Families Leeds & West Yorkshire January/February 2024

FR EE

Leeds & West Yorkshire

IN THIS ISSUE

Education Family festivals Activities GIVEAWAYS SEE INSIDE

Familiesonline.co.uk

January/February 2024

January/February 1 familiesonline.co.uk

Give your child the brightest start in September 2024

*All school-run clubs included in fees

Here’s what parents of our pupils have to say...

“The best thing about Brontё is how happy it makes my child” “The before and after school clubs* mean that I can work without worrying about child care” “Since coming to Brontё, my child has blossomed” Discover for yourself what makes Brontё House so special. Join us on Sat 9th March for our Open Morning

BRONTË HOUSE SCHOOL

Apperley Bridge, Bradford BD10 0PQ Tel: 0113 250 2811

Wed 14 Feb • 2pm

Register at woodhousegrove.co.uk/admissions

Thu 15 Feb • 2pm & 4pm Fri 16 Feb • 11am & 2pm

Sun 18 Feb • 11am & 2pm

0113 376 0318

carriageworkstheatre.co.uk 2 January/February

Familiesonline.co.uk

CONTENTS

Welcome Happy New Year!

January and February have a reputation as bleak months when ‘nothing much happens’. As a busy parent, I have to ask: what’s not to love about that?

Far from being bleak, I like postChristmas winter. It’s a bit of time when you can relax and hibernate at home and start planning the new year ahead.

In this issue we’ve got plenty of ideas and activities for kids to do at home - from the best drawing and music apps, to science experiments and cookery book recommendations. You’ll also find early ideas for World Book Day costumes and great family festivals taking place around the UK this year. We even have a family ticket to Camp Bestival to giveaway!

Don’t miss our EZLite Graco Stroller and National Geographic Science Kits giveaways either.

Editor, Families Leeds & West Yorkshire

Get in touch Award-winning Toddler Sense classes available in North Leeds

B NOOO WK !

In this issue 4 6

Education Simple pancake recipe for kids 11 World Book Day costumes 12 Clubs & classes 16 Activities 17 Health 23 Parenting 26 Top recipe books for kids 27 Reader review: Loaf 30 Family festivals 32 What’s On Competition winners from our September/October issue Congratulations to all our winners. You can find a list HERE

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 01943 603829 I www.clipnclimbilkley.co.uk Familiesonline.co.uk

January/February 3

EDUCATION

Best new books for kids from around the world

We asked our friends at Parrot Street Book Club for their suggestions.

Too Small Tola Makes It Count

By Atinuke Three fun stories transport readers to bustling Lagos. Ages 5+.

Saving Sorya: Chang and the Sun Bear

By Trang Nguyen & Jeet Zdung Vietnam-based graphic novel adventure.

Ages 8+.

One Chance Dance

By Efua Traoré Heartwarming story of friendship and dance set in Nigeria. Ages 8+.

4 January/February

The Midnighters

By Hana Tooke A magical adventure with a mysterious, gothic-inspired setting.

Ages 8+.

The Last Mapmaker

By Christina Soontornvat A Thai-inspired, highseas, fantasy adventure.

Ages 8+.

The Song Walker

By Zillah Bethel Explore the Australian Outback in this story about friendship.

Ages 8+.

Sona Sharma Wish Me Luck

By Chitra Soundar Warm and colourful illustrated chapter book set in India. Ages 5+.

Momo Arashima Steals the Sword of the Wind

By Misa Sugiura A thrilling, Japaneseinspired fantasy adventure. Ages 8+.

The Boy Who Saved a Bear

By Nizrana Farook A gripping Sri Lankan adventure for animal lovers. Ages 8+.

Familiesonline.co.uk

king’s magna middle school, york

welcoming day & boarding students from years 6-9 as part of queen ethelburga’s collegiate

superb creative arts provision

220-acre rural estate

performance sports programme offered from year 7

excellent facilities over 100 clubs onsite

bus service from leeds

open mornings:

27th january & 9th march 2024 book your place at www.qe.org

admissions@qe.org - 01423 333333 Bridging the gap between primary & secondary, King’s Magna’s innovative KS3 curriculum best prepares students for GCSEs & A Levels.

In 2023, our senior schools achieved 80% A*/A in A Levels, 76% Distinction in BTECs & 63% 7-9 (A*/A) in GCSEs. Familiesonline.co.uk January/February 5

How to make

Shrove Tuesday takes place on Tuesday, 13 February this year.

Make some delicious but simple pancakes with the kids to celebrate. Just download this great recipe provided by our friends at PlanBee

DOWNLOAD HERE 6 January/February

Familiesonline.co.uk

ACTIVITES

Learning to draw (better)

We’ve tracked down some great online resources to help your child learn to draw or improve their drawing skills.

Draw with Rob

Videos showing how to draw everything from an alien to a whale.

Kidmons online painting tool

How to draw Pudsey Bear

Interactive animation with step-by-step instructions; great for new learners.

How to draw the Gruffalo

Tate Draw

Draw online and create your own digital masterpiece.

Learn to draw with Ed Vere

Easy to use with simple icons. Suitable for early years up.

Step-by-step video shows how, with basic materials, you can create The Gruffalo.

BookTrust’s collection of how to draw videos from the award-winning illustrator.

Kleki

CBeebies Creative Lab

Aggie

Simple and easy-touse. Allows children to experiment with brushes and colour palettes.

Familiesonline.co.uk

Digital art tool. Children paint/draw on a blank canvas and colour in.

Easy to use online drawing tool. Facilitates children to draw with friends.

January/February 7

Vibe Performing Arts Academy

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 VIBE.Performing Arts Academy vibe_performing_arts_leeds

8 January/February

Familiesonline.co.uk

EDUCATION

The importance of art in the curriculum

By Laura Steele In an increasingly busy school timetable, art can often be overlooked in favour of the core subjects. Yet, according to The Tate: ‘Schools that integrate arts into their curriculum show improved student performance in maths, English, critical thinking and verbal skills’.

Art is beneficial to children’s development in so many ways.

Imagination, self-expression and creativity

Self-confidence, self-discipline and resilience Art is less prescribed than many other subjects, meaning children can often choose the direction that they take.

Have you ever watched a child who is completely absorbed in drawing READ MORE or painting? Their full concentration is on creating something from nothing, using only their imagination and creativity to express a thought, feeling or idea. This is a skill that we should want to nurture in all children.

More than many other subjects, art fosters experimentation. It gives children the freedom and choice to create something that is unique to them. Not only is this a healthy outlet for self-expression but in the world of work, skills like creativity and innovation are highly valued by many employers.

‘Art has the role in education of helping children become like themselves instead of more like everyone else.’ Sydney Gurewitz Clemens, Consultant in Early Childhood Education Familiesonline.co.uk

Giveaway!

Family ticket for Camp Bestival 4 days of magical festival fun August 2024

Dorset or Shropshire *T&Cs apply

APPLY HERE January/February 9

Inspiring

Young Minds

SCHOOLS GUIDE 2020

SCHOOLS GUIDE 2021

NORTH INDEPENDENT SECONDARY SCHOOL OF THE YEAR

NORTH INDEPENDENT SECONDARY SCHOOL OF THE DECADE

Inspiring independent education for girls and boys aged 3-18 years. Join us at one of our open events. www.gsal.org.uk/events 10 January/February

Familiesonline.co.uk

ACTIVITIES

World Book Day costume ideas Kids LOVE World Book Day! This year, it takes place on 7 March.

So start thinking about costume ideas now!

Harry Potter

The Very Hungry Caterpillar

Cheshire Cat

The BFG

Room on the Broom witch

Willy Wonka

Where’s Wally

White Rabbit

The Worst Witch

Familiesonline.co.uk

January/February 11

CLUBS & CLASSES

Clubs & Classes Directory

Find inspiration and sign up! Don’t forget to say you saw them in Families Leeds & West Yorkshire magazine.

Number Train

Music Bugs

Little Seedlings

A fun and interactive introduction to maths for preschool children.

Pregnancy, baby and toddler classes that focus on development in a fun, easy way.

Sensory, playbased music and singing classes for babies, toddlers and preschoolers.

Baby Ballet

Vibe Performing Arts

Toddler Sense

Fun and informal dance classes in North Leeds for ages 18 months to 6 years.

Weekly classes and Saturday Stage School.

Explore adventure play on bouncy castles, soft play, ride-ons and more.

Ages 13mths-5 years.

YOUR CLUB OR CLASS HERE?

Pyjama Drama

Classes and parties and for children up to age 7 in Mirfield and Huddersfield.

12 January/February

Would like to promote your club, class or holiday club in our next issue?

EMAIL Claire for more information.

Familiesonline.co.uk

CLUBS & CLASSES

Clubs & Classes Directory

Find inspiration and sign up! Don’t forget to say you saw them in Families Leeds & West Yorkshire magazine.

Baby Swimmers & Swimmers Academy

Tumble Tots

Classes available in North Leeds for babies from 6 months A family-run awardto children aged 7. winning baby & toddler Five different classes swim school available, each tailored that teaches babies to the age and specific from 6 weeks across stage of a child’s North & West development.

Yorkshire.

Giveaway!

Debutots

Interactive storytelling and dramatic play sessions for ages 6 months to 7 years.

Classes take place on Fridays at Jackaboos Playgym in Farsley.

Get our digital mag!

Sign up at familiesmag.co.uk/go

IT’S FREE!

Family ticket for Camp Bestival 4 days of magical festival fun August 2024

Dorset or Shropshire *T&Cs apply

APPLY HERE Familiesonline.co.uk

January/February 13

CLUBS & CLASSES

The magic of Music Bugs

Music Bugs is a one-stop shop full spending special time with the adult of fun for babies, toddlers and pre- who takes them to class, creating lovely memories while learning new schoolers. songs to sing at home.

The award-winning interactive, Family Bugs classes are suitable play-based classes feature from eight months to four years, nursery rhymes, action songs, where different aged siblings and knee bouncers, instrument songs, parachutes, puppets, counting mitts, children can play together. The class teacher will show different actions bubbles, dinosaur tales, horses to songs that all the family can and a huge range of multi-sensory enjoy, no matter what age. props.

Mini Bugs is for ages six months to two years. It is a class where children can explore and play in an Baby Bugs classes are for ages four open, friendly environment. weeks to one year (non crawlers).

More information HERE. They are a chance to enjoy Classes are held every weekday at various locations in Leeds.

14 January/February

Familiesonline.co.uk

CLUBS & CLASSES

Spotlight on Debutots

Youth Theatre wins tuition funding

Debutots provides awardwinning interactive storytelling and dramatic play sessions for children aged from six months to seven years.

Vibe Youth Theatre in Leeds has received funding for children and young people to have free vocal and performance tuition.

The company, which recently performed at Leeds Corn Exchange, wowed audiences with stunning vocals and dancing, showcasing their talent with a wide range of numbers, including Silent Night, I Wanna Dance With Somebody, Singin’ in the Rain and What a Wonderful World.

The fun and exciting classes develop children's language skills and help to promote their confidence and creativity. They arm parents and carers with ideas to explore with your child at home and provide lots of fun along the way.

Classes are guaranteed to inspire and amuse you and your little ones. Best of all, the story is completely different every single week.

Classes take place on Fridays at Jackaboos Playgym in Farsley, with more coming soon.

More information HERE.

“I’m so proud of the children and young people,” said director Louise Timmins. “The feedback from audiences is amazing. And there are exciting times ahead in 2024, with another professional production in the planning.”

Classes take place in Headingley (Mondays), Adel (Tuesdays) and Abbey Grange Academy (Saturdays).

You can get in touch to reserve a trial or book a free course of classes HERE.

Familiesonline.co.uk

January/February 15

ACTIVITIES

Great music apps for kids

Encourage your child’s love of music with these fun and engaging apps for all ages.

Garage Band

Apple Transforms a device into instruments and recording studio.

FREE to try.

Toca Dance

Apple Children choreograph characters’ outfits and dance moves to original songs. £4.99.

SoundForest

Apple Compose a song using musical creatures. FREE to try.

16 January/February

Baby’s Musical Hands

Apple & Android Simple and engaging music app for toddlers which encourages touch. £0.99.

Beat Sneak Bandit

Apple Groovy music game requires rhythm and logic. £2.99.

DoReMi 1-2-3: Music for Kids

Apple Helps kids learn to play by ear. FREE to try.

Bandimal

Apple Fun and intuitive.

Kids can discover the creativity of making music. £3.99.

Mussila Music

Apple & Android Fun, game-based music instruction allows kids to explore music. FREE to try.

Music Sparkles

Apple Great play-along music app for little ones, with fabulous upgrade. FREE. Familiesonline.co.uk

Discover Silcoates offers a 3 - 18 co-educational experience, instilling children with a love of learning, a willingness to seize opportunities and to fulfil their potential.

Apply now for entry in September 2024. Contact our friendly admissions team at:

admissions@silcoates.org.uk

01924 885245

SILCOATES.ORG.UK Familiesonline.co.uk

January/February 17

ACTIVITIES

STEM Make n’ Dos for kids Engage your kids’ skills in science, engineering, technology and maths with these great activities.

Rubber band car

Balancing bird

Flying gyroscope

Lava lamp

Tangram puzzle

Lemon volcano

Make a toy car with Build this balancing bird everyday objects and which seems to defy some pretty cool science. gravity.

Use a coke bottle to create a flying cylinder.

Make your own funky lava lamp.

Make your own tangram geometric animal puzzle.

Make a colourful erupting volcano with lemons and baking soda.

Mini catapult

Make ice cream

Build a dome

Use everyday objects and basic physics to make this cool catapult.

18 January/February

Use science to make ice cream the fun and easy way.

Use drinking straws to create a self-supporting geometric dome.

Familiesonline.co.uk

HEALTH

Meet the Yorkshire Menopause Doctor

By Claire Bottomley Busy mums often put their own health to the bottom of the priority list. When it comes to perimenopause and menopause symptoms, it’s sometimes difficult to know where to turn, or feel confident you will be heard.

Dr Ella Russell understands first hand. She’s been a GP in Leeds and Bradford for more than 20 years.

When a hysterectomy catapulted her into menopause, she struggled with sleep problems and memory loss and was unable return to work.

She looked for help and advice and found there was a real lack of it.

businesses who wish to support women and colleagues in raising awareness of the impact that the perimenopause and menopause have in the workplace.

She added: “Women want to feel listened to by someone who understands. There’s a bit of a misconception around symptoms, “I thought, right, there’s a need with a strong focus on hot flushes for this, I upskilled myself in perimenopause and menopause care, and sweats. I think a lot of people still building on previous knowledge and think it is defined by changes in your menstrual cycle. There are actually experience.” she said. more than 50 symptoms, including sweats, and not everyone gets every To date she has supported more symptom." than 500 women by delivering evidence based, person-centred “When women come to me it is like holistic care. working out a puzzle and fitting the picture together. It is one of the While keeping her hand in as a safest conditions to manage and GP, she now spends most of her it’s important for long term health, time offering a bespoke service to preventing things like osteoporosis women. and heart disease.”

“It’s really, really rewarding because She added, “I’ve found it really I get time to sit and talk and listen empowering to see women come in and understand and come up with and over the course of a few months a tailor-made package,” she said. "I be in such a different place. That is receive excellent feedback on the impact I have made in women’s lives.” what I went into medicine for – to improve lives.”

Ella also advises forward thinking EMAIL for more information.

Familiesonline.co.uk

January/February 19

EDUCATION

Helping your child with spelling Does your child struggle with spelling? Take a look at some recommended resources that may help them improve.

10 Minutes A Day Spelling Fun Teaches in bite-sized chunks with exciting games and tests.

Ages 5-7.

Bond SATs Skills: Spelling & Vocabulary

Builds core knowledge of the words expected in key assessments.

Ages 8-9.

First Words Deluxe

Your Spelling

Match and Spell

Wordsearch Junior

ios ios Ideal for toddlers starting Focusses on words to master letter sounds. required for KS1 and KS2 Ages 3+.

SATs. Ages 5-11.

Clever spelling game can be played solo or as a family. Ages 5+.

20 January/February

Fun game - start with pictures and progress to words. Ages 4+.

Usborne Practice Book

120 spelling activities which get progressively harder. Ages 7+.

DoodleSpell

ios & android Tailors exercises to suit a child’s strengths and weaknesses. Ages 5-11.

Bananagrams

Fast, fun word game build words with lettered tiles. Ages 7+.

Familiesonline.co.uk

EDUCATION

Exciting changes afoot at Brontë House There are important changes afoot at Brontë House, the junior school to Woodhouse Grove.

From September 2024, Brontë’s Reception children, currently housed in purpose-built Ashdown Lodge in the leafy grounds of the school, will be moving into the beautiful main Brontë House building.

Considerable development is planned over the summer to create the perfect indoor and outdoor environment for these very important members of the school community.

The benefits of being physically part of the main school are many.

Reception will have science in the science labs, art in the art room, and music in the music studio.

Learn more at the Brontë House Open Morning on Saturday, March 9. Register your place HERE. Find out more about Brontë House HERE.

EZLite Graco stroller Giveaway

No longer based in just one classroom all day, every day, lessons will be brought to life - a change of environment will do wonders for concentration and foster independence, organisation and confidence.

A perfect, light weight stroller for families

Reception children will benefit from Brontë House’s specialist sports coaches and performing arts teachers. They will have access to the school library, have lunch with their older peers and be able to see their Year 6 'buddies' every day, learning, by example, those allimportant soft, social skills.

Newborn to age 3

Familiesonline.co.uk

Easy to control and manoeuvre

APPLY HERE

Worth £50 T&Cs apply January/February 21

At evolve medical based in Pudsey, I offer expertise in all areas of womens health, especially for women experiencing the perimenopause and menopause.

Many women don’t realise that the perimenopause can start in their early 40s with sleep disturbance, anxiety and brain fog as well as the more well-known symptoms. These symptoms can significantly impact on a woman’s quality of life and family life. To date, I have supported over 500 women by delivering patient centred care that is evidence based and tailored to her needs.

I also specialise in supporting businesses looking to increase awareness of the impact the perimenopause and menopause can have on women in the workplace and help develop policies to support women in need and retain highly skilled, experienced staff.

If I can help you, a loved one or your business, why not get in touch.

To book an appointment contact us: Call 01132 576701 Email: info@evolvemedical.co.uk or ella@yorkshiremenopausedoctor.co.uk yorkshiremenopausedoctor.co.uk 22 January/February

Familiesonline.co.uk

PARENTING

Improving your child’s social skills Play

Practise talking

Teach body language

Conflict resolution

Start with basics – explain how we communicate feelings and thoughts without words.

Observe together – point out examples in everyday situations and ask what your child thinks.

Play games – play ‘emotion charades’ where children act out emotions with body language.

Books & stories – discuss characters’ feelings and the cues that indicate those emotions.

Set the example – model effective communication, active listening and compromise.

Promote open communications – empower your child to express their thoughts and feelings.

Identify feelings – help them identify the emotions of others in a conflict.

Foster empathy – help children understand the feelings and perspectives of others.

Eye contact and social skills

Dealing with friendship struggles

A fun activity to build awareness of eye contact to support social understanding.

Great for kids 7-11. Covers the drama of friendship, pressure, competition and success.

Role play – use puppets for different scenarios eg when your child meets new friends.

Games – play games which encourage interaction and cooperation eg board games.

Be a good model – demonstrate co-operation and sportsmanship.

Play with peers – organise playdates to provide opportunities for social interaction.

Familiesonline.co.uk

Start early – engage in simple conversations and narrate daily activities.

Listen – model active listening by paying attention when your child speaks.

Expand vocabulary – use a variety of words to describe emotions, actions and objects.

Be polite – encourage the importance of polite language by using ‘please’ and ‘thank you’.

January/February 23

EDUCATION

GSAL named Sunday Times’ school of the year

Shaping success at King’s Magna near York

The Grammar School at Leeds (GSAL) has been named the Sunday Times’ North Independent School of the Year 2024.

School life at King’s Magna near York is about experiencing a breadth of activities for enthusiastic sports or performing arts students.

Pathways hone their skills and prepare them for the next steps in their education and careers.

The award was announced as part of the publications Parent Power guide. The accolade marks the third time GSAL has been recognised by the Sunday Times.

The Sunday Times also praised the school’s generous bursary programme: GSAL spends more than £1 million providing at least 100 means-tested bursaries a year, with almost half of bursary students not paying any fees.

Principal Sue Woodroofe said: “This award is a true testament to the hard work of our students, staff and the wider GSAL community. It’s also recognition of the progressive steps we’ve taken in many areas: in our teaching and learning; in the investment we’ve made in our facilities; our commitment to equity, diversity and inclusion and so much more.”

Find our more HERE. 24 January/February

Two ‘pathways to success’ are available from Year 7 up.

The Performance Sport Pathway is available in basketball, cricket, football and netball.

Each student benefits from an Individual Development Plan that comprises of coaching from exprofessionals, nutrition, strength and conditioning, physiotherapy, sports massage and the latest tactical, technical, physical and mental training.

The programme allows for competing at a higher level and teaches responsibility, resilience and leadership skills.

The ADA pathway supports students with auditions and improves skills in acting, musical theatre, comedy, stage combat, and a variety of dance styles.

Find out more HERE. Familiesonline.co.uk

NEWS

A warm welcome at Chilly Powder

The perfect stroller for families

A trip to the Alps is perfect in winter or summer.

EZLite is the latest lightweight and compact stroller from Graco, perfect for families looking for a reliable and convenient solution that won’t cost the earth.

Francesca, Paul and their three children live in Morzine in France all year round and have a good knowledge of Alpine traditions and the Morzine people.

Having adapted their chalet holiday style over the years to suit the tastes of their regular guests, they offer the perfect ski and summer holidays for either families, couples or mixed groups in relaxing luxury, with fantastic food and outstanding facilities, as well as unrivalled inhouse childcare facilities.

For many returning guests, Chilly Powder is considered a real home from home.

More about Chilly Powder chalets for summer and winter HERE.

This budget-friendly stroller ensures that parents and carers get peace of mind from the reliable Graco quality.

The stroller is available in the stylish Midnight, Dusty Rose or Stormy colourways.

With a canopy that protects from the sun, the stroller also has adjustable calf support and twoposition recline, ensuring that littles ones are kept comfortable.

Other features include front swivel-lock wheels and a onestop braking system, making the EZLite easy to control and manoeuvre.

Suitable for newborn babies up to approximately 3 years old, the EZLite from Graco is available now for £50 HERE.

Familiesonline.co.uk

January/February 25

FOOD

Top recipe books to use with the kids

It’s cold and murky outside – but warm and inviting in the kitchen! Cook up a storm with the kids using one of these recommended recipe books.

Cook Me a Rhyme: The Usborne First In the Kitchen with Cookbook Quick, wholesome, easyBasic techniques for Mother Goose The Silver Spoon for Children

to-make Italian dishes.

New edition of a classic.

Ages 7-11. £17.05.

The World in My Kitchen

Explore cuisines and cultures from around the world. Ages 5+. £12.34.

Nadiya’s Bake Me a Story

Storybook and cookbook combined - scrumptious stories and delicious bakes. Ages 6-11. £14.24 26 January/February

Classic nursery rhymes inspire recipes & cookalong stories. Ages 5-11.

beginners and selection of favourite recipes.

Ages 7+. £12.99.

My Daddy Cooks

This Cookbook is Gross

Cooking for beginners.

100 tried-and tested recipes. Ages 4+. £3.57.

Gruffalo Crumble and other recipes Recipes specially designed to cook with Gruffalo-loving kids!

Ages 3-6. £12.34.

Make gross, yet very tasty, food creations!

Ages 7-9. £9.24.

The Vegetarian Cookbook

Tasty and filling recipes breakfast, lunch, dinner, snacks. Ages 9-12. £12.34.

Familiesonline.co.uk

READER REVIEW

Reader Review: Loaf Our roving reviewer Jo Hadfield has been sampling the delights of a independent café in Headingley…

Once known as Sebbys, this was a firm family favourite for many years; in no small part because it shared the name of my youngest's favourite zebra toy. Imagine the excitement!

Now it is Loaf; new management, new paint job and new menu.

It was super busy on Sunday when we went and as it is located just doors away from Fika - don't get me started on their phenomenal cinnamon buns - they overspill nicely into one another.

The menu at Loaf is small but decent, brunch served all day and a range of sandwiches and burgers.

The coffee is very good, as you might expect from a Dark Woods stockist and there are a good range of cakes and sweet treats on the counter.

They also do a children's fish finger sandwich the size of my head (and I have a large knapper) which we happily polished off when my youngest conceded defeat.

Whilst there is not a big menu, my eldest asked for the brunch roll from the regular menu without chilli jam and this was cheerfully done, meaning she thoroughly enjoyed her sausage, egg and hash brown sandwich.

Familiesonline.co.uk

There’s a box of toys to keep really little ones entertained too and the food was served quickly.

It might not hit the heady heights of Sebby’s (they once let my sister build her own bloody Mary during a brunch trip-oh yes, they did) it’s still a relaxing place to eat out with the kids. And an added bonus? My two love watching the fancy dress students en route to some strictly family-free fun!

Find out more HERE.

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January/February 27

EDUCATION

Beyond the school system

Speech and language at school

By Ana Fábrega

By Lisa Wander and Catherine Loble

It’s a fact that the traditional school system doesn’t suit everyone, yet many parents aren’t in a position to take their children out of school. The good news is that there are options that offer fabulous learning opportunities for children, which can be embraced without leaving the system.

READ MORE

The charity Listening to unheard children reports that an estimated twenty percent of school age children are behind in talking and listening. There’s an increase in children who can’t articulate their needs or feelings or who struggle with sentence construction, sounds and vocabulary.

READ MORE

National Geographic Science Kit Bundles Giveaway W

What to expect from ICT at primary school

Discovery and hands-on learning

orth £77 each

Ages 8+ Geodes Kit Gemstone Dig Kit Glow in the Dark Science Kit 3 bundles available T&Cs apply

APPLY HERE 28 January/February

By Zuzu Jordan

When managed well, technology can transform learning into an engaging and interactive experience. Yet it develops so fast that parents may find it difficult to keep up with what their children are learning.

So how is technology used at primary school? What might your child be taught?

READ MORE Familiesonline.co.uk

LOCAL NEWS

No Phones at Home Day

Half-term family fun at Carriageworks

Dr Charlotte Armitage

Smart phones and devices are an intrinsic part of our daily lives. However, the rise in mental health issues amongst children and young people has been significant in recent years.

No Phones at Home Day was founded by Leeds psychologist and psychotherapist, Dr Charlotte Armitage and it takes place on January 20.

Through her own observations from working with families, young children, educators, and those in the media, Charlotte could see the negative impact the increasing use and reliance on smart devices was having on psychological, mental, and emotional wellbeing and development.

There’s lots of fun family events planned at Carriageworks Theatre in Millennium Square, Leeds during half-term.

Morgan and West’s Massive Magic Show for Kids Conjures capers, mysterious magic tricks, larger than life laughs, and fantastic facial furniture on February 14. On February 15 and 16, inspired by the touching children’s story by Oscar Wilde, The Selfish Giant explores an unusual friendship, and discovers how even the grumpiest giant’s heart can melt when spring finally comes.

No Phones at Home Day is an opportunity for families to set some dedicated time aside away from devices. The aim of the initiative is to support healthy psychological development by encouraging boundaries and limits on device.

Finally, on February 18, awardwinning Indefinite Articles presents its work for the very young: Claytime – a play with clay where audiences are invited to participate.Go to a place where the earth’s natural material meets children’s imaginations, inciting a world of fabulous forms, amazing animals, and morphing monsters.

Each Claytime is totally unique, creating its own world, characters and stories drawn directly from its young audience.

More information HERE.

More information HERE.

Familiesonline.co.uk

January/February 29

FAMILY FESTIVALS

Top family-friendly festivals for 2024 The UK has loads of family-friendly festivals happening this year. Here is our selection of some of the standouts to help you plan.

Just So, Cheshire

Camp Bestival

Festival of Sport

The Long Road Festival, Leicestershire

Gloworm Festival, Nottinghamshire

Deer Shed Festival, North Yorkshire

25-28 July Dorset 16-18 August A weekend-long camping 15-18 August Shropshire festival for families.

Award-winning festival.

Music, theatre, circus, Diverse musical line up. storytelling and more.

Loads of family activities and entertainment.

Venue and date tbc The ultimate family sports festival.

Entertainment, sports coaching and more.

23-25 August Country music.

Dedicated kids’ area.

16-18 August For children 0-13, music, activities, entertainment and arts.

Standon Calling, Hertfordshire

Gone Wild Festival Victorious Festival, 22-24 August Exeter Portsmouth

25-28 July Boutique music and arts festival. Entertainment area for kids.

30 January/February

26-29 July Wonderland of music, arts, science and sport.

8-11 August Norfolk 23-25 August Music and outdoor Big names of UK music. activities like kayaking, Newly expanded Kids’ high ropes, tree climbing. Arena - free activities.

Familiesonline.co.uk

GIVEAWAY

Ages 8+

National Geographic Science Kit Bundles Discovery and hands-on learning Bundles include: Worth Geodes Kit £77 each Gemstone Dig Kit Glow in the Dark Science Kit

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January/February 31

WHAT’S ON NEAR YOU IN JANUARY & FEBRUARY Carriageworks Theatre

32 January/February

DOWNLOAD YOUR FREE GUIDE HERE

Familiesonline.co.uk