Families Leeds & West Yorkshire November/December 2023 PRINT

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Leeds & West Yorkshire

The Christmas Experience at Lotherton 25 Nov to 7 Jan

IN THIS ISSUE

Christmas Parenting Health & Wellbeing Issue 91 November/December 2023 Familiesonline.co.uk

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Families Leeds & West Yorkshire 1

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Sun 17 – Sun 31 Dec

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CONTENTS

Contents 4-5

News

6

Christmas

8

Festive theatre

13

Splitting the parent workload

14

Reindeer cupcake recipe

15

Handling headlice

16-17 Clubs and Classes 18

What’s On

Welcome

Contact us Editor Claire Bottomley Editor@familiesleeds.co.uk 07799 667041

Right now, as I write (whispers it) I am really looking forward to Christmas.

Facebook/familiesleedsmag IG @familiesleedsmag X @familiesleeds

This product is made of material from well-managed, FSC®-certified forests and other controlled sources.

Families is a registered trademark of LCMB Ltd, Remenham House, Regatta Place, Marlow Road, Bourne End, Bucks SL8 5TD. The contents of this magazine are fully protected by copyright and none of the editorial or photographic matter may be reproduced in any form without prior consent of Families Print Ltd. Every care is taken in the preparation of this magazine but Families Print Ltd, its distributors, franchisees and LCMB Ltd cannot be held responsible for the claims of advertisers nor for the accuracy of the contents, or any consequences thereof.

WIN a family ticket for Ice Cube @Christmas

WIN!

We have a family ticket for Ice Cube @ Christmas to give away!

The attraction returns from November 24 to December 31.

Soon we’ll all be panic-wrapping while we wait up for Christmas jumpers to wash, and fashioning nativity costumes from tinfoil.

But for a time, all the fun and sparkle of Christmas seems to be laid out neatly ahead of us. On pages 6 and 7 you’ll find a feast of festive events and activities. From ice-skating to visiting Father Christmas, fun fairs to fairy dells, there’s so much going on. And of course, this time of year is always enhanced by a pantomime – oh yes it is! Find our Christmas theatre highlights on page 8.

As ever, our what’s on listing on page 18 has even more family friendly events and activities for November and December – many of them free. I hope this issue proves to be a helping hand as you enter the mother of all planning months. Now all that’s left for me to say is: Merry Christmas!

Claire Bottomley, Editor

Enjoy the magic of ice skating in Millennium Square, surrounded by a whole host of festive fun.

The ticket covers four people, who can be one adult and up to three children or two adults and two children.

To enter, visit: https://bit.ly/icecubetickets by November 20.

For terms and conditions, visit: https://bit.ly/icecubetc

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01943 603829 I www.clipnclimbilkley.co.uk Families Leeds & West Yorkshire 3

NEWS

New School Streets help keep pupils safe and healthy

Seasonal fun at Yorkshire Sculpture Park

Three Leeds schools are the latest to benefit from having a School Street, joining 12 others who have had them since 2020.

The Yorkshire Sculpture Park is holding a series of autumn/winter family activities designed to keep the kids rosy cheeked and entertained as the days get shorter.

Blenheim Primary School, Birchfield Primary School and Bramhope Primary School have introduced School Streets as part of the new phase of the Leeds School Streets programme.

Making the most of the stunning 500-acres of outdoor space, they include sculpture adventures and family afternoons in the Hidden Forest, as well as family-friendly seasonal walks.

School Streets make roads outside schools into pedestrian and cycle only zones at the times displayed on the signs. This helps to make the space outside school more pleasant for those choosing to walk, cycle and wheel to school. They can also help to reduce children’s exposure to air pollution and keep them safe from traffic. Leeds City Council Road Safety trainers deliver a range of interactive lessons in schools throughout the year and new School Street schools will receive pedestrian and scooter training during the initial weeks.

If the weather is looking a bit iffy don’t let that put you off.

There are a range of indoor activities as well as cafes and a restaurant.

Find out more at www.leeds.gov.uk/parking-roads-and-travel/ school-streets

Light Organ in the Chapel is an interactive light and sound installation – children can create their very own light show by singing, talking and clapping into microphones to activate it.

The cost of these activities is covered by the adult admission price £9 or £6 concessions, and 25s and under are free.

To find out more and book, visit www.ysp.org.uk

Video games may bring cognitive benefits School-age kids who spend hours a day playing video games may outperform their peers on certain tests of mental agility, a new study suggests.

Researchers found that compared with children who never played video games, those who regularly spent hours gaming had higher scores on two standard cognitive tests: one measuring short-term memory and another gauging impulse control.

8 November–7 January BOOK NOW harewood.org

Previous studies have reported links between gaming and higher rates of depression, violence, and aggressive behaviour.

While this study did not find that to be the case, the gamers did report higher levels of mental health and behavioural issues, although the researchers said that the findings were not statistically significant. The study authors also insist that their results do not allow for cause and effect analysis and that children who are better at these cognitive tasks may simply choose to play video games.

More info: www.bit.ly/NIHVideoGames

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NEWS

Book gift for all Leeds babies born this year Welcoming a new addition this year? LEEDS 2023 and the British Library have come together to create special gift for children born in Leeds in 2023.

a

Northern Dreaming is a collection of poetry and stories for babies, children and young adults, a book designed to carry readers all the way through their childhood, and be treasured long after the last page has been turned. The book is a collection of poetry and stories created with writers including the current Children’s Laureate Joseph Coelho, poet, playwright and broadcaster Lemn Sissay OBE, BBC Young Writer’s Award winner Elena Barham and up-and-coming poet - and newly qualified doctor - Safia Khan, sharing Pick up your baby ’s free the unique imaginations of these writers for the next copy from a Leeds Library or Children’s Centre generation of dreamers to enjoy.

Your copy of Northern Dreaming will be available for FREE from Leeds Libraries and Children’s Centres across the city.

Northern Dreaming has also inspired the final event of the LEEDS 2023 Year of Culture - The Gifting.

Magical show to end the year of culture Leeds will end its Year of Culture on a high with an original new show this Christmas.

The Gifting is the final chapter of Leeds 2023.

Gather outside Leeds’ very own movie studios - Versa Studios in Holbeck, put on headphones and enter the large, cavernous space for this very special closing ceremony with a difference.

Over the course of an hour, you will be taken on a magical journey through twelve individual but connected tales that celebrate stories and the power they can have.

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Baby Week Leeds is back!

Child Friendly Leeds and partners once again bring you Baby Week, this year running from November 14 to 20. It’s an initiative aimed at bringing sectors and services together to promote the best start in life and the theme for 2023 is Culture and Identity.

Go along to the big family friendly opening party at The Tetley on November 14. Aimed at parents, carers, babies and professionals, it’s a free event for people to drop in, with stalls, workshops and activities, exhibitions, speeches and lots of exciting goodies.

There will be free and low-cost events and activities throughout the week at John Lewis, The Tetley, Leeds Libraries and Children Centres. There will be webinars on a range of topics, parent meet-ups, sensory and messy play, story and rhyme sessions, fitness sessions and more, closing on November 20, World Children’s Day.

From the imaginations of Kully Thiarai and Alan Lane, this unique event is something special and unforgettable to end the year.

Child Friendly Leeds is very excited to announce Baby Week is now a national charity, taking place in nine regions – with more than 1,000 events happening across the UK.

December 22 to 31, tickets on sale now: www.leeds2023.co.uk

For more information visit www.babyweek.co.uk

Families Leeds & West Yorkshire 5

CHRISTMAS

Our guide to festive family fun this season

Ice Carnival in Bradford

Ice Cube @Christmas

Families can enjoy a FREE, fun-filled weekend at Bradford’s Centenary Square full of festive treats and entertainment on November 18 and 19.

Winter magic is coming to Millennium Square, Victoria Gardens and Cookridge Street in Leeds again this festive season from November 24 to December 31.

Alongside stunning ice sculptures, there is a free funfair for young children, street performers and live music throughout the day provided by Bradford BID. The entertainment continues with an evening carnival performance at 6pm including performers and singers.

Skaters can enjoy the 400sqm covered ice rink with daily sessions, one-to-one lessons and Penguin Clubs for young families.

Bavarian-style market stalls will serve up winter warmers, with plenty of covered seating areas to enjoy them.

Each of the 10 ice sculptures are handcrafted and a live ice carve will take place on Saturday at 11am.

For those seeking more thrills, the festive funfair features the 30-meter-high Starflyer, Golden Gallopers carousel ride, illuminated Wheel Of Light and a host of children’s festive-themed rides and games.

Share your photos by tagging in Bradford BID on Facebook, Instagram and X!

Find out more at www.icecubeleeds.co.uk

A CHRISTMAS LIKE NO OTHER

This kind of Christmas comes but once in a lifetime.

Whisk your family away to magical Lapland where you’ll meet Santa and his cheeky elves.

Call 01483 944 960 or visit SantasLapland.com Santa’s Lapland

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Experience a Lapland trip you’ll treasure forever and book with a deposit from just £150pp and take advantage of our latest offers for 2024.

@santas_lapland

06/10/2023 16:37 Familiesonline.co.uk

CHRISTMAS

Our guide to festive family fun this season

Christmas at Thackray Families are invited to join Father Christmas on a magical 90-minute journey, exploring the diverse ways people celebrate Christmas around the world from November 18 to December 23.

Visitors embark on an activity trail throughout the museum, where they'll uncover clues and enjoy some winter crafting. Don't forget to strike a pose on the Thackray sleigh for memorable photographs.

Then there’s a special audience with Father Christmas, where he will regale young and old alike with cosy festive stories. Each child will receive a gift.

The audience with Father Christmas is scheduled one hour after your entry time, allowing you ample opportunity to explore the museum beforehand, including the critically acclaimed On The Bench Exhibition on Sports Injury.

Suitable for all ages, booking is essential, not included in the annual pass.

For more information and to book, visit www.thackraymuseum. co.uk/event/christmas-at-thackray

The Adventures of Peppermint: A Father Christmas Experience and Harewood’s Great Time Travelling Christmas At Harewood House, Father Christmas will be telling a tale about The Adventures of Peppermint, who has tumbled into a magical icy world and must be brought back in time to help deliver all of the presents. A fabulous festive experience, this is best enjoyed by children aged six months to eight years and will run from November 25 to December 24.

From November 8 to January 7, visitors will be transported through Christmases of all eras. Harewood’s state floor will be transformed with space-race-inspired decorations from the 50s. There’ll be disco balls and 80s tracks in the music room, to the remnants of a 90s festive party in the library. Designed by Studio Mutt, visitors will also be immersed in a reimagined, futuristic Christmas dinner, with drone-delivered presents and fluorescent turkeys.

For more information or to book, visit www.harewood.org

The Christmas Experience at Lotherton

Ice Rink and Santa's Grotto at White Rose

Journey to the North Pole, where you'll be greeted by elves in their bustling workshop. Visit Santa in his cozy log cabin and receive a gift. For the littlest believers, Santa's Cabin is open for weekday visits, and there are also relaxed Santa sessions for children with additional needs.

White Rose Shopping Centre is set to host its family-friendly Ice Rink again this Christmas after its successful debut last year.

At the Elf Village there are art and craft activities, and in the Hall you can join Mrs Claus decorating gingerbread – create your own design with her. Take a stroll through the magical, interactive Festive Woodland Walk and discover the hidden gem of Fairy Dell.

Lotherton Formal Gardens will also be beautifully lit, and inside Lotherton Hall you can step back in time and admire the Edwardian splendour of Christmases past. Warm up with a hot chocolate or mulled wine in festive yurts. November 25 to January 7.

Find out more and book at www.thechristmasexperience.co.uk Familiesonline.co.uk

The rink is suitable for skaters of all ages and accessible for all, with bookable parent and toddler and quiet sessions, and disco nights every Friday. Open from November 21 to January 2, except for Christmas Day, ice skates will be available to hire, and also skating aids for the little ones – or those wanting an extra hand with their balance!

The White Rose Shopping Centre will also see the arrival of its brand new steam train-themed grotto. Visitors can meet Santa in his vintage train carriage en route to the North Pole.

For more information visit www.white-rose.co.uk Families Leeds & West Yorkshire 7

CHRISTMAS

Curtain up on Christmas theatre! tradition and a must-do experience. Ages 4+. November 24 to January 7.

For something altogether different, see the beauty, magic and tradition of Northern Ballet’s The Nutcracker at Leeds Grand Theatre. Share in Clara’s adventures as she is swept away by her Nutcracker Prince into an enchanting winter wonderland.

Don’t miss dazzling dancing snowflakes, the famous Sugar Plum Fairy and the notorious Mouse King in the ultimate festive entertainment. November 29 to December 10.

It’s the perfect time of year for a family trip to see a show – oh yes it is! There are so many wonderful productions in Leeds and West Yorkshire. Here are our highlights, but don’t forget you can find more in our what’s on section on page 18…

When the vain Wicked Queen realises that she is no longer the fairest in the land, she seeks revenge against her beautiful stepdaughter Snow White. Carriageworks Theatre’s production features fabulous scenery, special effects, and costumes, with plenty of fun, laughter and audience participation. It is the pantomime that is simply wicked, simply wonderful and simply must be seen! Suitable for ages 5+. November 24 to January 7.

For the littlest theatre-goers, there’s Sorry, Christmas is Cancelled…Katie Saves the Day! Join Katie at Carriageworks Theatre on this interactive seasonal treat and help her and Santa save Christmas for everyone. Written especially for children aged two to seven (and their big people too), the story is told using Topsy Turvy Theatre’s unique style, with hand crafted puppets, original music and stunning scenery.

Guaranteed to get you in the festive spirit. December 17 to 31.

Robin Hood: The Rock ‘n’ Roll Panto at City Varieties Music Hall

Over at City Varieties Music Hall, Robin Hood is the latest classic tale to get the awesome rock ‘n’ roll treatment. Mixing traditional elements of audience participation and corny gags with a jukebox full of classic rock anthems and chart-toppers, performed live on stage by an ultra-talented cast of actormusicians, Robin Hood The Rock ‘n’ Roll Panto is a Leeds

8 Families Leeds & West Yorkshire

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Leeds Heritage Theatres presents

By Peter Rowe Director Rob Salmon Designer Dawn Allsopp Musical Director Rebekah Hughes Lighting Designer Tim Oliver Sound Designer Kieran Ragan Choreographer Sam Spencer-Lane Casting Agent Debbie O’Brien

Fri 24 November 2023 – Sun 7 January 2024

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Families Leeds & West Yorkshire 9

PARENTING

Granny knows best?

By Ellie Malt Respect for your elders is still considered an important principal but perhaps it’s another way of saying we need to pay attention to the wisdom of grandparents. They are the bearers of family traditions and their advice helps pass down values, stories and customs, helping a child understand their roots.

But how far should we follow their parenting advice?

Grandparents grew up with punishments that seem old fashioned and even inappropriate now, such as spanking or being sent to bed for not finishing everything on your plate.

Traditional ‘authoritarian parenting’ which used external punishments to drive unquestioning obedience has fallen out of favour. So why is this and what has replaced it?

A major reason for the change comes down to modern scientific research. In the UK, research with children who were separated from their parents during the Second World War led to the development of theories like ‘attachment parenting’. This suggested that trust and a good rapport between child and parent was, in the long term, much more effective in changing behaviour than physical punishment.

Since then, advances in MRI scanning have generated new insights into the development of children’s brains. Parenting styles based on this science are called ‘neuro-parenting.’ Each new step-up in scanning technology reveals more detail about how children’s brains grow. However, the link between structural changes in the brain and child behaviours is still subject to interpretation and pre-conceived bias.

Sometimes, neuro-parenting has pressured parents into worrying about the impact of every action on their child’s future success. Yet there are limits on how far parenting can affect children.

We now understand that genetics intervene and that perhaps our children won’t ‘fail at life’ if we don’t constantly stimulate their brains. Recently, there’s been more concern about overstimulation, while the latest brain scans show brains remain impressively elastic throughout life.

Who is the best source of parenting advice: modern science or granny?

‘authoritarian’) as achieving the best outcomes. It is a parenting style that combines one aspect of traditional parenting (setting limits and holding a child to rules) with the science of brain development, by adopting different methods in enforcing the rules.

Rather than punish, authoritative parents now coach their child on the consequences of behaviour. They are firm but kind. They may be strict but they are not mean.

They have learned that children are born with different types of brain and differences in sensory processing abilities. A child might have good reasons for not clearing their plate. Whereas a more traditional parent might issue punishment, an authoritative parent may question whether this is a rule worth setting in the first place.

On the other hand, suppose you have decided a fixed bedtime is a rule you want to be consistent about. Having established the rule, as an authoritative parent, you discuss the reasons and involve your child in establishing how it will work. You then give positive praise for any progress.

Refusal or delays are met with reminders about the rule and why it exists; always in a calm and warm manner. The parent will stand firm. Phew! No one said it was easy but it does have scientific evidence behind it. In long-term studies, non-punitive discipline was found to promote children’s own self-control and honesty and prevent aggressive behaviour.

I wonder what granny will think of that?

Ellie is a journalist, writer and mum of two daughters. She and her family live in Surrey.

Research supports ‘authoritative parenting’ (as opposed to

10 Families Leeds & West Yorkshire

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Events from December through to the end of January.

For more info head to

eureka.org.uk

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Families Leeds & West Yorkshire 11

Festive Fun Spot the Difference Can you help us spot 6 differences between these two festive pictures?

Join the Great Search for Santa and experience so many thrilling adventures with Santa’s Lapland.

You can experience reindeer sleigh rides, husky driven sleds, tobogganing and so much more.

No one knows how to make Christmas more magical.

Call 01483 944 960 or visit SantasLapland.com

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Step into a wonderful world of light, colour and sound this winter

LIGHT ORGAN AT YORKSHIRE SCULPTURE PARK 17 Nov 2023 – 21 Jan 2024

Plan your visit ysp.org.uk

Yorkshire Sculpture Park West Bretton, Wakefield WF4 4LG | 1 mile from M1 J38

Light Organ, at Leeds Art Gallery, 2022. Photo © Jules Lister.

12 Families Leeds & West Yorkshire

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PARENTING

Splitting the parenting workload

By Tanith Carey The number of women in work has hit a record high at more than seventy five per cent in the UK. It’s great that we are gaining more equality in the workplace – except for one factor: women are still doing the lion’s share of the housework and organisation around kids, as well as the emotional heavy lifting.

Research from Stanford University has found that women still tend to take on a much greater proportion of childcare and household management in heterosexual relationships because they don’t feel entitled to put their own needs and time first.

The impact this overload can have is burn-out, numbness, emotional flatlining and even a dial down of their capacity to enjoy time with their kids. Women speak of feeling so overloaded that they want to quietly disappear in a puff of smoke.

One Mumsnet thread called: ‘Am I unreasonable to just pack my bags, disappear and leave everyone to it?’ crystallises the feelings of many women who feel too overwhelmed to enjoy their lives and who fantasise about being free of demands. A flurry of replies like: ‘If you let me tag along, I’ll bring cake’ and ‘I might do the same’ showed how much it touched a nerve.

With more paternity leave, dads working from home and outdated gender roles breaking down, we are moving in the right direction. But if you’re not there yet, what’s the best way to share the load more evenly?

Have a re-balancing conversation In an amicable, constructive way, draw up a list together of everything you and your partner both do to keep your home

going. This may include micro-tasks, like being the one who always applies sunscreen to the kids, who arranges birthday parties and organises childcare.

Compare lists and consider ways to share the jobs more evenly. Point out that having to remind your partner to do tasks puts more pressure on you and that if they take responsibility for something, like the laundry, they should see it all the way through from start to finish. Remember too that partners are not mind-readers.

Your partner may not have noticed the toll that the build-up of unequal balance is taking on you. Co-parents may also lack confidence or think they won’t do some tasks as well as you. Be prepared to offer non-critical training! Remember that not all tasks need to be done exactly the same way.

Tanith Carey is the author of Feeling Blah? Why Anhedonia has left you joyless and how to recapture life’s highs (Welbeck £16.99) available from www.bookshop.org

Vibe Performing Arts Academy 0113 8730444 www.thehearingspace.co.uk North Leeds

Impacting and inspiring children and young people for over 10 years. Developing artisic talent and producing professional theatrical productions.

Weekly classes and Saturday stage school.

For more information email info@vibeperformingarts.co.uk

www.vibeperformingarts.co.uk Follow us on social media for updates

“Excellent service at the Hearing Space. Paul is very friendly and great with children. He put my child at ease whilst conducting his ear wax removal and hearing test.

Highly recommend” “Paul was absolutely fantastic. Clearly extremely knowledgeable and an expert in his field. It was an appointment for our 4-year-old daughter, and he was fantastic with her. Calm and patient. It was a very thorough investigation. We left feeling reassured and with some excellent advice on treatment and next steps.

Well worth the money.” John S

VIBE.Performing Arts Academy vibe_performing_arts_leeds

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Families Leeds & West Yorkshire 13

Make reindeer cupcakes

Families asked Emily Leary, multi-award-winning food, lifestyle and parenting writer, presenter, photographer and author of A Mummy Too (www.amummytoo.co.uk) to share her scrumptious chocolate reindeer cupcake recipe with us. Fun and easy to make, you’ll love the chocolate sponge, rich chocolate frosting and the simple toppings which make the cute Christmas reindeer faces.

C an ut o d k ut " eep

You will need: For the buttercream: 400g (14.1oz) icing sugar (powdered sugar) 200g (7.1oz) slightly salted butter, softened 75g (2.6oz) cocoa powder (dutch processed) 100ml (3.4 floz) whole milk Decorations: 12 red Smarties or M&Ms and 12 giant milk chocolate buttons 24 candy eyes and 24 pretzels

175g (6.2oz) slightly salted butter, cubed and room temperature 200g (7.1oz) white caster sugar (superfine sugar) 3 medium free-range eggs, room temperature 125ml (4.2 floz) whole milk, room temperature 200g (7.1oz) self-raising white flour 40g (1.4oz) cocoa powder (dutch processed)

2

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Step 1

Step 2

Step 3

Step 4

Preheat the oven to 180C (160C fan). Put the caster sugar and softened butter in a large mixing bowl and beat with an electric mixer or by hand until creamy.

Crack the eggs into the bowl.

Add the milk. Beat again until just combined.

Fold everything together until the batter is smooth and even.

Line a 12-hole muffin tray with muffin cases. Divide the batter evenly between them, making sure to level off so that the cupcakes rise evenly.

5

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Step 5

Step 6

Step 7

Step 8

Bake for about 20 minutes or until risen and firm. A skewer pushed into the centre of a cupcake towards the middle of the tray should come out clean. Transfer to a wire rack and leave to cool completely.

Make the buttercream.

Put the softened butter in a large bowl and whisk until creamy.

Transfer to a piping bag fitted with a French tip or open star nozzle and pipe tall swirls on top of the cake, retaining a little frosting to use as glue in the final steps.

Add the reindeer details.

Place a giant chocolate button on top of each cupcake, just below the centre. Dab the back of each Smartie with a little frosting and fix each on to the centre of a chocolate button.

Position two candy eyes above each chocolate button. Finally, break one side of each of the pretzels (or leave them whole) and push them into the frosted tops of each of the cupcakes to form antlers.

14 Families Leeds & West Yorkshire

Sift in the flour and cocoa powder.

Sift in the icing sugar, cocoa powder then add the milk and hot water. Start whisking together, slowly at first and then building speed once the icing sugar is incorporated.

It will take several minutes of whisking to get a light and smooth frosting.

Familiesonline.co.uk

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HEALTH

Handling headlice

By Andrew Campbell Headlice are a common problem faced by many parents, so here is what to do when there’s a classroom outbreak.

It helps to first understand the facts: •

Headlice are 2.5mm to 3mm long at adult stage.

•

Their eggs are small, white and stick to the head, taking seven to ten days to hatch and then seven to ten days to mature into adults.

•

Head lice only survive two to three days away from a human head.

•

Contrary to myth, headlice don’t jump or fly, they don’t have a preference for either clean or dirty hair and they spread only from head to head contact, not from pillows or hairbrushes.

Symptoms These can include itching, small itchy rash-like pink bumps around the edge of the scalp and the feeling of something crawling in the hair. Or there may be no symptoms and you might only find lice by systematically parting and combing the hair with a fine-toothed nit comb from the root of the hair to the tip. You will be able to see any lice, eggs or nits if you wipe the comb on a tissue between strokes. If you find any, it’s advisable to check the whole family’s hair.

Getting rid of head lice Your local chemist will stock insecticide and non-insecticide treatment shampoos. Check your chosen product is suitable

for the age of your child and note that some treatments are not suitable for pregnant women. There is no medical evidence of the effectiveness of Tea Tree Oil. An alternative to treatment shampoos is wet combing with conditioner in the first instance or using this alongside the treatment shampoo. This can be helpful as some head lice are resistant to insecticides. If the treatment product requires you to treat the hair more than once, wet comb in between treatments to remove any eggs that may have hatched.

Wet combing To wet comb, wet the hair, apply conditioner and thoroughly comb through all of the hair, in sections. Wash off the conditioner and repeat. In between each stroke, you need to wipe the comb on a tissue to check for lice. Repeat wet combing every two or three days until no lice have been seen for ten days. The aim is to remove all the lice as they hatch before they have the chance to mature, produce new eggs and reinfest your child.

Repeated checking Whichever method you choose to treat your child, you should keep checking their hair regularly after the last of the lice have disappeared. This is because headlice lay a new batch of eggs daily. They take seven to ten days to hatch, so even if you’ve got rid of the live lice, there may be more waiting to hatch.

Check for headlice every time you wash your child’s hair, as it’s easier to spot lice on wet hair. Double check places like the nape of the neck and behind the ears where headlice sometimes lurk.

Head lice can be hard to shift. Their life-cycle, small size and the problem of treatment resistance all conspire to make this tricky. It’s not uncommon for family members to re-infest each other as headlice move from one head to another, plus of course, unless your child’s school friends have also been treated, headlice infestations can just continue to circulate in their class. If you’re finding headlice stubbornly hanging on, speak to your chemist for advice.

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Families Leeds & West Yorkshire 15

CLUBS & CLASSES

Growing: Little Seedlings Leeds-based baby and toddler development class, Little Seedlings, goes from strength to strength, with new classes popping up in Wakefield and Yeadon.

Lucy Hynes, who set up Little Seedlings three-and-a-half years ago, has always said that the classes are as much for the adult as for the child.

The fun, play-based sessions help you teach your little one through play with easy activities, including messy play, rhymes and a chance to meet others in an informal setting, with support from a trained Early Years Teacher.

Leeds parents love the family-friendly venues, which make a real difference to the experience. So much so, Little Seedlings recently won an award, voted for by parents and carers.

Classes now run every weekday, in various locations including Chapel Allerton, Meanwood, and Farsley, with specials popping up in Yeadon and Wakefield ahead of the New Year.

The autumn term includes Bonfire Night, Diwali, autumn and Christmas specials. One off weekend specials are also available throughout the year.

Keep up to date with all the latest goings on by following @little_seedlings1. Visit www.littleseedlingsuk.com to book.

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Sarah Cowgill went to Tumble Tots as a toddler.

That was 30 years ago. Now she runs the classes herself.

“I took my eldest child the last time there were Tumble Tots classes in Leeds and absolutely loved them,” she said.

“I had been an Early Years Foundation Stage teacher in a Leeds school for 13 years,” she added. “I love the early years but needed something to fit in with my three young children.”

So, Sarah took on the Harrogate and Leeds franchise, offering classes here in Moortown and Boston Spa. She hasn’t looked back.

“I just feel Tumble Tots has the right mix of being active and engaging for all children and teaching them important life skills. It's a great class to set children up, ready for school,” she said.

She explained that there’s increased awareness in the importance of being active for children as they start school, with most doing PE two or three times a week, but less focus in the pre-school years. “All children under five need 180 minutes of exercise per day,” she said.

“The feeling of accomplishment we get when we achieve something, a good walk, Zumba class, a swim, lifting a heavier weight - babies and toddlers get that too, from climbing, balancing or learning something new. So it's rewarding watching them progress and seeing how proud they are when they accomplish something new.”

Sarah added, “Times are hard at the moment and people are stretched, but attending a baby or toddler class shouldn't be considered a luxury. It's an important part of their pre-school education and a great bonding experience for parents and their little ones.”

IT’S FREE!

Award-winning Toddler Sense classes available in North Leeds

Continuing the Tumble Tots tradition

To find out more, visit www.tumbletots.com/harrogate

B NOOO WK !

A session made up of two parts allow toddlers to explore adventure playtime on bouncy castles, soft play, ride ons and more. Followed by themed sensory activities with puppet shows, interactive games and light shows.

Each week there is different equipment and a different theme; meaning both toddlers and grown ups are never bored!

For ages 13 months to 5 years

Siblings under 13 months are FREE!

Text Lou on 07870275916 www.toddlersense.com/northleeds

16 Families Leeds & West Yorkshire

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CLUBS & CLASSES

Clubs & Classes Directory

Don’t forget to say you saw them in Families Leeds & West Yorkshire magazine.

Music Bugs

Babyballet® Leeds North

Little Seedlings

Sensory, play-based music and singing classes for babies, toddlers and preschoolers.

Little Seedlings run pregnancy, baby and toddler classes that focus on development in a fun, easy way.

The 40 minute sessions provide your children with a lovely opportunity to socialise and develop in a creative and stimulating environment.

Fun and informal dance classes for ages 18 months to 6 years. Through an imaginative syllabus children are taught basic ballet steps but will have fun expressing themselves whilst developing skills such as balance, co-ordination, rhythm and more! Classes in Alwoodley, Yeadon, Bramhope and Rawdon.

Call 0844 5781043

leedsnorth@babyballet.co.uk

lucy@littleseedlingsuk.com

Musicbugs.co.uk

babyballet.co.uk

littleseedlingsuk.com

Tumble Tots

Vibe Performing Arts

Toddler Sense

Classes available in North Leeds.

Classes are available for children from 13 months to five years. Explore adventure play time on bouncy castles, soft play, rides and more. Enjoy themed sensory activities with puppet shows, interactive games and light shows. Different equipment and theme each week.

Sarah.cowgill@tumbletots.com

Weekly classes: a creative explosion of acting, singing and dancing in a fun friendly environment. Foundation level training, with opportunities to perform in the ensemble.

Saturday Stage School: Children and young people are encouraged and guided into performing at a higher level.

Opportunities for principal roles. info@vibeperformingarts.co.uk

tumbletots.com/harrogate

vibeperformingarts.co.uk

toddlersense.com/northleeds

Pyjama Drama Mirfield and Huddersfield

Number Train

Debutots

Educating young children through drama and imaginative play to develop their life skills. Offering classes, parties and performances for children up to seven years. In every class children sing, dance, play drama games and pretend.

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, art and craft.

Call 07933 009330 aileen@pyjamadrama.com

Call 07852 989523 numbertrain@hotmail.com

Providing interactive storytelling and dramatic play sessions for ages six months to seven years.

Fun, exciting classes develop children's language skills, promote their confidence and creativity.

Family Story Play Friday mornings at Jackaboos Playgym Farsley. Other venues available early 2024.

Call 0113 8591130

pyjamadrama.com

numbertrain.co.uk

debutots.co.uk/leedswestandcentral

Children explore and develop their physical skills by climbing, balancing, jumping and rolling on brightly coloured bespoke equipment. Sessions tailored to the needs of babies from six months to seven years. See their confidence soar!

Familiesonline.co.uk

Each class includes messy play, rhymes and activities that cover all areas of learning, focusing on both the adult and child.

Text Lou on 07870265916 or email northleeds@toddlersense.co.uk

Families Leeds & West Yorkshire 17

WHAT'S ON

What's On Have you got an event you’d like to share with us? Email us at editor@familiesleeds.co.uk We took every care in preparing these entries but sometimes events are cancelled or times change. Please double check with the organiser to avoid disappointment.

ONGOING Gnome Roam at Newmillerdam Country Park This simple walking trail encourages children to use signs and clues to spot carved statues of gnomes and wildlife. You may even spot a gigantic bear.

Story and Rhyme at Leeds Libraries A fun session of sharing stories and rhymes in a relaxed and friendly atmosphere. At various times at 32 local libraries on weekdays. FREE. Exhibition: All to Play For at Abbey House Museum Take a sprint through the history of sport, play and competition in Leeds.

Exhibition: On the Bench at Thackray Medical Museum On the Bench is the game-changing story of sport and injury, exploring what happens when players get injured and who helps them recover.

Every Monday and Wednesday Bounce and Rhyme at Leeds Libraries A fun session of sharing songs and rhymes with your baby in a relaxed and friendly atmosphere.

FREE. Monday - Central, Holt Park.

Wednesday – Headingley. 1.30pm.

Every Monday, Wednesday and Friday (term time only) Storytime at The Little Bookshop, Chapel Allerton.

Enjoy a cosy story time featuring delightful books for young children.

For ages 2-5. 11- 11.25am. FREE. Toddler Tuesdays at Castleford Museum A lively session of storytelling, crafts and rhymes, inspired by a different museum object each week. 10-11am.

Tuesdays and Thursdays Storytime for Under 5s at Truman Books in Farsley Take your little ones for a session of stories and songs in kids’ corner.

Suitable for under-fives. Tuesdays at 9.30am, Thursdays at 10.30am.

FREE. Thursdays, Create Together Family Friendly Art Group at New Wortley Community Centre A fun, relaxed art group, run by experienced art facilitators. This is a self-directed group, where participants are encouraged to work on their own projects and develop a self-sufficient practice. 3.30-5pm.

Fridays, Tiny Tigers at Leeds City Museum Creative, messy sessions for under 5s and their carers. Babies, toddlers and pre-schoolers welcome. FREE, drop in, no need to book. 10-11.45am.

Every Friday, Saturday and Sunday Dungeon Tours at Pontefract Castle Soak in the atmosphere of this eerie underground space, discover the history of the dungeon and see 18 Families Leeds & West Yorkshire

where Civil War prisoners left to languish scratched their names into the rock. 10.45-11.30am.

Every Friday, Saturday and Sunday Castle Explorer Tour at Pontefract Castle Discover who built and lived in the castle and listen to stories of unfaithful Queens, imprisoned Kings as well the castle’s role in the English Civil Wars. All ages. 12-12.45pm.

Rory’s Saturday Club at Leeds City Museum Looking for something creative to do with kids in the city? Head to Leeds City Museum for Rory’s Saturday Club craft sessions for families with children of all ages. FREE, drop in.

11am-12.15pm.

Saturdays and Sundays Garden Play at The Hepworth Stack, build, experiment, draw and imagine with your family in the open air. No need to book, just turn up and play. 11am-4pm, FREE. Saturdays and Sundays Family Fun at Ilkley Manor House Enjoy a bumper schedule of weekend activities suitable for all the family. Design your own Roman shield, make reindeer decorations, discover the remains of Ilkley's very own Roman fort, dress up in period costumes.

DIARY DATES November 6 to 11 The Life of Pi at The Alhambra Theatre Bradford. Based on the bestselling winner of the Booker Prize, this is the acclaimed adaptation of an epic journey of endurance and hope. Ages 8+.

November 8 to January 7 Harewood’s Great Time Travelling Christmas. An immersive, fun and slightly wild festive experience for all of the family.

November 7 to 11 Chitty Chitty Bang Bang at Lawrence Batley Theatre Everybody’s favourite flying car is landing in November. This amateur production is presented by arrangement with Music Theatre International.

November 8-11 Charlotte’s Web at Carriageworks Theatre Wilbur may be the runt of the litter, but this little pig, with a rambunctious and lovable nature, captures the heart of a little girl called Fern Arable. By Leeds Children’s Theatre. Ages 6+.

November 11 The Nutcracker at Victoria Theatre Halifax November 11 and 12 Peppa Pig's Fun Day Out at St George's Hall Join Peppa, along with her family and friends as they go to the zoo and also the beach for a special party-

it’s going to be an exciting and fun packed day.

November 18 and 19 Ice Carnival in Bradford Families can enjoy a free, fun filled weekend at Bradford’s Centenary Square, with ice sculptures, a free funfair for young children, street performers and live music.

November 18 to December 23 Christmas at Thackray Families of all ages are invited to join Father Christmas on a magical 90-minute journey, exploring the diverse ways people celebrate Christmas around the world.

November 14 to 20 Baby Week Leeds Bringing sectors and services together to promote the best start in life.

November 17 to 19 Light Organ at Yorkshire Sculpture Park Wakefield Residents Free Admission.

The audio-reactive artwork brings sound to life in an array of electrifying colour. Limited places, book online.

November 19 Moon Palace Daytime Observation Sessions in Otley Created by artists Heather Peak and Ivan Morison, this new artwork and mobile observatory is inspired by the legacy of John Smeaton and the observatory he had in East Leeds.

November 22 Sculpture Baby: Light Organ at Yorkshire Sculpture Park Spend creative time with your baby and enjoy this sensory session set in the Light Organ installation in the Chapel. Book online.

November 22 to January 14 Dick Whittington at Harrogate Theatre November 24 Garforth Lights Switch On November 24 Meanwood Lights Switch On November 24 & December 15 Dinky Disco at Lawrence Batley Theatre Gather up your mini movers and shakers for a daytime dance party for little ravers and their sleep deprived chaperones! Take part in some simple dance activities or bust your own moves with lights, glow sticks and other sensory toys in a fun, club-like atmosphere.

November 24 to December 31 Ice Cube @Christmas on Millennium Square, Cookridge Street and Victoria Gardens.

Ice skating, festive funfair, food stalls and more.

November 24 to January 7 Ice Rink at the White Rose Centre The real ice rink is back, with toddler sessions and disco nights available.

Closed Christmas Day. November 22 to January 27 Oliver! At Leeds Playhouse Consider yourself one of the family for Lionel Bart’s award-winning musical.

November 25 to January 7 The Christmas Experience at Lotherton Enter the enchanting world of elves’ workshop, Santa’s cabin, the Edwardian hall and magical woodland walk. Enjoy crafts and meet some magical characters.

November 28 to January 7 Sleeping Beauty the Pantomime at Theatre Royal Wakefield December 1 to 31 Cinderella at Lawrence Batley Theatre December 2 to 23 Christmas at Temple Newsam Explore the beautifully decorated house and get in the festive spirit with themed crafts and activities.

Join in the family fun and Christmas crafts on Sat and Sun in December (apart from Christmas Eve) and Thu 21 Dec. Booking required.

December 2 and 3 Christmas Makers’ Fair at Ilkley Manor House December 2 to 23 Father Christmas at Temple Newsam Visit Father Christmas to tell him your festive wishes and receive a gift. There’s also a Baby’s First Christmas option for children under one. Father Christmas will be making an appearance on Saturdays and Sundays in December (apart from Christmas Eve as he’s very busy that day) and Thursday 21 December.

Booking required.

December 2 About Tales in the Gallery: Jonathan Baldock at the Yorkshire Sculpture Park Join this interactive and immersive storytelling session in the gallery, inspired by the work of Jonathan Baldock. Book online.

December 2 to January 6 The Enormous Crocodile at Leeds Playhouse A new musical version of Roald Dahl’s picture book featuring tasty tunes and mischievous puppets suitable for those age four plus.

December 3 Pudsey Christmas Lights Switch On December 3 Otley Victorian Christmas Fayre December 5 & 6 Dear Santa Live! At King’s Hall Ilkley December 7 to 10 Santa's Sparkly Surprise at Victoria Theatre Halifax December 8 to January 7 Jack and the Beanstalk at York Theatre Royal December 9 to January 6 Robinson Crusoe and the Pirates of the River Ouse at the Grand Opera House York December 9 to January 21 Cinderella at the Alhambra Theatre December 16 to January 6 Cinderella at Victoria Theatre Halifax December 17 to 31 Christmas is Cancelled…Katie Saves the Day! at Carriageworks Theatre December 22 to 31 The Gifting; A magical event to close Leeds 2023 Experience twelve individual stories inspired by the Year of Culture told through performance, dance, song and illusion.

December 26 to 29 Snowmen at Lawrence Batley Theatre Familiesonline.co.uk

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25 Nov 2023 – 7 Jan 2024 Yorkshire's ultimate festive day out thechristmas experience.co.uk

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