Scallymag for Todmorden & Hebden Bridge - Winter '15

THE

S C A LL Y A G M

®

Walsden, Cornholme, Todmorden, Hebden Bridge, Mytholmroyd, Luddendenfoot & Surrounding Areas

Diary pages For Pre-school and Out-of-school activities

Out & About Shibden Hall and Park

Focus On:

News

Cuddle Cot Appeal, New School for Hebden Bridge, Lamplighter Festival Timetable, TalkFirst meets Blessingway, and more.

Primary school admissions

Winter ‘15

Issue 51

For Local Parents, Carers & Kids

Regular Features Family Health Literacy News Bloke in a Kitchen Competitions

And Much More se ea e l p ak t ne o

page welcome header contact us

contents Diary Pages Playgroups, Out of school clubs, Swimming,

Libraries & Soft Play Pre-School Diary Out-Of-School Diary Competitions Design our next front cover Out & About Shibden Hall & Park News New school for Hebden Bridge, Cuddle Cot appeal, talkFirst meets Blessingway and more Focus On: Primary school admissions Family Health Hypnosis in children and young people Your health Q&A Literacy The latest news from The Book Case Bloke in a Kitchen Luxury Christmas Cake Craft Christmassy gifts from your photos Special Offer Fron SwimStars

Page 11 Page 12 Page 14 Page 2 Page 8 Page 4 - 7

Page 16 Page 21 Page 23 Page 18 Page 19 Page 22 Page 10

For competition entries, to discuss and book advertising space, ideas for future articles or just to let us know what you think of the magazine, please get in touch by any of the following means:

0 Bankside House, Haugh Road, Todmorden, OL14 6BU 8 hazel@thescallymag.co.uk  07816 321439 R www.thescallymag.co.uk The Scallymag (Todmorden & Hebden Bridge) @ScallymagTod

Editor: Hazel Bregazzi Lay-out & Design: Hazel Bregazzi Publishing: Bankside House Publishing, Todmorden Distribution: Many thanks to all schools, groups and other businesses which help with the distribution of The Scallymag® Special Thanks: To all advertisers whose contribution ensures the magazine can be distributed Free of Charge Editorial & Advertising: Hazel Bregazzi, Bankside House, OL14 6BU hazel@thescallymag.co.uk Disclaimer: Whilst every care is taken to ensure that information contained in this magazine is true, accurate and fair, the publisher cannot take any responsibility for events arising from the use of this information. Any statements or opinions given in this magazine are not necessarily those of the publisher. © The Scallymag® 2015 Nothing may be reproduced without permission

Congratulations To: Ruby Brady

aged 10, of Wadsworth who drew our fun-filled front cover picture

“A Winter Welcome”

She gets a £25 voucher to spend at Silly Billy’s Toy Shop in Hebden Bridge.

Many thanks to Bill from Silly Billy’s for judging the competition.

news cuddle cot appeal

scout post

n the past couple of years, Todmorden has had more than its fair share of teenage deaths. There is also the more private heartache suffered by those who have lost a baby or child through still birth, miscarriage, ectopic pregnancy, premature and neonatal death or illness.

nce again this year the 8th/26th Scouts of Todmorden will be giving up lots of their free time to deliver Christmas mail around the Town.

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Angel Wings is a UK wide support network for families who have suffered the loss of a baby or child. They work tirelessly to raise much needed awareness of these problems as well as raising funds for things such as ‘Cuddle Cots’ which they gift to hospitals and funeral homes throughout the UK. So far they have gifted 11 cots and are now fundraising for their 12th which will be coming to Todmorden once purchased.

A Cuddle Cot is a piece of medical equipment that acts like a refrigerated bassinet and allows babies who have died far too soon to stay with their parents and family so they do not need to be taken straight to the mortuary.

It allows grieving families some precious time to spend with their baby, enabling them to create more lasting memories before saying their final Goodbyes.

Debbie Bennett, the Lancashire Team Coordinator for Angel Wings Baby and Child Loss Support, tells us more; “After losing my son Niall, far too soon, I got involved with Angel Wings and helped to raise the funds to

purchase a Cuddle Cot, dedicated to Niall’s memory, for Burnley General Hospital. I now want to see this crucial piece of equipment available in all neighbouring towns.

“Each cot, when gifted, is dedicated to the memory of one of Our Angels. This one will be dedicated in Loving memory of two local boys of Todmorden. Callum Brown, who died following a tragic accident in April 2014, and Jack Pickles who also died as a result of playing the choking game in February 2015. It will be gifted to J&C Warburton Funeral Directors, who cared for Callum so well.”

If you would like to make a donation to the fund, please visit www.gofundme. com/Todmorden. To find out more about the support group and how you can get involved, go to www.facebook. com/mumsangelbabys.

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At just 25p per card this is much cheaper than Royal Mail, with the money raised going to the Beavers, Cubs, Scouts and Explorers in the group.

The service starts on 28th November and last day for posting is 18th December. You don’t need to live in Todmorden to use the service, but they only deliver to Todmorden addresses.

Simply take your cards to one of the post boxes listed below, pay for your stamps there and post your cards.

Please write your card recipient address clearly.

Post boxes are located in: • The Corner Shop - Portsmouth • Hartley’s General Store • Eric Wrathall’s Shoe Repairs • Crumbly Cheese - Indoor Market • Todmorden News Centre (formally Cryers) • Todmorden Tourist Information Centre • Walsden Village News • Walsden Library • Abdul’s Newsagent - Halifax Road • Central Hair Design - Water Street • Yew Tree Court

About the Great Pudding Dash

The Great Pudding Dash - for rival runners and pudding perfectionists

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new challenge is set for Saturday 5th December.

It’s a third of mile race, with a dishy difference; all runners must navigate the course with a Christmas Pudding on a plate.First past the post, with pud intact, is the winner. Or, if you’re athletically challenged, you can enter the pudding tasting competition.

Entry to the races (there are several different age-group categories) is open to anyone over 14, but there is also a

shorter ‘Jelly Jog’ for those ages 8 to 14.

If you would like to take part, please fill in the registration form on the website. The first race starts at 10.30am from TheNew Delight Inn, Blackshawhead, along a 0.38 mile Tarmacked track. Mr Wilson’s Second

For more information:

R www.puddingdash.co.uk puddingdash @PuddingDash

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Liners and more will be providing post race entertainment and refreshments will be available from The New Delight Inn. All runners must provide their own Christmas Pudding and plate (passed by Scrutineers) and there is a registration fee of £5 is payable in cash on the day.

All proceeds go to Médecins Sans Frontières/Doctors Without Borders UK.

news

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The Sense pod hits the road!

New Alternative Secondary School

ebden Bridge School will be a small, alternative secondary school for children aged 11 to 16 years and is planning to open in the Hebden Bridge area in September 2016.

The independent school will use daily meditation and yoga in class sizes of no more than 20 pupils and students will make decisions, together with teachers, about how the school is run through a weekly school meeting.

Lead teacher, Anil Sarna, who has a long history of experience as a languages teacher and meditation and yoga instructor says; “In our consultation, local parents have expressed interest in a more holistic approach to education that develops the wellbeing of each child emotionally, physically and mentally.

They also want to have professional teachers who take exams seriously and will thoroughly prepare students to succeed at GCSEs. “Our small school will have no more than 100 pupils when full, which is a family-scale size that nurtures personal growth for students in what will be a warm, supportive atmosphere. We will be a democratically-run school where children learn to find their voice and to listen to others.

“Our small size is essential to realising our educational philosophy but currently precludes us from receiving any government or LEA funding. Should this situation change in the future, we would be delighted to not have to charge fees.”

G Taster sessions will give year 6 and year 5 children and parents the chance to meet the staff and experience what the school will be like. Learning at the school from years 7 to 9 will be mainly project based and the taster sessions will revolve around particular themes.

They will be held at the Birchcliffe Centre, Hebden Bridge and the dates in 2016 will be; January 17, February 28, April 17, May 22 and June 19.

The school is looking for a suitable building in the Hebden Bridge area.

Photo: Back row; Sam Lowi Community liaison, Gaynor Thompson-Clarke Trustee.

Front row; Wendy Hollway Trustee & Chairperson, Anil Sarna Lead teacher, Zoe Holden Creative Director.

row Big has launched its first sensory play outreach project in Calderdale.

Run by a team of volunteers, the large inflatable pod will be visiting six Children’s Centres over the coming months with an exciting and unique programme of sensory activities for around 100 pre-school children.

Each week the pod will be transformed into different multi-sensory environments including woodland and seaside. The children will also get chance to play with treasure baskets containing over 50 sensory-rich items with a range of textures, colour, properties, shape and weight.

The Sense project has been funded

by Calderdale Council and the National Lottery and aims to improve each child’s personal, social and emotional skills.

Rachel Stewart, founder of Grow Big, explains why the project focuses on the senses: “Sensory play is vital for a child’s brain development and encourages learning. What’s great though is that parents can provide sensory play opportunities at home that cost next to nothing”.

For more information:

For more information:

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0 Anil Sarna R www.hebdenbridgeschool.co.uk hebdenbridgeschool

0 Rachel Stewart  07855 507116 8 info@growbig.co.uk 8 rachel@growbig.co.uk R www.growbig.co.uk growbigsocialenterprise @GrowBigInspire

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news Lamplighter Festival

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ow in its third year, the Lamplighter Festival will take to the streets of Todmorden on Saturday 28th November this year.

10am - 8pm Made in Tod Craft Fair in the Masonic Hall 12am - 3pm KidsFest in the Town Hall

Here is the preliminary timetable for everything that will be happening in the town on that day:

Until 9pm Christmas Market with locally made gifts and food 4pm Christmas Lights switch on by the Peace Garden 6pm - 7.30pm Father Christmas in the Market Hall 6pm Lamplighter Parade begins 7pm - 9pm Fire shows, illuminated installations & street performances all around town

Alison Grant architect

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extensions loft conversions alterations energy solutions restorations

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Tel 01422 847 927

Web www.alisongrantarchitect.co.uk

news TalkFirst moves to Blessingway

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usan Broxton has been running the TalkFirst baby signing classes in our area for over eight years now, helping hundreds of families begin communicating with their babies at an early age.

Up until recently, her Hebden Bridge classes have been taking place in the Children’s Centre but she has now moved to new premises in the newly re-branded Blessingway Yoga Studio in the Birchcliffe Centre.

“The venue is wonderful” Susan told us. “Close to Hebden Bridge Centre, with lots of free parking. I am really pleased with the space and am looking forward to settling in.”

Blessingway Yoga Studio has recently changed hands and is now being managed by Tracy.

“We are still offering the pregnancy and family services as before,” she tells us, “but we now have classes in yoga for babies (3-9 months) and pre-schoolers (3-5 yrs), pregnancy and post natal Pilates, meditation to help recovery after birth, plus Hatha yoga and Mature (over 50s) yoga for beginners and those returning to the practice after a break. The TalkFirst classes compliment our programme very well and we are

looking forward to meeting lots of new families through the classes.”

Susan tells us a bit more about Baby Signing.

“Baby signing is about good communication between you and your baby. From a very young age babies can understand you. They are also having plenty of thoughts of their own but they can’t tell you what those thoughts are and that’s frustrating.

Fortunately hand-eye coordination develops well before speech, so signing bridges the ‘I know what I want but can’t say it yet’ gap. A great relief for a frustrated baby and frazzled parents!

“Our classes last for 45 minutes and are for all children from birth up to 3 years. At each class we introduce 8 new signs, all based around a theme e.g. bath time, meals, animals etc.

The classes are a truly multisensory experience as all signs are reinforced through singing, music, rhymes and short activities. We also have an

For more information:

0 Susan Broxton  01706 878781 8 susan@talkfirst.net R www.talkfirst.net talkfirsteastlancs

0 Tracy Anne Davies  07864 007179 8 tracyannedavies@yahoo.com R www.blessingway.co.uk

extensive collection of puppets and props which can be used to link in with the class themes. The classes are structured but delivered in a relaxed and fun atmosphere.” To find out more, or book a free taster session, please contact Susan.

For times of all the classes mentioned please see our diary pages (centre spread). Blessingway would also welcome enquiries from anyone, especially those offering baby and children’s services, who might like to make use their space. Please contact Tracy.

Photos: Left: Susan from TalkFirst Right: Tracy from Blessingway

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BlessingwayYogaStudio

new childminder in luddenden foot

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new Childminder has recently set up in Luddenden Foot and they are available to take children from babies, right through school wrap-around care, up to the age of 11.

Marie, who is running Luddendenfootprints with her mum, Jean, has a degree in Childhood Studies and holds an Early Years Teacher

Certificate. She has recently moved to the area from Cleckheaton, where she worked with children for 12 years, eight of those as a childminder. She has a little girl of her own, Ruby aged 5, and is passionate about children’s learning and development.

“I believe that all children should be given the same opportunities to play, explore, investigate, experience and learn, taking account of individual personalities, preferences and abilities.” she tells us. “I am an holistic practitioner

who provides children with care, comfort and support. My setting offers a wide range of equipment and resources that can be accessed while being surrounded by a calm learning environment.”

For more information:

0 Marie Briggs  07855 415578 8 marie.briggs@sky.com Luddendenfootprints

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shibden -

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t doesn’t matter what time of year you visit, there’s always something fascinating going on at Shibden Hall.

Scare yourself silly at the Spooky Shibden workshops and Zombie Walk or celebrate Christmas in traditional 17th century style; in summer enjoy boating on the lake or reading in the tranquil gardens.

The enduring charm of this characterful house and gardens has been appreciated for generations and offers plenty for historians and pleasure-seekers alike.

The house itself dates back to 1420 when it was inhabited by a William Otes. Prior to 1619, the estate was owned by the Savile and Waterhouse families. The three families’ armorial symbols are recorded in a stone-mullioned 20-light window at the hall.

For 300 years, the hall was home to the Lister family, wealthy mill owners and cloth merchants. Its most colourful resident was Anne Lister, a fascinating and complicated character who inherited the house from her

uncle in 1826 and lived there until she died in 1840.

Anne was an extensive diarist and wrote more than 4,000,000 words, in which she chronicled things the weather, social events, national events and her business interests. Some of her diaries – ostensibly the parts covering her lesbian relationships – were written in code which was only recently broken.

While you don’t have to be an expert on local history to appreciate what must have been a comfortable and impressive family house, a tour of the hall offers a peek into the lives of those who made it their home and one cannot help wondering about the gossip in the kitchen and the hopes and dreams of those who slept in the opulent Red Room.

Families will find the nursery particularly fascinating – it still has the original rocking horse and Punch and Judy puppets which entertained generations of the Lister family.

Is it haunted? Legend has it that Anne’s footsteps can be heard going to and from her secret library, while some have detected a faint aroma of lavender and heard the quiet swish of

out & about

- a venue for all seasons a crinoline skirt. Your imagination may whisper that the eyes of the paintings in the grand hallway follow you when you move. Take a look around at dusk and decide for yourself; the house certainly seems to retain something of the lives and loves of those who have called it home.

Outside there is a fascinating collection of outbuildings including a tack room, carriage store and even a forge, complete with its own incredibly friendly blacksmith. We were lucky enough to watch him at work and the little ones could even lend a hand working the bellows to fan the flames of the fire.

There is also an estate worker’s cottage, essentially a one up, one down with just enough room for a table, stove and bed. As my eight-year-old put it in his inimitable Through T’Keyhole style: “Who would habitate in a house like this?” If nothing else, this lowly cottage puts the grandeur of the main hall into context.

On a fine day, Shibden Park offers much for families to enjoy. The rolling hills offer ample room to scamper or kick a football; there are ducks and

geese to feed by the side of the mere, and at weekends the Shibden Miniature Railway transports young visitors around the park.

Sadly, on the day of our visit, rain had stopped play in the outdoor adventure park. But there are plenty of well-maintained paths to explore and of course a well-stocked cafe to provide essential winter warmers such as soup and lattes.

Car parking is cheap and plentiful – it’s just £1 to park all day – and there are disabled spaces right outside the hall itself.

Whether you head to Shibden to soak up some history or to give the kids a run around in the fresh air, it’s one of the most atmospheric and breathtakingly beautiful open spaces this area has to offer.

Photos clockwise: The distinctive Tudor frontage of Shibden Hall The view across the park A tree sculpture in the park The blacksmith explains his craft to two young visitors The tiny cottage where the estate worker lived A gate in the grounds All Photos by K Wobshall

Fact file Address: Lister’s Road, Halifax HX3 6XG Website: www.museums.calderdale.gov. uk/visit/shibden-hall Winter opening: Mon-Tues 10am-4pm; Sat-Sun 11am-4pm; closed Wed-Fri. The hall: The house dates back to the 1400s and offers a glimpse of the fascinating lives of the people who lived and worked at Shibden Hall. The adjacent barn and workshops house a carriage collection and displays relating to different crafts, and there is even a recreated brewhouse and inn.

The park: The gardens and estate boast a range of attractions, including a cafe, miniature railway, boating lake, pitch and putt course as well as trails, play area, orienteering course and woodland in which to roam.

Cost: Parking costs £1 all day.

Admission: Adults: £4.50, children 5-16 years / Senior Citizens / Passport to Leisure: £3.50 Family (2 adults, 2 children): £12.50

Viol in & Viol a TuiTion Beginner to Diploma Standard

ROBIN PENNIE Tr i n i T y C ol l e ge l on d on - l .T.C.l .

Professional teacher and performer Twenty-five years experience

t: 01706 559971 e: sandrpennie@gmail.com

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diary pages

9:15 - 11:45 12:45 - 3:15* ages 2½ to 5

9:00 - 12:00 1:00 - 4:00*

9:00 - 12:00 1.00 - 3.30* ages 2 - 5

9:20 - 3:30* ages 2½ to 4

9:15 - 11:45 12:45 - 3:15* ages 2½ to 5

9:00 - 12:00 1:00 - 4:00*

9:00 - 12:00 1.00 - 3.30* ages 2 - 5

9:20 - 3:30* ages 2½ to 4

9:15 - 11:45 12:45 - 3:15* ages 2½ to 5

9:00 - 12:00 1:00 - 4:00*

9:00 - 12:00 1.00 - 3.30* ages 2 - 5

9:20 - 3:30* ages 2½ to 4

9:00 - 12:00 1:00 - 4:00*

9:00 - 12:00 1.00 - 3.30* ages 2 - 5

9:20 - 3:30* ages 2½ to 4

The Fun Track Out of School Mytholmroyd Community Centre, Caldene Ave. Mytholmroyd 01422 882226

9:20 - 3:30* ages 2½ to 4

9:45 - 1:45 ages 3 to 6

7:00 - 6:30 ages 4 to 14

7:30 - 9:00 2:30 - 6:00

7:45 - 9:00 3:00 - 6:00 ages 4 to 11

7:30 - 9:00 3:30 - 6:00 ages 3 to 11

7:30- 9:00 3:00 - 6:00 ages 3 to 11

7:00 - 6:30 ages 4 to 14

7:30 - 9:00 2:30 - 6:00

7:45 - 9:00 3:00 - 6:00 ages 4 to 11

7:30 - 9:00 3:30 - 6:00 ages 3 to 11

7:30 - 9:00 3:00 - 6:00 ages 3 to 11

9:45 - 1:45 ages 3 to 6

7:00 - 6:30 ages 4 to 14

7:30 - 9:00 2:30 - 6:00

7:45 - 9:00 3:00 - 6:00 ages 4 to 11

7:30 - 9:00 3:30 - 6:00 ages 3 to 11

7:30 - 9:00 3:00 - 6:00 ages 3 to 11

9:15 - 11:45 12:45 - 3:15* ages 2½ to 5

9:45 - 1:45 ages 3 to 6

7:00 - 6:30 ages 4 to 14

7:30 - 9:00 2:30 - 6:00

7:45 - 9:00 3:00 - 6:00 ages 4 to 11

7:30 - 9:00 3:30 - 6:00 ages 3 to 11

7:30 - 9:00 3:00 - 6:00 ages 3 to 11

9:15 - 11:45 12:45 - 3:15* ages 2½ to 5

9:45 - 1:45 ages 3 to 6

7:00 - 6:30 ages 4 to 14

7:30 - 9:00 2:30 - 6:00

7:45 - 9:00 3:00 - 6:00 ages 4 to 11

3:30 - 6:00 ages 3 to 11

7:30 - 9:00 3:00 - 6:00 ages 3 to 11

Todmorden Playgroup Todmorden C of E School Playground, Burnley Rd, Todmorden 01706 812019

Before & After School Luddenden Dene J,I & N CE School, Dene View, Luddenden Foot Andrea - 07812 905251

Friday

9:00 - 12:00 1.00 - 3.30* ages 2 - 5

Space at The Ark The Ark Nursery, Cragg Vale, Mytholmroyd 01422 882010

Thursday

9:00 - 12:00 1:00 - 4:00*

Out of School clubs

Steiner Kindergarten Steiner Kindergarten St. John’s Centre Cragg Vale Marilyn - 01422 885249

Wednesday

Colden Preschool Colden School Playground, Smithy Lane, Colden, Hebden Bridge 01422 846734

Tuesday

Mytholmroyd Playgroup The Community Centre, Caldene Avenue, Mytholmroyd, Hebden Bridge 01422 882226

Monday

The Ark Pre-School Dean Hey Farm, Cragg Road, Mytholmroyd 01422 882010

pre-schools & playgroups

received. Please phone ahead before setting out as details can change at any time.

The second spread shows the many different activities available for school age children, from Chess to Dancing, Karate to Brass bands! Again, please use the contact details provided to check details before setting out.

If you have any new or up-dated information that should be included here, please let us know – contact details are on page 3.

Heptonstall Out of School Club Heptonstall J, I & N School, Smithwell Lane, Heptonstall 01422 843619

On this first page we have the Pre-school and Playgroups that run in our area. These usually offer free sessions for children aged 3 and over for 15 hours per week during term time. Contact them directly for more information.

The Out of School Clubs listings are for older children who require care outside normal school hours or during holidays. Those

listed take all children, not just those who attend any associated school.

The bottom section shows opening times for places you might like to visit regularly with your child.

The centre spread is the Pre-school Diary.

White background is for drop-in sessions, shaded background is for bookable activities.

All sessions will require an adult to remain with the child at all times. Most activities charge a small fee; all Children’s Centre services are free, with any donations gratefully

Hebden Royd Out-Of-Schools Club Upper Rooms, St James’ Church, Hebden Royd 01422 842821

T

he heart of The Scallymag are the following indispensible diary pages.

9:45 - 1:45 ages 3 to 6

* Lunchtime supervision is also provided for children staying all day, for a small extra charge.

Mytholmroyd Library Cragg Road, Mytholmroyd 01422 883933

Walsden Library Inchfield Road, Walsden 01706 815602

Maxwell’s Fun House Hollins Mill, Rochdale Road, Walsden Todmorden 01706 813166

Upsy Daisy’s Playcentre Moderna Business Park, Burnley Road, Mytholmroyd 01422 881717

Jitterbugs Play Centre Riverside Works, Todmorden Road, Littleborough 01706 378123

soft play

Todmorden Library Strand, Rochdale Road Todmorden 01706 815600

Library times

Hebden Bridge Library Cheetham Street Hebden Bridge 01422 842151

* See Diary Listing for Fun Swim times

Swim for all Todmorden Sports Centre, Ewood Lane, Todmorden 01706 839090

Swim

10:00 - 6:30

10:00 - 6:30

2:00 - 4:30

2:00 - 6:00

10:00 - 3:00

9:00 - 6:00

9:30 - 6:00

Monday

9:00 - 12:00 1:30 - 7:00

Tuesday

9:00 - 12:00 1:30 - 3.45 7:00 - 8.15

Wednesday

9:00 - 12:00 1:30 - 7:00

10:00 - 5:00

Thursday

9:00 - 12:00 1:30 - 9.00

10:00 - 6:30

Friday

9:00 - 12:00 1:30 - 7:00 8.00 - 9.00

10:00 - 5:00

10:00 - 6:30

1:30 - 6:30

Saturday

9:00 - 1:30 3.00 - 6:30

10:00 - 4:00

10:00 - 4:00

10:00 - 12:00

sunday

9:00 - 12.45 2.30 - 4.00

10:00 - 5:00

10:00 - 5:00

10:00 - 3:00

9:00 - 6:00

9:30 - 6:00

9:00 - 6:00

9:30 - 6:00

10:00 - 6:00

9:00 - 6:00

9:30 - 6:00

10:00 - 3:00

9:00 - 6:00

9:30 - 6:00

1:00 - 5:00

9:00 - 6:00

9:30 - 6:00

1:00 - 4:00

10:00 - 4:00

9:30 - 6:00

2:00 - 4:30

1:00 - 5:00

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SATURDAY

FRIDAY

THURSDAY

WEDNESDAY

TUESDAY

MONDAY

Pre-school diary

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Caterpillar Club 9:00 - 11:30 (term time only) Scout Road Academy, Scout Road, Mytholmroyd 01422 883327

Parent & Toddlers 9:15 - 12:15 The Old Library, 1 Parkside Road, Cornholme Oxana - 01706 813222

Walsden Community Playgroup @ St Peter’s 9:15 - 11:00 St Peter’s Church, Walsden Sheila 01706 812782

Centre Vale Playgroup 9:30 - 11:30 Fielden Centre, Ewood Lane, Todmorden Please call in for details

Midgley Under 5’s 9:45 - 11:15 Midgley School, Midgley Jo - 01422 881984

Parent Support Drop-In 10:00 - 11:30 Todmorden Children’s Centre, Burnley Road, Todmorden 01706 399970 - FREE

Heptons Toddler 10:00 - 1 Heptons Club, Ac please c

Steiner Parent & Child 10.00 - 12.00 St John’s Centre, Cragg Vale Sally - 07904 052816

TalkFirst Baby & Toddler Signing 10:00 & 11:00 Blessingway Yoga Studio, Birchclife Road, Hebden Bridge Susan - 01706 878781 From Birth

Baby Massage 10:30 - 11:30 Todmorden or Hebden Bridge.

Please call for details Debbie - 07899 077704

TinyTalk Baby Signing 10.30 -11.30 Hebden Bridge Town Hall, St George’s Street, Hebden Bridge Joelle - 07967 772183

Parent & Toddler Swimming 12:30 - 1:30 Shade Junior & Infant School, Shade, Todmorden 01706 812913

Tatty Bumpkins 4:00 - 5:00 Zion Housing Co-op Studio, Hebden Bridge Clare - 07790 761702

Duckling various 4:00 - 7: Todmord Ewood L 01706 8

Central Street Parents & Toddler Group 9:00 - 11:00 Central Street Infants School, Hebden Bridge.

Pauline - 01422 842784

Mytholm Parent & Toddlers 9:00 - 11:00 Hebden Royd School, Church Lane, Hebden Bridge 01422 842821

Mytholmroyd Mini Movers 9:00 - 11:00 Mytholmroyd Methodist Church, Scout Road, Mytholmroyd Janet - 07515 356539

Luddendenfoot 0 to 5’s 9:15 - 11:15 Luddenden Foot Civic Centre, Station Road, Luddenden Foot Sophie

Mytholmroyd Toddlers 9:15 - 11:15 Mytholmroyd Community Centre, Elphaborough, Mytholmroyd 01422 882226

Stay & Play 9:30 - 11:00 Todmorden Children’s Centre Todmorden Community College, Burnley Road, Todmorden 01706 399970 - FREE

Parent & 9.30 - 11 Hare & H Todmord Janet - 0

Parent & Toddler Swimming 9:00 - 10:00 Shade Junior & Infant School, Shade, Todmorden 01706 812913

Steiner Parent & Child 10.00 - 12.00 Steiner Centre, Macpelah, Hebden Bridge Sally - 07904 052816

Baby Sing & Sign 11:30 - 12:15 (booking essential) Todmorden Children’s Centre, Burnley Road, Todmorden 01706 399970

Parent & Toddler Swimming 1:30 - 2:30 Shade Junior & Infant School, Shade, Todmorden 01706 812913

First Ballet & Tip Tap Toe 4:00 - 5:00 DC Dance, Victoria Road, Todmorden Dawn - 01706 839113 Age 4 - 5 yrs

Ducklings Swimming various levels 4:00 - 7:00 Todmorden Sports Centre, Ewood Lane, Todmorden 01706 839090

Ninja To 5:30 - 6:1 AEGIS A Commun Central S 07903 7

St. Josephs Toddlers 9:15 - 11:15 St Joseph’s School, Wellington Road, Todmorden 01706 812948

The Methodist Church Toddler Group 9:30 - 11:30 Scout Road, Mytholmroyd Joyce Greenwood 01422 883792

Mum Zone 10:00 - 1:00 Queen Hotel, Rise Lane, Todmorden 01706 819917

Weaning Group 11:00 - 12;00 (1st Wed only) Todmorden Children’s Centre Todmorden Community College, Burnley Road, Todmorden 01706 399970 - FREE

Todmorden Family Support 12:30 - 2:00 alternate weeks Todmorden Fire Station Community Room, Stansfield Road, Todmorden Jenni - 01706 839787

Tweenies/Mid-Week Movers 1:30 - 3:00 (Term Time Only) Todmorden Community College Hall, Burnley Road, Todmorden 01706 399970 - FREE

Baby Cl 1:30 - 3: Todmord Burnley 01706 3

Blackshaw Head Parents & Toddler Group 9:30 - 11:30 Blackshaw Head Chapel, Hebden Bridge Ann - 01706 810596

Art Stars 10:00 - 10:45 & 1:30 - 2:15 The Star Tree Studio, 42 Victoria Street, Littleborough Neela - 07778 543233

Baby Sing & Sign 10:00 - 10:45 (booking essential) Hebden Vale Children’s Centre, Hebden Bridge 01422 845800 - FREE

Thula Mama (Mums and Babies

Little Bear Feet 11:30 - 12:15 DC Dance, Victoria Road, Todmorden Dawn - 01706 839113 Age 1½ - 3 yrs

Parent & Toddler Swimming 11:45 - 12:45 Shade Junior & Infant School, Shade, Todmorden 01706 812913

Baby Yo 1:00 - 2: Blessing Centre, H Tracy - 0

Parent & Toddlers 9:00 - 11:30 Gordon Riggs, Bottom’s Mill Bistro, Walsden

Luddendenfoot 0 to 5’s 9:15 - 11:15 Luddenden Foot Civic Centre, Station Road, Luddenden Foot Sophie

Parent & Toddler Group 9.30 - 11.00 Hare & Hounds, Burnley Road, Todmorden Janet - 01706 818820

St Michael’s Angels 9:30 - 11:00 St Michael’s Church Hall Mytholmroyd Catherine - 01422 883130

Little Angels 9:30 - 11:30 St. Michaels Church, Cornholme, Todmorden Anne - 07587 700355

Stay & Play 9:30 - 11:00 Hebden Vale Children’s Centre, Hebden Bridge 01422 845800 - FREE

Dodnaze 9.45 - 11 Dodnaze 54 Hirst

Jo Jingles 9:30 - 10:15 (under 2s), 10:30 - 11:15, (over 2s), 11:30 - 12:15 (3 - 9 months) 12:30 - 1:15 (over 3s), Todmorden Sports Centre, Ewood Lane, Todmorden Jo Corbett - 01706 212889

Art Stars 10:00 - 10:45 & 11:15 - 12:00 Upsy Daisy’s Play Gym, Moderna Way, Mytholmroyd Neela - 07778 543233

Post Natal Mum & Baby Yoga 11:00 - 12:30 Calderale Yoga Centre, 38 Hangingroyd Lane, Hebden Bridge Donna 07985 274181

Parent & Toddler Swimming 12:15 - 1:15 Shade Junior & Infant School, Shade, Todmorden 01706 812913

Baby Yoga 1:00 - 2:00 Blessingway, Birchcliffe Centre, Hebden Bridge Tracy - 07864 007179

Buggy 4 Fitness 1:30 - 2:30 Calder Holmes Park, Hebden Bridge Sharon - 07825 706983

Dramas 2:30 - 3: 4:00 - 4: Roomfie Road, To Mel - 07

Stubbings Toddler Group 9:00 - 11:00 Stubbings Infant School, School Street, Hebden Bridge, 01422 842728

Old Town Playgroup 9:00 - 11:00 Old Town Primary School, Billy Lane, Old Town 01422 842859

Luddendenfoot 0 to 5’s 9:15 - 11:15 Luddenden Foot Civic Centre, Station Road, Luddenden Foot Sophie

Mytholmroyd Toddlers 9:15 - 11:15 Mytholmroyd Community Centre, Elphaborough, Mytholmroyd 01422 882226

Stay and Play 9:30 - 11:30 Todmorden Health Centre, Halifax Road, Todmorden 01706 399970 - FREE

Tweenies 9:30 - 11:00 Hebden Vale Children’s Centre, Hebden Bridge 01422 845800 - FREE

Cragg V 9:30 - 11 The Ark Hall, Dea Vale, My Cathy 07

Ante-Natal Clinic 9:00 - 2:00 Todmorden Children’s Centre, Burnley Road, Todmorden By appointment only via your midwife

Steiner Parent & Child 10.00 - 12.00 St John’s Centre, Cragg Vale Sally - 07904 052816

Rock ‘n’ Rollers 11:30 - 12:30 Dance 4 All, Upsy Daisy’s Play Gym, Moderna Way, Mytholmroyd Emily - 07903 720214

Dramasaurus 2:30 - 3:15 (age 2/3) 3:40 - 4:25 (age 4/5) Heptonstall Social & Bowling Club, Acre Lane, Heptonstall Mel - 07554 368232

Ducklings Swimming various levels 4:00 - 7:00 Todmorden Sports Centre, Ewood Lane, Todmorden 01706 839090

Todmorden Swimming Club

Fun Swim 1:30 - 2:45 Todmorden Sports Centre, Ewood Lane, Todmorden 01706 839090

Dads & Male Carers Event 10:00 - 12:00 (1st Sat of month) Hebden Vale Children’s Centre, Hebden Bridge 01422 845800 - FREE

Ducklings Swimming various levels 9:00 - 1:30; 3:15 - 6:30 Todmorden Sports Centre, Ewood Lane, Todmorden 01706 839090

Little Bear Feet 9:00 - 9:45 DC Dance, Victoria Road, Todmorden Dawn - 01706 839113 Age 1½ - 3 yrs

Melody Movements 9:00 - 9:45 DC Dance, Victoria Road, Todmorden Dawn - 01706 839113 Age 3 - 4 yrs

Mini Movers Disco/Cheer 9:00 - 10:00 DC Dance, Victoria Road, Todmorden Dawn - 01706 839113

Pre-School Ballet & Tap 9:15 - 10:15 Sarah Hitchon School of Dance, The Conservative Club, Rochdale Road, Todmorden Sarah - 07929 576785

Harmony Singing)

10.00 - 11.30 Central Hebden Bridge Liz Powers 01422 847702

- Widths

7:00 - 8:00 Todmorden Sports Centre, Ewood Lane, Todmorden Deborah - 07551 266862

First Ballet & Tip Tap Toe 10:00 - 11:00 DC Dance, Victoria Road, Todmorden Dawn - 01706 839113

Baby Stay and Play 1:00 - 2:30 Hebden Vale Children’s Centre, Hebden Bridge 01422 845800 - FREE

gs Swimming levels :00 den Sports Centre, Lane, Todmorden 839090

Yoga for Pregnancy 7:00 - 8:30 Todmorden Donna 07985 274181

& Toddler Group 1.00 Hounds, Burnley Road, den 01706 818820

Childminder Drop-In 9:30 - 11:30 Hebden Vale Children’s Centre, Hebden Bridge 01422 845800 - FREE

ots 15 Academy, Salem nity Resource Centre, Street, Hebden Bridge 706784

Pregnancy Yoga 6:00 - 7:30 Blessingway, Birchcliffe Centre, Hebden Bridge Gillian - 07855 004858

linic :30 den Children’s Centre, Road, Todmorden 399970 - FREE

Baby Stay & Play 1:30 - 3:30 Todmorden Children’s Centre Todmorden Community College, Burnley Road, Todmorden 01706 399970 - FREE

oga :00 gway, Birchcliffe Hebden Bridge 07864 007179

Tiny Tots 4:00 - 5:00 Hebden Dance Place, Hope Baptist Church, Hebden Bridge Miss Julie - 07581 165057

Ducklings Swimming various levels 4:00 - 7:00 Todmorden Sports Centre, Ewood Lane, Todmorden 01706 839090

e Parent & Toddlers 1.15 e Community Centre, Grove, Hebden Bridge

Blackshawhead Arty Toddler Group 9:45 - 12:00 Blackshawhead Chapel, Hebden Bridge Lorraine - 01422 844971

Breastfeeding Group 10:00 - 11:30 Todmorden Children’s Centre, Burnley Road, Todmorden 01706 399970 - FREE

saurus :15 (age 2/3) :45 (age 4/5) eld Church, halifax odmorden 7554 368232

Dainty Dolls 4:00 - 5:00 Hebden Dance Place, Hope Baptist Church, Hebden Bridge Miss Julie - 07581 165057

Melody Bear 4:00 - 4:45 DC Dance, Victoria Road, Todmorden Dawn - 01706 839113 Age 3 - 4 yrs

Ducklings Swimming various levels 4:00 - 7:00 Todmorden Sports Centre, Ewood Lane, Todmorden 01706 839090

Vale Toddler Group 1:30 (term time only) Day Nursery Sports an Hey Farm, Cragg ytholmroyd 7720715418

Active Walking (not suitable for pushchairs) 9:45 - 11:15 Meet at St George’s Square, Hebden Bridge Lucy - 07943 771739

The Woods (Forest School 10:00 - 12:00 Eastwood, Todmorden Emily

Aquatots 11.00 - 11.45 Todmorden Sports Centre, Ewood Lane, Todmorden 01706 839090

Family Fun Swim (U 11s) 10:00 - 12:00 Todmorden Sports Centre, Ewood Lane, Todmorden 01706 839090

Family Fun Swim (U 14s) 1:00 - 2:15 Todmorden Sports Centre, Ewood Lane, Todmorden 01706 839090

SUNDAY

stall Parents & Group 11:45 stall Social & Bowling cre Lane, Heptonstall call in for details

Young Parents’ Group (for parents under 25 yrs) 1:30 - 3:00 Todmorden Children’s Centre, Burnley Road, Todmorden 01706 399970 - FREE

St Mary’s Family Service All Children Welcome 4:05 onwards St Mary’s Church, Todmorden 01706 819300

BATS Playgroup 9:30 - 11:30 Central Methodist Church, Todmorden Debbie - 07899 077704

Active Walking (not suitable for pushchairs) 9:45 - 11:15 Meet at St George’s Square, Hebden Bridge Lucy - 07943 771739

& Outdoor Play all year round - please dress accordingly)

Ninja Tots 10:00 - 10:45 AEGIS Academy, Salem Community Resource Centre, Central Street, Hebden Bridge 07903 706784

Pregnancy Pilates 6:15 - 7:15 Blessingway, Birchcliffe Centre, Hebden Bridge Rachel - 07944 360594

Bumps & Babes

Toddler Tuesday

Icky Sticky Kids 10.00-11.30 Open 10:00 - 5:00 Holme Street Arts Centre, Flying Saucers, Butlers Wharf, Hebden Bridge Hebden Bridge Nichola - 07973 234928 01422 846666

support group for multiple births

10% off Pottery Painting plus a free coffee (excludes holidays)

Roomfield Playgroup 1:00 - 3:00 Roomfield Baptist Church, Halifax Road, Todmorden Rebecca - 07780 386874

Lesbian Family Groups 1:00 - 2:30 (1st Tue only) Hebden Vale Children’s Centre, Hebden Bridge 01422 845800 - FREE

10:00 - 11:30 The Methodist Church, New Road, Hebden Bridge Nicola - 01422 843129

Todmorden Swimming Club - Widths

7:00 - 8:00 Todmorden Sports Centre, Ewood Lane, Todmorden Deborah - 07551 266862

Kids Craft Club 3:45 - 5:15 Word of Mouth, Valley Road, Hebden Bridge Christina - 07766 021766

Postnatal Pilates 8:00 - 9:00 Blessingway, Birchcliffe Centre, Hebden Bridge Rachel - 07944 360594

Ninja Tots 5:30 - 6:15 AEGIS Academy, Salem Community Resource Centre, Central Street, Hebden Bridge 07903 706784

Lesbian Parents Group Sunday Socials 2:00 - 4:00 (last Sun only) Various Locations - call for more info.

07704 568237

NB: Shaded background indicated these events are bookable. You must call beforehand.

White background shows drop-in events open to all.

13

SATURDAY

FRIDAY

THURSDAY

WEDNESDAY

TUESDAY

MONDAY

out of school diary

14

Boyz Break Dance 4:00 - 5:00 DC Dance, Victoria Road, Todmorden Dawn 01706 839113

Modern Jazz Dancing 4:00 - 7:15 Sarah Hitchon School of Dance, The Conservative Club, Rochdale Road, Todmorden Sarah - 07929 576785 3 + yrs

After School Swimming 4:30 - 6:15 Shade Junior & Infant School, Shade, Todmorden 01706 812913 4+ yrs

Mini Movers Street Crew 5:00 - 5:30 DC Dance, Victoria Road, Todmorden Dawn - 01706 839113 Age 4 - 6 yrs

St Josephs Rainbows 5:00 - 6:00 St Josephs School, Wellington Road, Todmorden Rowena - 07470 400044 5 - 7 yrs

Judo Excellence 6:00 - 7:00 Above Purdy Pine, Valley Road, Hebden Bridge Tony - 07932 081793 5 - 7 yrs

Swimming various levels 4:00 - 7:00 Todmorden Sports Centre, Ewood Lane, Todmorden 01706 839090 5+ yrs

Move & Groove Disco/Cheer 4:00 - 5:00 DC Dance, Victoria Road, Todmorden Dawn - 01706 839113 Age 4 - 6 yrs

Campaigners - Kids Zone 5:00 - 6:30 Lumbutts Church, Lumbutts, Todmorden Les or Pat 01706 814754 6 - 12 yrs

Football Coaching 5:00 - 6:00 Todmorden Sports Centre, Ewood Lane, Todmorden 01706 839090 8+ yrs

Monday Club 6:00 - 7:30 Mount Zion Baptist Chapel, Meet at Colden School 5 to 11yrs, Elva Hulme 01422 842726

Kidz Latino & Salsa 6:00 - 6:45 DC Dance, Victoria Road, Todmorden Dawn 01706 839113

Swimming various levels 4:00 - 7:00 Todmorden Sports Centre, Ewood Lane, Todmorden 01706 839090 5+ yrs

Boyz Tap 4:30 - 5:00 DC Dance, Victoria Road, Todmorden Dawn 01706 839113

Junior Ballroom & Latin 5:30 - 6:30 DC Dance, Victoria Road, Todmorden Dawn 01706 839113

Todmorden Community Brass - 5-Note Beginners Band 6:00 - 6:45 The Bandroom, Wellington Road, Todmorden David White 01706 815820

After School Swimming 3:30 - 6:30 Shade Junior & Infant School, Shade, Todmorden 01706 812913 4+ yrs

Cornholme Recorder Choir 3:50 - 4:35 The Old Library, 1 Parkside Road, Cornholme

Kids Craft Club 3:45 - 5:15 Word of Mouth, Valley Road, Hebden Bridge Christina - 07766 021766

Climbing Fun 4:00 - 5:30 Climbing’ Skool, Vale Street, off Stansfield Road, Todmorden Georgina 01706 819100

Ballet & Tap 4:00 - 6:30 (various classes) DC Dance, Victoria Road, Todmorden Dawn 01706 839113 5+ yrs

Tod Harriers Junior Training 5:00 - 6:30 Todmorden High School, Ewood Land, Todmorden Ben Crowther 07817 108921

Calder Valley Fell Runners - Junior 5:45 - 6:45 Mytholmroyd Community Centre, Mytholmroyd Alastair 07812 593660 8+ yrs

1st Old Town Brownies 6:30 - 7:45 Stubbings Infant School, School Street, Hebden Bridge Dinah Newsome 01422 843202 7 - 10 yrs

Gymnastics Club 4:00 - 5:15 Calder High School, Brier Hey Lane, Mytholmroyd Tracey 07970 730224 Beginners

Swimming various levels 4:00 - 7:00 Todmorden Sports Centre, Ewood Lane, Todmorden 01706 839090 5+ yrs

Move & Groove 4:30 - 5:30 DC Dance, Victoria Road, Todmorden Dawn 01706 839113 Age 4 - 7 yrs

Beginner Ballet & Tap 5:00 - 6:00 DC Dance, Victoria Road, Todmorden Dawn 01706 839113 Age 7 - 11 yrs

Climbing’ Skool Academy 5:00 - 6:30 Climbing’ Skool, Vale Street, off Stansfield Road, Todmorden Georgina 01706 819100

2nd Luddenden Rainbows 5.45 - 7.00 every fortnight Kershaw Youth Centre Kershaw Drive, Luddendenfoot Kay - 07814 745340 5 - 7 yrs

Dancing - Various classes 4:00 - 8:45 Fielden House, Fielden Square, Todmorden Sarah Hitchon 07929 576785 10 + yrs

After School Swimming 4:00 - 6:00 Shade Junior & Infant School, Shade, Todmorden 01706 812913 4+ yrs

7th Todmorden Rainbows 5:00 - 6:00 Roomfield Baptist Church, Todmorden Katie - 07769 151276 5 - 7 yrs

Disco Team Class 5:00 - 5:30 DC Dance, Victoria Road, Todmorden Dawn 01706 839113

Pro Games 5:30 - 7:00 (By Referral.

Alternate weeks only) Todmorden Children’s Centre, Burnley Road, Todmorden 01706 548187 - FREE

7th Todmorden Brownies 6:00 - 7:15 Roomfield Baptist Church, Todmorden Jennifer Jackson 01706 815342 7 - 10 yrs

After School Swimming 3:30 - 4:30 Shade Junior & Infant School, Shade, Todmorden 01706 812913 4+ yrs

Dancing - Various classes 4:00 - 8:00 Fielden House, Fielden Square, Todmorden Sarah Hitchon 07929 576785 10 + yrs

Climbing Fun 4:30 - 6:00 Climbing’ Skool, Vale Street, off Stansfield Road, Todmorden Georgina 01706 819100

Dramasaurus 4:50 - 5:35 (age 6/7/8) 5:40 - 6:25 (age 9/10/11) 6:30 - 7:15 (age 12/13) Roomfield Church, Halifax Road, Todmorden Mel - 07554 368232

Football Training 5:00 - 6:00 Todmorden Sports Centre, Ewood Lane, Todmorden 01706 839090 8+ yrs

8th/26th Calder Valley Cubs 6:00 - 7:15 Central Methodist Church, off Bramsche Square, Todmorden Dave Payne 01706 816568 8 - 10 yrs

Swimming various levels 4:00 - 7:00 Todmorden Sports Centre, Ewood Lane, Todmorden 01706 839090 5+ yrs

Football Training 4:00 - 5:00 Todmorden Sports Centre, Ewood Lane, Todmorden 01706 839090 5 - 8 yrs

Junior Street, Disco & Cheer 4.30 - 6.00 (various classes) DC Dance, Victoria Road, Todmorden Dawn 01706 839113

Hebden Dance Place 5:00 - 6:00 Hope Baptist Church, Hebden Bridge Miss Julie - 07581165057 6 - 8 yrs

1st Mytholmroyd Rainbows 5:30 - 6:30 St Michaels Church Hall, Mytholmroyd Lisa Thwaite 01422 886274 5 - 7 yrs

Ballet & Tap 6:00 - 7:30 DC Dance, Victoria Road, Todmorden Dawn 01706 839113

Helen O'Grady Drama Academy 4:00 - 7:00 Holme Street Arts Centre, Hebden Bridge Wendy 01706 810164 5 to 11 yrs

Swimming various levels 4:00 - 7:00 Todmorden Sports Centre, Ewood Lane, Todmorden 01706 839090 5+ yrs

After School Swimming 4:00 - 5:30 Shade Junior & Infant School, Shade, Todmorden 01706 812913 4+ yrs

Climbing’ Skool Academy 4:30 - 6:00 Climbing’ Skool, Vale Street, off Stansfield Road, Todmorden Georgina 01706 819100

8th/26th Calder Valley Beavers 5:30 - 6:45 Central Methodist Church, off Bramsche Square, Todmorden Dave Payne 01706 816568 6 - 8 yrs

Todmorden Community Brass Training Band 6:30 - 7:30 The Bandroom, Wellington Road, Todmorden Maurice 01706 816588

Dancing - Various classes 4:00 - 7:30 Fielden House, Fielden Square, Todmorden Sarah Hitchon 07929 576785 10 + yrs

Junior Tennis 4:00 - 5:00 Todmorden Tennis Club, Hallroyd Road, Todmorden Andrew 01706 815265 4 - 10 yrs

Dramasaurus 4:30 - 5:15 (age 6/7/8) 5:20 - 6:05 (age 9/10/11) Heptonstall Social & Bowling Club, Acre Lane, Heptonstall Mel - 07554 368232

Baby Ballroom 5:00 - 5:30 DC Dance, Victoria Road, Todmorden Dawn 01706 839113 Age 4 - 7 yrs

Rugby League Under 12’s 6:00 - 7:00 Littleborough JARLFC, Littleborough Sports Club, Rakewood Lane, Littleborough Janine O7894 791033

Todmorden Swimming Club - Widths 7:00 - 8:00 Todmorden Sports Centre, Ewood Lane, Todmorden Deborah - 07551 266862

Football Training 8:30 - 12:30 Todmorden Sports Centre, Ewood Lane, Todmorden 01706 839090 5+ yrs

Ballet & Tap 9:00 onwards Sarah Hitchon School of Dance, The Conservative Club, Rochdale Road, Todmorden Sarah - 07929 576785 3 + yrs

Gymnastics Club 9:30 - 12:30 Burnley Road School, Mytholmroyd Tim Wild 01422 372321/07931 337487 5+ yrs

1st Colden Rainbows 10:00 - 12:00 Alternate Saturdays Colden School Portacabin, Colden, Hebden Bridge Sandra McNeill 01706 812291 5 - 7 yrs

Lane Shaw Drama Academy 10:30 - 1:00 Hope Baptist Church, New Road, Hebden Bridge 07754 970798

Judo Excellence 11:00 - 12:00 Above Purdy Pine, Valley Road, Hebden Bridge Tony - 07932 081793 8+ yrs

Border Gymnastics 9:00 onwards Ferney Lee School, Ferney Lee Road, Todmorden Paul 01706 816755 5+ yrs

Swimming various levels 9:00 - 1:30 Todmorden Sports Centre, Ewood Lane, Todmorden 01706 839090 5+ yrs

Junior Badminton 9:30 - 10:30 Calder High School, Brier Hey Lane, Mytholmroyd Mary Smith 07970 734639 6 - 11 yrs

Judo Excellence 10:00 - 11:00 Above Purdy Pine, Valley Road, Hebden Bridge Tony - 07932 081793 5 - 7 yrs

Hebden Bridge Saints Saturday Soccer Club 11:00 - 12:00 Luddenden Dene School, Dene View, Luddendenfoot.

Nick Farrar 01422 882378 5 - 8 yrs

20th Pennine Calder Beavers 9:00 - 12:00 (first Sat of Month) Ferney Lee School, Todmorden Rachel Ormerod 07766 890668 6 - 8 yrs

Creative Dance 9:15 - 1:15 Dance 4 All, Riverside School, Hebden Bridge Penny Alexander 01422 884634 5+ yrs

Rugby League Training 9:45 - 11:15 Littleborough Community Campus School, Calderbrook Road Carol Locket 01706 378348 7 - 9 yrs

Todmorden Judo Club 10:00 - 12:00 Canteen Mill, Whiteplatts Street, Todmorden Sean Nuttall 07812 187270 5+ yrs

Climbing Fun 11:00 - 12:30, 2:30 - 4:00, 5:30 - 7:00 Climbing’ Skool, Vale Street, off Stansfield Road, Todmorden Georgina 01706 819100

Junior Dance Classes (all types)

11:00 - 3:00 DC Dance, Victoria Road, Todmorden Dawn 01706 839113 Sports Zone - For children with disabilities 1:00 - 2:00 Todmorden Sports Centre, Ewood Lane, Todmorden Debbie 01422 264740 6 + yrs

Hebden Bridge Chess Club 6:00 - 7:15 Trades Club, Holme Street, Hebden Bridge John Kerrane 01422 842426

Luddendenfoot Boys Brigade Anchors & Juniors 6:45 - 8:00 Luddendenfoot Civic Institute, Station Road Heather - 01422 885542 5 - 11 yrs

Todmorden Swimming Club - Lengths 7:00 - 8:00, 8:00 - 9:00 Todmorden Sports Centre, Ewood Lane, Todmorden Deborah - 07551 266862 For strong swimmers

Todmorden Tai Kwon Do 6:30 - 7:30 Ferney Lee School, Todmorden Keith Raistrick 07789 074198 6+ yrs

Judo Excellence 7:00 - 8:00 Above Purdy Pine, Valley Road, Hebden Bridge Tony - 07932 081793 8+ yrs

Hippodrome Youth Theatre 7:30 - 9:30 Hippodrome Theatre, Halifax Road, Todmorden Helen 01706 839424 10+ yrs Entry by Audition ONLY

20th Pennine Calder Cubs 6:30 - 8:00 Ferney Lee School, Ferney Lee Road, Todmorden Chris 07774 817235 8 to 10½ yrs

Todmorden Judo Club 7:00 - 8:00 Canteen Mill, Whiteplatts Street, Todmorden Sean Nuttall 07812 187270 8+ yrs

Family AEGIS Class 6:30 - 7:15 AEGIS Academy, Salem Community Resource Centre, Central Street, Hebden Bridge 07903 706784 7+ yrs and adults 1st Walsden Brownies 6:00 - 7:15 Walsden Junior School, Walsden Donna Scholfield 01706 839042 7 - 10 yrs

2nd Todmorden Brownies 6:15 - 7:30 St Joseph's School, Wellington Road, Todmorden Fiona Monaghan 01706 819703 7 - 10 yrs

2nd Mytholmroyd Brownies 6:30 - 8:00 Mytholmroyd Methodist Church, Scout Road, Mytholmroyd Angela Trowell 01422 885378 7 - 10 yrs

Todmorden Swimming Club - Widths 7:00 - 8:00 Todmorden Sports Centre, Ewood Lane, Todmorden Deborah 07551 266862

Tai Kwon Do 6:00 - 7:00 Mytholmroyd Community Centre, Mytholmroyd Helen 07901833249 6 - 14 yrs

18th Hebden Bridge Beavers 6:15 - 7:15 Top Floor, Salem Mill, Hebden Bridge Matthew Speak 01422 846340 6 - 8 yrs

Todmorden Tai Kwon Do 6:30 - 7:30 Ferney Lee School, Todmorden Keith Raistrick 07789 074198 6+ yrs

Parent & Child Yoga 8:45 - 9:45 Blessingway, Birchcliffe Centre, Hebden Bridge Tracy - 07864 007179 5 - 9 yrs

2nd Hebden Bridge Brownies 6:00 - 7:15 Hope Baptist Church Hall, Cheetham St. Entrance, Hebden Bridge Christine 01422 843725 7 - 10 yrs

18th Hebden Bridge Cubs 6:30 - 8:00 Hebden Bridge Town Hall, St George’s St. Hebden Bridge Anastasia 07900 715170 8 - 10½ yrs

Woodcraft Folk (Elfin & Pioneers) 6:30 - 7:45 Salem Mill (Top Floor) Salem Street, Hebden Bridge Eden 07908 379983 6+ yrs

Family AEGIS Class 6:30 - 7:15 AEGIS Academy, Salem Community Resource Centre, Central Street, Hebden Bridge 07903 706784 7+ yrs and adults

1st Heptonstall Brownies 6:30 - 7:30 Heptonstall Junior School, Heptonstall Sandra McNeill 01706 812291 7 - 10 yrs

Swimming various levels 3:15 - 6:30 Todmorden Sports Centre, Ewood Lane, Todmorden 01706 839090 5+ yrs

Hebden Bridge Saints Team Trials Please phone for times and venue details Graeme 01422 884527

SUNDAY

Fun Swim 1:30 - 2:45 Todmorden Sports Centre, Ewood Lane, Todmorden 01706 839090 Junior Hippodrome Youth Theatre Alternate Sundays 10:00 - 12:00 Hippodrome Theatre, Halifax Road, Todmorden Emma 01706 817518 8 -10 yrs Entry by Audition

Family AEGIS Class 11:00 - 11:45 AEGIS Academy, Salem Community Resource Centre, Central Street, Hebden Bridge 07903 706784 7+ yrs and adults

Family Fun Swim (U11) 10:00 - 12:00 Todmorden Sports Centre, Ewood Lane, Todmorden 01706 839090

Climbing Fun 12:30 - 2:00 Climbing’ Skool, Vale Street, off Stansfield Road, Todmorden Georgina 01706 819100

Family Fun Swim (U 14s) 1:00 - 2:15 Todmorden Sports Centre, Ewood Lane, Todmorden 01706 839090

15

page header focus on: The National Curriculum and how it has changed!

W

e’re sure you all know what the National Curriculum is; however it has changed significantly over the last few years and, since September 2014, it has been ‘toughened’ up substantially for those children attending primary schools in England.

We thought it might be a good time to review the Curriculum, the subjects it covers and how it has changed.

For those that don’t already know, the National Curriculum is a set of subjects and standards which must be taught by primary and secondary schools so that children leave school with the necessary fundamental education to equip them for adult life.

The National Curriculum stipulates which subjects must be taught and the standards that children should reach in each subject.

Key Stages

The National Curriculum is organised into blocks of years called ‘Key Stages’ (KS’s). At the end of each key stage, your child’s teacher will formally assess their performance to measure your child’s progress. The recent reorganisation does not include any changes to the key stages in England.

The key stages covering infant and primary education are: Key Stage 1: Ages five to seven (Years 1-2) Key Stage 2: Ages seven to 11 (Years 3-6)

Assessments

The school must report your child’s progress to you. This can happen in different ways; for example with an end-of-term report, Parent’s Evenings or meetings at the school. As has been reported widely in the press, children will start sitting the new national primary curriculum tests in 2016.

Therefore children studying currently in Years 3 and 7 will have been the last to receive an end-of-key-stage ‘level’ in summer 2015.

16

Year 1 phonics screening check

This check will take place in June when your child will read 40 words out loud to a teacher. You’ll find out how your child did and their teacher will assess whether he or she needs extra help with reading. If your child doesn’t do well enough in the test, they’ll have to do it again in Year 2.

Key stage 1

The tasks and tests are taken at a time to suit the school and your child’s teacher will use the child’s work (including spoken work and homework) to calculate which level your child is achieving in each subject. You can ask for the results but they’re only used to help the teacher assess your child’s work.

Key stage 2

Key stage 2 tests cover English reading, English grammar, punctuation and spelling and Mathematics (including mental arithmetic). The tests are taken in mid-May and last under 5 hours 30 minutes in total. They are spread over a number of sessions and you’ll get the results in July. If your child is demonstrating higher achievement, the Headteacher may put them in for extra tests. When your child reaches the end of Key Stage 2, the teacher will also report on your child’s progress in English, Mathematics and Science.

So what are the changes?

In primary schools the most significant changes are in Maths, English and Computing where five year olds will be expected to learn fractions and computer coding. For example, they will be ‘expected to learn what algorithms are’ and to ‘create and de-bug simple programs’. The Curriculum is being implemented for most Year groups at the same time.

This ‘tough’ new-look Curriculum puts a stronger emphasis on skills such as essay writing, problem-solving, mathematical modelling and computer programming. In Maths, for example, more will be expected at an earlier age, as there will be a requirement for pupils to learn their 12 times table by the age of nine. Basic fractions, such as a half or a quarter, will be taught to five-year-olds and by the end of Year 2, pupils should know the number bonds to 20 and be precise in using and understanding place value. In science, there will be a shift towards hard facts and ‘scientific knowledge’. For example learning about the solar system, speed and evolution.

New tests will come into force in 2016 for the current Year 2 and Year 6 pupils.

There are changes to the content of all subjects in the National Curriculum; a summary can be found on the Department of Education website: www.gov.uk/national-curriculum.

Whilst it is not clear what the Department of Education is trying to achieve, the changes are in place and we, and our children, will have to cope with them.

page header Applying for a Primary School Place - FAQs Who needs to apply and when?

Any child who was born between 1st September 2011 and 31st August 2012 will need to begin school in the next academic year. They don’t legally need to start until the beginning of the term following their fifth birthday, but Calderdale provides places for any eligible child from the beginning of September in the academic year in which they turn five.

Also, children who attend an Infantonly school, who are currently in year 2, need to apply for a place at a Junior school in the same way.

Any child who’s permanent address is in Calderdale must use the Calderdale application process, irrespective of where their preferred school is located.

The application forms, known as the Common Preference Forms, will become available online on Friday 20th November ‘15 and the forms must be submitted by Friday 15th January ‘16. The forms can be filled in online ONLY.

Is the form difficult to fill in?

No. The form itself is very straight forward, with space for you to name three schools of your choice. All will be considered equally and, only if your child is eligible to attend more than one school, will your preference (the order you placed them on the form) be taken into account.

What does “Admissions Criteria” mean?

Many schools have more applications than they have places. Therefore they must apply some rules to decide which children are offered places. These must be clear, fair and objective but do vary from school to school. The details for each school are covered in detail in the “Information for Parents” booklet that accompanies the Common Preference Form. It may be worth reading these carefully before choosing the order for the schools you put on the form.

What if my application is late?

There are some admissible reasons for being late with the application form but, otherwise, your application will only be considered after all other places are allocated.

When will I find out which school we have been offered?

Everyone will receive an offer of a school place on the same day. That will be Monday 18th April ‘16. When filling in the form you can choose how you would like to receive your offer, either by post, email or by logging back into your online account.

What if we are not happy with the decision?

The first thing to do is put your child name on the re-allocation list. The closing date for this process will be Monday2nd May ‘16. Details will be sent out with the placement offer letter. Otherwise you have a right to appeal.

Was your child born between 1 September 2011 and 31 August 2012?

If so, the deadline for applying for a September 2016 school place is 15 January 2016.

All applications must be made online at www.calderdale.gov.uk/admissions where more information is available including the Admission to Primary School Booklet 2016.

Don’t have a computer?

You can use facilities at Calderdale’s Customer First Offices in Halifax, Hebden Bridge, Todmorden and Brighouse.

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page literacy header New book by local author

Information kindly provided by;

The Book Case 29 Market Street, Hebden Bridge 01422 845353

Three Favourites for Christmas

ter gift to give to a hristmas is coming and what bet k to treasure. Here are child of any age than a special boo some of our favourites.

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Jolly Christmas Postman Alan Ahlberg £12.99

The Christmas Stocking Joke Book Shoo Rayner £4.99

The ideal stockingfiller, bursting with fun-filled festive jokes and cartoons, this is a joke book every child will love. A trusted Christmas favourite!

Curl up by the fireside This wonderful with an enchanting Christmas favourite collection of Christmas reissued to give a new stories from Britain’s bestgeneration the chance to loved children’s author, enjoy this classic story. l Morpurgo.

It’s Christmas Eve and the Michae rself in faraway you e Jolly Postman is delivering Los unexpected and s land greetings, including with five res entu adv three surprise envelopes, master the from s tale to various fairy-tale gside alon ller, y-te stor characters. ork artw us ptuo sum ned now ld-re wor by illustrators.

Best Sellers

This months best sellers are dominated by the phenomenally successful children’s picture book Tree, a simple yet striking peek-through picture book that follows the changing seasons, with beautiful artwork from Britta Teckentrup to accompany the rhyming text. Clever die-cuts on every page create a layered effect. It has

out-sold two of the big new releases, How to Fight A Dragon’s Fury, the long awaited finale to the best-selling How to Train your Dragon series and the latest Goth Girl story by the award winning Chris Riddell.

Demolition Dad is a madcap story for younger readers to enjoy from local children’s writer Phil Earle. Danger is Everywhere will have everyone

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“I wish I was a Monkey” is a gloriously silly, mixed up, picture book from local writer Keith Donnelly. The clever rhyming text, and wacky illustrations, make this a perfect read aloud title for younger children who wil l love joining in and putting the characte rs right as they get their animals complete ly muddled up.

New Children’s Reward card The Book Case has launched a special reward card for children. Our younger customers will now be able to collect stamps on their card for each purchase over £6 and exchange completed cards for £5 off their next purchase.

from reluctant readers to bookworms laughing out loud (very safely) from start to finish. Does it warn you about what to do if a shark comes up out of the loo while you are sitting on it? Yes it does.

And how to find out if your granny is a robot? That too!

Finally the classic Tiger who Came to Tea holds on to its almost permanent position in the best sellers list.

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Tree

How to Fight a Dragon’s Fury

Goth Girl and the Wuthering Fright

Demolition Dad

Danger is Everywhere

Tiger Who Came To Tea

Patricia Hegarty

Cressida Cowell

Chris Riddell

Phil Earle

David O’Doherty

Judith Kerr

£6.99

£12.99

£10.99

£6.99

£6.99

£6.99

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Christmas Stories Michael Morpurgo £14.99

I wish I was a Monkey Keith Donnelly £7.99

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Bloke page in a Kitchen header Luxury Christmas Cake

By Richard Dalby

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hristmas baking is a great excuse for children and families to spend time together in the kitchen.

Don’t be daunted by the long list of ingredients, this tried and tested luxurious cake is more than worth the effort. Far better than anything from a supermarket.

Ingredients 1. . .

4.

For the topping: • 50g butter • 1 tablespoon Golden Syrup • 100g glacé cherries • 120g mixed nuts

5.

6.

7.

12 hours before making the cake, soak the mixed dried fruit, mixed peel and glacé cherries in the orange juice.

Line 2 loaf tins with greaseproof paper. Preheat oven to 140 deg C / Gas mark 1 and place shelf as low as possible.

Sift the flour and spices into a large bowl. In a separate bowl beat the butter, sugar and treacle together well, then slowly add the beaten eggs a little at a time.

Once they are all well mixed, add the spice/flour mix, chopped almonds and orange and lemon zest.

Continue to mix well. Now fold in the soaked fruit and mix well. Make some Christmas wishes and transfer the cake mixture into the prepared, lined, loaf tins. * PLEASE NOTE: At this stage, reserve 2 heaped tablespoons of the cake mixture for the topping which is made later.

Bake for 1½ hours then remove the cake from the oven ready to add the topping.

Make the topping by first spreading the reserved cake mixture on top of the baked cakes. Gently melt the butter and golden syrup in a small pan, mix in the glacé cherries and mixed nuts, then spread this mixture, while still warm, on top of the cakes too. Place the cakes back in the oven and continue to bake for a further 30 minutes.

To test if the cake is cooked, gently push a thin-bladed knife into the centre of the cake. When it comes out clean the cake is cooked.

Leave to cool and then wrap in greaseproof paper and foil until ready to eat. If prepared like this, it will keep for up to 8 weeks.

Photos: R Dalby

For the Cake: • 800g mixed dried fruit – currants / raisins / sultanas • 150g glacé cherries, roughly chopped • 50g mixed peel • 4 tablespoons good quality orange juice • 225g plain flour • ½ teaspoon each of salt, ground cinnamon and mixed spice • ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg • 225g unsalted butter • 225g soft brown sugar • 1 dessert spoon black treacle • 4 eggs, beaten • 50g chopped almonds • Zest of 1 lemon • Zest of 1 orange

Method

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MAGICAL CHILDREN’S NURSERY set in 4-acre countryside site o Dedicated Baby Area - 1:2 staff to child ratio o o o o

Forest School on Mondays and Fridays Healthy meals cooked in 5* kitchen Early Years teacher in Pre-school Free 3 - 4 year funded places available

The Ark, Dean Hey Farm, Mytholmroyd, HX7 5RU www.thearkexperience.co.uk T 01422 882010 Open 51 weeks 7am-6.30pm

Xbox – PS3 – music area – Wii – crafts sports hall – and much more Lots of fun for 4 – 14 year olds

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family health

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hildren and teenagers are no different from adults. They can experience anxiety, lack confidence and develop phobias or fears which may appear irrational to the adults around them. Even the most experienced teacher does not always understand a child’s reluctance to attend school, or even remember how they felt as a child.

We spoke to Rachel from “Sage Hypnotherapy” to answer some of your questions about this using Hypnotherapy as a treatment for children.

Hypnotherapy and Children and Young People

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ne of the key factors for hypnotherapy to be successful, with anyone, including children, is the desire to move forward and to believe that hypnotherapy will work for them.

Some of the areas that are often addressed using hypnotherapy include:• Confidence and self esteem • Enuresis (Bed Wetting) • Phobias and Fears • School attendance concerns • Sleep • Night terrors • Separation anxiety (from parents) What a hypnotherapist will not do is to make your child tidy their room or clean out the hamster!

What if I don’t wake up?

It is not possible to become stuck in hypnosis. If the therapist were to ‘disappear’ the client would naturally return to a conscious state, or fall into a natural sleep and then awaken.

Will I reveal my secrets.

In Hypnosis you remain in full control of everything you say so the therapist won’t be making you say, or do anything you don’t want to do.

I really want to benefit from Hypnosis but what if it doesn’t work for me?

Everyone who wants to, can be hypnotised. People go into different depths of hypnosis and the skilled therapist will guide you to a place which is most effective for the therapy.

Will I be asleep?

No you won’t be asleep or awake but somewhere in the middle. You will be fully aware of what is going on at all times.

Will you be able to make me do things that I don’t want to do?

It is a myth that people can be made to do things against their will. You will not do something during the hypnotic state that you would not be inclined to do otherwise. Hypnosis simply affords you access to the more powerful part of your mind, the subconscious mind, where you can make changes that will benefit you. You are always in control.

How many sessions will I need?

This depends upon the outcome that you are looking for. Each therapy is planned around the needs of the client.

Each child is different but generally between two and six appointments is all that is required. This should be discussed at the free consultation appointment.

For adults, some therapies (eg. smoking cessation) require one long session. Others (eg. weight control) are between four and five sessions.

When looking for a therapist for a family member what should I ask?

Ask a therapist if they have worked with children and young people before.

Do they have a Policy for working with children? A reputable therapist will be pleased to talk to parents to discuss possible therapy before the child is introduced to them.

As with any professional relationship it is possible to feel more relaxed with one therapist rather than another.

If your child would like to have hypnotherapy but doesn’t want to work with a particular therapist, consult the Complementary and Natural Healthcare Council, who have a list of qualified recognized therapists.

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page craftheader turn your photos into gifts by: Anne Glynis Davies www.anneglynisdavies.com

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ho can forget waking up last January and looking out at a scene that resembled the magical land of Narnia, with icicles hanging at every turn and roads hidden under drifts of snow. Gardens, parks and open spaces then quickly turned

into a funfair as grown-ups and children alike, sculpted polar bears, cats, dogs and even Doctor Who’s tardis! If like most families you captured this winter wonderland with a camera, why not use a selection of these images to inspire your gift giving over the festive season. What’s more, it’s a great way make some original cards or presents and to re-capture memories of a very special time. So as they say, ‘Let It Snow, Let It Snow, Let It Snow’.

Getting Started:

Decide which images you wish to use. You could sit down together as a family to do this and either print out a series of thumbnail (small) pictures or simply make a digital slide show and choose the best shots. Aim to select photos that are perfectly focused and have a good composition.

Crafty Tips:

• Always make sure you save a copy of an original image if you are going to edit a photo.

• Print out lots of Christmas cards and have a tabletop sale to raise money for your favourite charity.

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Christmas Cards

Print your very own Christmas cards that feature your snowy photos. Several high street stationers sell blank greetings cards and envelopes designed for printing on either inkjet or laser printers.

Make sure you buy the correct product for your type of printer. Always set the print quality to ‘high’ to get the best results and do a test print first. You can print your images just as they are, or you can use photo-editing software on your computer to add borders, text and other effects. If you don’t want to print the cards yourself, upload your images to an on-line company and they will print them for you – always check prices and quantities before you proceed.

Another idea is to alter a printed image using traditional art media. Try printing an image on a glossy blank postcard and then use sandpaper to add texture, add lines with gel pens or apply watercolour paints; young children will particularly enjoy this activity. Finally, glue your postcard to a blank greetings card or send as it is through the post to friends.

Decorating Gifts

You can use your photos to transfer images to almost any surface using specialist digital papers, some of which can be purchased as single sheets.

Iron your winter snapshots onto tea towels and send them to family and friends overseas for a truly personal gift.

Alternatively, Grandparents would love to drink out of mugs decorated with their grandchildren playing alongside a snowman. For some ideas try visiting Crafty Computer Paper: www. craftycomputerpaper.co.uk - a website that specialises in digital transfer papers for both inkjet and laser printers. The site has lots of project ideas for you to try, video demonstrations and a gallery of photos sent in by customers of items they have made. Here are a few ideas taken from the site of what you can do with digital transfer papers and fabrics: • Water-slide decal paper – place the printed paper into water and slide the paper onto the surface of soap, candles, plastic…

• Dry rub decal paper - this paper is great for transferring images onto porous surfaces like paper, card and wood.

• Iron-on heat transfer papers – can be used on both natural and synthetic fabrics.

• Fabrics to print on – feed A4 sized sheets of linen, organza, cotton lawn, denim and raw silk through your printer. Use your prints to create quilts, cushion covers, clothes, bags and anything else that you can think of. Fabrics are still washable.

family page header health

Q After my second child was born

8 months ago I started wetting myself when sneezing or going on the trampoline with my 4 year old.

I thought this would go away with time but it hasn’t. A friend suggested Physiotherapy, how can this help?

Physio & Therapies in Todmorden offers treatments for a wide range of family health issues. If you have any questions, queries or concerns you would like to ask an expert about please get in touch by any of the methods shown on page 3.

They have a wide range of specialists including Physiotherapists, Podiatrists, Nutritionist, Counsellor, Hypnotherapist, Clinical Psychologist, Homeopath and other Therapists to answer your questions.

If you’ve had big babies, constipation, a chronic cough, are overweight, smoke or are menopausal you are more likely to develop Stress Incontinence and men can get it too especially after prostate surgery.

Heavy lifting jobs and impact sports are also culprits!

Treatments The main goal of treatment of course is to reduce/stop leakage and improve quality of life… and to be able to play with your kids on the trampoline again! The Physio may use some of the following to help.

Muscle Training & Core Strength The Physio can tell you the best regime to train the muscles effectively, which usually involves exercising the Pelvic Floor and core muscles. The muscles have to learn to contract quickly and slowly to function properly and exercising the Pelvic Floor 3/4 times a day is advisable, progressing to different positions and activities.

Biofeedback The use of biofeedback involves a small electrode placed inside the vagina (comfortably so and with lubricant I might add!). The electrode traces the muscle activity (EMG) and you can see it on a computer screen. This helps you ‘find the muscle’ and train it in different positions to work better, it also helps to monitor your progress.

Muscle Stimulation If the muscle is very weak, a gentle electrical current can be delivered to the muscle helping it to contract (a tingly sensation). This can sort of ‘jump start’ the muscle until you gain better control yourself. You can rent/buy machines to do this at home and the Physio will advise you about this.

Cones (a bit like tampons with weights) A weighted cone in place when doing everyday tasks can stimulate the Pelvic Floor to work harder and strengthen.

Top Tips • Drinking enough fluids is important and avoiding repetitive lifting/impact activities helps.

• A strong PF improves your sex life and can lead to better orgasms!

• Just by tightening your PF before you cough, sneeze or jump you could reduce leakage by 80% and with specialist help from a Physio most people can regain their continence fully.

A You are not alone. Stress Incontinence

affects about 9 million females in the UK and basically means involuntary leakage of urine during physical activity e.g. trampolining, sneezing and running. The ‘stress’ part however isn’t an emotional one, the Pelvic Floor Muscles and supporting structures of the bladder have become weakened after having your babies and aren’t keeping the bladder outlet closed when you are bouncing up and down or sneezing. It can cause urine to leak in any positions where there is ‘stress’ or ‘pressure’ on the bladder and is the most common form of Incontinence.

What’s happening ‘down there?’

The Pelvic Floor Muscles lie at the base of the pelvis attaching like a sling from the pubic bone at the front, tailbone (coccyx) at the back and the ‘sit bones’ at each side. This forms a ‘hammock’ supporting the bladder, womb, bowel and vagina. Clenching the muscle has a ‘close and lift’ effect on the bladder and bowel openings, preventing leakage. If you can stop your pee mid flow - well done it works! (but don’t do this regularly).

Stress Incontinence is common in pregnancy and especially after vaginal deliveries simply because of the weight the poor Pelvic Floor/vagina has carried and the amount of stretch that happens pushing the baby out. Damage to the muscle or nerve supply makes it sluggish and slow to respond during activities, causing leakage.

For some it resolves spontaneously, but for many the problem lingers requiring treatment. Current NICE guidelines recommend at least 3 months guided Pelvic Floor Rehabilitation before considering other treatment options for Stress Incontinence (medication, surgery), making Physiotherapy the first line treatment.

How can Physio help?

A physiotherapist with specialist Pelvic Floor/Continence training will take a full confidential history of your symptoms and find out what is bothering you most. You may be asked to do a bladder diary to establish a pattern if you are experiencing urgency and rushing to the loo often.

With your permission the Physio may carry out a vaginal examination to get information about the strength and endurance of your Pelvic Floor and check for prolapse (bulging of the vaginal wall), skin conditions and general vaginal health.

The assessment is extremely beneficial, especially when 50% of women who think they are contracting their Pelvic Floor Muscles correctly are actually doing the opposite movement (Valsalva) making the problem worse!

If you would like to book an appointment with Katy Winters, or for more information please call our friendly reception team on 01706 819464.

Katy Winters is a Chartered Physiotherapist specialising in Continence who works at Physio & Therapies in Todmorden.

She has just returned from maternity leave after her 3rd child!

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