Families Vale of York Jul/Aug 2018 summer issue

Boo Discou k nte Tickets d Online

– uly 21 J ept 3S

SUMMER FUN BIGGER & BETTER Daily Foam Parties plus Fairy Tale Trail, Magic Hatter, Amazing Circus, Pig Racing, Maize Maze Challenge, Water Wars & LOADS more

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his Clu issu b Sum /clas e: s li mer Win hol sting af s id fam ree a ay fun nn ily gul pass ual to l kin iver’s gdo m!

PIGLETS, NR YORK YO32 9ST TEL 01904 499183 PIGLETSADVENTUREFARM.COM

BRACKENFIELD SCHOOL Independent Prep School for 2-11 year olds OPEN MORNING FRIDAY 5TH & SATURDAY 6TH OCTOBER, 10-11.30AM Small Class Sizes. Outstanding Results. Family Ethos 128 Duchy Road, Harrogate, HG1 2HE

Final few places being reserved in our Reception Class and Nursery for September

Issue 83 Jul/Aug 2018

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WIN an Annual Family Pass to Gulliver’s World Matlock and Warrington (worth more than £300!)

Magical memories are created every day at Gulliver’s World, which is specially designed for children aged 2 to 13. So there really is something for children of all ages to explore and enjoy!

From theme park classics like the rollercoaster, log flume and dodgems to weird and wonderful rides and attractions, there’s loads to discover and new things to see and do all the time. Attractions include soft play areas, interactive shows, activities and entertainment, as well as life-size and lifelike animatronic dinosaurs, SFEAR high ropes climbing challenge, Splash Zones and a Nerf Zone.

An Annual Family Pass entitles you to visit as many times as you wish for one year and is valid for up to four people. And there is free parking all day, every day!

For more information, visit www.gulliversfun.co.uk TO ENTER

Email your answers to the following questions (and the name of the town/village where you live) to info@familiesmagazine.co.uk no later than 17 August 2018:

✸ Tell us in 50 words (or more) why you find Families magazine a useful tool for family life?

✸ How likely are you to respond to a piece of advertising you see in Families? a Very likely b Possibly c Unlikely

Terms and conditions apply. Tickets are non-refundable, non-transferable and cannot be used in conjunction with any other offer. There must be at least one adult and one child in each party admitted.

2 Families Vale of York

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Welcome I can’t believe it’s summer time; I don’t know where time has gone this year. I am even starting to see some countdowns to Christmas on Facebook! (sigh) In our household, the biggest thing worthy of note at the moment is our new four-legged addition…our beautiful puppy Lottie. The boys simply adore her. We have a family holiday to Northumberland with Lottie in tow to look forward to and plenty of summer fun days out with our new family member around to help us enjoy them even more.

This issue is bumper packed; I hope that you enjoy it.

Our comprehensive ‘Summer What’s on Guide’ lets you know how you can keep the kids entertained. Whether it’s where to go that’s highly recommended, or which summer camps are available to you we’ve got it covered.

This issue also contains a jam-packed club/class feature, so be sure to give this a good read and find out just what’s on offer in the local area for your kids to sign up to.

In this

issue

6 education

8 parenting 13 clubs & summer

9 classes

17

What’s on

camps

22

competition time

It would only be right to leave you with a picture of little Lottie…for cuteness value of course!

Happy summer holidays ☺

Editor, Families Vale of York Magazine

Get in touch E – editor@familiesvoy.co.uk T – 07794909820 @FamiliesValeofYorkMag @FamiliesVoYMag

Tel: 07794909820 editor@familiesvoy.co.uk www.familiesonline.co.uk Circulation:

18,000

Deadline:

The deadline for the Sep/Oct 2018 edition is early Aug 2018

Designed by:

Anna Lawton

Printed by:

Warners Midlands PLC www.warners.co.uk

Families Vale of York is part of Families Print Ltd, a franchise company.

All franchised magazines in the group are independently owned and operated under licence. Families is a registered trademark of LCMB Ltd, Remenham House, Regatta Place, Marlow Road, Bourne End, Bucks SL8 5TD. The contents of Families Vale of York are fully protected by copyright and none of the editorial or photographic matter may be reproduced in any form without prior consent of Families Vale of York. Every care is taken in the preparation of this magazine, but the franchise company, Families Print Ltd and Lifecycle Marketing cannot be held responsible for the claims of advertisers nor for the accuracy of the contents, or any consequence thereof.

Open up the world for your child with our Montessori nurseries.

Outstanding care and education to inspire and guide each individual child.

Fulford 01904 642666 Strensall 01904 490339

www.yorkshiremontessorinursery.co.uk

FAMILY

News

Review of Breaking Mum and Dad: The Insider’s Guide to Parenting Anxiety

By Laura Macaulay Anna Williamson’s book ‘Breaking Mum and Dad’ is a funny and truthful account of what it is like to be a new parent. It is jam packed with useful advice for new parents – ALL new parents – parents to newborns; parents to adopted children; parents to step children; single parents. That’s one of the features which I loved about the book…slotted in at various points are anecdotal stories from other parents.

REAL LIFE parents, who don’t dress up parenting to be like a heavenly stroll through the peaceful countryside on a beautiful summer’s day…as so many other books currently on the market often do.

The biggest appeal for me was that it is written to acknowledge that mental health for new mums and dads is a thing. It’s a

BIG thing and it’s no wonder. Being a new parent involves so many challenges, from making new friends, coping with changing relationships, feeding anxiety and much, much more. The book makes you feel like it is OK to feel depressed, to be anxious, to have ‘Mum guilt’. It’s more than OK… IT’S NORMAL. After being diagnosed with post-natal depression, once I had given birth to my second child and knowing that I had been suffering with it since the traumatic birth of my first born, I have come to realise that talking about my feelings and not beating myself up about them is absolutely the way forward. I went to some pretty dark places, and so did my husband too as a matter of fact, and now that we are well and truly on our way to recovery, I want to recommend to all new parents that you get yourself a copy of Anna’s book. It might be the start of feeling normal again; it might make you laugh; it might give you something to comment on at the next mother and baby meet or it might just be the trigger to get some further help in coping with being a new parent, whether you suffer with mental health issues or not.

The book tackles, often viewed as, taboo topics: ‘I miss my old life’; ‘why don’t I love my baby?’ and ‘when will we have sex again?’ It offers friendly parenting advice and practical coping techniques and tips. It’s a little pocket guide of empathy, sympathy and above all, hope. And heck, we all need a little bit of hope in our lives. Enjoy!

Available to buy on Amazon from April 2018 for £9.76. RRP £12.99

Little Cricket: a fun NEW cricket activity class

Little Cricket is a fun NEW cricket activity class for girls and boys aged 2-4, but it’s more than just bats and balls!

Did you know that Cricket develops nine of the ten Fundamental Movement Skills, more than any other sport? And Little Cricket classes cover all nine skills: throwing, catching, running, jumping, batting, bowling, balance, agility and coordination.

When a child is confident and competent in the Fundamental Movement Skills they can more easily develop other sport specific and complex movement skills that allow them to enjoy broader sports and physical activities as they grow.

Each Little Cricket session focuses on a different Fundamental Movement Skill, using a combination of fun games and cricket activities to engage and teach the children.

And your child’s first session is FREE, so why not give it a go!

Visit our website for class details and bookings: www.little-cricket.co.uk or call Melissa on 07511046890.

B A NK E ND T E A RO OMS Cafe - Animal Park Children's play area - Parties Hirst Road,Goole DN14 9X

4 Families Vale of York

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Local Woodland Art Gallery opens!

New Headteacher appointed at North Yorkshire prep school

Over the coming months, Mrs Ashworth Jones will be spending time at Belmont Grosvenor School alongside current Headteacher Mrs Merriman, who has been at the helm for 13 years and was instrumental in the development of it’s Magic Tree Nursery, which opened up the school to pupils from three months.

“Parents of the prep school really do want to be involved in their children’s learning, and their input makes a huge difference to the whole school family. I will be throwing open the doors and inviting them in as often as possible to share this very special chapter with their child,” she said.

One of North Yorkshire’s leading independent prep schools has appointed a new Headmistress.

Little Land is a pop-up Woodland Art Gallery just outside Tadcaster. At Little Land they literally hang the canvases (and car bonnets!) in the trees, and also in the centre arch of a 3-arch Victorian railway bridge. The arch also serves as a magical Narnia-like entrance.

It’s a stunning 3-acre woodland, which the owner Chub Perkins has been tidying up and improving since he acquired it 6 years ago. Chub returned to art last year and he has commented that ‘it was a logical step to exhibit (his) work amongst the trees, cutting out the middle man, and commission, of a traditional ‘white walls’ gallery’. It has a wonderfully tranquil ambience, so visitors therefore get to enjoy not just the fresh contemporary artworks, but the peace and beauty of the setting.

Artwork on display is produced by Chub, but also another local artist Lesia Davidson, who, although not trained in art, has found recent success in selling her paintings and displaying them at exhibitions such as the York River Art Market.

Chub has also been chosen by St. Leonard’s Hospice as their selected artist to help promote their inaugural art festival happening through July, which culminates in an exhibition at York University on 19th – 21st July.

Little Land is open when the circumstances are right. That being when the weather is good and Chub is available working around his day job as a Freelance TV camera op.

Check out future opening times on the Instagram account: @littlelandtadcaster Follow Chub on Instagram @chubperkins Follow Lesia on Instagram @lesia_d_art familiesonline.co.uk

Sophia Ashworth Jones will join Harrogate’s Belmont Grosvenor School in September 2018 following the early retirement of current Headteacher Mrs Jane Merriman at the end of the academic year.

Originally from Harrogate, Mrs Ashworth Jones is looking forward to returning to the town and joining co-educational Belmont Grosvenor School, set in 20-acres of grounds at Swarcliffe Hall, Birstwith, and building on its recent Independent Schools Inspectorate (ISI) inspection which rated the prep school and nursery as both ‘excellent’ and ‘outstanding’.

For more information or to request a prospectus, please visit www. belmontgrosvenor.co.uk

4 in 10 UK Parents Believe a Sun Tan is Healthy

“I am joining Belmont Grosvenor School at a very exciting time and I am delighted to have been appointed to lead this wonderful school and take it forward into its next chapter,” said Mrs Ashworth Jones.

“The recent ISI inspection, which rated BGS as both excellent and outstanding, the top gradings across the board, is a wonderful platform from which to build – I hope to bring my experience to enhance what is already here and work with pupils, staff and parents to take this exceptional co-educational prep school forward,” she said.

Mrs Ashworth Jones, who is married with three children, brings a wealth of experience to BGS which includes four headships over a 16 year period.

As Head of Leeds Grammar School Junior School Mrs Ashworth Jones helped plan its evolution into The Grammar School at Leeds between 2002-2008 before moving out of the area to run a large free-standing co-educational prep school. Following a period working in Melbourne, Australia, Mrs Ashworth Jones is currently Head of The Falcons School for Girls (3 – 11 years), in London.

She is very much looking forward to moving back to her home town of Harrogate, and bringing up her children, Leonora, 11, and twins Sonny and Athena, 7, in a more rural environment.

Research released by the MET office and NHS reveals relaxed attitudes to sun care amongst many parents.

The study found that 34% think a sun tan helps build resistance to the sun while 37% think a sun tan is a sign of good health.

However, according to NHS England, there’s no safe or healthy way to get a tan.

It doesn’t protect your skin from the sun’s harmful effects and is a sign that the skin has been damaged and is trying to protect itself. Repeated sun exposure can lead to skin cancer.

The MET says that UV levels are usually highest between May and September.

Clouds don’t always stop UV rays, so it’s very easy to get sunburnt in the UK, even when it’s not particularly warm. Parents can check the UV forecast on the Met Office app.

More information, visit www.nhs.uk/livewell or www.metoffice.gov.uk

Families Vale of York 5

Education

Preparing your child for school

By Sarah McKinlay

I

f your child is starting school in September, you may be wondering how best to prepare them for this big new adventure!

Firstly, don’t worry if they can’t read a word or write their own name. The ability to interact, communicate and exercise a degree of independence is actually far more important than reading or writing skills when a child starts school. In fact, research shows a link between strong personal, social and emotional skills in Reception and higher levels of attainment in the future. So if you want to strengthen your child’s skills in these areas, here are some tips.

Independence

The aim is for children to be responsible for themselves, their belongings and their actions at school. Help your child learn to get dressed, put on their coats/shoes, go to the toilet, tidy away toys and select their own activity resources.

Communication & Language

Research demonstrates that competent speakers develop into competent readers and writers; without competent spoken language, learning to read and write is more difficult. Language allows children to interact with the world. Being able to communicate their message effectively is satisfying and develops their esteem and self-confidence. Model good spoken language, with correct pronunciation of sounds, and encourage your child to speak in full sentences using an expanding vocabulary. Talk to your child about their experiences and feelings throughout the day and develop a positive ethos around the importance of communicating and expressing feelings, of any kind. This will have multiple benefits (including knowing how your child is really feeling and maintaining an open and trusting rapport), both now and in the future.

Sharing and Interaction

The more opportunities your child gets to interact and learn how to share and take turns, the less of a shock it will be when he or she starts school! However, expect this to be an on-going process. Allow your child lots of opportunities to play with siblings and organise lots of play dates. If disagreements occur between children, talk to them about how to resolve issues, modelling language and behaviour which gives them strategies and words to prevent or resolve disagreements in the future.

Respect for Behavioural Boundaries

At school, behavioural expectations and boundaries are likely to include: Listening the first time they are asked to pay attention

6 Families Vale of York

Keeping hands/feet to themselves Sharing and taking turns Looking after things Tidying away Being kind to others You can reinforce these expectations at home by teaching children to respect themselves, their actions and the feelings of others.

Physical (Gross & Fine Motor Skills)

All activities require some sort of physicality, whether it be large (gross) or small (fine) movements. Gross motor skills are developed when hopping, skipping, running, jumping, galloping, balancing, pedalling a bike, using a scooter, climbing, throwing, catching, and kicking a ball. Varying the speed and direction of movement activities also develops spatial awareness. Your child can have fun developing fine motor skills at home with every day activities such as using pegs and scissors, bead threading, button fastening, moulding play-dough, and painting.

Exploring & Investigating

Often the most effective learning occurs when a child is left to his own devices, without nicely-prepared resources and prescriptive instructions about how to do something. Make a conscious effort to step back and allow your child the opportunity to use his initiative and develop his creative, imaginative and innovative skills through exploring, investigating and initiating his own learning. Children learn by exploring, trying out and adapting ideas for themselves and taking ownership. Present your child with a large cardboard box (and the opportunity to access other resources/toys). See what he or she does with it. In the latter stages of his or her ‘creation’ you may wish to step in to play too, but allow your child to initiate the direction of the play and conversation.

All the above skills can be naturally weaved into your everyday lives. Enjoy and treasure these precious last few months with your child at home, and keep the above tips in mind to promote a positive start to your child’s school life.

Sarah McKinlay is a mother and school teacher with qualifications in psychology and can provide support and strategies to give your child a happy transition to school. For more information, visit www.bounceparental.co.uk familiesonline.co.uk

How to find that job

that you actually want

by Miranda Gregory

F

lexible work is a bit of a buzz phrase at the moment. Not a day goes by when a new piece of literature comes out, or some research is released extolling the virtues of working on a flexible basis. It is now generally acknowledged that more people would prefer to move into a job that’s flexible rather than get a pay rise.

Yet searching for a suitable role that also allows flexible working can be like searching for a needle in a haystack. If you Google ‘part-time work’ or ‘work from home’ you’re more likely to see results for MLMs (Multi-Level Marketing companies) or promises that you’ll be able to make £100,000 in your first 6 months as long as you own a laptop. Seeing this day after day can be demoralising.

So, to help, I have compiled my top pieces of advice to finding that perfect, familyfriendly role.

Make Google work for you As I mention above stop Googling ‘parttime roles’ and the like. Instead try these words ‘remote’, ‘virtual’ or ‘flexible hours’.

Any companies including these in their job descriptions or literature are obviously already open to ideas about the role.

Apply anyway!

This next tip may surprise you. You see a role that looks really exciting….it’s what you’ve always wanted to do…and yet it doesn’t say anything about working parttime. In this situation, I would say apply anyway! Dazzle them at interview, make them realise that you are the person for the job and that they can’t do without you. Then try asking for hours to suit you as part of the salary negotiations. It may surprise you as to how many companies actually are open to the idea. TOP TIP – make sure you have a very clear idea of what hours you would like to work – maybe even having a Plan A and Plan B. ‘Flexible working’ means different things to different people and so if you’re very clear in what you’re proposing and how you would make it work, companies are much more likely to consider it.

Do your research With ‘flexible working’ being the next big thing, savvy employers are realising that they need to stay ahead of the game and are starting to brag about the fact that they have ‘family-friendly’ working practices in

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place. Do some Google searches as well as on Twitter or LinkedIn and then follow these companies. You may well be one of the first to know about new opportunities with them that could be just what you’re looking for.

Even lawyers and accountants can get in on the act!

Don’t assume that just because you’re a lawyer or an accountant that you won’t be able to find a job that suits you. We are seeing companies setting up that are focused around being ‘flexible’ – from lawyers that only employ on a flexible basis to accountancy firms that boot everyone out at 5.30pm with employees unable to check work emails at home.

Register with a specialist agency Register with a recruitment agency (like GPS Return) or website that specialises in finding flexible positions. They should also be able to give you any support and guidance you need in terms of working flexibly.

Stay where you are!

If you’re currently working and relatively happy in your present role and company, don’t forget you are legally entitled to ask for flexible hours and the company is legally obliged to seriously consider your request.

Network…network…network Don’t be afraid to sing from the rooftops that you’re looking for a part-time position. You never know who might hear of a position that might suit you…your neighbour… the Mum at the school gates…your best friend’s husband.

GPS Return is a family-run recruitment agency based in Harrogate, focused on helping parents return to work. Miranda & Simon Gregory decided to set up GPS Return as they realised how difficult it was for parents to get back to work following a career break. Not only do they help candidates find their dream, family-friendly job, they also provide coaching and run workshops to help parents get ‘match-fit’ for going back to work. Miranda & Simon have over 20 years’ global recruitment experience between them and are parents to Holly & William. miranda@gpsreturn.

Families Vale of York 7

PARENTING

Rise of the Streamager

P

arents are being given new advice on the growing trend of livestreaming among children – as a study reveals how 30% of kids aged between 11 and 13 are broadcasting themselves live over the internet.

‘Internet Matters’ has launched the guide in the hope it will help parents understand the potential risks of their children posting live content on websites and apps amid fears it could leave them open to being targeted by strangers online.

Research of 2,000 UK parents showed surprising numbers of younger children are now taking part in livestreaming – also known as live-vlogging. Parents revealed that 27% of children aged between six and 10 are sometimes posting live content.

Interestingly, nearly as many children aged four to five (13%) are livestreaming their own content as those aged 14 to 16 (17%). Interviews with parents revealed that children were less likely to vlog or livestream as they reached their older teenage years as they are more image conscious and are often too busy with other activities.

They said the phenomenon of livestreaming was down to children being able to update multiple friends all at once. On top of this, live streams are less time-consuming to create and share.

In the study, parents said that YouTube is the most popular platform for kids to broadcast content on, followed by Facebook Live and Instagram Live. Others include Musical.ly, Live.ly, Live.me, and Periscope.

The Internet Matters survey of parents of children aged between 4 and 16, also found a fifth of kids are viewing livestreaming videos. Children aged 11 to 13 are the most likely (54%) age group to be watching broadcasts. 20% of four to five year olds are regularly watching content live.

The survey also looked at the extent children are making and viewing their own vlogs – which, in contrast to livestreams, are recorded and edited before being posted on social media platforms. It

8 Families Vale of York

revealed one in four (24%) kids create and post their own vlogs – including 27% of kids aged between six and 10 - although most child vloggers are aged 11 to 13 (35%).

Internet Matters, which helps parents keeping their children safe online, said the figures show the importance of parents talking to their children about broadcasting online and being vigilant about the dangers of posting content in real-time.

Carolyn Bunting, CEO of Internet Matters said: “Live-streaming is the latest online trend capturing the imagination of children growing up in a digital world.

Our research shows that it is increasingly popular among younger children yet due to the speed at which technology develops, it remains unfamiliar territory for many parents. The internet provides children with fantastic opportunities to learn, explore and create however posting the wrong thing could pose potential dangers.

It is essential parents are familiar with the potential risks and are helping their child build their digital resilience by ensuring they’re using age-appropriate platforms and encouraging them to think critically about the consequences of posting content online.

Parents can do this by having regular, open and frank conversations about what they’re posting, what they’re watching and who they are sharing with.”

Last month, children’s charity Barnardo’s revealed that children are at risk of ‘live grooming’ on online platforms. Barnardo’s Chief Executive Javed Khan said: “We know from our specialist services across the UK that livestreaming is being used by predators to groom children online. This is why the guide from Internet Matters is so welcome because it will enable parents to have conversations with their children about the risks of posting live content and what to do if they are targeted by strangers.”

Here are Internet Matters five simple steps to help parents keep kids stay safe when livestreaming or vlogging: 1. Stay engaged with what they do

online and who with ● Encourage them to be critical about what they watch and how they share online and with who. ● Give them the confidence to say no if they are asked to do something that makes them feel uncomfortable. ● Talk about how to deal with peer pressure and how easy it is to do something they think will impress others.

2. Use tools to help them manage what they see and share ● Together review privacy settings across all the social networks they use so they stay in control of who can see their videos. ● Use parental controls to ensure they see age-appropriate content.

3. Make them aware of reporting functions to flag people or content ● Ensure they know where and how to seek support if something goes wrong.

4. Encourage them to “Go Live” or record videos in a public place to limit the personal information they share ● Younger children should be supervised to ensure that you can intervene if needed. ● It’s important to be aware of who is potentially watching to limit the risks of sharing with the wrong people.

5. Watch vlogs and live streams with younger children to make sure they are age-appropriate and encourage older children to evaluate what they watch to make sure it has a positive impact on them.

For more information on how to keep your children safe while livestreaming and vlogging visit: www.internetmatters.org/advice/parentsguide-to-live-streaming-and-vlogging/ And for more information on how to keep your child safe online visit internetmatters. org familiesonline.co.uk

Clubs & Classes Creative Studio

Arts, Crafts, Creative & Technology Clay Fever Ceramic painting for everyone. Tadcaster.

Open Tues-Sat. www.clayfever.co.uk / 01937 918100

Creation Station Arts, Crafts and Messy Play from 0-5 years.

Our classes are on: Wednesday at Winkies, Harrogate Thursday at Wetherby Sports Association Friday at The Art Lab, Ripon www.thecreationstation.co.uk/sharon-fisher sharonfisher@thecreationstation.co.uk

Little Bites Cookery School York cookery school for ages 2-5 in term time & ages 5-11 at weekends & in holidays. York. www.littlebitescookery.com / 07768 207839

Rainbows Ceramic Café www.rainbowsceramics.co.uk / 01904 675533

Moo Music Are you looking for a fun and exciting class that you and your little one can both enjoy? With our mix of singing, dancing, signing and multi-sensory activities for children aged 0-5 set to a soundtrack of over 100 original songs then Moo Music could be just the class for you! Come and join in the moosical fun! First three sessions just £10 for new customers and sibling discounts are available!

Contact Beth for sessions in York, Wilberfoss and Stamford Bridge – 07794201047 or email moomusicwithbeth@gmail.com Contact Sian for sessions in Pocklington and Market Weighton – 07725915304 or email sian@moo-music.co.uk

Reading Fairy Classes to develop the crucial building blocks for reading & language development from 1-5 years. York. www.readingfairy.com/york / 07739 961391

Pots 2 Go Ceramic painting for everyone. Harrogate. www.pots2go.co.uk / 01423 524797

Technology in Play STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Mathematics) workshops weekly for primary aged children in York & Harrogate. www.technologyinplay.club

Music Boogie Babes Pay as you go pre-school dance class with no termly fees. Classes in Harrogate, Boroughbridge & Wetherby. www.boogiebabes.biz

Rhythm Time

Sing and Sign Classes in Pocklington, Acomb, Fulford & York library. www.singandsign.com / 07811 651720

Singamajigs Sing & jig from birth – 5. Classes in Harrogate & surrounding area. www.singamajigs.co.uk / 01423 552 918

Performing Babyballet

We also host Creative Birthday Parties, with Fairy, Unicorn, Painting and Animal themes, including teenage zombie sfx parties @£15 per head.

To Book or enquire call Nicola on 07505762450 or find us on Facebook for more information Audax Close, Clifton Moor, York, YO30

En Pointe Dance School Classical dance school for ages 2+ in York. info@enpointeyork.co.uk www.enpointeyork.co.uk

Junction, Goole Electric Youth Theatre 5-18 yrs, School of Rock 12+, Ukulele Junction 12+. www.junctiongoole.co.uk / 01405 763652

My Baby Can Dance Classes combine movement to music with activities, singing & musical instruments.

Classes in York, Selby & Harrogate. www.mybabycandance.com / 07714 210814

PQA York & Harrogate based classes in comedy & drama, musical theatre, film & television for ages 4-18. Based at Huntington School, York, Beverley Grammar School & Harrogate Grammar School.

Tinies for 18mths – 3 yrs, Movers 3-4 yrs, Groovers 4-6 yrs & tappers ages 3+. Classes in York, Tadcaster, Boston Spa & Harrogate.

www.pqacademy.com

www.babyballet.co.uk / 07702 965932

Classes in drama, dance & singing for students from 4-19. Offers training in performing arts & life skills, such as confidence & self-esteem.

York, Harrogate & Wetherby.

Derwent Danceworks Ballet, tap, modern jazz, freestyle, street & more. www.derwentdance.co.uk / 07985 687807

Diddidance

Music & singing classes for babies, toddlers & pre-schoolers. York, Harrogate, Selby & Wetherby.

Funky pre-school dance classes in Harrogate, Knaresborough & Boston Spa.

www.rhythmtime.net / 07340 048804

www.diddidance.com / 07917 757566

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At the Creative Studio, York we offer Creative Workshops for both Children and Adults, including Summer Art Workshops at £25 per day, with a range of creative activities, including clay work, painting and drawing and SFX makeup for teenagers. Small groups in 3 different age categories, for ages 5-18, taught by qualified teachers and professional artists.

Stagecoach

www.stagecoach.co.uk

The Music Rooms, Selby Tuition in ALL instruments with 6 teaching rooms, band rehearsal rooms, instrument repairs, choirs, workshops & music courses. www.themusicroomsselby.co.uk / 07976 250785 Families Vale of York 9

Sports & Movement Baby Sensory Muti-sensory play for babies up to 13 months.

Classes in York, Harrogate, Wetherby, Malton & Pocklington. www.babysensory.com

Little Cricket Our weekly classes run in York on Wednesdays, Thursdays and Fridays.

Wednesday & Thursday classes are held at Huntington Memorial Hall:

Summit Indoor Adventure Hang For £5

Every Monday between 4pm and 7pm enjoy 2 hours of fun. Climb and Play for just £5pp for both activities.

Inclusive

Tuesday from 4pm to 7pm join us on the Inclusive Climb and Play and enjoy two hours of family fun in the Climb and Play areas £5pp.

Quids In

Kids, don’t sit at home twiddling your thumbs on a Thursday night. Enjoy 2 hours of fun in the indoor skate park for just £1. Remember to bring your safety gear and ride.

Go Yoga Yoga for babies, toddlers, children & parents in Harrogate. www.goyogaharrogate.com

Gym Gems Classes for under 5s at Wetherby Sports Association with North Leeds Gymnastics academy. www.gymgems.wixsite.com / 07946 082801

12.30 - 1.15pm: Maxi (3-4 yr olds) 1.30 - 2.15pm: Minis (2-3 yr olds) Friday classes: 11.10 - 11.55am: Minis (2-3 yr olds) at The Poppleton Centre 12.30 - 1.15pm: Maxis (3-4 yr olds) at Poppleton Road Memorial Hall We look forward to seeing you at a class very soon!

T: 07511 046890

Football Tots Footballtots is a fun and energetic activitiy and a great way for pre-school children to develop new skills whilst making new friends.

Our sessions are structured to help children build the confidence to participate fully in every session while contributing to their physical, educational, emotional and social development.

We are passionate about giving children the best start in football, but Footballtots is about much more than just kicking a ball.

Classes for 2-3 yrs & 3-4 yrs with the opportunity to then progress to Samarca Football school 5-16yrs.

E: info@little-cricket.co.uk

Classes in York, Thirsk, Ripon & Selby.

To find out more contact 07595 297639

W: little-cricket.co.uk

www.football-tots.net

Tadcaster Community Pool Parent & Child Yoga, Thurs 1145 - 1230 Costs £5 or inclusive with facility memberships. Book in centre, over the phone www.inspiredbookings.org / 01937 834375

Tennis Tots Tennis for ages 2-6 in York & Harrogate. www.tennis-tots.co.uk

The Little Gym Gym programmes for children from 4 mths to 12 years. Harrogate and coming soon in 2019 York. www.thelittlegym.co.uk / 01423 701560

Tumbletots Gym classes for ages 6 mths – 7 years.

York & Selby www.tumbletots.com / 01904 412381

Rugby Tots Rugbytots is the world’s favourite rugby play programme. Our dynamic weekly sessions enable boys and girls aged 2-7 to develop their social and physical skills in a fun, positive environment. Our motto is simple: “make it more fun”. We do this by delivering our specifically designed programme for each age group with energy, enthusiasm and excitement. This creates an atmosphere in the class that is totally unique and engaging for parents and children alike.

Rugbytots runs all year round, including the summer. Our classes are split into 3 age ranges; 2-3.5 yrs, 3.5-5 yrs & 5-7 yrs.

Local venues include: Heworth Church Hall, Haxby Memorial Hall, Fulford School, Joseph Rowntree School & The Mount School. Classes are run on the weekends, with weekday sessions also available.

To find your nearest class or for more information, please visit www.rugbytots.co.uk

Swimming Baby Swimmers York, Pocklington & Harrogate.

Selby Leisure Centre Swimtots & lessons for all ages. www.selbyleisurecentre.org / 01757 213758

Carol Saunders Swim School

Little Stars Swimming Emily Frances’ Little Stars Swimming School is where fun learning in water begins. We are dedicated to giving you and your child the best swimming experience possible. Our small team of experienced STA instructors are qualified to teach babies through to adults and those with additional needs.

The warm quiet 5mx10m pools ensure a wonderful place to learn and develop technique. Changing facilities are warm and clean with changing table, playpen and seating on poolside. Progress recorded weekly, small groups of up to 5 in a class and with private lessons available too you can be assured of their progress. Classes held at locations in the Selby area: Cawood Park and Willow Lodge Pool, Bubwith.

Programmes for all ages and stages. www.harrogate.gov.uk/Hydro / 01423 556768

Tadcaster Community Pool

www.babyswimmers.co.uk / 0333 8008345

Swim classes for all ages from birth.

York, Hull, Selby & Sherburn in Elmet. www.carolsaundersswimschool.co.uk 01757 709703

The Hydro, Harrogate

Programmes for all ages & stages from 2+ www.tadcasterpool.org.uk / 01937 833001 First class FREE!

Turtle Tots At Turtle Tots we have a very gentle approach to our classes that incorporates baby led sensory methods allowing them to discover the wonderful world of water leading to enhanced bonding with your baby, but at the same time introducing life-saving water skills. All of our teachers have undergone rigorous new training in line with recent industry changes on baby led teaching practices and we pride ourselves in being at the forefront of this.

Fundamental movement skills

Early learning Goals

Learning through doing

The spirit of cricket

We Have Lessons on the Following Days: Call Melissa 07511 046890 www.little-cricket.co.uk

Tuesday- York Weds- Aldwark Manor Thursday- York Friday- York/Harrogate Saturday- York/Harrogate Sunday- East Leeds To book, please contact Paula Stewart on northyorkshire@turtletots.com

www.emilyfrances.co.uk

Puddle Ducks Swim Academy Do you want your child to learn to swim?

Let’s help them learn the right technique, in the right environment, with the best people. Let’s give them the courage to be fearless, make friends, swim strongly and have fun. Swimming is a journey, not a destination and here at Swim Academy, we learn and have fun all the way! We are continually evolving and improving our programmes in line with new research and guidance on swimming and child development as and when it becomes available but also in line with what we learn internally about our swimmers and the way they progress through our programmes.

4-10 yrs – classes in York, Selby Hull & Wakefield. www.swim-academy.co.uk

Energise, York Programmes for all ages & stages. www.better.org.uk/leisure-centre/york/energise 01904 403900

Puddle Ducks are award winning providers of swimming lessons to babies, toddlers and pre-school children.

Classes promote bonding, water confidence and water safety in a fun and loving environment. We take your little ones through a structured programme designed to develop their natural affinity with water and encourage them to learn to swim independently.

Although we have spent many years carefully developing our progressive lesson plans to develop swimmers, our teachers adapt every activity to suit each child. Our approach ensures that your child’s needs are expertly fulfilled – never forcing development, but rather nurturing it to ensure a positive experience and love of swimming.

AS SEEN ON

MAKE YOUR CHILD’S DEVELOPMENT MORE FUN!

TRY RUGBYTOTS Our dynamic weekly play sessions enable boys and girls aged 2–7 to develop their social and physical skills in a fun, positive environment.

For more details, just call or email.

0345 313 6716

york@rugbytots.co.uk

0-4 yrs - classes in York, Selby & Hull. rugbytots.co.uk

The world’s favourite rugby play programme

Have Kids,

By Clare Winter

Will travel

We all look forward to our annual summer holiday but sometimes it doesn’t always go to plan. The kids get travel sick, you forget (or lose!)their favourite soft toy, and you nearly miss your flight. Culminating in a massive argument before you are even on the plane (I may, or may not be speaking from experience here). I’ve asked Families readers from across the country for their top tips on how to move from frazzled to fun when you travel with children.

Check, & check again Make sure everyone’s passport is valid, and, for travel further afield, not about to expire.

Some countries like Mexico, require at least six months on your passport before it expires. Also check flight times and bag restrictions. We’ve all seen stressed out passengers in the checkin queue trying to reduce the contents of their suitcase at the airport. Don’t be one of them!

Pack with precision Make sure you have a packing plan. While it seems a romantic notion to sling a few things in a bag and jump on a plane, those days are long gone. If you are taking hold luggage make sure you mix up the adult and kids clothes between two suitcases, to make sure you all have something to wear if one bag gets lost. Anne, mum of two girls, says, “Put swimwear for the whole family in your hand luggage in case all your bags get lost. If you can all go for a swim or to the beach on arrival, lost luggage won’t seem so bad!”

Bring food You can never have too many snacks. Most shorthaul flights don’t provide food anymore, so you have to buy sandwiches and snacks, which are extortionately expensive. Plus, by the time the food trolley gets to you, the food has often run out, and the kids don’t want to eat it anyway! Marissa says, “For early starts, I chuck a load of cereal in small Tupperware containers so they can munch on them in the car or on the flight.”

Make it fun Children love experiencing different modes of transport and being in new places.

Sarah, mum to Mae, says, “We make it into an adventure! We talk to Mae about our journey a week or so in advance, so she’s enthused about it. Yves does rocket sound effects when the plane takes off or if there’s turbulence, so Mae thinks it’s all part of the same exciting adventure!” Judy says, “Involve them in the process, where to go, what to see, what to take. Get them to pack their own bag and agree on what to take

for the flight to entertain and sustain them.”

Pack surprises Break up a long journey with some fun toys to unwrap. “Go to a pound shop. Buy loads of small toys. Wrap them up and bring one out every hour! I’ve done lots of long-haul flights because we lived out in Singapore when mine were smaller” says Amanda, “and this works a treat.”

Don’t forget their favourite toy Most children have a blanket or toy they can’t sleep without. Make sure you, “keep their loved blanket/ toy out of the hold in case the luggage goes missing. We had luckily put my son’s beloved Stripey in my bag. Otherwise, my son wouldn’t have gone to sleep for the whole holiday” says Marissa.

Games are good Top Trumps, Story Dice and sticker books are always winners. Mark says, “There are lots of travel games out there like Connect 4, Chess and Battleships, which we’ve found useful.”

Don’t forget external chargers for gadgets when it’s time to get out the iPad or Kindle.

Bring a sling “Make sure you have a sling with you when you are flying if you have a baby. You won’t always have the pram until you pick up your luggage.

Bumbags are good as compact nappy changing bags as the toilets are so small on planes and it’s easy to get things out when trying to change a nappy,” says mum of two, Alison. “If you are flying you can also do an order at Boots and pick it up at the airport, especially for things like baby milk.” says Emma.

Bring spare clothes These are “a must” if you have young children.

Christine says, “Don’t forget spare clothes in your hand luggage for long-haul flights as you never know when you’ll be delayed or get a surprise stopover, (pack for at least a day, plus baby food). My husband (for once) praised my over-packing when we were delayed in Dubai on our way to Oz for 48 hours with a baby and only our hand luggage!”

Be patient &enjoy It As parents we can feel disappointed when the dream trip to Disney in Florida or sightseeing with the kids in Paris doesn’t go to plan.

Jackie says being realistic helps, “Think about your mindset as a parent before you travel practising patience and going with the flow is a good idea. Also, lower your expectations of your children’s behaviour as they might be tired or feel different due to the journey. In my experience this creates a more harmonious trip.” Holidays are a great way to relax, unwind and bond with your family, just make sure you try and enjoy the bumps in the road too.

Summer

Camps

Come and join us in our beautiful woodland this summer for some of the most imaginative, magical, interactive woodland adventures Yorkshire has ever seen!

Whether it is training to be Knights in the times of King Arthur, making swords, firing crossbows and launching projectiles from a huge medieval catapult, or maybe it’s searching the enchanted forest for the wizarding train platform and flying broomsticks with magic wand at the ready.

If you are feeling really brave, then following a golden trail leading to the dragon’s lair is the one for you but watch out for exploding trip wires and fire breathing stone dragons! We can also be sure to bump into fairy trails and even make our own fairy garden to take home, it continues to grow as you look after it.

For the older ones we cut straight to weapons and survival with our den building workshops, fire lighting skills and bow and arrow making that you can take home to hone your skills further. Don’t forget to try the pine needle tea though, a delicacy in these parts and pact full of healthy goodness.

The Web Adventure Park is launching its first Summer Camp, with a fun packed programme of events throughout the summer holidays.

Whether you’re looking for a child-free shopping day or weekly childcare throughout the summer, bookings start from just one day.

Those aged 5 and under will be welcomed into the on-site nursery, Little Bugs Childcare, whilst older children will enjoy a huge variety of different activities to suit all tastes from Wired High Ropes, survival skills, team game and crafts.

The Adventure Park opens daily for a great day out until 7pm, and 8pm on Fridays. www.webadventurepark.co.uk Telephone: 01904 692221

www.thewoodlandadventurecompany.co.uk Our holiday clubs are spread across 5 venues in York, Knaresborough and Harrogate and children can pick from three different club categories: TOTAL ENERGY; TOTAL DANCE; FOOTBALL DEVELOPMENT It is advisable that bookings are made well in advance, as spaces in our clubs fill up fast! Total Sports teach PE in Primary Schools in York, Knaresborough and Harrogate every single day! It’s great for your children to know that they are with sports coaches and teachers from their school when attending holiday clubs.

BYAS To find out times and prices, visit our website ACADEMY and book online at www.totalsportslimted. offers a variety of top co.uk/holidayclubs What are you quality sports camps during waiting for? BOOK NOW! school holidays in Hockey, Cricket and Rugby. The camps are based at Pocklington School, near York, and are available to children aged between 8-16yrs old.

If you are learning to play an orchestral instrument, then a Yorchestra course is for you!

Courses are held at the University of York music department during the school holidays and are for players aged 6-19 who have been playing for 6 months up to grade 8 standard and above. Groups are organised based on age and playing ability. The courses are non-residential and run from 1-4 days in length.

Applications are now open for the summer 2018 course at the end of August and all details and application forms are on our website www. yorchestra.org

familiesonline.co.uk

The Academy offers a mix of residential and non-residential courses across all three sporting disciplines during the holidays with ability streaming, so it doesn’t matter if your child is an absolute beginner or sporting whizz kid.

What makes the Byas Academy stand out from the crowd is the quality of its coaching staff with many of them currently or former players are county, national and international level. The cricket course is led by David Byas, himself a former Yorkshire County Cricket Captain and Junior hockey international player.

David: “We believe our success comes down to the facilities we have on offer, coupled with a top-quality coaching team. We make sure that the Camp emphasis is on ensuring every player leaves with a better technical understanding and skills than when they arrived. We also guarantee a low coach-to-attendee ratio so we see boys and girls coming back year after year - more happy and confident each time.” www.byasacademy.co.uk

Families Vale of York 13

Days out in Leeds for y This summer, families can experience an exciting adventure across three of Leeds’ most-loved, fun-filled attractions. Discover flamingos and penguins at Lotherton’s Wildlife World, meerkats and crocodiles at Tropical World in Roundhay Park, and some of the rarest breeds of farm animals at Temple Newsam Estate. Pick up a trail for little ones from any three of these attractions. Complete at all three over the summer and they’ll achieve their Little Explorer reward!

Find out more on any of our websites or at www.leeds.gov.uk/littleexplorers

Visit Tropical World for an unforgettable journey through the rainforest, mangroves, desert and the nocturnal world. Your explorer guide will help you discover the exciting and exotic animals that call Tropical World home, including monkeys, meerkats, crocodiles, butterflies and snakes. Tropical World is nestled in Roundhay Park, where you’ll find 700 acres of rolling parkland, lakes and woodland to enjoy, as well as two children’s play areas.

Princes Avenue, Roundhay, Leeds, LS8 2ER tropicalworld.leeds.gov.uk

your Little Explorers!

Lotherton is the perfect place to set your inner explorer free. Visit the country estate’s impressive Wildlife World and discover the playful Humboldt penguins, colourful flamingos, and the newly arrived tapirs and capybaras. When you’ve ticked off all of the animals in your explorer guide, enjoy our picnic and play areas, take a walk in the stunning grounds and visit the house to see what life was like in Edwardian times.

Off Collier Lane, Aberford, Leeds, LS25 3EB leeds.gov.uk/lothertonhall

Temple Newsam Temple Newsam Farm is home to some of the rarest farm animals in the country and keen explorers will also find a House filled with exotic beasts! Set within beautiful parkland, woodland and farmland with amazing children’s playgrounds, families can enjoy a fantastic day out. Follow your explorer guide through the park and farm to discover pigs, sheep, goats and cows while in the House you can search for animals hiding in the furniture, carvings and pots.

Temple Newsam Road, Selby Road, Leeds, LS15 0AE leeds.gov.uk/templenewsam

Exploring is thirsty work, so you’ll be happy to know that all three attractions have their own cafés serving a selection of food and drink!

recommends Here are our top 4 places to visit this summer with your family!

We just love them all; read on to find out why and also what they have on offer this summer holiday. Be sure to pay them a visit and enjoy your day out!

Castle Howard, York

Piglets Adventure Farm, York

Visit Castle Howard this Summer and enjoy a host of exciting events for all the Family, including dogs! Make a full day of it as there’s so much to do.

From 21st July – 3rd September Piglets Adventure Farm is full of unmissable family fun!

Spend the happiest of days exploring magical woodland paths, picnicking by the lake and discovering flowers and wildlife in the walled garden. Take a ride on the Great Lake when the boat is sailing and see what to spot with the help of our bird spotter sheet and binoculars. Discover the house and gardens with their Castle Howard Explorer activity sheet, including house trail, brass rubbing, woodland challenge, colouring, puzzles and activities. Ride the land train through the grounds to the lakeside play area and let off steam on the swings, slides, towers and bridges of the high-energy adventure playground.

The nearby Boathouse Café serves snacks and drinks, but you are able to enjoy your own picnic at the tables by the playground too!

Visit this Summer for family fun suitable for all ages!

Sat 28th - Sun 29th July Let’s go fly a kite Sat 4th - Sun 5th August Archery & Climbing Wall Sat 11th - Sun 12th August A Festival of Dogs Why not become a Friend and get admission into this summer’s events included in your membership? Available from just £49.50.

‘Castle Howard, A Place Like No Other’ www.castlehoward.co.uk

Get foam fever this summer as you boogie on down with bigger & better Foam Parties daily; watch hilarious Pig Racing in the Pork-shire Hurdle; soak friends in Water Wars and explore the Maize Maze challenge.

Follow the magical Fairy Tale Trail through the woodland to find out which fairy or wood elf you are, are you a Hesta Honeysuckle or Gethin Goldfinch? With brand new fairy houses for summer 2018, it’s such a magical enchanting experience.

Plus, the Magic Hatter will be conjuring up colourful comedy magic, amazing tricks and summertime silliness! Circus at the Farm is back too with crazy upside-down juggling, death defying stunts and amazing acrobatics from the famous Fatt Matt!

There’s also all the usual adventure farm fun, including Tractor & Trailer rides to the amazing Bale Play Baaarn with giant drop slides, straw bale mountain, junior tractor drivers’ area, rope swing & dig ‘n’ play. Visit Truffles’ Farmhouse & Barn, giant sandpit, bouncing pillows, crazy golf, barrel rides and go karts too, and that’s all before you see the cute animals! You’ll find lots out in the paddocks and in the animal barn. Get up close to little piglets in the Piglet Maternity Ward and if you are lucky you might see one being born! www.pigletsadventurefarm.com

Summit Indoor Adventure, Selby Summit Indoor Adventure, Scott Rd, Selby is full of fun-filled activities for all the family and everything is under one air-conditioned roof so come rain or shine the weather won’t spoil your fun!

You can: ï scale new heights on over 20 themed climbing walls from a sheer rock face to a fantasy lunar landscape that are suitable for kids and adults alike ï navigate your way across obstacles on Aerial Trek including a swing bridge, cargo nets, beams and stepping stones all suspended high above the indoor skate park ï strike it lucky and see who the kingpin, or queen, of the gang is with a game of ten pin bowling ï climb, crawl, explore, run and slide through a maze of tunnels, nets and slides in Adventure Play ï ride in the indoor skate park with its ramps, jump boxes and rails that are suitable for scooter fans, skateboard addicts and BMXers. Just remember to bring your ride and helmet ï eat – don’t let hunger get in the way of having fun. There is a tasty selection of paninis, pizzas, burgers and kid’s meals along with hot and cold drinks and a selection of desserts if you’ve got room. www.summitindooradventure.co.uk.

Mother Shipton’s Cave, Knaresborough Mother Shipton’s Cave is England’s oldest visitor attraction, open since 1630. It was home to the famous prophetess and the petrifying well still stands as a unique, un-spoilt remnant of the Royal Forest of Knaresborough. Millions of visitors from all over the world have been enchanted by the park’s natural beauty, mesmerised by the Petrifying Well and enthralled by Mother Shipton’s birthplace and her amazing story - she lived some 500 years ago in the reign of Henry VIII. Her prophecies predicted the fates of several rulers within and just after her lifetime, the invention of iron ships, Great Fire of London in 1666, and the defeat of the Spanish Armada.

Fiona Martin has owned mother Shipton’s since 2011, and in that time, has made significant developments including a new adventure playground completed in 2017. She also introduced themed family events during school holidays which have grown each year and have seen a continued increase in visitor numbers.

Robin Hood will be at Mother Shipton’s during the summer holidays, perhaps there is a champion archer amongst you! Actors will be stationed as characters in the park to interact with children and help families complete a themed adventure quiz sheet.

There are also props and clues throughout the park. www.mothershipton.co.uk

York Maze

Summer 2018

What’s on?

Wild Summer 2018 Starts Here Held in safari-style woodland camps, our back-to-nature residential camps are packed full of exciting bushcraft activities all through the summer holidays.

We’ve ordered everything according to start date and the events are also now grouped according to area. The information/dates were correct at the time of going to print, but may have changed, so be sure to check before you set off.

More ‘Days Out’ can be found online at www.familiesonline.co.uk and all events are searchable by date, venue & age range making it easier to find all our local events at the click of your mouse!

3-Day camps available at Castle Howard, Yorkshire for children aged 6-15

Castle Howard Yorkshire

Book online at

www.campwilderness.co.uk 03332 004469 Hello@campwilderness.co.uk

HARROGATE, KNARESBOROUGH & RIPON

28 APR – 4 NOV

Brought to you by The Bushcraft Company – the experts in real outdoor adventures.

Folly!

FOUNTAINS ABBEY & STUDLEY ROYAL

See the lost follies of the water garden re-imagined by artists and architects, with four dazzling new artworks within the World Heritage Site garden.

15 JUL

Historic Vehicle Rally NEWBY HALL

Visit the North’s biggest one day car show. A fantastic day out for the whole family, and tickets include entry to the gardens & adventure playground.

21 JUL – 31 AUG Robin Hood

MOTHER SHIPTON’S CAVE

Robin Hood will be in the park during the summer holidays, perhaps there is a champion archer amongst you. Actors will be stationed as characters in the park to help families complete a themed quiz sheet. www.mothershipton.co.uk

21 JUL – 2 SEP Knasty Knaresborough!

KNARESBOROUGH CASTLE AND MUSEUM

This summer discover criminal tales from Knaresborough’s past. Each week a different local historical character will be put on trial & their story explored through family activities. familiesonline.co.uk

21 JUL – 2 SEP

11 AUG Seige of the Castle!

Jurassic Discovery

FREE entry to the grounds, £2 adults & £1 children admission to the Castle & Museum & to join in the special tours. A special day, planned by our Young volunteers group, to discover the weapons & weak spots that were used to attack the Castle in the past. Lots of fun filled family activities such as Water Warfare! Attack! and Armour Action.

Take a step back in time & unearth secrets from the land that time forgot.

Daily garden trail, discover habitats rich in Jurassic plants & meet pre-historic creatures including giant insects.

KNARESBOROUGH CASTLE

21 JUL – 2 SEP

Summer Scientists ROYAL PUMP ROOM MUSEUM

Discover the importance of science in uncovering the past. Why has Harrogate got such stinky water? Experiment to see how the rocks under our feet created our spa town. Dig up some historical objects and find out all about them.

22 JUL

7.30-10pm

Open Air Theatre: The Adventures of Sherlock Holmes KNARESBOROUGH CASTLE

Join Chapterhouse theatre company in the beautiful setting of Knaresborough Castle grounds for this stunning new tale of romance & suspense. Adults £15, Child £10 Family (2 adults & 2 children) £44.

RHS HARLOW CARR

York Maze

For an amazing family day out this summer get lost at York Maze, home to Europe’s biggest maze, and winner of many awards including Yorkshire’s Best Tourism Experience.

York Maze is a complete day out with over 20 rides, attractions and shows, including the Crowmania ride, Corn Snake Tower Slides and Kernel Kernel’s House of Cornfusion where rooms magically begin to shrink, fall over, and even turn upside down. New for 2018 scale new height on the Volcorno!

York Maze is only open for seven weeks each summer so don’t miss out on this amazing family attraction. Open daily Sat 14 July – Mon 3 September 2018. See website www.yorkmaze.co.uk for details.

Families Vale of York 17

pm

Jul/Aug

WHAT’S ON

21 – 27 JUL

Teddy Bear’s Picnic BEETLE BANK OPEN FARM

Bring your own bear! Lots of fun to be had – go on a treasure hunt, bring a picnic and have fun with the resident animals.

23 JUL – 3 AUG

Summer Safari Week 6 AUG Children’s Day

RIPON RACECOURSE

Thrilling racing plus lots of FREE activities to make the children’s experience even more enjoyable.

13 AUG Alice in Wonderland Day RIPON RACECOURSE

Thrilling racing plus young racegoers are invited to experience the ‘Alice’s Magical Wonderland’ with our special secret adventures for FREE. ‘Fantasy dress competition’ with prizes!

YORK & SURROUNDING AREAS

25 JUN - 2 SEP

Romeo & Juliet, Richard III, A Midsummer Night’s Dream and Macbeth SHAKESPEARE’S ROSE THEATRE

Tickets from £12.50 (excluding booking/ delivery fees. For full performance schedule & ticket prices please visit www. shakespearesrosetheatre.com Book online www.ticketmaster.co.uk By phone 0844 844 0444

1 JUL– 4 NOV

Marking Her Mark: Celebrating Creative Women BENINGBOROUGH HALL AND GARDENS

A new exhibition in partnership with the National Portrait Gallery showcasing diverse portraits of influential women who have made an outstanding contribution to art and culture, from Judi Dench to Amy Winehouse and J.K. Rowling.

5 – 8 JUL

BEETLE BANK OPEN FARM

Join in on the lookout for fun and discovery on the farm! Interact with and touch some of the exotic animals.

27 JUL – 25 AUG

The Secret Garden YORK THEATRE ROYAL

Don’t miss this wonderful performance, perfect for all of the family.

27 JUL – 25 AUG

Summer Adventure STOCKELD PARK

Stockeld Park’s Summer Advenrture is back and jam packed with entertainment and adventure for all the family to enjoy.

See Paddington for his special visit on 21 & 22 July or how about meeting Peppa Pig & Daddy Pig on 4 & 5 August?

22 JUL

Tadcaster Carnival

TADCASTER TOWN CENTRE

Now a popular annual event beginning with a parade through the town’s streets ending at the Carnival grounds. Selection of food stalls, fairground rides, stage to showcase local groups & musicians.

Come & enjoy the fun!

28 JUL

Selby Food & Drink Festival

Cool off with a deliciously decadent chocolate milkshake, explore trails and get hands on making your own chocolate creations!

Along with fabulous producers there will be street food and bars. Seating areas provided so you can relax and enjoy your food & drink! This year, there will be a Cookery Theatre with Nigel Brown with food demos & tasters.

YORK’S CHOCOLATE STORY

31 JUL, 1 & 2 AUG

Making suncatchers YORK MINSTER

Craft activity – age 4+ £2.50 per child

22 - 23 JUL

Vikings on the Village

YORKSHIRE MUSEUM OF FARMING

Historical Family Activities, see the tractors & animals, play in the sandpit & new soft play, find the Troll’s instruments & Fairy Garden. Take a train ride on the Blackberry Line; DVLRS will be running trains on Sundays & BH Monday during the Summer.

21 – 23 AUG

Clay Animals YORK MINSTER

Craft activity – age 4+ £2.50 per child

19 AUG

Summer Thunder Day

Based over 4 floral-themed days, Bloom! will bring a rainbow of colour & beauty to the ancient city of York & is sure to inspire you with workshops, magnificent installations & everything in between. www.bloomyork.com

What better way to enjoy the summer holidays than by experiencing the sights, sounds and unique aromas of our live aircraft fleet?

18 Families Vale of York

21 JUL – 3 SEP

A Sweet Summer

Bloom!

YORK’S FIRST HORTICULTURAL FESTIVAL

TADCASTER, WETHERBY, SELBY & SURROUNDING AREAS

YORKSHIRE AIR MUSEUM

SELBY MARKET PLACE

25 – 27 AUG

Craft & Food Festival

SHERBURN IN ELMET, EVERSLEY PARK

Professional Cookery demos, over 100 craft & food stalls, competitions, displays of vintage & classic cars & motorbikes, fairground rides & more!

table tots Yorkshire’s biggest baby & children ’s indoor market - www.tabletots.co.uk

July

8 BRIGHOUSE Brighouse High Scho

ol 14 BARNSLEY Horizon Community Colle

ge

15 PUDSEY Pudsey Leisure Centre

21 ROTHWELL Rothwell Sports Cent re 22 HULLSirius Academy 28 SHIPLEY Titus Salt School

29 WAKEFIELD Queen Elizabeth Gram

mar.School

August

11 PONTEFRACT New College 12 GUISELEY Aireborough Leisure Cent

19 HULL Beverley Grammar School

re

familiesonline.co.uk

14 – 15 JUL

60s Fest

NORTH YORKSHIRE MOORS RAILWAY

Head back in time to the swinging sixties with events up & down the railway.

9 AUG

Dinosaur World Live HULL NEW THEATRE

Dare to experience the dangers & delights of Dinosaur World in this interactive new show for all the family.

11 - 12 AUG

Tournament: Joust & Melee SCARBOROUGH CASTLE

Jousting goes back to its roots in this noholds-barred contest of strength, skill & horsemanship. Booking required online.

25 - 27 AUG

Harry Potter Family Fun

NORTH YORKSHIRE MOORS RAILWAY

Travel along the 24-mile scenic journey & encounter walks, wildlife, beaches & more! PLUS, there’ll be something a a bit magical going on in Goathland… join the NYM Birds of Prey team & their live display of owl species. Dress up in a themed wig & cloak & have your photograph taken with an owl against a Hogwarts-style backdrop.

1 AUG

Yorkshire Day LOTHERTON HALL

A day of Yorkshire delights with a special market & family entertainment!

TEMPLE NEWSAM

Calling all animal lovers & wannabe vets! Get the chance to meet some special guests visiting the farm, with some friendly creatures popping in from our sister attractions Tropical World and Lotherton Wildlife World. Look forward to seeing owls, snakes, mini beasts and more – we’ll even have pony rides! Fun for all the family.

18 - 19 AUG

Vintage Weekend LOTHERTON HALL

Relive the fun of the fifties and swinging sixties in style! Browse vintage market stalls all around the grounds, hear live music and enjoy a retro outdoor game or two at this special event in association with Rose & Brown Co. Come dressed for the occasion or bring your pre-1970s vehicle and bag a free ticket for one person in your car!

Time Travellers Weekend

LOTHERTON HALL

Classic gala, complete with brass band, traditional side shows, craft activities & a programme of special Edwardian themed entertainment. If you’re a fan of Downton Abbey & the glamour of country house life or just fancy a summertime family day out, you’ll love our annual gala!

familiesonline.co.uk

The Deep

Visit Hull’s amazing aquarium The Deep, this summer holidays (21 July to 2 September) and get hands-on as we investigate slime! Take part in the ‘Slime Show’ where your little scientists can help with exciting experiments as we explore which animals use it in their everyday lives. There’s props galore, and of course, lots of gooey green stuff.

And if that’s not enough, you can even make your own pot of slime to take home.

Then it’s time to explore the 5,000 animals who call The Deep home. Marvel at magnificent sharks and rays, the UK’s only pair of Green sawfish, a colony of Gentoo penguins, Loggerhead sea turtles, tropical fish and many more.

TEMPLE NEWSHAM

Edwardian Gala

WHAT’S ON

Amazing Animals Week

7 - 8 JUL

14 - 15 JUL

Jul/Aug

11 - 19 AUG

LEEDS

Step back in time with us as we conjure up the characters and the way of life at Temple Newsam through several centuries of history. This special two-day programme includes the chance to chat to a Tudor, hear historical music, take a tour, dance to a tune, bake a thrifty war-time scone or craft a souvenir to take home.

The Deep

EAST YORKSHIRE & THE COAST

Has your child ever dreamt of meeting a real-life unicorn?

Buy your tickets for our York event for fairy mischief, games and our extra special white pony guest on Saturday 28th July. Full of singing, dancing and games.

We are also joined by Relax Kids York. Hosted by the Green Fairy and Twilight Sparkles.

At Haxby Memorial Hall, York, YO32 3HT. Tickets £11.95 per child. (Recommended for ages 3-7) To buy tickets go to: www. mylittleprincessparties.co.uk/ shop or call 01482 762761.

Let us take you on a journey through prehistoric seas, past tropical lagoons, into the vast open oceans, down to the darkest depths, through the chilly Kingdom of ice and into the future.

Catch the daily dive show, see the penguins being fed, hear factfilled presentations and get hands on in a touch-pool session. Take a walk through the viewing tunnel and finish your visit with a ride in the glass lift through the 10 metre Endless Ocean tank. Little nippers can also enjoy the interactive magic floor, fossil brushing station and soft play area.

The Deep offers FREE return visits for 12 months with the Day Plus Pass!

Families Vale of York 19

The ultimate family day out!

By Laura Macaulay

Families Vale of York visited Lightwater Valley recently and what a fabulous day we all had! It was certainly a trip down memory lane for me; annually when my brother and I were growing up, our parents would take us to Light Water Valley. So, to return for the first time in some years, was lovely and I was pleasantly surprised at how much they now have on offer and how accessible everything is for both little ones and big ones.

We made the trip on a Saturday in June and I took my eldest son, aged 7 and his friend of the same age. Measuring at just over 1.2metres, but a little shy of 1.3metres, they could go on all rides except 3. I was selfishly hoping to get them to the 1.3 metre mark so that I could re-live the delights and screams of the Ultimate – Europe’s longest ride at 1.5 miles long and a journey time of nearly 6 minutes, but it wasn’t to be. I think our plan of having them stand on tip toes would have been quickly foiled! There was a great selection of rides for their age and in my opinion, Lightwater Valley is just perfect for children aged 6-12, of course children younger and older can visit and have plenty of fun, but the selection of rides really suited the boys.

There are quite a few lovely recent additions such as the Bird of Prey Centre and the Indoor Soft Play and café. At the Bird of Prey Centre, you can walk around and see a wide selection of prey birds, daily at 3pm there is a 20-minute show where the birds are flown sometimes literally right under your nose, and the accompanying talk was both informative and interesting. On your way out, you can see the snakes and prairie marmots too!

We spent a short amount of time in

20 Families Vale of York

the under 8s indoor play, which was immaculately clean, and it had a great section specifically for under 3s. In terms of food, there are outlets throughout the park including inside the indoor play, but you also have the option of bringing your own picnic and benches are conveniently scattered in various locations for this purpose. We enjoyed our lunch at the Hungry Harbour, but there is also a coffee house/café that serves all-day breakfast amongst many other foods along with the obligatory gift shops stocked with sweets and other goodies near the entrance.

We enjoyed a couple of rides on the Lightwater Express – which is the little train that takes you around the park.

Other options for non-thrill seekers are plenty with the Swan boats, Angry Birds outdoor play area and Eagle’s Creek Farm ride being some of the choices.

Coupled side by side, by far my favourite moment of the day was when we went on the Skate karts and Raptor Attack. This was indeed a step-down memory lane for me. Growing up, my brother and I would race on the Skate karts for hours; they are heaps of fun for all of the family! The boys enjoyed countless goes racing each other around the downhill track.

The Rat, is now called Raptor Attack – a roller coaster ride in the dark with a scary walk up to it and walk out which meant we got our thrill fix after all!

Lightwater Valley is conveniently situated just outside of Ripon, off the A1 North. Be sure to get yourself there this summer for a fantastic family day out!

familiesonline.co.uk

Healthy Ice Lollies

to Make with your Kids

Let the kids cool down in style with strawberries healthy homemade ice lollies. There is 1/2 tin of coconut milk no limit to the range, as you can use any fruit you like – and even smuggle in some 400g natural yoghurt veggies!

1 tbsp maple syrup (use a little less or Whipping up a batch of homemade ice more depending on how sweet your lollies makes for a quick and exciting fruit is) summer project for kids and these are a 1tsp vanilla breeze to make. All you need is a food processor or blender, ice lolly moulds and a bit of time to allow them to set. Below is my favourite recipe for yoghurt and berry ice lollies, which is also one of the Place all ingredients into a blender or easiest! food processor and blitz until smooth.

Instructions

Yoghurt & Berry Coconut Ice Lollies

Ingredients

Makes 4 (but this is depending on the size of your lolly moulds) 400g of frozen (or fresh) berries. A mix is great - I use blueberries and

Have fun!

Dani Binnington is a cook, yoga teacher and wellness warrior dedicated to providing practical steps for achieving physical and mental wellbeing for the whole family. For more inspiration, recipes, events and classes: visit www.healthywholeme.com

Pour the mixture into your ice-lolly moulds and attach the freeze tops.

Freeze for a minimum of 4 hours until solid.

Warm the moulds under water to release the pops when you are ready to eat them.

Read to succeed this summer!

Keep children reading with regular deliveries of inspiring books perfectly suited to their level.

It’s easy to succeed with Reading Chest!

www.readingchest.co.uk Book rental for young readers

familiesonline.co.uk

Families Vale of York 21

Competition time Win a place at Byas Academy’s 4-day non-residential summer camp!

Families Vale of York magazine have a place on the 4-day non-residential cricket course running at Pocklington School from 23rd – 26th July.

This amazing prize is worth £249!

To be in with a chance of winning simply answer the following question: Which sports did David Byas play to County and International standard?

Email the answer, plus your name, address and contact number to editor@familiesvoy.co.uk Closing date 13th July 2018.

Win a family VIP ticket to see a performance of A Midsummer Night’s Dream at Shakespeare’s Rose Theatre, York!

Win two Lonely Planet kids’ travel books!

Families Vale of York magazine have a family VIP ticket (age 7+) to give away to the performance of A Midsummer Night’s Dream on Saturday 21st July at 2.30pm. To be in with a chance of winning simply answer the following question:

Families Vale of York magazine have a ‘My Holiday Drawing Book’ and ‘My Holiday Scrapbook’ to give away to one lucky reader.

To be in with a chance of winning simply answer the following question:

Which Shakespeare play features a donkey named Bottom as one of its main characters?

Where is your favourite holiday destination and why?

Email the answer, plus your name, address and contact number to

Email the answer, plus your name, address and contact number to editor@familiesvoy. co.uk

editor@familiesvoy.co.uk

Closing date 16th July 2018.

Closing date 16th July 2018.

Whether you’re taking a trip, planning your next adventure, or just want to keep the kids entertained, Lonely Planet Kids have the perfect inspiration with new books this summer.

For more information on SHAKESPEARE’S ROSE THEATRE, full performance schedule and ticket information visit

22 Families Vale of York

familiesonline.co.uk

Phonics on the beach!

By Liz Walker

Some children starting school in September will already be able to read and some won’t yet recognise any letters.

Don’t panic – it will all even out it the end!

Children learn to read at school using phonics, which is a method of teaching reading where they are taught the correspondences between letters and sounds and how to blend them together.

The speedier children are at recognising letter sounds, the easier it becomes to blend them together and learn to read.

Having fun introducing and reinforcing letters and sounds will help children get off to a good start on their reading journey.

Here are some ideas for the beach this summer!

1. Phonics Pebbles These are pebbles with a letter or group of letters to make a sound, written or painted on them. They can be bought from places such as www. yellow-door.net, but are quite expensive and it is easy enough to make them if visiting the beach. Phonics pebbles are good for games such as ‘Full Circle’, to help blend the sounds together. To play, make a word such as ‘pin’. Then change one pebble at a time and see how many different words can be made until you get back to the original word (e.g. pin – pit – pat – sat – sit – sin – pin).

2. Phonics Run-Around Write a few big letters or groups of letters to represent a sound, such as ‘sh’, ‘ch’, ‘oo’, ‘oa’ in the sand in a hopscotch sort of pattern. Call out different sounds and let the children jump around to the correct sounds.

3. Sand Writing A sandy beach is the perfect canvas for writing: write the biggest letter you can; take turns writing in the sand just before a wave comes and try to say it before it is washed away; get children to look for things on the beach

starting with or ending with the sound that is written in the sand.

The most important thing to get right when helping your child learn letter sounds (phonemes) at home is to pronounce them correctly. This might seem obvious, but your child should learn to say the sound at the beginning of ‘mat’ as ‘mm’ sound rather than ‘muh’. There are lots of websites to help with letter sound pronunciation, such as www.oxfordowl.co.uk.

As soon as your child has learned the first few sounds, they can start to read. There are many decodable reading schemes available, such as Phonics Bug, Floppy’s Phonics, Big Cat Phonics, Yellow Door Phonics, which are all stocked by Reading Chest. These books are written so that your child can sound out most of the words using their phonic knowledge.

For more information on phonics’ books and access to a wide variety of reading schemes, visit www.readingchest.co.uk.

Reading Chest is offering Families readers £5.00 off their first month’s membership with the code FAM18.

Summer Reading Challenge There will be pranks galore and a ton of fun at your local library this summer!

This year’s Summer Reading Challenge is Mischief Makers; celebrating the 80th anniversary of the much-loved comic, Beano.

This iconic publication, recently refreshed for a new generation of fans, will bring its unique brand of humour to the 2018 Summer Reading Challenge to help celebrate reading, creativity, friendship and fun. Children will explore a map of Beanotown to find the mysterious buried treasure and become ultimate mischief makers! Dennis, Gnasher and friends will help them solve clues and collect stickers, having lots of fun and adventures along the way.

Many children will be familiar with today’s Beano characters through Dennis and Gnasher Unleashed, a recent animation series on CBBC. It’s also a chance for adults to share their enjoyment of Beano all over again. The Reading Agency and libraries are excited to be working with Beano in their 80th anniversary year to bring you Mischief Makers.

The Summer Reading Challenge takes place every year during the summer holidays. You can sign up at your local library, then read at least six library books of your choice to collect special stickers and other incentives along the way – all for FREE. There’s a website to add to the fun too. Choosing, recommending and reviewing books are great skills to develop as part of reading widely and for pleasure. Visit summerreadingchallenge.org.uk to give it a try!

Please note that start dates for the Summer Reading Challenge vary around the UK, as do the start of the school summer holidays.

Please check with your local library service.

Summer at theweb Adventure Park

!

W E N

Er mm u s amp c

Looking for exciting childcare this summer?

Awesome activities including High Ropes, bushcraft, creative play and more!

For 0 to 12 years. Book from 1 day to 6 weeks throughout the holidays, 7.30am to 6pm For more information and to book visit www.webadventurepark.co.uk or call 01904 692221 The Web Summer Camp, Web Adventure Park, Wigginton Road, York YO32 2RH

@creepycrawlies

@webadventurepark

@creepy_crawlies