trial session

Call Call Elizabeth Elizabeth on on 0113 0113 232 232 8 8131 131

TRADITIONAL ST NICHOLAS’ GROTTO THACKRAY MUSEUM • www.thackraymuseum.org • 0113 244 4343 OPEN 10.30AM – 2PM ON WEEKENDS THROUGHOUT DECEMBER. Did you know that Father Christmas used to dress in green and not the traditional red we’re used to seeing nowadays? Find out why by visiting the traditional grotto at the fabulous Thackray Museum. You’ll learn about the origins of Father Christmas as well as meeting Santa himself. A visit to the grotto is FREE with admission to the museum. You can buy photos of the visit and every child will receive a Christmas gift. No pre-booking available. SANTA ON THE VICTORIAN STREETS ABBEY HOUSE • www.leeds.gov.uk OPEN WEEKENDS FROM SATURDAY 8TH – SUNDAY 23RD DECEMBER Visit the grotto on the Victorian Streets and write your list to give directly to Santa. Entry is £4 per child and you can bring along your own camera to take a picture. Every child receives a gift and can decorate a bauble to take home and put on your own family tree this Christmas. The grotto is open from 10am – 12pm and again from 2 – 4pm. SANTA’S GROTTO FOUNTAINS ABBEY • www.nationaltrust.org.uk/fountainsabbey 01756 608 888 • OPEN WEEKENDS FROM SATURDAY 1ST DECEMBER – SUNDAY 16TH DECEMBER Come along and see Santa between 1 – 3pm in his beautiful grotto at Fountain’s Abbey. Entry is £5 and every child receives a gift from Father Christmas.

FAMILY FAMILY TICK E T S TICKETS G RO U P & GROUP OFFERS OFFERS A VAIL ABLE AVAILABLE

Leeds City Council and Paul Holman Associates present

BREAKFAST WITH SANTA THACKRAY MUSEUM • www.thackraymuseum.org 0113 245 1111 • EVERY SUNDAY IN DECEMBER FROM 10.30AM – 12PM. Head to the superb café in the heart of the Thackray to meet Santa for a VIP breakfast. Not only do you get to enjoy some top notch food in the Camuco Café, but you’ll also meet with Father Christmas and receive a gift. Pre-booking is essential and tickets are £10 per child.

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STOCKELD PARK • www.stockeldpark.co.uk • 01937 586 333 SAT 17TH & SUN 18TH, SAT 24TH & SUN 25TH NOVEMBER & SAT 1ST & SUN 2ND DECEMBER FROM 9 – 11AM. Father Christmas is leaving his new luxury lodge on the outskirts of the Enchanted Forest to join families for a fabulous breakfast. As well as enjoying some great food, the children will get to enjoy time with Santa and receive a Stockeld Park themed gift. Pre-booking is essential. Tickets are £13 per child and £6.50 per adult. KIDS CLUBHOUSE • www.kids-clubhouse.co.uk • 0113 393 3340 TUESDAY 4TH, 11TH & 18TH DECEMBER FROM 9.30 – 11AM Join Santa as he comes for breakfast at this Horsforth soft play centre. You’ll get a gift, and access to the soft play facilities as well as making sure you meet Father Christmas. Super idea for toddlers wanting to meet Santa in a familiar, relaxed environment.

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26

FAMILIES LEEDS | November/December

PICK of the

PANTOS

2013

JACK & THE BEANSTALK The Carriageworks Friday 30th November – Saturday 5th January www.carriageworkstheatre.org.uk Dame Trott is down on her luck and sends her daft son Jack to market with the family cow, Daisy. When he returns with a handful of magic beans the story unfolds. Former CBBC presenter Jez Edwards makes his 4th appearance in The Carriageworks pantomime playing Simple Simon. We’re told it’s a GIANT of a show and there promises to be a visit from Father Christmas in the 11am and 2.30pm shows on Christmas Eve. Tickets £8.50. Family tickets also available. 0113 224 3801

CINDERELLA

DICK WHITTINGTON Stockeld Park Saturday 24th & Sunday 25th November www.stockeldpark.co.uk Head to the marquee in the heart of Stockeld Park to see this classic panto brought to life by Chaplins Theatre Company. Cheer Dick as he heads out on his adventure. Boo the evil Captain Blood and laugh along with Elvis the Cat. It’s a great value family show which runs for 90 minutes (no break). Tickets are £5 for a child and £6 for an adult. Family Ticket available for £20. Online booking available. 01937 586 333

Alhambra Theatre Saturday 15th December – Sunday 3rd February www.bradford-theatres.co.uk Billy Pearce returns to the Alhambra to play Buttons in Cinderella. It’s a familiar tale told in a spectacular way with a star studded cast. Joining Billy Pearce is Loose Women’s Lynda Bellingham who will be the Fairy Godmother and there’s even the promise of an appearance by some Shetland ponies. The Alhambra always puts on a great show full of surprises and we’re sure this year will be no different. 01274 432 000

JACK & THE BEANSTALK Harrogate Theatre Friday 23rd November – Sunday 13th January www.harrogatetheatre.co.uk Join Dame Trott, Jack and an enchanted land in the clouds as they battle a very hungry giant. There’s the promise of lots of Fee Fi Fo FUN! 01423 502 116

FAMILIES LEEDS | November/December 27

What’s on…

CHRISTMAS SPECIAL Pull on your Santa hat and get ready to celebrate the festivities at some of our favourite attractions here in Yorkshire. Don’t forget, you can find out where Santa is over the next few months on pages 24 & 25. Take a look and have fun planning a super family Christmas.

Saturday 10th November World Medicine Month EVERY SATURDAY IN NOVEMBER THACKRAY MUSEUM www.thackraymuseum.org Drop in craft sessions every Saturday in November. Sessions at 10am and again at 1pm.

Saturday 10th & Sunday 11th November Santa arrives in Yorkshire STOCKELD PARK www.thechristmasadventure.com Meet the reindeers from 12 noon and then welcome Santa to Yorkshire in a parade through the Enchanted Forest from 3pm on both days. The perfect way to kick start the festivities.

Saturday 17th & Sunday 18th November Christmas at Hogwarts STOCKELD PARK www.thechristmasadventure.com Welcome some magic all the way from Hogwarts. Harry Potter tribute events will be happening throughout the weekend under the watchful eye of Hagrid and Harry. Get your wands at the ready! Starts at 12 noon.

Saturday 24th November Kirkstall Abbey Deli Market www.leeds.gov.uk Great local market in the shadow of the Abbey. Stock up on some great food by fabulous local producers. There’ll be Christmas treats to buy! Begins at 12 noon.

Friday 30th November Silly Streets ABBEY HOUSE www.leeds.gov.uk Shopping fun and games for under 5s on the Victorian Streets. 10am start.

Saturday 1st December

VICTORIAN CHRISTMAS AT THE THACKRAY

Magic Hatter STOCKELD PARK www.thechristmasadventure.com A bit of magic comes to Stockeld Park. Come along and enjoy the show at 1.30 and 3.30pm. Free event.

Saturday 1st & Sunday 2nd December EVERY WEEKEND UNTIL Music at the Abbey 30TH DECEMBER FOUNTAINS ABBEY www.nationaltrust.org.uk/fountainsabbey Head to the beautiful Abbey as darkness falls and listen to the seasonal music and enjoy the trees twinkling in the moonlight. A beautiful venue to begin the festive celebrations. From 3.30pm – 5pm.

Stockeld Welcomes…

WHEN: SATURDAY 17TH & SUNDAY 18TH NOVEMBER WHERE: STOCKELD PARK, WETHERBY www.stockeldpark.co.uk

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Victorian Christmas THACKRAY MUSEUM www.thackraymuseum.org Drop in craft sessions at the superb Thackray Museum. Make sure you plan a lunch at the fabulous museum café – it’s worth a visit. Christmas Shopping Weekend ABBEY HOUSE www.leeds.gov.uk Experience Abbey House’s Victorian Streets as a busy Christmas shopping area. Buy your festive gifts, listen to traditional music and see Santa. For all your Santa dates at Abbey House, see page 24.

Sunday 2nd December Santa Dash STOCKELD PARK www.thechristmasadventure.com Join hundreds of Santas running through the Enchanted Forest at Stockeld Park to raise funds for Martin Hospice. Race begins at 9am.

Thursday 6th December

W

ITH THE HELP OF Make a Wish Entertainment, some very special wizard visitors are heading to Wetherby all the way from Hogwarts. We’ve had a sneak preview of Stockeld’s Harry Potter tribute weekend and not even a magic spell will keep us quiet. You’ll be invited to wear the Hogwart’s Sorting Hat, take part in a broomstick training workshop, plant magic beans and see live owls. You can also don your dress robes, prepare your wand and get ready for the Harry Potter catwalk with prizes for the best dressed costumes at 3pm each day. These special Harry Potter activities cost only £1 or are FREE! If you go down to the woods you’ll see the elves have flicked the switch to turbo magical this year in time for Harry and Hagrid to perform a special show for you – the woodland trail winds to a new performance area where shows will take place 4 times each day (show tickets an extra £2.50). And Stockeld’s Magical Gift Emporium will be stocked with extra special wizarding gifts to make sure the magic lasts long after you’ve left. All adventure zones will be open as usual (Enchanted Forest, maze, Nordic skiing and real ice skating) and special bargain Golden Potter Passes allow you to enter all four Adventure Zones and do all the special activities for a single cost of £15 per child, £17 per adult or £56 for a family of 4. Golden Potter Passes, regular day passes, special event tickets and season tickets can be purchased online at www.stockeld park.co.uk. Individual adventure zone tickets can be bought on the day.

Carols by Candlelight HAREWOOD HOUSE www.harewood.org/winter Head to the winter wonderland right on our doorstep and join the carols by candlelight. This is the perfect venue to welcome in the festive period and despite the winter weather, you’ll leave feeling warmed by the cheer. Drop into the Christmas Shop to stock up on treats! CHRISTMAS AT HAREWOOD

FAMILIES LEEDS | November/December 29

Saturday 8th December Victorian Christmas Evening TEMPLE NEWSAM www.leeds.gov.uk Come and celebrate a Victorian Christmas in the super surroundings of Temple Newsam. Join in with the games and craft activities and listen to the music. Family tickets are available and children are welcome. Booking essential on 0113 336 7460.

Saturday 8th & Sunday 9th December

This Christmas at

BOLTON ABBEY

Victorian Christmas THACKRAY MUSEUM www.thackraymuseum.org Drop in craft sessions at the superb Thackray Museum. Make sure you plan a lunch at the fabulous museum café – it’s worth a visit.

Sunday 9th December Carols by Candlelight FOUNTAINS ABBEY www.nationaltrust.org.uk/fountainsabbey Head to the Abbey for the annual carol service. Starts at 3pm.

Saturday 15th & Sunday 16th December Magical Christmas LOTHERTON HALL www.leeds.gov.uk Christmas crafts, magic tricks, a nativity scene in the stables and a grotto in the house. A super way to spend a December weekend. 11am – 4pm. Victorian Christmas THACKRAY MUSEUM www.thackraymuseum.org Drop in craft sessions at the superb Thackray Museum. Make sure you plan a lunch at the fabulous museum café – it’s worth a visit.

Sunday 16th December Christmas Carols in the Abbey KIRKSTALL ABBEY www.leeds.gov.uk Back by popular demand! This is bound to get you in the Christmas spirit. An hour of beautiful carols from the Heritage Singers from 2pm.

Meet Father Christmas in Strid Wood Find Father Christmas and his jolly elves resting in an old Romany caravan in Strid Wood on

1, 2, 8, 9, 15, 16, 22, 23 December, 10.00am - 4.00pm Enjoy open log fires, sing along to the Christmas carols, leave a note for Father Christmas on the wishing tree and make your own magic reindeer dust. Each child will receive a personalised, age-appropriate present. £5 per child, normal estate admission applies. Book Now to avoid disappointment: 01756 718009

12 Days of Christmas Trail Sing along with all the family to the traditional Christmas carol as you walk through Strid Wood between

26th December and 5th January Around every corner you will see the Christmas carol come to life before your eyes. Look out for swans a swimming on the River Wharfe and real French hens. As you near the end of your walk, listen out for the sound of 11 pipers piping! And why not try your hand at the drums! Free event, normal admission applies.

Tuesday 18th – Friday 21st December Festive Fun ABBEY HOUSE www.leeds.gov.uk Join the fun with crafts, games, music and another chance to see Santa. 10am – 12 noon and 2 – 4pm.

Further information contact:

01756 718 009 www.boltonabbey.com

30

FAMILIES LEEDS | November/December

Thursday 20th December

Top Three

SANTA TRAINS

A Christmas Carol FOUNTAINS ABBEY www.nationaltrust.org.uk/fountainsabbey Come and see some Christmas theatre at Fountains Abbey. Watch the story of Ebenezer Scrooge as he’s visited by three spirits. Booking essential. Shows at 2.30pm and 7.30pm.

Saturday 22nd December

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1

Embsay and Bolton Abbey Steam Railway www.embsayboltonabbeyrailway.org.uk

Sunday 25th November, 1st & 2nd December, 8th & 9th December and 15th & 16th December. Mid week special on Tuesday 11th December. Join Santa as he gives out gifts onboard this famous steam train. Trains begin at 10.30am and run every 90 minutes until 3pm. Round trip in an hour. Tickets are £10 for 3 year olds and £6 for 2 year olds. Pre-booking is essential. 01756 710 614

2

Middleton Railway

www.middletonrailway.org.uk

Saturday 1st & Sunday 2nd December, 15th & 16th December, 22nd & 23rd December and 24th December. Middleton Railway in Leeds welcomes good girls and boys this December, and Santa can’t wait to meet you. He’ll be onboard the Santa Specials from 10.30am every weekend in December. The trains run every 45 minutes until 3.45pm. The journey lasts 35 minutes. Every child receives a gift and all adults can join in the fun with a warm drink and a mince pie as you get back to Moor Road. Tickets are £7 for adults, £8.50 for children aged 3 – 12 years and under 3s pay £5. Booking on the day means you’ll pay a £1 a ticket supplement. Booking recommended. 0845 680 1758

3

Kirklees Light Railway

www.kirkleeslightrailway.com

Saturday 1st & 2nd December, Friday 7th – Sunday 9th December, Friday 14th – Sunday 16th and Friday 21st – Monday 24th December. Take the Santa Express to the Grotto at Shelley Station. Santa will be waiting for children, and there’ll be a mince pie waiting for the grown ups. Trains begin at 10am and run every 55 minutes. If you want to make your journey extra magical, book your place on the Twilight Santa Trains which will run from 5pm – 7pm on Friday 7th, 14th and 21st December. Tickets are £10 for children under 3 and £12 for over 3s. Children under 12 months are free as long as they sit on a grown ups knee. Book early as some of the Christmas Eve trains are already full. 01484 865 727

Kirkstall Abbey Christmas Market KIRKSTALL ABBEY www.leeds.gov.uk Stock up the freshest local produce for your Christmas Day feast. There will also be some great gift opportunities. Begins at 12 noon.

Saturday 22nd – Monday 31st December Create your own Decorations FOUNTAINS ABBEY www.nationaltrust.org.uk/fountainsabbey Head to Swanley Grange for a drop in craft session where you can make your own Christmas decorations.

Wednesday 26th December – Saturday 5th January 12 Days of Christmas BOLTON ABBEY www.boltonabbey.com A great way to walk off your Christmas pounds. See some of your favourite Christmas carols come to life as you walk through Strid Wood. See the swans a swimming on the River Wharfe. Spot the French hens and listen for the pipers piping. Wrap up and head out on this fantastic family walk.

Thursday 27th December Splat a Sprout ABBEY HOUSE www.leeds.gov.uk Banish those post Xmas blues with some fun and games at Abbey House. Fun at 10am and again at 2pm.

Friday 28th December Smelly History ABBEY HOUSE www.leeds.gov.uk Guess the smell on the Victorian Streets and discover some horrid history facts with a mystery object in your midst. 10am and 2pm.

Saturday 29th & Sunday 30th December Christmas Murder at the Museum ABBEY HOUSE www.leeds.gov.uk Mr Humbug has been hit over the head with a Christmas pudding bowl. Join the detectives to solve the clues and crack the case. Saturday 2 – 4pm. Sunday 10am – 12 noon and 2 – 4pm.

Monday 31st December Noon Year’s Eve Party EUREKA! www.eureka.org.uk Welcome in the new year, 12 hours early! This child friendly celebration means you can celebrate 2013 with your family before heading home to put them to bed! Celebrations begin at the stroke of midday.

REGULAR EVENTS SUNDAY Arty Smarties ABBEY HOUSE www.leeds.gov.uk Drop in craft session for families from 2pm.

WHAT’S ON THIS WINTER?

TUESDAY

VIP children’s buffet, visit from Santa and a present! Every Sunday in December £10.00 per child (under 16), booking desirable.

Muddy Monkeys TERM TIME KIRKSTALL ABBEY www.leeds.gov.uk Messy creative fun with natural and art materials. If the weather is nice, the monkeys head outside to the ruins. Dress for mess!

Breakfast with Santa

Call now 0113 245 1111 Traditional St. Nicolas grotto Saturdays & Sundays in December (Museum entrance fee applies )

Free drop-in themed activities (Including making Victorian christmas cards)

TERM TIME

Little Lotherton Art Sessions LOTHERTON HALL www.leeds.gov.uk First Tuesday of every month in term time. Under 5s art sessions. 10am start.

Beckett Street, Leeds, LS9 7LN www.thackraymuseum.org

WEDNESDAY Little Scientists NEW SESSION ABBEY HOUSE www.leeds.gov.uk First Wednesday of every month. This new session for curious under 5s looks at science in a creative way.

THURSDAY Fairy Fun KIRKSTALL ABBEY www.leeds.gov.uk Third Thursday of every month from 10am. Creative fairy fun for under 5s and their carers. Come in fairy outfits but be prepared to get messy.

FRIDAY Messy Monkeys TERM TIME ABBEY HOUSE www.leeds.gov.uk Drop in messy craft for under 5s and their carers. From 2pm.

SATURDAY Rory’s Saturday Club TERM TIME LEEDS CITY MUSEUM www.leeds.gov.uk Drop in art and craft session relating to the museum’s displays. Starts at 11am.

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The Enchanted Forest, Stockeld Park

Sunday 2nd December 2012

Free it Su Santa y Bag d e & Goeo veryon for kes who tart pa

8.30 am registration, 9 am start

Join hundreds of people running through the forest dressed in Santa Suits. The perfect way to get into the Christmas spirit! To register call: 01937 844569 events@martinhouse.org.uk www.martinhouse.org.uk

REGISTER NOW | TTel: el: e 01296 0 733011 www.santasontherun.org.uk

www.braintumourresearch.org www w.braintumourresearch.or .braintumo . g

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