Families Leeds Jan-Feb 2016

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JAN FEBRUAUARY RY 2016

ISSUE 4 4

LEEDS’ FAVOURITE PARENTING MAGAZINE

NEW YEAR, NEW YOU WHAT’S ON THIS HALF TERM TIME TO TAKE THE STAGE Acting, singing and dance classes for 4 to 18 year olds.

Find out more and start your child’s journey today at Stagecoach Roundhay, Horsforth and Morley.

0845 678 7778 www.stagecoach.co.uk/leedsroundhay www.stagecoach.co.uk/leedshorsforth www.stagecoach.co.uk/leedsmorley

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Our 3 hr classes cover the topics of; CPR / Choking / Meningitis / Burns & Scalds Poisoning / Bleeding / Minor Injuries

northleeds@bumpsandbashes.com 07899 993916 (Katie) Contact Sara Hall on 0113 834 6522 or email sara@pyjamadrama.com

Come to one small group class or organise a private class in the comfort of your own home.

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Hello & Welcome Back…

Despite the bad press it gets, I think January is a special time.

Ahh, don’t you feel you can breathe once more without that Christmas tree blocking the winter sun! The living room suddenly feels more spacious and so does your diary.

Back to school and work means order and calm, without the merrygo-round of concerts and Christmas jumper days seemingly designed to catch you out.

The cold dark days mean family hibernation is both natural and justified. Televised obscure sports, entire Sundays in pyjamas, weeks when your only achievement is Lego-related, these are all acceptable in January.

And spontaneity can once more return to your life, like summer to Narnia. An impromptu family walk in the park sees you bumping into friends who come back for a cup of tea and a play, staying to dinner and taking with them a child for sleepover. As if that’s going to happen in December, when on any given weekend you’ve got to be up at 4.30am to get to Aunty Susan’s in Colchester replete with 94 wrapped gifts.

The pressure’s off, and there’s something exciting about a New Year – a shiny clean blank page. Who knows what 2016 will bring.

So here’s wishing you all a wonderful January, and a very happy New Year.

Claire Bottomley www.familiesleeds.co.uk Like us on Facebook Follow us on Twitter Families Leeds Ltd is part of Families Magazines Ltd a franchise company. All franchised magazines in the group are independently owned and operated under licence. Families® is a registered trademark of Families Magazines Ltd, Remenham House, Regatta Place, Marlow Road, Bourne End, Bucks SL8 5TD. The contents of Families Leeds Ltd are fully protected by copyright and non of the editorial or photographic matter may be reproduced in any form without prior consent of the publisher. We take every care preparing this magazine but the publishers and distributors cannot be held responsible for the claims of advertisers nor for the accuracy of the contents nor for any consequence.

Our cover image is courtesy of Shutterstock

Family photo opposite courtesy of Susie Lawrence www.susielawrence.com

Contents…

4&5

NEWS

7–8

NEW YEAR, NEW YOU Kick start your fitness for 2016

10 – 11

HAPPY FEET A guide to dance classes for pint-sized primas

12 – 17

SCHOOLS SPECIAL News, Open Days and how to make the most of school

20 – 23

WHAT’S ON Our round up of all the events on offer in January and February, with plenty of half term activities

CONTACT US: 07799 667 041 • editor@familiesleeds.co.uk CIRCULATION: We distribute 18,000 copies of the magazine free of charge through schools, nurseries, playgroups, clubs and classes, selected retail outlets and sports centres. Read by more than 40,000 parents. If you would like copies for your establishment please let us know.

DESIGNED BY: JUSTIN LEEMING • 07745 038 005 • www.jgl-design.co.uk PRINTED BY: CHARLESWORTH PRESS, Wakefield • www.charlesworth.com

Win! Win! Win! IIA family ticket to the ICE CUBE!II The hugely popular Ice Cube is once more gliding back in to Millennium Square this New Year. Skaters of all ages and abilities can take to the ice from January 22 to February 21.

Yorkshire’s coolest wintertime attraction looks set to be as popular as ever, with a real ice rink, a nursery rink for budding skaters, a Snowslide and the North Pole Starflyer.

To be in with a chance to win a family ticket, email editor@familiesleeds.co.uk with the words ICE CUBE in the title by January 31.

For information on session times, prices and how to book visit www.leeds.gov.uk/icecubepage

FAMILY FUN AT THE ICE CUBE

3

Families

NEWS…

LITTLE BEES have been busy Little Bees Play and Party centre has moved to brand new premises.

Still in East Leeds, the three-tier adventure play area now has fresh new equipment, including a car track, pre-school zone and enclosed baby area.

Suitable for all babies and children up to the age of 10, it is particularly good for pre-schoolers, and includes a café and party rooms.

Run by Emma Jessop and Georgina Allison, Little Bees was open for five years at its former premises. “The move has allowed us to expand and go bigger,” said Emma. “The play equipment has a similar look to before but it’s given us the chance to freshen it up and update; five years ago they didn’t have some of the elements we’ve got now, like a walk-on piano, drums and a talking tree.”

In the baby sensory area, there’s an infinity mirror, colour-changing snow machine and colour changing ball pool.

For more information, visit www.littlebeesplay.co.uk

SENSORY PLAY AT LITTLE BEES

‘There is a SPIDER’ A Horsforth grandfather has written a book of short poems about a friendly spider.

Marcellus Springer dreamt up There is a Spider for his grandchildren, but it has already proved popular with a wider audience.

“It was intended to be my legacy to our grandchildren but people have asked to buy it for their own kids or themselves!” said Marcellus. “We decided to sell them and ask for a donation of £5 which we will give to the children’s hospice, Martin House.”

If you’d like to buy a copy of the book, email marcellusspringer@gmail.com

St Gemma’s Hospice

Sat 19 March 2016 10 am - 3pm

Registered Charity No.1015941

Spring Fair

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Plant Sale Meet the Easter Bunny Easter Activities Stalls Egg Hunt

Don’t FORGET! Applications for primary school must be in by January 15 if your child is due to start in September. The quickest and easiest way to apply is online at schoolsonlineservices.leeds.gov.uk/Enrol/Website/default.aspx

}

Recycle YOUR BIKE

Have you got an outgrown or long forgotten bike?

Leeds-based charity The Works Held at 329 Harrogate Road, LS17 6QD For Satnavs use LS17 6JP would like to recycle it – literally – by passing it on to a disadvantaged young person.

0113 218 5570 nicolah@st-gemma.co.uk MECHANIC KEVIN THOMPSON AT THE WORKS Last year, the scheme made www.st-gemma.co.uk 70 donated old bikes road-ready before delivering them to selected students at local schools.

WE HAVE MOVED… WE HAVE MOVED… WE HAVE MOVED… Elliott Turnbull, Chief Executive Officer of The Works, said,“We know through experience that there are many disadvantaged young people in OPENING TIMES: Suitable Leeds that don’t have bikes, and we are in a position to help. Cycling is a Mon– Fri for ages 0–10 10am– 5pm great mode of transport but the health benefits are important too, not to especially Sat– Sun mention increasing self-esteem and participation in sports. Everyone pre-schoolers 10am– 6pm remembers the new found freedom they felt when they first hopped on their own bike and by donating unused bikes languishing in the back of 3-TIER ADVENTURE PLAY AREA the shed, people are able to share that joy with others who, without with Car Track, Pre-school Area, their generosity, might never experience the same thrill and sense of Enclosed Baby Area, Café & Party Rooms independence.”

To donate call 0113 2446 015, email info@theworks skatepark.com www.littlebeesplay.co.uk or drop it off at The Works Skatepark, Kitson Road, Leeds, LS10 1NT. 19 Limewood Road, Leeds, LS14 1LU info@littlebeesplay.co.uk • Tel: 0113 2329 822

4

Familie s News

HAY what a Great Present!

Stuck for gift ideas? How about a bale of hay or salt lick?

Hope Pastures Horse and Donkey Sanctuary, a Leeds-based charity, offers virtual gifts, which also include pony and donkey adoptions, as well as hands-on experiences with the animals. “Adoptions or gifts for the ponies are ideal presents when you’re not sure what people want,� said Sue Huggings-Geering, one of the trustees at the sanctuary. “Instead of just buying more ‘things’ these gifts give people a good feeling.�

For more information, visit www.hopepastures.org.

“Something a little different for a birthday or just to treat your child this is the shop to have a look in.�

Gillian, Harrogate 45 Cold Bath Road Harrogate, HG2 0NL EAT • SLEEP • DRESS • PLAY

FREE TRIAL Tuition Sessions Explore Learning centres are offering free trials to pupils. They provide maths and English tuition for five to 14 year olds of all abilities. The centres are open seven days a week, fitting in with busy family life.

As Explore members, children work with tutors who are great educational role models, enthusiastic about learning and fantastic motivators. Each child has an individualised learning programme, and all Explore courses map to the National Curriculum in England and the Curriculum for Excellence in Scotland.

To find out more visit www.explorelearning.co.uk.

BARK IN N THE PARK P A ARK

A Word to THE WISE

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LEO is an Inspiration

n lde k Go e Par Acr

Fre ree e trry y& goon die e Ba g

A former pupil at a Leeds preparatory school has returned to irrts perform the violin at a concert in his mother’s memory.

T-shillaablease ava urch to p Leo Strelle performed a solo with the White Rose Orchestra Register in advance adva at www w.st-gemma.co.uk . emma www.st-gemma.co.uk at Richmond House School in honour of Natalia Strelle, a world 01 13 218 5 0113 5197 renowned concert pianist who died tragically last summer. emmap@st-gemma.co.uk ap@st-gemma.co Several of Leo’s former classmates watched his impressive performance at the event.

Director of Music for Richmond House, Victoria Lloyd, said,�It was a pleasure to see how much Leo has progressed and I was delighted that ! ! ! ! ! ! so many of our own young musicians attended the concert to be inspired !! ! ! by such a talent as Leo. We are looking forward to hearing of his 7654321150/3.-6-6,03+60*1+3)4)0('.(0(4.*'0#"! " " )&4*-%-*0(10 achievements and hope to work with him again in the future.� $.$-4)0#0*'-"53460%130!.346() 0 '-"5 -6543) 0 +3)43-4)0#0 *'11") 0

Registered Charity No. 1015941

Parenthood has prompted one Leeds mum to set up her own proofreading and copy editing business.

Zarina Bonass started writing after her daughter was born. “I did a course in proofreading and copy-editing,� she explains. “I learnt that you can write beautiful prose, but its meaning is lost if it is poorly constructed.�

Now Zarina has set up Syntaktis offering a flexible and tailored service to help with company reports, website content, cover letters, dissertations and more.

For more information, visit www.syntaktis.co.uk

#"! " ! ! "

Play Time at the THEATRE City Varieties Music Hall is holding interactive themed play sessions for pre-schoolers on Tuesdays, from January 12. At Hickory Dickory Dock, little ones and their parents or carers are invited to play, sing, create and discover in the inspiring setting of the 150-year-old building.

For more information, visit www.cityvarieties.co.uk/Online/preschool.

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5

Viewpoint

MuM

in t h e M id d le We’re delighted to introduce our new columnist, radio producer and mum of two, Becky Bond. Here, she shares some thoughts on the relationship between her parents and children...

TALES FROM THE

tweenage

YEARS

Sarah Butters explains how ‘embarrassing one’s children’ is one of life’s simple pleasures…

Happy New Year! I’ve never been a fan of New Year resolutions. Actually that’s not entirely true. I used to be a big fan of making lists of things I wanted to achieve but found that by the end of January I had failed miserably. So I pledged to rid my life of resolutions for good. Until now.

As I get older I’m finding joy in the smallest of things – an unexpected rainbow, an act of kindness by a stranger and embarrassing my children at every opportunity. I’ve always found it fun but more recently their genuine horror at my actions has caused me to reflect on a resolution worth making. 2016 is the year in which I’ll be the most embarrassing parent I know. And I don’t think it’s going to be especially hard.

I have discovered that my wearing of a bobble hat is especially mortifying to my daughter. That revelation came last term when, after taking a distressed call from Isobel, I journeyed up to school for the second time in the day to drop off forgotten essentials. She was in the canteen.

“No bother,” I chirped. “I’ll pop in and say hello.”

“NOOOOOOOOOOOO,” she shrieked. Then, after composing herself, “I’ll meet you in the car park. Call me when you get here.”

When I arrived she was stood in the pouring rain, waiting to intercept me. With the forgotten stash handed over, I said,“Why didn’t you let me bring it inside?”

“Because I knew you’d be wearing that hat. Love you.” And with that, she was gone. No offence intended. Not a beat taken before the sartorial put down. She equated my simple grey woolly hat with pom pom with some sort of clown’s outfit and decided to keep me out of the public gaze.

Then there was the time I innocently stood on the side lines of a hockey match, only to be approached by a delightful lady I took to be another parent. We chatted and as the conversation went on, I noticed Isobel becoming distracted by us – not advisable when you’re the goalkeeper.

Shaking her head and wafting her stick, she clearly wanted me to step away from my new companion. But why? Half time brought the answer.

“Why are you talking to my Head of Year?” she quizzed. “What have you said?” Had I got out my book of baby photos? Had I told a selection of bad knock knock jokes? Had I belted out my now famous rendition of “I Will Survive”? No, but the truth is not what’s terrifying my tween.

It’s what I might do. I’m the human equivalent of an unexploded bomb, but then so are my children. We all need handling with care. So my plans for 2016 are to car dance on the journey to morning drop off, chat to teachers at will and pull on my pom pommed hat even when the weather is warm. Embarrassing my kids may be the easiest resolution I’ve ever made!

6

I’m sure many of you will have experience of dealing with ailing parents. At this stage in our lives, it’s pretty inevitable. In my scenario, dad’s been living with prostate cancer for over five years (he’s 82) and mum’s got dementia. They’re a right pair but at least I’ve still got them – and they’ve still got each other, sort of.

But it’s not all doom and gloom. I’m also a mum of two young girls – Molly (11) and Emma (9). They’re lucky enough to have two sets of grandparents – the others being considerably more spritely and not long retired.

You’re not supposed to have favourites, are you? But it’s quite clear to me who my daughters would rather while away an afternoon with.

Swimming and cinema versus sitting in the kitchen with a juice and kitkat? I know what I’d have rather done at that age...

But I really think there are some positives to be taken from allowing your children to witness the grimmer, duller side of getting old.

For the girls, seeing my parents decline is teaching them humility. My usual cartwheeling, shouty daughter becomes softer, gives granny a kiss and tolerates her with great humour when asked the same question over and over and over again... “Emma, do you still like gymnastics?”.

When playing scrabble (the one thing my mum can still focus on), it’s kind of Molly to resist the temptation to put the odd upside-down letter the right way up. And kinder still, to softly remind granny to pick up more letters when she’s had a turn. There’s not a chance she’ll let her win though...

And when dad starts on with his “when I was a lad” stories, it gives us something to chuckle about on the way home. Or bet on which one’s he’ll tell us next. Or make a tally of which tale we’ve heard the most. If the weather’s good and dad’s not tired, he’ll rev up the sit-on lawn mower and let them drive it round the garden. Other days, if he’s in the middle of treatment, they might just help him with a jigsaw or let him sleep. They’re getting to know the nuances of being old and being kind.

It’s opened up discussions in our home about how we’d like to be treated, should the same fate befall us. I’ve told them that if I begin to lose my memory, just roll with it - embrace the fact that I want to wear my holey jumper and clogs. I’ve always thought dignity was highly over-rated anyway.

And on the flip-side, let’s not forget what the ’olds’ get out of seeing their grandchildren too. Yes, my mum thinks a tablet is something to be swallowed for sciatica, but who knew that granddad would be fascinated with Minecraft? And if an imminent visit from us gives mum a reason to search the house for all her coppers for the kids to count, so what? It keeps her busy and out of dad’s hair!

I think most children understand that it’s not all milkshake shops and climbing walls. Very occasionally, the girls have seen me cry and have given me a cuddle. They understand how much I love my parents and can relate to that.

So while my mum and dad are still here, and still vaguely coherent, we’ll try to keep finding the funny side of the fuddy duddies and roll with the half remembered tales. Because when they’re not here, it won’t be funny at all and we’ll want to remember everything.

Health & Fitness

NEW YEAR,

NEW YOU! IIHealth, fitness and shedding a few pounds are firmII IIfavourites when it comes to New Year’s Resolutions.II

F

OR NEW PARENTS, the thought of ever being able to change into sportswear and escape can seem like an unrealistic goal. And as children get older, timetabling exercise into our busy lives doesn’t get much easier. Here are a few ideas for stepping up the me-time... n DVD: If you have a young baby, there are some good post-natal exercise DVDs. Have the baby on the play-mat next to you or lift her up to strengthen your arms! n SWAP: Suggest a swap with your partner or a friend. They have the kids while you go to the gym, for a swim, for a long walk in the woods – then do the same for them another day. n TAKE THE KIDS WITH YOU: Go to a local park with scooters and bikes and baby in a pushchair and walk around the outside of the park. Join a class you can do together, like martial arts, or go swimming while they have their lessons.

Great play for the under-8s, parties and daily activities, plus yummy food and bean to cup coffee

30 TOWN STREET, HORSFORTH Phone 0113 2588856 • www.tinytoesplaycentre.co.uk

Should I join a gym?

Joining a gym can work really well for parents; offering a lot of familyfriendly services and catering for all age groups. But taking the plunge can be daunting. We quizzed Lorena Bucci, gym manager at Cookridge Hall Health and Fitness, on what it entails...

FL: What exercise regime would you recommend for somebody just joining the gym?

Lorena: We try to find out their reasons for joining the gym and recommend safe and effective activities accordingly.

We offer an On Track appointment programme (included in the membership) which is simple, effective, designed by a qualified fitness professional, and can be followed on your own in the gym.

I would recommend some classes; exercising within a group can be highly motivating.

I would offer nutrition advice and a comprehensive nutrition plan if they have been struggling with weight loss for a while.

I would encourage them to use our facilities every day if possible and vary their activities as much as possible.

FL: For busy parents, making that kind of time can be difficult, do you have any advice on how to do this?

Lorena: Here at Cookridge Hall we have an Ofsted registered creche which is open from Mondays to Fridays from 9am to 1pm. The staff are lovely and do a range of activities with the children, and there’s a soft play area and lots of books and toys to keep them entertained. We also have a lot of children’s classes available, so with older children, a good way to make time for exercise is to do it while they are enjoying swimming lessons, street dance or Karate, for example.

FL: Are there any particular classes that are your favourites?

Lorena: We really try to cater for everyone. There is a wide variety of classes to choose from every day.

Personally I feel that gym based classes are my favourite because we generally use weights that are more suitable and more challenging and the workouts are short and sharp, great if you don’t have much time. We also focus very much on mobility and flexibility.

7

Health & Fitness

YOGA for ALL LIFE STAGES Baby Massage Classes across Leeds 07900 491 902 www.infant-massage.net infantmassagebyemma@gmail.com

Lara Heppell is a Leeds-based yoga teacher who aims to support women at all stages of life, including pregnancy and motherhood.

LARA HEPPELL

Small dedicated yoga classes in a beautiful space Thursday evenings and Saturday mornings.

(Maximum 8 places per class) Aesthetic Health, Moortown

Yoga classes, Doula services, Women’s Wellness workshops, events & retreats dedicated to nurturing & supporting women at every stage of life.

Contact Lara@all-woman.co.uk or call 07810827950 • www.all-woman.co.uk

She has created Allwoman, which offers bespoke one-to-one yoga sessions, special fertility, wellbeing and doula support programmes, alongside group classes, workshops, retreats and Mizan abdominal massage. “By connecting more deeply with themselves and their own needs I aim to guide women to listen more closely to their own bodies and the innate wisdom that can be found within,� explains Lara. “This can be very difficult to do when we are new mothers or when pregnant or going through major life transitions where lots of people require our time and attention,� she added. “While you are pregnant, often the best gift you can give yourself is to rest more and do less, and so our classes at Allwoman are a combination of slow flowing poses, balancing breathe work and deep restorative meditative rest, often coupled with some Yoga Nidra practice, a fabulous practice for mums and mums-to-be. “I use tried and tested effective yoga practices, breathing techniques, mindfulness and meditation to build strength and vitality in the body and calmness in the mind. The support continues for you once baby is born, with Mum and Baby yoga, Inner Strength and Toning Postnatal yoga, Belly binding and Mizan abdominal massage.�

For more information, visit www.all-woman.co.uk

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SWANN in & HELP Rachel Swann is a Leeds-based coach who works exclusively with mums. Here, she explains how she offers an alternative to dieting for weight-loss‌ “I use coaching and a technique called word-weaving (similar to hypnotherapy) to allow mums to separate themselves from the emotional connection they have with food,â€? says Rachel. “This means they can learn to love food again, live life to the full and lose weight.

We also work on the underlying causes of overeating or bingeing so that they no longer need to do that.�

Rachel started out as a weight loss hypnotherapist but says it quickly became clear to her that the reason most women struggle with weight is not through an inability to understand healthy eating or even stick to a diet, but because they have underlying emotional baggage that they need to get rid of in order to stop relying on food to lift their mood.

Rachel now works with mums to provide a service tailored to each individual client. “I work to create confidence and self esteem in my clients and tend to find that weight loss is a side effect when we get to the heart of the issues and separate the eating from the emotions,� she said. “Alternatively, we find that the weight isn’t really what they want to put right in the end and they leave happy either way.�

Visit www.rachel-swann.com/families for more information.

8

C lubs and C lasses

FIRST CLASS

Ideas for Parental Leave & Beyond What is the best age for signing?

THIS BABY IS SIGNING BUTTERFLY

Signing…

Signing is a fantastic first activity to do with your little one. Here, we asked Vicki Gilbert from Tiny Signers what it’s all about...

What are the benefits of signing for parents and their little ones?

There are many! If baby or parent are hearing impaired it may be their only effective way of communicating. If families are hearing, they can use it before babies are able to talk. Babies are able to coordinate the muscles to move and gesture far earlier than the vocal muscles. Therefore they can clap, wave and make other similar movements from around six months of age.

By showing young babies appropriate signs, for example Eat when you give them their dinner, they eventually associate the sign with eating and food and when they are able to, show the sign back. This is very useful for parents or care givers.

You can sign with babies from birth.

We talk to them from when they’re born so we can also sign with them. People tend to start signing though when they are slightly older and taking more notice. In terms of coming to classes with hearing babies, to learn to sign to aid pre verbal communication we recommend from about six months of age (some come earlier as they are keen to get started or are returning to work).

By this time babies are starting to sit up, taking more notice and starting to use gestural communication such as waving, pointing and clapping.

How will signing work alongside speech development?

Signing works very well hand in hand with speech. We always advocate saying the word whilst using the signs. We are not attempting to replace the word with the sign. The age at which babies say their first words varies hugely. Many factors affect this, not least that each child is different in terms of reaching developmental milestones.

Signing aids speech development further in terms of pronunciation and reducing misunderstanding between child and adult.

When a young child says a word sometimes it’s difficult to understand. But when a child can use a sign as well as saying their version of the word it clarifies meaning

Massage…

straight away. They do of course show their own version of the sign or we would describe it as approximating the sign, just as they would maybe mispronounce a word, but they usually refine the approximated signs as their fine motor skills develop.

What do children and parents enjoy most about signing?

Signing with children is infectious.

With children of all ages! Older siblings love learning too and it can be done by the whole family, meaning everyone can communicate.

Our songs are fun and catchy and as most children love music and singing anyway, it really captures their attention and imagination. They love all the props and puppets we use.

They also love the relaxed atmosphere.

We are not constantly asking parents to sit them down. They interact with the teachers and props, doing what children do best – exploring in a safe environment.

Parents say they love having the opportunity to spend an hour with their little one, having fun with them and observing them.

But mostly that they get everything rolled into one at a Tiny Signer’s session – a fun music class and learning a new skill.

For more information, visit www.tinysigners.co.uk

Under 5’s Gymnastics

Massage is also a great way to bond with your wee one. Emma Goulthorp, of Infant Massage by Emma, runs classes across Leeds.

“Parents and carers who attend my baby massage courses learn so much more than just to massage their baby,” said Emma. “The structured, comprehensive programme outlined by the International Association of Infant Massage explores the topics of the power of touch, movement, relaxation, communication and interaction. Massage can have many benefits, including aiding digestion, relief from wind colic and constipation, encouraging better sleeping patterns and enhancing parent and infant attachment.”

WETHERBY SPORTS ASSOCIATION

For more information, visit www.infant-massage.net 9

Dancing FEET Sally J Hall shares some great ideas for starting your child’s love of dance performing arts…

MISS FELICTY TEACHING BABY BALLET

STAR JUMPS AT BABY BALLET

HAVING FUN AT DIDDI DANCE

A

H, THE BALLET. All those gorgeous costumes, perfect turn-outs, buns and the sublime music. Who hasn’t dreamed of being a Prima Ballerina when wafting around their bedroom in a synthetic net tutu?

And if you actually went as far as learning to dance when you were younger, you might be keen to instil this love of dance in your child – even if you gave up when you weren’t allowed to tie your shoe ribbons up to your knee.

How can you find out what kind of class is best for your child?

Read on to find the perfect dance space for your mini mover…

Tiny Dancer When your child is very young – say, under five – shuffling around on tip toe while wafting their hands or pretending to be a tiger is about as much as you can ask for. Look for a class that teaches very young children together, not mixed in with older age groups.

A class where there’s an emphasis on having fun and doing different dancing games each time will keep them keen and entertained – and going back each week. Expect to have to stay for these classes and possibly join in, too.

“It’s always sad saying goodbye!”

Leeds Central and Leeds East Baby Ballet run classes across Leeds, with new classes starting in Tadcaster. For more information visit babyballet.co.uk.

DIDDI DANCE is a funky pre-school dance class for boys and girls aged 18 months plus. Using action songs, dancing games, fun exercises, hoops and ribbons to their own pop songs, the classes help to enhance your child’s coordination and sense of rhythm in a fun and relaxed session, and also to develop their social and gross motor skills. Diddi Dance covers 14 different dance themes from around the world – exploring styles like hip hop and Salsa. Free trial available. For more information visit diddidance.com.

DANCEBUGS classes are available for boys and girls from the age of three to school age at Danceworks. They are fun classes teaching all the basics in an imaginative way.

BABY BALLET is a pre-school ballet programme designed by Claire O’Connor, whose mother was a ballet teacher. She found it a strict and competitive environment, and her vision was to take ballet and put it in a more informal, fun setting and make it accessible to very young children.

Baby Ballet Tots classes cater for six to 18 months, and this is followed by the Tinies class for 18 months to three, with parents and carers staying and participating.

In Movers classes for three-year-olds and over, children go in on their own. They continue with ballet but are also offered the opportunity to do some tap dancing too.

From this age-group, the children perform in an annual show.

“It’s a big deal, it’s amazing to see them perform in front of an audience and it is lovely for the parents,” said Jane Herbert, who runs Leeds Central Baby Ballet together with Louise Bradbury.

Finally, there is a Grovers class, for children aged around fourand-a-half to six. “That is as far as we take them,” said Jane.

DANCEBUGS AT DANCEWORKS

10

DANCEWORKS ON STAGE

C lubs and C lasses

Classes available: Ballet, Tap, Modern, Street Dance & Pre-school Dance

Starting to get more serious If your child makes it past the age of five or six and still wants to go to a class, it may be time to start looking at a proper training class where they can take grades or get involved with productions. The choice for ballet is the Royal Academy of Dance (rad.org.uk) syllabus or for modern dance there’s the Imperial Society of Modern Theatre & Tap Dance (istd.org).

DANCWORKS does both, and offers classes up to 18 years, as well as a popular adult ballet class.

“We do a productions at Yeadon Town Hall and also have a performing group,” said teacher Laura Jakes. “The performing group’s aim is to bring dance to the community, we have performed at care homes and charity events,” she explained.

Laura added,“Teaching dance is a passion and it is not only about being a technician. It’s about seeing the students grow with confidence and achieve their own goals. Dancing is also a friendly place to be. Many of my students are at different schools but also have their dance friends who they socialise with too. It’s very rewarding to see students support each other and share their love of dance.”

Alternatives…

If they are still keen but aren’t motivated by grades, street and jazz might suit them, as they learn new routines all the time. They can also try out holiday classes where they might spend a week doing different activities – this gives them a great grounding in what they might be best at. Styles out there include Ballet, Tap, Modern Dance, Jazz Hip Hop Contemporary Break Dance Street Dance and Commercial Dance (a blend of Street and Hip Hop).

All-round schools are also options where they learn to sing, act and dance.

STAGECOACH offers dance, acting and singing as a part of its performing arts syllabus and has classes for those aged four to six and for six to 18 years (stagecoach.co.uk).

Boy’s brigade Dance is not just for girls, there are plenty of roles for boys in ballet, jazz and modern – on the stage, TV and touring groups.

Danceworks even has boys only classes in a local primary school catering for boy in year 4, 5 and 6.

“Boys bring a different element to class which I love teaching as they are full of energy and attack the work with determination,” said Laura Jakes.

Royal Ballet Associates training If your child has been taking ballet grades and is seriously thinking about a career in dance, the Royal Ballet runs classes to prepare them for this move. The Associates Programme trains children aged eight to 15 in conjunction with their usual classes (royalballetschool.org.uk).

11

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MEANWOOD C OF E PRIMARY SCHOOL PUPILS CELEBRATING THEIR SUCCESS

MEANWOOD C of E named Sunday Times STATE PRIMARY SCHOOL OF THE YEAR A Leeds school has come top of the table in the Sunday Times Parent Power national survey of state primary schools.

Meanwood Church of England Primary School was praised for its excellent SATS results and Ofsted reports.

Staff, parents and pupils were thrilled to hear the news, and held a party to celebrate.

“It was such a big surprise, in fact I thought it was an elaborate hoax!” said head teacher Helen Sanderson. She added,“The best thing about it has been that everyone has felt it. The children were

RICHMOND HOUSE Pupils winning at Languages Year Six linguists from Richmond House School in Headingley are celebrating success in a national Junior Language Challenge competition.

Over 1,000 children from across the country took part in the first round, for which they had to learn Portuguese.

Pupil Emma Leggett, along with her friends Livia and Grace, learnt Mandarin to qualify for the Yorkshire live semi-final.

Emma then made it through to the semi-final, where she was one of only two pupils from Yorkshire to move on to the finals.

She had to learn Arabic before making the trip down to London.

Unfortunately on the day the competition was too strong, but the school is extremely proud of Emma and all the other Year Sixes who competed.

Katie Lucas, Modern Foreign Languages Co-ordinator said, “We are very proud of how hard Emma worked to reach the final, she learnt some very challenging languages throughout the competition and her dedication and enthusiasm was admirable.

Having three pupils from Richmond House reach the semi-finals is a superb achievement and is a testament to the value we place on languages as a school.”

12

so proud and excited, not just the staff, and parents and former pupils have all been ringing up to congratulate us and celebrate with us. She added,“This has been achieved through many years of hard work, by many people.”

EMMA LEGGETT

E ducation

NEW HEAD for Bradford Grammar School A new head teacher has been appointed at Bradford Grammar School. Dr Simon Hinchliffe will succeed Kevin Riley who is due to retire later this year.

Dr Hinchliffe, who is currently Deputy Head at the school, was formerly Head of the Sixth Form at Wolverhampton Grammar School where he had worked for 14 years.

He holds a first class degree in Geography from Durham University, a Master’s degree in Education Leadership and Management from the Open University, and a PhD from St Andrews University in Geography and Geoscience. He lives in Skipton with Heidi, also a teacher, and their two young children, Katy and Ben. Announcing the appointment, the Chairman of Governors at Bradford Grammar School, Lady Morrison, said,“I am delighted that we have been able to appoint someone with such strong academic credentials and who also has such passion for the school. Although he has only been at Bradford Grammar School for one year, Simon has demonstrated that he is an inspirational and charismatic educationalist.”

Dr Hinchliffe said,“It is a great privilege to have the opportunity to serve Bradford Grammar School as its 29th Head following a period of dedicated leadership by Kevin Riley.

The breadth and depth of pupils’ interests and achievements at Bradford Grammar School are simply astonishing. Respectful of its traditions yet forward looking, ours is a very happy school – at ease with excellence, deeply committed to developing the whole child – and provides a wonderful start in life for pupils.”

FROEBELIAN ranked 22 in Country for Prep Schools The Froebelian School in Horsforth has been ranked number 22 in the Sunday Times Parent Power national survey of the Top 100 Independent Preparatory Schools. It is the highest ranked school in Leeds and Bradford in the survey.

“We are so proud of our children,” said head teacher Catherine Dodds. “This is a testimony to the hard work and dedication of not only the children and their teachers but also the whole school community who work together to foster a life-long thirst for learning.”

She added that children at Froebelian start school the September after their third birthday, beginning their education in the pre-school year, giving them a flying start on their learning journey.

The Froebelian School has maintained its place in the Top 100 ever since the Sunday Times began publishing league tables over 20 years ago.

FULNECK YEAR SIXES visit Parliament with their MP Year Six pupils from Fulneck School visited the Palace of Westminster, where they were given a tour of the House of Commons and the House of Lords by their local Member of Parliament, Stuart Andrew.

The visit was arranged to link in with their Humanities topic on Democracy and Government Systems. In the House of Commons, they saw a statue of former Fulneck pupil Herbert Henry Asquith, who is famous for having led the United Kingdom into World War One. After the tour, the class joined Mr Andrew in his London office for a question and answer session.

“This was a once in a life time trip and it was brilliant!” said one of the pupils, Ciara Greenway.

13

E ducation INDEPENDENT SCHOOL OPEN DAYS SPRING TERM 2016 -------- BRADFORD GRAMMAR SCHOOL -------Independent school for girls and boys aged six to 18 in Bradford 01274 542 492 • www.bradfordgrammar.com Junior School Open Evening: January 12, 6pm Senior School Open Morning: January 13, 9.15am Sixth Form Taster Morning: March 8, 8.45am -------- FULNECK SCHOOL -------Day and boarding school for girls and boys aged three to 18 in Pudsey 0113 2570 235 • www.fulneckschool.co.uk Open Morning: January 8, 9.30 – noon Entrance Exam and & Taster: January 19, 9am – 3.45pm -------- MOORLANDS SCHOOL -------Preparatory school for girls and boys aged two to 11 in Leeds 0113 2785 286 • www.moorlands-school.co.uk Open mornings every Tuesday -------- RICHMOND HOUSE SCHOOL -------Preparatory school for boys and girls aged three to 11 in Leeds 0113 2752 670 • www.rhschool.org Open Afternoon: March 9, 2pm – 4pm

14

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There’s more to

SCHOOL than Lessons…

By Liat Hughes Joshi

These days, education is about much more than what goes on in the classroom. Most schools – whether state or private – offer a range of extra-curricular and enrichment activities and these can be fun, educational, sociable, confidence-boosting or all of these. So how can you ensure your child capitalises on the opportunities on offer but still gets the balance right between work, rest and play?

IIChoosing activitiesII

IIHow much is too much?II

Follow your son or daughter’s lead when deciding which classes to sign up for – most kids have a strong feel for what appeals to them. That said, it’s also worth pointing them towards something you think they might benefit from, such as drama sessions for a shy child.

There’s no set answer about how many activities are optimal – it varies for each child. Some will get more tired than others and find just one or two classes suffice, others embrace a packed schedule of karate to clarinet without losing energy.

Don’t force IIDon’t force aa square square peg pegII into aa round IIinto round hole holeII It might be ‘daddy’s dream’ for your son to be the next Beckham but if your little boy hates the idea, it’s unwise to force him into the football club. Making children take up an activity that they really don’t feel good about, in the hope it’ll grow on them, can be counter-productive.

IIEncourage persistenceII Some of us have flighty children who get super-excited about an activity but within weeks, lose enthusiasm – unfortunately only once you’ve coughed up a whole term’s fees. Consider having a rule that your child does have to see the period you paid for out before they can give up – they might well change their mind back after a few weeks anyway!

IINeeds change over timeII Certainly most reception children are exhausted enough from school for the first term or so, without lengthening their day by adding extra activities. Keep things simple at this stage. Older primary children have a decent opportunity to learn a few different skills and enjoy classes, whereas once they start secondary, longer commutes, more homework and exam pressures might mean reining things in.

IIRelaxation time is vital tooII Watch out for activity overscheduling – quiet contemplation and scope to be creative and relax is just as important as that second musical instrument or third sport. If your child doesn’t have space to just play and chill out, consider cutting back.

If your child is struggling: particularly if he or she finds their class work difficult, it might be worth putting additional effort into building skills at home or with a tutor.

Talk to their teacher about what help they need to focus on. Perhaps they can suggest fun but educational games, or workbooks.

Tutoring can be expensive and you need to check the tutor’s credentials (because anyone can set up and call themselves a tutor) but one-to-one attention can have a remarkable impact on learning. Try tutorhunt.com to search for local tutors.

Taking things to the next level: if your child is coping well with all that school throws at them and they’ve found their passion – be it gymnastics or music – you could contact local clubs and associations to see how they can take their talent to the next level, with matches/performances or extra training.

Liat Hughes Joshi is a parenting journalist and the author of four books including ‘New Old-fashioned Parenting’ and ‘How to Unplug Your Child’ (both published by Summersdale) and Raising Children: The Primary Years (Pearson).

15

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Choosing Schools: OPEN DAYS & BEYOND IIChoosing a school for your child, it’s fair to say, can feelII IIlike an emotional decision and a big responsibility. You willII IIwant to ensure that you have considered all the optionsII IIavailable. Here, Deputy Head (External Relations) atII IIWoodhouse Grove School, David Wood, offers some adviceII IIon how to assess the suitability of a school for your child…II

R

EPUTATION and school gate chatter may have coloured your picture of a particular school before the search begins, and that decision is further complicated by the glossy information that may be available to you from the very moment you begin looking.

Inevitably, you will then find that much of the promotional material says just about the same thing but in a slightly different way. So – how to progress?

1

Set aside any preconceptions garnered over the years and draw up a short list of possible schools that you believe may suit the particular nature of each of your children.

(Beware – these schools may differ for each child, but so be it.) Then determine to get under the skin of the school!

2

Visit the school’s Open Days.

Inevitably, these are events that will show you the school in its best

clothes, and they should impress, but you can gather so much more from these days by taking the opportunity to talk to the students, observe their interactions with staff and get a feel for their enthusiasm and sense of enjoyment of what they are doing.

5

Do you know any other parents of students at the school? If so, seek out their views – has it been the right choice for them, and why? How do their children feel about their school? Talk to the pupils themselves.

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6

4

7 8

If possible, visit and tour the school on a normal school day.

Ask yourself questions about what is going on around you. How does the school “feel”? Peer through classroom windows – are pupils engaged and involved? As pupils and staff move about the school, is there a sense of purpose?

It may be a good idea to arrange a meeting with the head teacher.

Discuss the particular strengths and weaknesses of your child and how the school would work on them. Remember to dig below the surface of any published exam results or academic achievements.

Such things must always be taken in context. Bold statistics and league tables may only be a reflection of the quality of the raw material. Consider just how much value the school is adding.

Is it convenient? How much of the day is going to be “lost” in transit?

Are there convenient bus or train links? Is breakfast and or an evening meal available should they need to stay on at school or should it be convenient to arrive early?

Is my son or daughter going to be known by all members of staff?

Consider the schools size and fit.

Most importantly, involve your son or daughter in as much of the process as possible. It needs to be a shared journey to a final decision. Include them in every step as you build up the picture of where you envisage them being equipped to face the challenges of life. Set any prejudice aside and begin painting your own picture of a school that you believe fits around the individual that is your child.

A SPECIAL KIND of Nurturing…

Staff and children are settling in to the new Montessori Nurtury in Moortown.

Set in a beautifully converted old chapel, the nursery is designed for a child to explore in their early years of essential development, in keeping with the ethos of Montessori childcare and education.

Founder Helen Gration, who is mum to twin sons, said,“It’s always been a privilege to learn alongside my children. They have taught me so much! Being different in characters and learning, I was particularly taken with how Montessori methods suited each unique child and allowed that uniqueness to flourish. And that’s what you will find here – we understand their developmental needs fully.

HELEN GRATION “As a result, they develop confidence and independence with real purpose. They are potential inventors, explorers, creators, parents! Each learns everything without knowing it. We ‘follow the child’, as Dr Maria Montessori advocated 100 years ago. We do this with great wonder and admiration and we look forward to seeing what the amazing possibilities are.”

For more information, visit www.yorkshiremontessorinursery.co.uk 16

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Come and discover how your child will flourish at Fulneck School

JAN Friday

8 JAN Tuesday

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Open Morning 9:30am—noon

Entrance Exam & Taster 9:00am—3:45pm

Fulneck School

A vibrant, happy, aspirational community where we focus on one child.

Yours.

Register now for Reception and Year 7 in 2016

www.fulneckschool.co.uk

0113 257 0235 enquiries@fulneckschool.co.uk Fulneck School

Pudsey

Leeds

LS28 8DS

No. 22 in the Sunday Times Top Independent School Listing The Froebelian School is a thriving and dynamic independent prep school, which places children at the very heart of all it strives to achieve.

Now taking admissions for pre-school children aged 3 in September

THE FROEBELIAN SCHOOL

Giving a Flying Start to the Citizens of Tomorrow

CLARENCE ROAD, HORSFORTH, LEEDS, LS18 4LB T: 0113 258 3047 E: admissions@froebelian.co.uk

www.froebelian.com 17

Health

Have any of your Children

BROKEN ANYTHING? For adults, attendances to the Emergency Department increase at this time of year due to the number of broken bones from people falling and slipping over in bad weather. In children, the peak tends to be more in the summer months when they are outside playing. For toddlers, however, there is a more consistent rate of presentation. Here, Dr Georgina Hudson talks to Paediatric Emergency Medicine Consultant Miss Todd about what are termed Toddler’s Fractures.

What age range is likely to be affected by this type of fracture?

We would consider this as a diagnosis in ambulatory children between the ages of nine months to three years. Children of this age usually present with a refusal to weight bear after a minor fall. The medical term for this type of fracture is sometimes known as a ‘Childhood Accidental Spiral Tibial fracture’.

How is the fracture diagnosed?

The fracture or break involves the distal end of one of the bones in the lower leg known as the tibia. When examining the leg the child is usually tender over this area of the leg, and when gently twisting the leg, this exacerbates the pain in this area.

It is also important in the history and examination of the child to rule out any other possible causes.

We would check the child was growing normally, had no fevers, no joint pain elsewhere and no redness or swelling to any other joints.

If any of these other symptoms were present other diagnoses would be considered.

“

Imagination is more important than knowledge.

Knowledge is limited, IMAGINATION ENCIRCLES THE WORLD!

”

EINSTEIN

01943 466 230 www.thelittlegreenfrog.co.uk 18

Can Toddler’s Fractures be diagnosed on x-rays?

Yes an x-ray would be performed of the lower limb. However, 13 to 43% of initial x-rays do not show evidence of Toddler’s Fracture, and the fracture is only seen when signs of healing occur 10 – 14 days later.

How are they treated?

If all other diagnoses of our limping child has been excluded, and there is a good history of trauma, such as a fall, along with the above clinical findings on examination and the child is not able to weight bear even after painkillers, the child would likely be treated as if they have a Toddler’s Fracture. Even if their initial x-ray looked essentially normal.

The whole limb would usually be put in a cast for two to three weeks.

Toddlers differ from adults and older children in that it is easier for them to break a bone than strain a muscle or a ligament.

Hence the diagnosis of a Toddler’s Fracture is always considered in this presentation of symptoms in this age group.

WORDSEARCH

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What’s on?

IIThere’s so much to do in and around Leeds in January and February –II IIespecially over half term. So get your skates on – literally!II

Explore Horrible Science at the NATIONAL MEDIA MUSEUM They’ll be celebrating 20 Yucky Years of the Horrible Science books at the museum this February, with extraordinary experiments, dastardly discoveries and revolting events for the whole family.

Joining forces with the Horrible Science book publisher Scholastic, it will give budding scientists the chance to make sight-shifting spectacles, view microscopic monsters, learn how eyeballs work and much more.

Horrible Science books have been entertaining and educating children with their unique brand of horrible humour since 1996, and in 2015 a new Horrible Science TV show started broadcasting on CITV. Gina Cooke, programmes developer at the National Media Museum, said,“We’re thrilled to be involved in the anniversary celebrations. Our exciting free events will give everyone the opportunity to experience ‘science with the squishy bits left in’.”

Daily Horrible Science events start on February 13. For more information, visit www.nationalmediamuseum.org.uk/horrible

Heart Dissection at SEUM U M L A IC D E M Y A R K C A TH

DISSECTING A SHEEP’S HEART AT A MUSEUM WORKSHOP

of one investigate the workings m is inviting families to seu mu the , tals.

19 spi – Ho 15 ng ry with Leeds Teachi entine’s Day! From Februa rkshops, in conjunction wo n tio sec What a way to follow Val se dis clo rt up hea y g t of their anatom ans in the body by holdin for children to see a par of the most important org ping a fantastic opportunity is s Thi s,“ exercise as a way of kee lain and exp er e of healthy eating anc ort Liz Egan, Learning Manag imp the of ing nd sta go away with an under and we hope they will ition rge of £2 will apply in add er.” g ord the museum. A small cha at l iva the heart in good workin arr on ce pla ir ish. visitors should book the o may be a little squeam Spaces are limited and le for younger visitors wh ilab ava é and gift shop. be l caf wil rk, ties pa tivi car Ac s. and has its own tal spi Ho to usual admission charge s es’ Jam St dicine, including the seum is next door to ough the history of me thr y rne Thackray Medical Mu jou eek a on en tak g term time and midw galleries, visitors are every Saturday durin ce pla e Over nine interactive tak s tie ivi act a full year.

Leeds in 1842. Family owing free entry for popular recreation of last for 12 months, all ts ke tic on ssi mi Ad s. liday during the school ho

20

, What s on?

ITION COMPET

Stay cool at the ICE CUBE

ance to For a ch ET ILY TICK M A F WIN A 3 e see pag

Ice Cube is back in Millennium Square from January 22 to February 21. There’s a real ice rink, a nursery rink for budding skaters aged 8 and under, and a fantastic 40-metre long Snowslide, plus many more winter themed attractions.

The Dolomites Café on the Square will provide the ideal place to refuel and warm up, with a drink or tasty snack.

For information on session times, prices and how to book visit www.leeds.gov.uk/icecube

Indoor & Outdoor Fun at STOCKELD PARK Ice skating is also part of the February Half Term fun at Stockeld Park, where there’s an extended real ice rink.

Plus interactive playgrounds in the Enchanted Forest, a Giant Snow Flake shaped Yew Maze and, if the weather takes a turn, there’s an indoor craft and play area where the children can bounce about on a giant inflatable pillow and clamber over play equipment while the adults can sit back and relax in the woodland cafe.

Sam Wood, event manager at Stockeld Park said, February Fun-time is a great opportunity to enjoy a full day out with the kids during the half term holidays. Pop on your wellies and come and join us for some outdoor fun and to enjoy quality family time together. After all the excitement, you can cosy up in the café with a hot chocolate and a slice of cake.”

February Fun-time is open daily from February 13 to February 21, from 10.30am – 6pm.

For more information, visit www.stockeldpark.co.uk

Get Creative at THE TETLEY For some artistic inspiration, there’ll be free creative workshops and activities at The Tetley art gallery over the half term holidays, responding to themes in the current exhibitions Winter Garden and Picture Book.

There’s a Hotdog books workshop with Kerri Butterworth, where you can learn how to make your own mini hotdog book using recycled pages. Or Tile Explorations with Mindy Goose, where you can create decorative tiles inspired by Roger Palmer’s Winter Garden. Exploring palm trees, sunrises and oceans, it will use a variety of methods including transfer, weaving and embossing to transform a plain white tile into a beautiful work of art.

For more information, visit www.thetetley.org 21

, What s on?

12 DAYS OF CHRISTMAS TRAIL AT BOLTON ABBEY – JANUARY 1 TO JANUARY 5 Skipton, North Yorkshire, BD23 6EX www.boltonabbey.com Join in the fun and discover the 12 scenes from the celebrated carol. Spot the swans a swimming and look out for real French hens on a woodland walk from the Cavendish Pavillion to the Strid.

DISCO ON ICE AT STOCKELD PARK – JANUARY 1 Harrogate Road, Wetherby, West Yorkshire, LS22 4AN 01937 586 101 • www.stockeldpark.co.uk Stockeld Park’s huge outdoor rink hosts Disco on Ice, where you can enjoy ice skating, music and lights. 6.30pm – 8.30pm THE ELVES’ CHRISTMAS WORKSHOP AT FOUNTAINS ABBEY & STUDLEY ROYAL – JANUARY 1 TO JANUARY 3 Fountains, Ripon, HG4 3DY 01765 608 888 • www.nationaltrust.org.uk/fountains-abbey The workshop will still be open after Christmas – why not pop along and write Father Christmas a thank you letter? Paper, pens, envelopes and stamps are provided. Normal admission prices apply.

1pm – 4pm ENCHANTED TREE TRAIL AT LEEDS CITY MUSEUM – JANUARY 1 TO JANUARY 3 Millennium Square, Leeds, LS2 8BH 0113 224 3732 www.leeds.gov.uk/museumsandgalleries/Pages/ Leeds-City-Museum.aspx The museum's Christmas trees have been suited and booted to go with its special exhibition: Tailored – a Very British Fashion.

Follow the trail and enter the prize draw to win some dressing up costumes.

FROSTED FOUNTAINS TRAIL AT FOUNTAINS ABBEY AND STUDLEY ROYAL – JANUARY 1 TO JANUARY 3 Fountains, Ripon, HG4 3DY 01765 608 888 • www.nationaltrust.org.uk/fountains-abbey/ Wrap up extra warm for a chilly Christmas trail. A flurry of sparkling snowflakes have floated down and landed on Fountains Abbey.

Keep your eyes peeled on this seeking adventure around the estate.

Each flake is different, but can you spot them all? Normal admission prices apply. 10am – 4pm ICE CUBE AT MILLENNIUM SQUARE – JANUARY 22 TO FEBRUARY 21 City Centre, Leeds, LS2 3AD www.leeds.gov.uk/c/Pages/IceCube/default.aspx A magical outdoor skating experience with activities for all ages and abilities. Includes a real ice rink with accessible skating for all; a nursery rink for budding skaters (ages 8 years and under); a 40m long Snowslide; the North Pole Starflyer and other winter themed attractions.

SENIOR SECTION SPECTACULAR AT ABBEY HOUSE MUSEUM – JANUARY 30 Abbey Walk, Kirkstall, Leeds, LS5 3EH 0113 230 5492 www.leeds.gov.uk/museumsandgalleries/Pages/ Abbey-House-Museum.aspx Free entry afternoon for Rainbows, Brownies, Guides, Beavers, Cubs and Scouts 12 – 4pm.

WE’RE GOING ON A BEAR HUNT AT ST GEORGE’S HALL – FEBRUARY 1 Bridge Street, Bradford, BD1 1JT www.bradford-theatres.co.uk Direct from a smash-hit West End and international tour, an adaptation for stage of the classic children’s book.

CHINESE NEW YEAR: MAKE A MONKEY OR LOTUS LANTERN AT LEEDS CITY MUSEUM – FEBRUARY 3 Millennium Square, Leeds, LS2 8BH 0113 224 3732 www.leeds.gov.uk/museumsandgalleries/Pages/ Leeds-City-Museum.aspx Chinese New Year is on February 8 this year, and marks the Year of the Monkey. Join artist Van Nong to make a beautiful lantern in celebration. 10am – 12pm & 1 – 3pm LITTLE SCIENTISTS AT ABBEY HOUSE MUSEUM – FEBRUARY 3 Abbey Walk, Kirkstall, Leeds, LS5 3EH 0113 230 5492 www.leeds.gov.uk/museumsandgalleries/Pages/ Abbey-House-Museum.aspx For all curious under-5s and their carers. Explore, create and have lots of science fun. This session will be exploring the themes of water, ice and weather. 10am – 12pm & 2 – 4pm TINY TEMPO MUSIC WORKSHOP AT LEEDS CITY MUSEUM – FEBRUARY 3 Millennium Square, Leeds, LS2 8BH 0113 224 3732 www.leeds.gov.uk/museumsandgalleries/Pages/ Leeds-City-Museum.aspx Musical workshops led by Tiny Tempo for the under-5s and their carers, taking inspiration from the Life on Earth Gallery. 10.30 – 11.15am

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WINTER FAMILY NATURE WALK AT FOUNTAINS ABBEY & STUDLEY ROYAL – FEBRUARY 7 Fountains, Near Ripon, North Yorkshire, HG4 3DY 01765 608 888 www.nationaltrust.org.uk/fountains-abbey-and-studleyroyal-water-garden Look out for snowdrops, berries and fresh buds. You may even catch a glimpse of winter birds feeding. 2 – 3pm FEBRUARY FUN AT STOCKELD PARK – FEBRUARY 13 TO FEBRUARY 21 Harrogate Road, Wetherby, West Yorkshire, LS22 4AN 01937 586101 • stockeldpark.co.uk With ice skating sessions for young skaters, general skating and an ice disco as well as The Enchanted Forest and the Maze to be explored, there is plenty to keep you busy during half term. They’re also reinstalling indoor play for the period so you can bounce and play to your heart’s content, even in wet weather.

HORRIBLE SCIENCE FAMILY EVENTS AT THE NATIONAL MEDIA MUSEUM – FEBRUARY 13 TO FEBRUARY 21 Little Horton Lane, Bradford, BD1 1NQ 0844 856 3797 • www.nationalmediamuseum.org.uk Marking 20 Yucky Years of the Horrible Science books, extraordinary experiments, dastardly discoveries and revolting events for the whole family.

FAMILY ART WORKSHOP, HOTDOG BOOKS WITH KERRI BUTTERWORTH AT THE TETLEY – FEBRUARY 13 The Tetley, Hunslet Road, Leeds, LS10 1JQ 0113 320 2323 • thetetley.org Inspired by the current Picture Book exhibition, learn how to make your own mini hotdog book using recycled pages. Drop in anytime FREE. 11am – 3pm

HEART DISSECTION WORKSHOPS AT THACKRAY MEDICAL MUSEUM – FEBRUARY 15 TO FEBRUARY 19 Beckett Street, Leeds, LS9 7LN 0113 244 4343 www.thackraymedicalmuseum.co.uk A chance for families to investigate the workings of one of the most important organs in the body by taking part in heart dissection workshops. Spaces are limited and visitors should book their place on arrival at the museum. A small charge of £2 will apply in addition to usual admission charges. Activities will be available for younger visitors who may be a little squeamish.

BIRD BOX MAKING AT FOUNTAINS ABBEY & STUDLEY ROYAL – FEBRUARY 16 TO FEBRUARY 18 Fountains, Near Ripon, North Yorkshire, HG4 3DY 01765 608 888 www.nationaltrust.org.uk/fountains-abbey Hammer and nails at the ready! Our feathery friends will be looking about for places to nest pretty soon, so this half term you’ll be shown how to make a home for them to put in your own garden.

Hourly from 10am – 3pm.

HEROES AND HEROINES AT ABBEY HOUSE MUSEUM – FEBRUARY 16 Abbey Walk, Kirkstall, Leeds, LS5 3EH 0113 230 5492 www.leeds.gov.uk/museumsandgalleries/Pages/ Abbey-House-Museum.aspx Inspired by the museum’s new Crime and Punishment exhibition, visitors will be making super fun super hero and heroine crafts!

10am – 12pm & 2 – 4pm

LOVE BIRDS WEEK AT LOTHERTON HALL – FEBRUARY 13 TO FEBRUARY 21 Off Collier Lane, Aberford, Leeds, LS25 3EB 0113 378 2959 www.leeds.gov.uk/museumsandgalleries/Pages/ Lotherton-Hall.aspx Celebrating feathered friends at Lotherton Hall. Special bird themed activities and crafts available through half-term. 10am – 3pm

LAUGH YOUR SOCKS OFF WITH JEREMY STRONG AT THE CARRIAGEWORKS THEATRE – FEBRUARY 16 The Electric Press, 3 Millennium Square, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS2 3AD 0113 224 3801 www.leeds.gov.uk/carriageworks/Pages/default.aspx Laugh your socks off as the author of The Hundred-mile-an-hour Dog and My Brother’s Famous Bottom takes you on a fun-filled ride through his own childhood and the inspirations for his bestselling books. Jeremy will be signing copies of his books which you can buy at the event. For age 7+. 2.30pm

LOVE IS A TEMPLE AT TEMPLE NEWSAM – FEBRUARY 13 TO FEBRUARY 21 Templenewsam Road, Leeds, LS15 0AE 0113 336 7560 www.leeds.gov.uk/museumsandgalleries/Pages/ Temple-Newsam.aspx A week of love related tours, crafts and secret liasons to make a truly romantic half term. 10.30am – 5pm

LITTLE CRACKERS AT KIRKSTALL ABBEY – FEBRUARY 16 Abbey Road, Leeds, LS5 3EH 0113 230 5492 www.leeds.gov.uk/museumsandgalleries/Pages/ Kirkstall-Abbey.aspx Special under-5s sessions, go bananas to celebrate Chinese New Year and the year of the monkey. Older siblings welcome.

10 – 11am

WILD WINTER TRAIL AT FOUNTAINS ABBEY & STUDLEY ROYAL – FEBRUARY 13 TO FEBRUARY 21 Fountains, Near Ripon, North Yorkshire, HG4 3DY 01765 608 888 www.nationaltrust.org.uk/fountains-abbey-andstudley-royal-water-garden Look under leaves, up in the trees and beneath your feet to explore the wilder side of winter on the Fountains Estate. Pick up a trail sheet and get on your way! 10am – 4pm

MINI-MES ON THE BIG MAP AT LEEDS CITY MUSEUM – FEBRUARY 16 AND FEBRUARY17 Millennium Square, Leeds, LS2 8BH 0113 224 3732 www.leeds.gov.uk/museumsandgalleries/Pages/ Leeds-City-Museum.aspx Love visiting the large floor map of Leeds in the museum? Go along this half term to make a ’mini me’ to put on your favourite part of the map. 10am – 12pm & 2 – 4pm

TEMPLE NEWSAM’S LOVE STORIES – FEBRUARY 14 Templenewsam Road, Leeds, LS15 0AE 0113 336 7560 www.leeds.gov.uk/museumsandgalleries/Pages/ Temple-Newsam.aspx Hear from the private diaries and letters of the romances, the love and the heartbreak. 11 – 11.45am & 2.15 – 3pm

WW1 POSTER AND BADGE MAKING AT LEEDS INDUSTRIAL MUSEUM – FROM FEBRUARY 16 TO FEBRUARY 18 Canal Road, Leeds, LS12 2QF 0113 263 7861 www.leeds.gov.uk/museumsandgalleries/Pages/ armleymills.aspx Taking inspiration from the museum’s exhibition Women, Work and War, make WW1 themed posters & badges. 11am – 1.30pm

SNOWSLIDE AT THE ICE CUBE IN MILLENNIUM SQUARE

, What s on?

THE BEAR AT THE WEST YORKSHIRE PLAYHOUSE, FROM FEBRUARY 17 TO FEBRUARY 20 Playhouse Square, Quarry Hill, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS2 7UP www.wyp.org.uk The Bear is a heart-warming and humorous wintry tale, adapted from the book by Raymond Briggs and produced by the team that created Father Christmas. For age 2 – 7.

FUNNY FACES CRAFTS AT LEEDS CITY MUSEUM – FEBRUARY 18 Millennium Square, Leeds, LS2 8BH 0113 224 3732 www.leeds.gov.uk/museumsandgalleries/Pages/ Leeds-City-Museum.aspx Free crafts to create 2D and 3D funny faces.

10am – 12pm & 2 – 4pm

TINY TEMPO MUSIC WORKSHOP – FEBRUARY 24 Leeds City Museum, Millennium Square, Leeds, LS2 8BH 0113 224 3732 www.leeds.gov.uk/museumsandgalleries/Pages/ Leeds-City-Museum.aspx Musical workshops led by Tiny Tempo for the under-5s and their carers, taking inspiration from the Life on Earth Gallery.

10.30 – 11.15am

BLOWN AWAY AT THWAITE MILLS WATERMILL – FEBRUARY 17 Thwaite Lane, Stourton, Leeds, LS10 1RP 0113 3782 983 www.leeds.gov.uk/museumsandgalleries/Pages/ Thwaite-Mills-Watermill.aspx Design and build a balloon powered vehicle from a selection of new and recycled materials supplied. When completed enter your vehicle into the time trial competition. Entries will have to cover the course in the shortest time, extra points will be awarded for the recycled material content of the vehicle. 1 – 3pm

GET UP CLOSE AND PERSONAL WITH NATURE AT THWAITE MILLS WATERMILL - FEBRUARY 18 Thwaite Lane, Stourton, Leeds, LS10 1RP 0113 3782 983 www.leeds.gov.uk/museumsandgalleries/Pages/ Thwaite-Mills-Watermill.aspx Explore the unique island site of Thwaite Mills, discovering the wide variety of wildlife that shares the site. Then use microscopes to study specimens in greater detail. 1 – 3pm

HORRIBLE SCIENCE FAMILY EVENTS – FROM 27 FEBRUARY TO 28 FEBERUARY National Media Museum, Little Horton Lane, Bradford, BD1 1NQ 0844 856 3797 • www.nationalmediamuseum.org.uk Marking 20 Yucky Years of the Horrible Science books, with extraordinary experiments, dastardly discoveries and revolting events for the whole family.

SILLY SCIENCE AT ABBEY HOUSE MUSEUM – FEBRUARY 17 Abbey Walk, Kirkstall, Leeds, LS5 3EH 0113 230 5492 www.leeds.gov.uk/museumsandgalleries/Pages/ Abbey-House-Museum.aspx Science fun inspired by a new exhibition. 10am – 12pm & 2 – 4pm

MURDER MYSTERY AND DASTARDLY DETECTIVE DISGUISES AT ABBEY HOUSE MUSEUM – FEBRUARY 18 Abbey Walk, Kirkstall, Leeds, LS5 3EH 0113 230 5492 www.leeds.gov.uk/museumsandgalleries/Pages/ Abbey-House-Museum.aspx There has been a murder in the Victorian Streets. Make a dastardly detective disguise, grab a magnifying glass and see if you can solve it. 10am – 12pm & 2 – 4pm

FAMILY ART WORKSHOP: TILE EXPLORATIONS WITH MINDY GOOSE AT THE TETLEY – FEBRUARY 17 Hunslet Road, Leeds, LS10 1JQ 0113 320 2323 • thetetley.org Create decorative tiles inspired by Roger Palmer’s Winter Garden.

Exploring palm trees, sunrises and oceans, the session will use a variety of methods including transfer, weaving and embossing to transform a plain white tile into a beautiful work of art. Drop in anytime. FREE. 11am – 3pm DJ SKILLS AT LEEDS CITY MUSEUM – FEBRUARY 18 Millennium Square, Leeds, LS2 8BH 0113 224 3732 www.leeds.gov.uk/museumsandgalleries/Pages/ Leeds-City-Museum.aspx DJ School UK is taking over the Broderick Hall in Leeds City Museum, for a day of FREE workshops which will explain the role of a DJ and allow hands on opportunities for young people to use DJ equipment and mix tracks together. For young people aged 13+. 11am – 3pm

BARK IN THE PARK WITH ST GEMMA’S HOSPICE – FEBRUARY 28 Temple Newsam & Golden Acre Park 0113 2185197 • www.st-gemma.co.uk Sponsored dog walk

THAT FRIDAY FEELING: MAKING FACES AT LEEDS CITY MUSEUM – FEBRUARY 19 Millennium Square, Leeds, LS2 8BH 0113 224 3732 www.leeds.gov.uk/museumsandgalleries/Pages/ Leeds-City-Museum.aspx Free, family day with fun workshops, special hands-on activities, and extra entertainment, like face painting. 11am – 3pm VILE VICTORIAN VILLIANS AT ABBEY HOUSE MUSEUM – FEBRUARY 19 Abbey Walk, Kirkstall, Leeds, LS5 3EH 0113 230 5492 www.leeds.gov.uk/museumsandgalleries/Pages/ Abbey-House-Museum.aspx What did those Vile Victorians get up to? Inspired by the museum’s new Crime and Punishment exhibition, the session will be looking at crimes, capers, poo and puss. Yuk! 10am – 12pm & 2 – 4pm

THACKRAY MEDICAL MUSEUM

FAMILY

HALF TERM

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www.waterbabies.co.uk

www.stockeldpark.co.uk www w..stockeldpark.co.uk

Located between Harrogate Harrogate & Leeds. LS22 4AN Open dail daily y 10.30am to 6.00pm

FREE

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Discover the incredible story of medicine and health

FEBR U AR RY HALF TERM ART W ORKSHOPS AT THE TETLEY

Inspired b y image based books, experiment with book making and embossing in FREE famil y ar t workshops this half term at The Teetle y.

All workshops are inspired b y our exhibitions and led b y ar tists.

www.thetetle y.org

February Half Term Heart Dissection Workshops 9 interactive galleries to explore

Open daily

Events throughout the year

Beckett Street Leeds LS9 7LN

www.thackraymedicalmuseum.co.uk