Engaging your neurodivergent child this summer
By Anna Houston
As a Special Educational Needs (SEN) teacher working with children ages 4 to 7, I know how challenging it can be to engage neurodivergent children, especially those with high sensory needs. I’ve learned that when children don’t have a way to meet those sensory needs, they’ll often find their own; like turning on the tap and soaking the floor!
That’s why I’m passionate about creating simple, engaging activities that allow children to explore their senses, interact with others and develop important skills. And if we’re lucky enough to get some sunshine, these ideas work beautifully outdoors.
Messy sensory play
Sensory trays meet children’s sensory needs. Messy play can model important skills like filling and emptying containers and can be accompanied by engagement with an adult. Even if a child isn’t engaged initially, I always model the play and the language: for example, building a sandcastle and saying: ‘Ready, steady… GO!’ before smashing it down. Sensory play also calms behaviour, while encouraging focus. Try adding oranges, lemons and herbs to water so children can ‘make tea’ or ‘soup.’ It’s great for developing motor skills within a rich sensory experience.
Ice cube exploration
Using similar ingredients - like herbs or citrus fruit - you can create sensory ice cubes for children to explore temperature, texture and even taste (if safe). The contrast from warm to cold water is stimulating but freezing fruit adds another layer of sensory feedback. For more able children, try adding salt to the ice cubes and watching how it melts.
Sensory trails
This outdoor activity encourages movement and body awareness. Create a trail using different textures - mud, soapy water, cereal and grass for your child to walk through with bare feet. Trays help contain the mess but aren’t essential. The goal is to explore contrast and texture in a fun, physical way.
Bubbles
Bubbles are always a hit! Whether giant bubbles or foam, they
encourage interaction and language. It’s a lovely way to build anticipation and support turn-taking. Foam is also great for clapping, squeezing and getting stuck in.
The curiosity box
This works well for children who struggle to engage. Fill a box with sensory toys like lights or fidget items. Encourage your child to pick something and once they start playing, mimic their actions. It’s amazing to see how it boosts concentration and shared attention. In summer, swap in natural resources from the garden like leaves, sticks or flowers. If your child prefers a flashy light toy, that’s absolutely fine.
Outdoor creative play
Simple mark-making activities, like painting a fence with water or drawing with giant chalks on the patio, are fantastic. If you have a tree in the garden, try tying up fabric strips or bells, offering visual and auditory stimulation as the wind moves them.
A calm den or tent
Setting up a tent or shaded den outside with favourite toys or sensory objects creates a calm, safe space for your child. It’s a place they can go to regulate emotions or simply take a break. This could a be a great place for the curiosity box.
Playdough and natural mark-making
Playdough is brilliant for fine motor skills. Adding scents like essential oils provides additional sensory stimulation and using natural resources like sticks, stones and leaves to make marks in the dough is a calming, repetitive yet creative way to explore texture and shape.
Anna Houston is a freelance writer specialising in parenting and women’s lifestyle.
Intensive interaction
This approach meets the child at their level with simple, repetitive games to build connection. For example, blowing up a balloon and saying: ‘Ready, steady…’ but pausing before letting go. The child might look at you or make an action, encouraging initiation and teaching them to interact. I use similar techniques with nursery rhymes like Round and Round the Garden, pausing before tickling. Giving children time to process is a win. For those struggling, try focused oneto-one time in a quiet space.
Carla Finlayson, editor
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editor@familiesnorthyorkshire.co.uk
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Welcome
Are you looking forward to the long school summer holidays? Or does the idea of having to keep the kids occupied for that length of time fill you with dread? Either way, you’ll find articles to help in this issue.
Discover ways to keep the kids occupied WITHOUT screens and check out our summer reading choices for all ages. Speaking of keeping kids busy, hear from two mums about how they react when their children tell them they are bored. If you’re looking for family outing ideas, have you ever been foraging? Discover the hows and whys in our article.
Finally, in this issue, we have some fabulous giveaways including bundles of learning toys from Learning Resources worth £200 each! Apply inside. By doing so, you’ll also ensure you receive our digital magazine and email newsletter with lots more content and goodies on offer.
This product is made of material from well-managed, FSC®certified forests and other controlled sources.
March/April issue giveaway winners Congratulations to all our winners. You can find a list at www.bit.ly/MA25recipients
Families North Yorkshire is a franchise of Families Print Ltd of 75 Lisbon Avenue, Twickenham, TW2 5HL. Families is a registered trademark of Families Print Ltd. All franchised magazine in the group are independently owned and operated under licence. The contents of Families North Yorkshire are fully protected by copyright and none of the editorial or photographic matter may be reproduced in any form without prior consent of Families North Yorkshire. Every care is taken in the preparation of this magazine but the franchise owner and Families Print Ltd cannot be held responsible for the claims of advertisers, nor for the accuracy of the contents, or any consequence thereof.
Get ready for a wild woodland adventure at RHS Garden Harlow Carr this summer! Head to their woodland basecamp for six weeks of hands-on fun and outdoor challenges, from epic den building and forest school workshops to woodland family yoga. Learn new skills including bushcraft and orienteering, and explore the world of trees on a family trail.
Garden admission applies; free to RHS members and children under 5. Children aged 5–16 just £5. Some events are not included with garden admission and require pre-bookings. www.rhs.org.uk/gardens/harlowcarr/whats-on/summer-holidays
The Magic Returns to The Web Adventure Park this Summer! Don’t miss the return of Dazzling Darren with his magical entertainment that’s fun for all ages, games, magic and the odd silly prank! Darren will be leading the fun everyday this week, bring towels and a change of clothes! Take a spin on the King Sizzler, light up your day with the Supertrouper, dive into the Fun House, ride the Mine Train, soar with the Balloons, whirl around the Toy Set Carousel, feel the breeze on the Swing, race your friends on Race ‘a Rama, bump along in the Bumper Cars, and giggle through the Cups & Saucers plus some exciting NEW rides! All included and unlimited, AND.... try to spot our new friend DIZZY THE DEGU... around the park!
www.webadventurepark.co.uk
York Maze is Yorkshire’s multi award-winning a-maze-ing summer attraction. Home to the largest Maize Maze in Europe plus over 20 rides, shows and attractions, many undercover or indoors. Meet York Maze’s mascot Kernel Kernel who this year is helping wrangle the giant dinosaurs in the Jurassic Maize. NEW for 2025 explore an Ancient Egyptian themed temple to find the golden corn statues in Pharaohs Corn-Quest! There is so much to do you’ll need to make a day of it! Open daily Sat 12 July – Mon 1 September.
Tickets each day are limited and must be booked online. Tickets will not be available on the gate. See website for details.
www.yorkmaze.com
Summer Reading Challenge 2025 Explore the Story Garden
From 5 July to 13 September, the Summer Reading Challenge invites children across the UK to explore the ‘Story Garden.’ This year’s theme celebrates the outdoors, encouraging reading while inspiring creativity and imagination.
The Challenge, designed to promote literacy and a lifelong love of books, keeps young minds engaged over the summer. Children can join by borrowing books from their local library, logging their progress, unlocking activities and earning rewards like stickers and certificates.
Organised by The Reading Agency alongside libraries, this free initiative makes reading fun for all ages and abilities. With plenty of adventures to discover, it’s a perfect way to enrich the school break. Visit your local library to sign up and see your child grow their love for books in the Story Garden. www.readingagency.org.uk
Wild Woodland Adventures RHS Garden Harlow Carr
The Web Adventure Park Summer at The Web!
Summer Fun York Maze
Across York
Tommy Treebark’s Wild Adventure York BID have partnered with local artist Selkie Ray to create a brand-new family friendly trail, celebrating Yorkshire’s wild animals, running till 14th September 2025. Hidden on brightly coloured benches all around York are 50 amazing animals – each one can be found somewhere in the wilds of Yorkshire. Pick up a leaflet from the Visitor Information Centre on Parliament Street and find all 50 animals to win a prize!
Pirate Ship & Pop Up Beach
Tommy Treebark’s Wild Adventure Ahoy mi hearties – All hands on deck! The magnificent pirate ship returns from the rough seas this summer and will be moored on the ‘pop-up’ beach on the bank of the River Wharfe, outside the Cavendish Pavilion. Let your little ones imagine they have taken to the high seas by captaining the wooden galleon. Once on deck little pirates can enjoy the ship’s slide, climbing net, climbing wall, pirates’ pole and ship’s wheel! And of course there is space to build sandcastles galore!
Temple Newsam Summer Fun on the Farm
Make unforgettable memories at Home Farm this Summer holiday! Get creative with farm themed crafts. Visit the adorable animals, rare breed livestock and take in the stunning landscape of the Temple Newsam Estate.
Monk Park Farm
MonkFest
MonkFest is bringing back the foam parties, glitter, and festival vibes galore –and that’s just the beginning! Expect an unforgettable family-friendly celebration with amazing activities, live entertainment, and plenty of surprises along the way.
Lotherton Hall
A Lotherton Summer Holiday
Head to the circus tents on the ball games field and see what’s in store for you. Challenge your friends and family to a game of soft archery. Who’s going to win the space hopper racing? Hop on a balance bike and see who can reach the finish line first. And, if you still have some energy, head to the play area where inquisitive little minds can be let loose to play even more.
Whitby Abbey
Summer of Fun & Games
Immerse yourself in the spooky world of Dracula at Whitby Abbey! Enjoy performer-led Dracula plays every Saturday to Tuesday, bringing the iconic story to life. Take part in The Count’s Treasure Hunt around the Abbey everyday of the school holidays.
Harewood House
Summer at Harewood
Head to Harewood for a summer of creative play with their brand new Playscape, created by the wonderful team at Wild Rumpus. Explore the new pop-up loose parts play installation and let your kids’ imaginations run wild.
Piglets Adventure Farm
Summer of Adventure
Fun shows, foam parties and three fantastic adventures! Will you meet a fire breathing dragon, master new skills at the circus or walk with the dinosaurs?
Mother Shipton’s Cave Enchanting Fairies & Hobblings
Keep a look out for an enchanting fairy and the curiously courageous Hobbling, who guard the secrets of the forest and may even share their enchantments with worthy adventurers.
Join us dressed up as a fairy, hobbit, elf, or wizard and set off on an adventure through the ancient site.
Fountains Abbey & Studley Royal Summer of Play - The Circus
Head to the circus tents on the ball games field and see what’s in store for you. Challenge your friends and family to a game of soft archery. Who’s going to win the space hopper racing? Hop on a balance bike and see who can reach the finish line first. And, if you still have some energy, head to the play area where inquisitive little minds can be let loose to play even more.
William’s Den Carnival Fun
Roll Up, Roll Up! Step right up – the Carnival has come to William’s Den! Join them this summer for a whirlwind of circus skills, carnival fun, and all-day adventure play in the great outdoors. It’s time to juggle, balance, laugh, and explore
2025 Club Hub Top
100 Children’s Activity Providers Announced
Club Hub is delighted to announce the ‘Top 100 Children’s Activity Provider’ for 2025. Local business owner, Annette Peterson, who runs Number Train, was named 85th in the whole of the UK. A first of its kind for the children’s activities industry. The official list was announced throughout the day at the Club Hub Event 2025 on Saturday 10th May in Birmingham.
Number Train was founded by Annette in 2017 and is one of the first ever preschool maths classes in the UK. It started here in Yorkshire and there are now five former primary school teachers running their own franchise areas in Leeds, Harrogate, Wetherby, Otley, Ilkley, Doncaster and Bradford!
Entries for ‘Top 100 Children’s Activity Providers’ were assessed by expert judges, focusing on five key areas: activity benefits, safeguarding, inclusivity, community impact and business achievements. Each question was marked 1-20, giving a total overall score out of 100.
The list will also be a useful tool for parents and carers, as they will know that the providers have demonstrated the benefits of their activity for participants as well as excellent levels of commitment to, and compliance with safeguarding and inclusivity.
“I was absolutely delighted to feature in the Top 100 UK providers and to see Number Train up there with some much bigger providers. I have worked so hard over the last 8 years, from creating the concept, designing and delivering the classes to becoming a franchisor so it’s brilliant to have the recognition.” Annette Peterson, Founder of Number Train www.numbertrain.co.uk
BrightStart Phonics
After 25 incredible years in the classroom, I’m thrilled to introduce my new venture: BrightStart Phonics with Sarah – a dedicated online service supporting early years literacy.
BrightStart Phonics offers fun, engaging, and fully personalised tutoring sessions designed to build confidence and skills in reading, writing, and phonics. Every child is unique, and my approach ensures their learning experience is tailored to their individual needs and learning style. Sessions are delivered online, making them accessible to families across the UK and around the world. Whether your child is just beginning their literacy journey or needs a little extra support, I’m here to help them thrive. Let’s build bright futures—one sound, one word, and one sentence at a time.
For more information or to book a session, get in touch today!
sarah@brightstartprimaryenglishtutorsarah.com
Big Butterfly Count seeks citizen scientists
The Big Butterfly Count 2025 will take place from 18 July to 10 August across the UK.
This annual event invites the public to help monitor butterfly populations, vital indicators of biodiversity and environmental health. Organised by Butterfly Conservation, the count provides crucial data to protect species, track trends and understand the effects of climate change on wildlife.
Participants play a key role in this citizen science initiative by observing butterflies for fifteen minutes in a garden, park or outdoor space of their choice. Findings can be logged via the Big Butterfly Count’s app or website, contributing to national conservation efforts.
Join the Big Butterfly Count and help safeguard Britain’s natural environment
More info: www.bigbutterflycount.org
(new for 2025)
(new show for 2025)
Making the summer holidays work –for you and your children
School holidays can be a time of joy and relaxation, but for separated or divorced parents, they often come with legal considerations and challenges and it is always a good idea to plan ahead. Navigating holiday arrangements requires careful planning to ensure that children benefit from a well-balanced and conflict-free experience. The legal factors are important, as are the practical arrangements. Here we set out some of those key considerations for you.
Holiday Planning and Communication
Clear communication between parents is crucial for smooth holiday arrangements. Parents should discuss and confirm key details, including travel dates, locations, other parties present and emergency contacts. Include and check with the other parent before booking, so that they can feel included in the decision-making process. Using co-parenting apps or written parenting agreements can help manage expectations and avoid misunderstandings.
Child Arrangements Orders and Holiday Plans
If you have a Child Arrangements Order (CAO) issued by the family court this will outline where your child will live and time
By Katie Audsley | Hartlaw LLP
Dispute Resolution
In cases where parents struggle to agree on holiday arrangements, mediation and other forms of Non-CourtDispute Resolution can be an effective solution. Mediation helps both parties reach an agreement without resorting to court intervention, minimizing the stress and cost. If mediation does not achieve the desired outcome or is not possible, you can apply to court to ask for a legally binding decision based on the child’s best interests. Talk to your advisor about the options that will suit your family, as these can and should be tailored to your family’s individual needs.
Conclusion
Navigating holiday arrangements as a separated parent requires consideration of your legal responsibility together with really clear and effective communication. If you require any guidance on your options do get in touch, here at Hartlaw we offer a free initial consultation and we can help you to plan the right way forward for your family, for summer and beyond.
If you require any advice or assistance in relation to any aspect of family law, please
us by calling 01937 547000 or by emailing info@hartlaw.co.uk
Dianne Burke Partner, Collaborative Lawyer & Mediator
Kate Robinson Partner, Collaborative Lawyer & Mediator
Katie Audsley Family Lawyer
Unplugging for summer
By Liat Hughes Joshi
Technology is thoroughly ingrained in all our lives, particularly those of our children. From an early age, screens are a key source of entertainment and like it or not, highly effective at keeping them occupied. Amazing though technology can be, it can sometimes all get too much and we need screen downtime. What a joy to actually talk to each other and do things together that don’t involve texting and messaging, tapping and swiping!
As the summer holidays approach, here are my unplugged go-to activities for you to have fun and connect as a family this summer.
Garden camping
All the upsides of camping (the fresh air, the novelty!) minus the communal bathrooms and forgetting to take the tent pegs. An evening toasting marshmallows on a campfire or barbeque and telling stories by torchlight beats screens any day (hide them and turn off your router if necessary).
What you’ll need: A garden. If you don’t have one, persuade the grandparents or some friends to host. Camping gear – buy secondhand or borrow to keep costs down.
Get jamming
Children will need supervision as the jam can get dangerously hot but this activity is brilliant for dealing with fruit overload after foraging or visiting a pick-yourown farm (a great screen-free idea!). Experiment with different combinations and more unusual flavours, such as melon or rhubarb.
What you’ll need: Piles of fruit, preserving sugar, a large, sturdy saucepan or preserving pan, sterilised jam jars with lids and a jam-making thermometer.
Water-tastic games
Grab some water pistols, soak a few kitchen sponges in a bucket, make water balloons, turn on that garden sprinkler (provided there isn’t a hosepipe ban), herd the kids outside in their swimwear on a hot day and await the mayhem. What you’ll need: Water pistols, balloons, sponges, hosepipe and sprinkler; definitely a few towels for afterwards!
Trail about town
Write clues and riddles about the local area, culminating in a mystery destination such as a café or ice cream parlour. Two teams could battle it out to get to the final meeting point. You could draft in local shopkeepers or neighbours who you know well to have clues hidden in their shop or front gardens. This approach can also work well to liven up sightseeing on holidays or days out.
What you’ll need: The imagination to come up with the clues! An accompanying adult for each team if participants aren’t old enough to be out alone.
Old (and embarrassing) family photos
Dig out those long-neglected snaps from the attic and challenge your child to find the top three most embarrassing/amusing ones from days of yore. Prepare for much sniggering at your clothes and hairdos and comments of the ‘but you looked soooo young there, mum’/’you had hair then, dad…’ variety. What you’ll need: A pile of old pics or albums.
Fly a kite (somewhere bright, breezy and beautiful)
Find an exposed hill or a breezy beach, run along and let your kite soar! If you don’t own a kite, it’s possible to make one with sticks or straws, plastic bags and string, although don’t bank on it lasting the duration.
What you’ll need: A kite, the park, a field or the beach, free of any overhead wires for the kite to collide with. A breezy day (wind speeds of five to twenty five mph are optimal).
Sign language challenge
Learning basic sign language is relatively easy, a useful life skill and surprisingly appealing – especially if your child learns with friends and they can then use it to communicate together. Fingerspelling is an undaunting starting point – single signs for individual letters that can be used to spell out words. If your kids get into this, they could progress on to learning whole word signs
What you’ll need: A sign language guide (online is fine!). Semaphore is another, more unusual skill if they enjoy this.
Liat Hughes Joshi is a parenting expert and author. Her new book How to Unplug Your Child (Summersdale) is available from www.bookshop.org
For bad weather days
For bad weather days
Foraging with kids
By John Shahabeddin
Foraging with kids is one of the most amazing things you can ever do. It gets children exploring outside and engaging with nature. And what’s even better than this? When they get home, their baskets loaded with berries and fruits, they can get to work in the kitchen making yummy treats with the literal fruits of their labours. Foraging is fun, educational and provides hours of fun for the whole family!
Rules for foraging with kids
Never eat or let your kids eat, something that you cannot identify with 100% certainty.
Woods and forests can hide dangers, from rivers and ravines, to log piles and country roads, so be actively aware of your surroundings at all times!
Know what to do in an emergency. Have a charged mobile phone with you at all times and make sure someone knows where you are and a time you’ll be back.
Where and what to forage
There’s an abundance of wild food almost everywhere you look. You can freely forage the above ground parts of the four ‘F’s (Fruit, Flowers, Foliage and Fungi) on public land (or land you have a right of access to).
So, foraging in public parks, gardens, woods and forests is fine to do, as long as the fruit, flowers, foliage or fungi is growing wild and NOT deliberately planted (e.g. crops or decorative garden beds).
Where NOT to forage
Foraging on private land requires permission from the land owner first. It is however, illegal to uproot any wild plant (on either public or private land) without the landowner’s permission under the Wildlife & Countryside Act 1981, so always ask first if foraging for roots (eg burdock or dandelion roots).
Here are six commonly foraged and easy to identify foods that you can gather during the summer.
Bilberries
Blackberries, the fruit of the bramble, can be found everywhere and are perhaps one of the easiest foods to forage. They start appearing in August and remain through September. They can be eaten raw, made into syrups and vinegars or
Cobnuts
Cobnuts, also called filberts, are the nuts found on hazel trees from August to October. These small trees are often found in parks, gardens and woodlands. They start off green but later turn brown. They can be cracked open and eaten, just like a regular hazelnut!
Bilberries are a delicious close relative of blueberries. They grow on little shrubs in forests and on moorland between July and September. They can be used just like blueberries from the supermarket.
Raspberries
Raspberries often grow in woodlands and forests. Like shop-bought counterparts, they are pinky-red, tart and juicy! They appear between June and September. They can be eaten raw or turned into yummy bakes and desserts. We especially love raspberry and white chocolate muffins or a creamy raspberry fool!
Elderflowers and elderberries
Elderflowers are the frothy white flowers of the black elder tree, which can be found almost everywhere. They appear in June and can be turned into cordial or covered in pancake batter and fried like fritters! The flowers later become small black berries, which can also be eaten but need to be cooked beforehand. We usually bake them into a September crumble!
Redcurrant
Redcurrants are tart red berries, closely related to blackcurrants. They frequently grow in woodlands or roadside verges between July and September. We often include these in pies alongside other fruits or as a filling for tarts.
John Shahabeddin (aka @grizzlyjohn on Instagram) is the author of a new book called The Grizzly Forager’s Guide to Family Foraging, published by Harper Collins and available from www.bookshop.org
Blackberries
Clubs & Classes
If your kids are wanting to get active, desperate for drama, eager to meet new friends or learn a new skill, then look no further than our guide to local clubs & classes to keep them busy!
Number Train Baby Band
Number Train is a fun and interactive introduction to maths for preschool children designed and delivered by an experienced primary maths specialist. With a different theme each week, sessions keep your child engaged with games, action songs, arts and craft.
Call 07852 989523 numbertrain@hotmail.com
2PRU Gymnastics Club
An inclusive community where fun, family and a sense of belonging thrive.
ARTventurers
Award winning, colourful, creative (often messy) art classes for babies, toddlers and children.
Baby swimmers
Classes for babies and toddlers from 6 weeks old.
Kidslingo
Inspiring young children, from birth to 12 years, to love languages (French & Spanish) from the very start of their language learning journeys
The Little Gym
For every stage of your child’s development from 4 months to 12 years
Perfect Pitch Stars
Classes include singing & drama in a fun and exciting environment.
Phonics with Robot Reg
High-energy classes which open a world of Literacy to children and teach early phonics skills. Classes are available for children aged 3 months – 6 years.
This engaging music class is designed for babies who can sit independently through to 3 years, focusing on age-appropriate activities that encourage movement, listening skills, and early development. The sessions incorporate singing and instruments that help develop coordination and language skills.
www.babyband.co.uk
Razzamataz
York based classes in Performing Arts - singing, dancing & drama. Catering for all ages from 2 - 18 years
Rhythm Time
Music & singing classes for babies, toddlers & preschoolers.
Ruby Dance Studio
Inspiring, confidence-boosting & creative dance classes for children aged 2-11 years.
Rugbytots
Dynamic weekly sessions that enable children aged 2 - 7 years to develop their social and physical skills in a fun, positive environment.
Swimmers Academy
Classes for beginners from 4 years old through to advanced levels for teens.
Tumble tots
Gym classes for children from 6 months to 7 years.
YTR Youth Theatre
York Theatre Royal Youth theatre class for children aged 5+
Sunshine Sensory
A unique and enriching experience that engages all your little ones senses while promoting relaxation, enhancing well-being, and creating memorable moments. Visit the website to discover how you can begin your little one’s sensory journey today!
www.sunshinesensory.co.uk/
Camp QE
Queen Ethelburga’s, one of North Yorkshire’s leading independent schools, has an actionpacked summer planned and its doors will be open to welcome hundreds of children for summer fun across the camps and courses on offer.
Camp QE is the most popular holiday club at Queen Ethelburga’s. Offering multi-activity day camps, the summer camps offer all day care from 7.30am to 5.30pm, from age 3 all the way up to those in Year 11 at school.
Outdoor activities range from popular sports such as football, rugby and tennis to rock climbing, scavenger hunts and skating. Our indoor activities can include basketball, swimming, dodgeball, table tennis, baking, tie-dying t-shirts, and much more.
In Camp QE Minis specialist Early Years practitioners work alongside our Camp QE team to deliver a fun and educational activity programme in small groups of eight. Activities can include Forest School, walks and outdoor exploration, creative crafts and lego building, as well as pool parties and splash fun, biscuit decorating, sports and scavenger hunts.
Camp QE Juniors features a unique theme each week, and team-based challenges for children to earn points. At the end of the week, the team with the fewest points puts forward their Team Leader for an amusing punishment.
Tailored for older children, Camp QE Seniors focuses on adrenaline sports and team challenges. The week ends with an exciting final showdown and a camp-wide party!
To find out more and book your place visit www.qe.org/camp-qe
What’s On?
All listings are correct at the time of publication. Please check with the venues before you visit incase anything has changed
- 20
Marfield Fields, Masham Masham Steam Engine and Fair Organ Rally
See the famous Dancing Diggers, a fly past from a Lancaster Bomber, as well as live music and children’s entertainment. There will be hundreds of rare heritage vehicles including steam engines, tractors, motorcycles, cars, lorries and stationary engines. Also find food stalls, craft stalls and local ale!
Bridlington Spa Muddles Live!
Join Bridlington favourite Troy Harris aka Muddles every Thursday throughout the summer holidays for his brand new show Muddles Live! Expect silliness, laughter and lots of audience participation as Muddles enjoys his summer holidays in the best seaside destination on earth... BRIDLINGTON!
Grand Opera House, York Dinosaurs Live!
Go on a prehistoric journey together to the Triassic, Jurassic and Cretaceous periods and watch the life-like dinosaurs come alive right on stage! Not only that, but you’ll also find out more about fossils, time scales and how our planet has changed over hundreds of millions of years.
Scarborough Spa The dinosaur that Pooped
Adapted from the number 1 best-selling books by Tom Fletcher and Dougie Poynter, the whole family will have a poopy good time enjoying a brand new story for the stage. Featuring new songs by Tom and Dougie, a lot of laughs and a whole lot of poo!
York Barbican Cirque: The Greatest ShowReimagined
Get ready for a dazzling fusion of musical theatre and jawdropping circus acts, taking the original Circus meets Musical Theatre spectacle to thrilling new heights. Experience iconic West End showstoppers paired with awe-inspiring circus acts showcasing their breathtaking feats of agility.
Kettlewell Kettlewell Scarecrow Festival
It’s Back! Same wacky and wonderful scarecrows, same beautiful scenery and views, same gorgeous cakes and soup, and same great value. A wonderful family day out that really won’t break the bank. In fact, bring a picnic and the whole day will cost you about a fiver for all the family.
The Forum, Northallerton
Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs
Bringing the magic of pantomime to the summer, this exclusive production promises dazzling costumes, spectacular sets, and laugh-out-loud comedy for the whole family. With a fantastic ensemble cast and breathtaking special effects, it’s set to be The Forum’s biggest show yet! Don’t miss this one-of-a-kind fairy tale adventure
Newby Hall & Gardens Fireworks Championships
Three teams create stunning displays choreographed to music and the audience votes for a winner on the night via SMS. To finish there is a final display by the organisers to round off what is always a fantastic night.
Eden Camp Living History Weekend
Step back in time and immerse yourself in history at Eden Camp, where the past comes alive with reenactors around every corner at our Living History Weekend. From captivating displays to engaging talks and activities galore, there’s something for every member of the family to enjoy.
Joseph Rowntree, York
The Wonderful Wizard of Oz
Join Dorothy, the Scarecrow, the Tin Man and the Cowardly Lion on their journey to the Emerald City in a heartwarming tale of courage, self-discovery and friendship. With dazzling costumes, showstopping songs and plenty of audience interaction, this production promises fun for the whole family.
The Baby Band Family Music Festival is back – and it’s bigger, louder, and more joyful than ever! Taking place on Sunday 20th July at the stunning Lotherton Hall in Leeds, this vibrant one-day event brings together incredible live music, family fun, and festival magic for all ages.
With a main stage packed full of amazing bands – from high-energy party acts to swing, soul and folk favourites – it’s a day of dancing, singing, and soaking up brilliant live performances. And don’t worry – there’s absolutely no nursery rhymes here! Just proper music that everyone can enjoy.
The festival is bursting with things to do: two activity tents filled with crafts, dance sessions, forest school, circus skills, drumming workshops and more. There’s a fabulous artisan market, delicious food and drink stalls, and plenty of space to picnic and play.
Designed with families in mind, the Baby Band Festival is perfect for toddlers, teens, and grown-ups alike – we even recommend bringing the grandparents! Expect non-stop smiles, great vibes, and unforgettable memories.
Whether it’s your first time or your third, this is a must-do summer highlight.
Book your tickets now at www.babyband.co.uk and join the fun!
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Is it ever okay… for my child to be bored?
By Ellie Malt
SO, quick question - do you think it’s okay to just let your kids be bored sometimes?
In a world full of activities, apps and endless entertainment, boredom is rare and our children just aren’t used to that feeling. It’s no wonder we find ourselves wondering ‘what should I do?’ when a child says: ‘I’m bored.’ There’s more than one way to crack this nut so we asked two mums to share their thoughts.
‘Honestly, I think boredom can be brilliant’
‘I know it sounds a bit harsh but I actually think it’s really good for kids to be bored sometimes and I have to stop myself from jumping in with ideas. I try to remind myself: okay, this is her chance to work something out. It’s not always easy - there’s often a bit of grumbling and complaining - but soon, she’ll start making up a game, building some den or digging out a toy she forgot she loved.
To be honest I think it’s in these totally undirected moments that the real creativity happens. They teach her that she doesn’t need constant entertainment or someone else to fix everything for her. Plus, it’s good for her brain to slow down and just... be.
Life isn’t always fast-paced and exciting and I want her to be okay with that too. I genuinely believe boredom can build resilience and independence; things she’s going to need as she grows up. It can be a bit painful to listen to the moaning at first, but in the end, it always seems to lead to something good if I just hold my nerve. I reckon it’s worth it for the creativity and independence that emerge’.
Sophie, mum of a daughter
Ideas and ways to bust the boredom
Sometimes kids just need a little spark to get going. Here are a few easy prompts to try:
Create a simple ‘boredom jar’ with activity ideas they can pick from.
Start a mini art challenge - get them to draw their dream house or invent a new animal.
Build a cosy reading den with blankets and pillows.
Offer an ‘invent something’ challenge with random craft supplies.
‘I’d rather step in before boredom turns into a meltdown’
‘When my little boy says he’s bored, I take it as a bit of a warning flag! I get where other mums are coming from in not stepping in but for me, when my son says he’s bored, it feels like a bit of a cry for help. I don’t mean I jump up and hand him an iPad straight away but I do think it’s my job to guide him a little and help him learn to work it out.
Childhood goes by so fast and I want him to spend it exploring, learning and finding what he loves, not just sitting around feeling stuck. I have tried leaving him but if I leave him too long without any direction, he tends to get frustrated or ends up picking fights with his sister.
Instead, I try to give him a few options: ‘Do you want to build a Lego city or come and help me in the kitchen?’ Nothing amazing, just a suggestion to get him moving again. I see it as teaching him how to manage downtime positively, rather than hoping he’ll figure it out all on his own. Especially with all the distractions kids face today, I think they sometimes need a little help with learning how to use their free time well. It’s not about micromanaging them; it’s about being present enough to keep boredom from turning into something negative. For me, it’s all about balance: a bit of space and a bit of support.’
Laura, mum of two
Staying strong when your
child
is bored
It’s tough but sometimes the best thing you can do is not rush in. Try these approaches instead:
Acknowledge your child’s feelings (‘Yeah, sometimes it is boring!’) without fixing the situation. Remind them that feeling bored can lead to something fun!
Encourage them to come up with three ideas before you suggest anything.
Stay calm and put up with any whining.
Celebrate when they figure out a way to entertain themselves.
Summer reading choices
By Sarah Campbell
Looking for the best new books for your family reading this summer? There’s nothing better than sharing stories - and there’s a book out there for everyone! Here are our top picks.
A Good Night’s Sleep by Emma
(HarperCollins)
Ages 3-5
Witty storytelling, stunning illustrations and playful animal characters come together in this gorgeous new picture book. It’s the middle of the night and Maudie would really like a good night’s sleep. Heading to her lovely house in the woods for a wellearned rest, she finds some unexpected visitors in the way…
There’s a Gorilla at the
Ages 5-8
Ages 3-5
Packed with fun, characterful illustrations, this laugh-outloud story celebrates the joy of difference and belonging in a blended-family environment. Daphne’s mum and stepdad are throwing a family party. It’s going to be so boring. But when a gorilla knocks on the door, a rhino rolls in and a kangaroo pops up, this party is going to get wild!
BEACH TIME BEACH TIME
Whether
Ages 5-8
This highly illustrated chapter book is perfect for younger or reluctant readers. Minibeast besties Dash, a firefly and Dribble, a snail, must foil a master criminal plot involving a crystal worm, ancient custard, a stolen Roboslug and some dastardly dung beetles. Riotously good fun, this will have young readers laughing out loud.
(HarperCollins)
Ages 8-12
This is a story about an extraordinary friendship. When Rhys moves to London to live with his estranged dad, he decides to keep secret the lost black Labrador he has adopted – but looking after a secret dog is anything but easy! Told with heart and empathy, Rhys’s story is perfect for reading together as a family.
Meet Martie Moose! A quirky character, fun illustrations, humour, adventure and heart combine in a perfect package for newly independent readers. It’s Marty’s first day on the job as Postmouse and he’s ready to go. But things take a tricky turn when he gets lost in Whisker Warren and needs rescuing by a doolally rabbit named Nibbles. Who knew postage could be so perilous!
Ages 8-12
With children being snatched off the streets of London, Cassia Thorne and her friends set out to investigate and rescue them before it’s too late. The inspiring lead character, magic, mystery and adventure will have you on the edge of your seats!
Chichester Clark
Door by Clare Helen Welsh, illustrated by Sam Caldwell (Little Tiger)
Beastie Bros: The Cabbage Juice Crime by David O’Connell (Scholastic)
Martie Moose: First Class Mischief by Claire Powell (Walker)
My Dog by Olivia Wakefield
Deep Dark by Zohra Nabi (Simon & Schuster)
Improving your child’s comprehension
By Jemma Z Smith
Reading is one of the most valuable skills a child can develop but it’s not just about being able to sound out words or finish a book - it’s about understanding it. Inference, a skill often spoken about by teachers, means being able to work out what a character is thinking, their reasoning behind decisions and what they might do next. To help children go beyond the basics, a creative approach encourages that all-important understanding.
When meeting with parents I try to emphasise the benefit of going beyond asking: ‘Did you like the book?’ What other questions encourage your child to reveal how much they have understood?
Firstly, timing is important. Don’t wait until you have finished reading the book to ask questions; make them part of your reading routine. Ask before you read: ‘what might the character do next?’, then, in the middle: ‘why do you think the character made that choice?’ and ‘what would you do in their shoes?’ Then: ‘did the ending of this chapter surprise you?’
Secondly, encourage your child to ask you these questions too. Whilst we might all long for our child to leave us in peace to actually just read the book to them, their questions provide the chance for us to model inference to them. If they are not asking questions, try explaining the book to them (at their level) and say out loud what you hope might happen next.
Thirdly, you don’t have to restrict the questions to fiction books. If your child is reading a poster on the Tube ask them what it is about. Pretend to be too busy to read some instructions and have your child summarise them or ask: ‘what new fact did you learn?’ or ‘would you recommend this to someone interested in...?’ These open-ended questions
Relatable questions for different book types
Books can be great starting places for discussions around bullying, technology, motivation etc. Asking the right kind of questions can transform reading from a solo activity into a powerful discussion about values
Here are some examples, based on book types:
Fiction. What would you have done differently to solve the problem? Why did the character choose to do this? How would you feel if you were the character?
Non-Fiction. Would this be a book that you would share with your friends? Would this book be useful for a school project? Why or why not? Can you explain what you read to someone who’s never heard of this topic?
Graphic Novels. How do the pictures help you understand the story? What emotions do the characters show through their expressions? Is the story told differently from a regular book? These questions build, prediction, empathy and analysis - key parts of strong comprehension.
encourage children to think critically and reflect on what they’ve read.
The type of book matters too. Humorous stories are great for picking apart language and tone. Questions such as: ‘why is this funny?’ or ‘can you draw this character?’ can help children to see why an author has described a scene in a certain way. Adventure books are perfect for discussing cause, effect and characters’ motivations. By tailoring questions to the genre, you help children engage more deeply and develop more sophisticated reading skills.
Comprehension is a lifelong skill and developing it doesn’t have to be a chore. By asking thoughtful questions and tailoring conversations to reading material, parents can turn comprehension into something meaningful, enjoyable and confidence-building.
Jemma Z Smith is Director of The Education Hotel. For further advice, visit www.educationhotel.co.uk
The Great Woodland Adventure
Sat 19 Jul – Sun 31 Aug
Go wild in the woods this summer
Head to our woodland base camp for six weeks of hands-on activities and outdoor challenges from den building and woodland crafts to storytelling adventures and more... let your adventure grow!
