Families North Yorkshire Mar/Apr24 Digital

MAKE AN EASTER CHICK CUP

Looking forward to Easter?

Try this Easter craft from our friends at Orchard Toys to get everyone in the mood

CONTENTS

Welcome

Spring is just around the corner and it’s time to get back outdoors! To entice you, we have some fabulous family walks from our friends at The Outdoor Guide, as well as some interesting outdoor spring activities for the kids to try. You can even find out how to teach them some Forest School skills in this issue.

It’s a packed couple of months with Mother’s Day and Easter just round the corner. Find something fabulous that dad can bake with the kids for Mother’s Day. Then, check our top recommendations for Easter eggs, take a look at our free Easter printables which will keep the kids busy and download our Easter chick craft activity.

Finally, in this issue, we have tonnes of fabulous giveaways on offer. By applying, you can ensure you receive our digital magazine with lots more content and goodies on offer.

In this issue

2. Make an Easter chick cup

5. Education

12. News

14. Parenting

15. Travel

18. Family law

20. Outdoor activities

22. Buggy friendly walks

25. Mother’s Day bakes

26. Easter

28. Giveaways

Get in touch

Competition winners from our November/December issue

Congratulations to all our winners. You can find a list HERE

Developing a positive attitude towards learning

By Gail Hugman

No matter how skilled or knowledgeable a person might be, their attitude may well be the deciding factor in their future success, both personal and professional.

The second a child is born, its brain, with roughly eighty six billion neurons or nerve cells, ‘hits the ground running’ making connections through senses and experience.

Everything a young child does, feels, hears and sees creates pathways between these nerve cells, building a reference bank of experience. In the first three years, the connections the brain makes have risen to one thousand trillion. This is an automatic process. Ninety percent of brain development is complete by the time a child is 5 years old.

Although there is a default setting for the brain to function whether we engage or not, when it comes to learning, children who are actively engaged in the learning process are

going to be far more effective and therefore, higher achieving than their peers who are simply ‘going through the motions’ of learning.

The child who loves practising the guitar is going to progress more quickly than the child who battles with you or resents practising!

The reason for this is that as we grow, the brain takes its lead from what we do repeatedly. Where we make a conscious decision to put effort is where the brain will focus connections.

Children who enjoy what they’re doing, who love learning, who have a positive attitude, actively engage. Active engagement creates the signal for the connections the brain makes to be ‘cemented’ in myelin, a coating of fat and protein which make it ‘automatic.’ This is how learning is assimilated and habits are created.

Continued on page 7

Top educational gaming options for kids

Gaming isn’t all bad – there are lots of options which can benefit your child’s learning and development.

Minecraft

Fosters creativity, problem-solving and collaboration. Ages 7+.

SimCity Simulation game that develops planning, resource management and civic awareness. Ages 7+.

LEGO Worlds

Allows players to build and explore Lego creations. Ages 7+.

Karate Cats

A game that helps KS1 students with spelling and grammar. Ages 3+.

Sesame Street: Once Upon a Monster

Teaches empathy, cooperation and selfconfidence. Ages 3+.

Animal Crossing Simulates social interactions, community and nature. Ages 3+.

DragonBox

A series of fun games introducing algebra and geometry. Ages 3+.

LittleBigPlanet

Promotes creativity, design and teamwork. Ages 7+.

Zoo Tycoon

Teaches animal care, conservation and business skills. Ages 3+

Developing a positive attitude towards learning

By Gail Hugman

Continued from page 5

The brain doesn’t know whether what we’re doing is good or not, it just takes its lead from repetitious behaviour and feedback from our surroundings, in this case, parents and teachers.

The more positive our attitude, the more positive the connections and growth we make, which can lead to excellence in performance.

Gail Hugman is a teaching and learning expert at Lessons Alive

and author of 100 Things to Learn Before You’re 10, plus the soon to be published Making the Pennies Drop – Helping your Child Build Skills. Available from Amazon.

York pilots new book to highlight neurodiversity and inclusion and show that different isn’t worse.

York author Ian Donaghy has written a new book to follow his previous successful title Dear Dementia (in every UK library), The Missing Peace (that was adapted to be a play at Joseph Rowntree Theatre featuring Mark Addy) and A Pocketful of Kindness all of which have been read all over the world.

‘Never Stop Drawing’ is an uplifting story about a boy called Albie who is late to speak, has difficulty reading, can’t spell, is dyslexic and who struggles to focus on things with ADHD as his mind races at 100mph.

It explores the world through a child’s eyes and highlights the strategies and tricks he uses throughout school to go unnoticed and invisible.

The book examines how Albie doesn’t fit school and school doesn’t fit him and how he needs special kind people in his life to help him do the same things differently.

This is his cradle to the grave story of overcoming the list of things ‘wrong’ with him to show people the things that are so uniquely right about him.

Albie’s unique view of the world highlights how different everybody is in their own way and that kindness, friendship and support can change lives forever.

Never Stop Drawing is available in 2 versions - Fully illustrated by Alfie Joey or completely unillustrated ‘DIY:Draw it Yourself’ so you can create a book that is unique to you.

Great podcasts for kids

Take a pick from our fabulous recommendations and find something that will really engage your child.

The Radio Adventures of Dr. Floyd

A time-travelling adventure series for kids. Ages 5-8.

The Past and The Curious

A history podcast that makes learning fun for kids of all ages.

The Story Seeds Podcast

Pairs young writers with professional authors. Ages 7+.

The Big Fib

A fast-paced game show that challenges kids to spot the liar. Ages 7+.

Unspookable

A family-friendly take on popular urban legends, scary stories and myths. Ages 8+.

Brains On!

A science podcast that answers curious questions from kids. Ages 8+.

Marvellous Musical Podcast

Fun, engaging intro to classical music and composers. Ages 7+.

The benefits of Lego

By Head of Chapter House and Queen’s Kindergarten, Karen Kilkenny.

There are many reasons to get children involved in Lego. It improves hand-to-eye coordination, fine motor skills and spatial awareness. Whilst following instructions, children recognise different shapes and colours and figure out where each piece fits within an overall structure. The lengthy building process of more complex structures improves patience and focus as the reward of completion is not instantaneous. In today’s environment of quick answers and on demand services, these moments of slowing down are so important in developing perseverance for learning among younger students.

This is why we host a weekly Lego Club where challenges are

created to stimulate creativity, experimentation and roleplaying. Our students become miniature designers, creating and building whilst developing their problem solving and communication skills as they discuss their ideas with the group and solve the puzzles individually or as a team. They have so much fun too, which makes it great for wellbeing.

Providing a calming moment with a high-dexterity task promotes mindfulness, relaxation, and positive ways of dealing with frustration. As they tackle mistakes and achieve what they set out to, their selfconfidence and independence grows.

www.qe.org.

Girls and boys at The Mount Pre School begin their ‘Countdown to Reception’.

It’s an exciting time for The Mount as they prepare for their new coeducation Reception class. Starting “Big” school doesn’t have to be daunting! To ease anxious jitters children joining Reception, have been invited to a series of ‘Countdown to Reception’ events – fun-filled sessions introducing pre-schoolers to the school’s vibrant “Explore, Discover, Create” curriculum.

Rachel Capper, Head of the Junior School explains, ‘The sessions involve more than just viewing a classroom or meeting a teacher, they introduce children

to the activities and fun the EDC curriculum brings. We take the children to explore our forest school, conduct science experiments and unleash their creativity. We want to spark their curiosity and show them Reception is where the fun starts!’

With confident smiles and eager anticipation, these future Mount pupils are ready to embark on their exciting educational journey.

To find out more about joining the new co-ed Reception class contact admissions@mountschoolyork. co.uk / 01904 232323

Teach your kids Forest School skills

Shelter building

Build a den for toys using natural materials. (Ages 2-4)

Erect a temporary shelter making use of woodland materials. (Ages 5-7)

Create a tarpaulin shelter in a woodland. (Ages 8-9)

Make a tipi shelter with camouflage. (Ages 10-11)

Use tools

Safely use a soft hammer to bash leaves. (Ages 2-4)

Use secateurs and loppers to cut wood safely and make something from natural materials. (Ages 5-7)

Whittle a stick safely or use a bow saw to cut wood into sections. (Ages 8-9) Use a saw independently to make a tree cookie. (Ages 10-11)

A Day at Forest School

Cooking with fire

Toast marshmallows - a fun introduction to cooking with fire. (Ages 2-4)

Melt chocolate or make popcorn on an open fire. (Ages 5-7)

Bake damper bread on a stick or fry scotch or Welsh cakes. (Ages 8-9)

Make and tend a campfire safely and cook roast food. (Ages 10-11)

Navigation

Teach little ones map reading with this Easter Egg treasure hunt map. (Ages 3-7)

Learn basic map symbols with Map Symbol Bingo downloadable. (Ages 5-7) Make a simple orienteering course around your home or garden. (Ages 8-9)

Combine map reading and compass skills with handy guides and videos. (Ages 10-11)

How to light a campfire

Essential family travel accessories

Heading away for an Easter break? Don’t miss these essentials when you pack!

Hanging wash bag

Lightweight. Sits flat in your luggage. Unzip and hang. £36.

Family document organiser

A must-have to ensure a smooth journey to your destination. £30.

Compact travel cot

Compact and lightweight, this cot can double as a playpen. £45.

Electronic accessories organiser

Ensure your family’s cables and chargers are not lost. £16.99

Travel First Aid kit

Essential for scrapes, bumps and burns. £12.

Travel game set

Travel-sized 3-in-1 version of classic games. £16.

Travel towels

Soft microfibre towels. No soggy towel, no odour, no bulk. £42.

Reusable bamboo drink straws

For cans, bottled soft drinks, smoothies and milkshakes. £6.95.

Travel toddler & child booster seat

Transforms into portable carry bag. Store bottles, nappies, snacks and more. £26.

Adventure travel for families

We asked Ashley Lutz from Travel Counsellors for her recommendations for those who have a sense of adventure.

New Zealand

Think volcanoes, thermal springs, beaches, cityscapes and offshore islands

Sri Lanka

Think exotic wildlife, ancient forts, captivating culture, peaceful villages, safaris and beaches.

Pyrenees

Think hiking, cycling, zip-lining, rafting, horseriding and fishing – off the beaten track.

Switzerland

Think action - rope parks, toboggan runs, swimming/boating, mountain hiking and biking.

South Africa

Think ‘big five’ safaris, cosmopolitan Cape Town and even Victoria Falls in Zimbabwe.

Iceland

Think one of the most impressive wonders of the natural world .

Canada

Think outdoors - Niagara Falls, the Rockies, whale/ bear spotting round Vancouver Island.

Bali

Think rainforests, gorges, rice paddies, snorkelling, white water rafting, delicious street food.

Costa Rica

Think national parks, unspoilt landscapes, cloud forests, volcanoes, sandy beaches.

My Commercial Tenant has not paid rent, what can I do?

By HartLaw

A common issue for Landlords arises where the tenant of a commercial building fails to pay their rent on time, or in accordance with the provisions of the lease. This could be for any number of reasons, and it is important to understand your options and avoid falling foul of various pitfalls.

For the purposes of this article, we will focus on a situation where a landlord has decided that they want to repossess the property solely based on non-payment of rent. Other breaches will attract different rules, so be sure to check this before you take any action.

There are two main routes to forfeiture where rent has not been paid within the time limits set out within the lease; forfeiture by proceedings (which would involve issuing a Court application) and

forfeiture by ‘peaceable re-entry’ (i.e. going into the property and changing the locks to recover possession). It is important to understand which route is best in your specific circumstances. However, if the landlord is deemed to have ‘waived’ or accepted the breach at any point, which could (though not always) be the result of simply demanding or accepting future rent, the right to forfeit could be lost. So, it is imperative that the landlord has proper advice as soon as the possibility of forfeiture becomes apparent, to ensure the correct steps are taken.

Notwithstanding various commercial considerations (such as the ability to re-let the property) there can be wider issues to factor in when deciding whether to peaceably re-enter. For example,

If the landlord believes it has a brand-new tenant waiting to take a lease, it is important to consider the prospects of success if the current tenant was to make an application to the Court for ‘relief from forfeiture’ (meaning that a tenant makes an application for an order to be allowed back into occupation on payment of the arrears, interests and costs).

Sometimes, a tenant can make its application up to 6 months following forfeiture, and so care would have to be taken in deciding to re-let the property in case the tenant is allowed back in.

Generally (and sometimes automatically) the Courts will grant relief in those circumstances, and

so the landlord can find themselves back at the starting point. So, if there are other breaches, it may be worth considering whether a notice under section 146 of the Law of Property Act 1925 needs to be served to protect the landlord’s position.

There are many different issues to consider in ensuring you remain compliant with your legal and contractual obligations. Our commercial and litigation departments are on hand to assist you, to ensure everything runs as smoothly as possible.

For more information please email

James Ford on james@hartlaw. co.uk or contact 01937 547000.

Book now at jorvikvikingcentre.co.uk

The most immersive Viking museum in the UK

Outdoor activities for spring

Spring is in the air! Time to choose an activity and head outdoors with the kids….

Go on a bluebell walk

Find your closest bluebell wood using this Wildlife Trust list.

Fly a kite

Learn how to fly a kite in just 3 minutes.

Spring stargazing

Top tips for spring stargazing from the National Trust.

Grow sunflowers

Grow these spectacular flowers easily with this kit. £5.59

Raise tadpoles at home

Learn how to care for tadpoles and raise them into frogs.

Build a den

Check out this handy guide from the Woodland Trust.

Spring scavenger hunt

The thrill of a treasure hunt combined with learning.

Grow butterflies

Watch the magic of a butterfly’s metamorphosis in your own home. £21.

Go paddling

Find a paddle-friendly route on a nearby canal or river.

Total Sports School Holiday Activities.

Looking for an egg-citing way to keep your kids entertained this Easter? Look no further! Total Sports Easter camps are the perfect blend of fun and learning, offering a wide range of activities guaranteed to delight children of all ages and interests. From egg hunts to arts and crafts, amazingly fun games, sports and outdoor adventures, Total Sports camps provide a safe and stimulating environment for kids to make new friends and create unforgettable memories. With experienced staff, dedicated to ensuring every child has a blast, you can relax knowing your little

ones are in good hands. Join us for an egg-ceptional Easter experience they’ll be talking about for years to come!

With 50 activities every week and 2 choices every hour, it’s no wonder Total Sports are popular.

Several venues also have dedicated Football Camps and swimming is available where a pool is available.

Government Vouchers accepted.

Info and booking at www.totalsportslimited.co.uk

Fabulous buggy-friendly walks

Our friends at The Outdoor Guide are passionate about making the great outdoors accessible to all. Check out their buggy-friendly walks.

River Ness & Ness Islands, Inverness

Experience a walk full of nature with some city sights along the banks of the River Ness, taking in Ness Islands. You may be at the gateway to the Highlandsbut you don’t need to go further for a lovely walk.

READ MORE

War Memorial Park, Coventry

This 48.5 hectare park is just a stone’s throw from the centre of Coventry and offers buggy friendly pathways, open space for little ones to run free and a cafe to grab an ice cream. Make sure you take a moment to enjoy the Japanese Peace garden on your walk.

READ MORE

Arundel Park, West Sussex

This lovely walk, just a short distance from the centre of Arundel, takes you into the West Sussex countryside. The boating lake at the start gets busy but you’ll soon feel like you’re miles away from anywhere.

READ MORE

Cliveden House, Buckinghamshire

The National Trust managed grounds at Cliveden House are great for a buggy-friendly family walk. The Story Book Den is bound to capture the imagination of your little ones. Plus there’s the all-important cafe at the end of the trail for a well-earned cuppa and snack.

READ MORE

Fabulous buggy-friendly walks

Our friends at The Outdoor Guide are passionate about making the great outdoors accessible to all. Check out their buggy-friendly walks.

Monsal Trail, Peak District

Following the old route of the Midland Railway Line, this walk takes you along one segment of the trail, which is all fully accessible - perhaps you’ll want to do more another day?

READ MORE

Fountains Abbey, Yorkshire

The largest monastic ruin in the country and a designated World Heritage site, Fountains Abbey is a truly special place. The accessible paths are great for your buggies and there’s a great play area for little ones after your walk.

READ MORE

Golders Hill Park Sensory Walk, London

This walk really is a delight for all the senses - the sound of bird song, the smell of the flowers, beautiful woodlands to see - and tasty cake at the end! What more could you possibly want?

READ MORE

SW Coast Path, Mt Edgcumbe, Cornwall

This is a great circular walk that offers views out across The Sound towards Plymouth. There’s also wide open spaces for your littles ones to run around and a beach for some rock pooling fun. During summer months, there’s also a lovely cafe serving delicious refreshments.

READ MORE

Top Mother’s Day bakes

Grab dad and head to the kitchen to bake an extra-special gift for mum.

Rhubarb and orange custard tart

This tangy rhubarb custard tart includes orange for added zest.

Vanilla cupcakes

Decorate with buttercream and a topping of your choice.

Easy chocolate cake

This chocolate cake recipe is super easy and quick to make.

I love mum biscuits

The perfect way for little ones to learn letters while they bake.

Chocolate fridge cake

No-bake cake - simple to make. Ideal treat for the special day!

No-back orange cheesecake

An easy cheesecake for kids to prepare with just a little supervision.

Lemon and blueberry loaf cake

A simple, springtime lemon and blueberry loaf cake.

Butterfly cakes

These classic bakes are great for kids or baking novices.

Luscious lemon pudding

Simple ingredients and easy for kids to help with.

EASTER

Best Easter Eggs 2024

Take a look at our selection and choose something your kids will love!

Cocoba Candy Bean Egg

£11.95 250g

Belgian milk chocolate decorated with chocolate drizzle and candy beans.

Toast & Marmalade Easter Sandwich

£10.95 135g

Two slices of luxurious chocolate with a chocolate egg.

M&S Chocosaurus Rex

£6 135g

T-Rex shaped hollow milk chocolate surprise.

H!P Oat M!lk Salted Caramel Egg

£10 160g

Chocolate oat milk egg with salted caramel and chocolate buttons.

Moo Free Strawberry Sundae Egg

£4.50 85g

White choc alternative. Strawberry flavour & marshmallows.

Chocolate Gonks

£15 230g

Colourful characters made of milk, white and dark Belgian chocolate.

Bryn the Welsh Dragon

£8.99 180g

Fuses together sweet milk chocolate with Welsh legend.

Make Your Own Chocolate Easter Egg

£14 300g

Plastic moulds, chocolate for melting and sweets for decoration.

Thorntons Unicorn Egg

£4.50 151g

Milk chocolate egg with unicorn decoration.

Easter activity printables

Perfect for when you’re out and about, when you need a break or when your kids need some downtime.

Peter Rabbit

Maze

Help Peter Rabbit find his lost chicks.

We’re Going on an Egg Hunt Activity Pack

Fun activity pack based on book.

Mr Bunny’s Chocolate Factory

Maze

Can you help Mr Bunny find his chocolate eggs?

How to draw a chicken

See if you can draw a chicken using this activity sheet.

The Odd Egg: Colour by Numbers Follow the colour key to complete this scene.

Number Easter Egg Hunt

Colour the eggs, cut them out, then hide them around the house.

Make a Hungry Hen Headress

This hen-shaped headdress is a great alternative to bunny ears.

Pip & Henry Easter holidays eco activity pack

Easter crafts, games and activities.

Paddington’s Easter Egg Hunt

Activity Sheets

Fun Easter activities with everyone’s favourite bear.

Sea Monkeys Mini Pet Activity Bundles

Ages 6+

Everything you need to hatch, grow and nurture your own swimming pets!

Bundles include:

Sea Monkeys Ocean Zoo

Sea Monkeys On Mars Tank

Sea Monkeys Magic Castle Tank

Sea Monkeys Instant Life Mystery Egg

Ages 6+