Families Pennines January/ February 2018 Issue 42

Pennines

IN THIS ISSUE

Fitness ideas for parents New Year, New You

Nurseries

and Pre-school listings

What's On

over JANUARY and FEBRUARY

Plus

News, Education and Classes

Issue 42 January/February 2018

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WELCOME

Word Search

T A S R P A B T

O M T M L M S A

D C L E A R N N

D U M M Y R B T

L D B I D A R R

E D O W B E X U

R L V Y L R N M

E E B O T T L E

S S C E P I S T

TODDLER DUMMY TANTRUM CUDDLES BOTTLE PLAY LEARN BABY

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Happy New Year!

Welcome back for another year. Hope you’ve all had a fabulous Christmas and managed to get a bit of chill out time, if that’s even possible with the kids off school!

We’re kicking off this year with an Early Years special, so inside you’ll find relevant articles and news, as well as information on local nurseries, toddler classes and play gyms.

I know ‘New Year, New You’ it’s a bit cliché, people saying they’ll get fit as a New Year Resolution, however, if you’ve set yourself that challenge but can’t get to the gym, we’ve put together some fitness tips for busy parents to help burn off those extra pounds gained over Christmas.

If you’re looking for a new challenge this year, Families Pennines is going up for sale. My PR business has really taken off over the last 12 months, so I've had to make the tough decision to pass it onto someone with the time, drive and passion to move it forward.

If you’re interested in finding out more about owning the magazine, drop me a line at editor@familiespennines.co.uk. It’s a fabulous opportunity if you’re looking to get back into work or want to fit your work around the kids.

Enjoy the rest of the Winter months and I'll catch up with you in the Spring issue!

Emily Raleigh Editor, Families Pennines

IN THIS

ISSUE

04 NEWS

FAMILIES PENNINES Editor: Emily Raleigh 07974 401663 editor@familiespennines.co.uk www.familiesonline.co.uk @FamiliesPenMag

06 NEW YEAR NEW YOU

10 EARLY YEARS

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/FamiliesPenninesMag

07 EDUCATION

CIRCULATION 20,000 DEADLINE FOR NEXT ISSUE February 2018 FRONT COVER istock/AleksandarNakic IMAGES istock, Shutterstock and Depositphotos DESIGNED BY Theresa McDermott, 07462 961793, www.designedbytree.com PRINTED BY Brookfoot Print, 01484 722732, www.brookfootptrint.co.uk

15 WHAT'S ON

Copyright Families Pennines January / February 2018 Families Pennines is part of Families Print Ltd, a franchise company.

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

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New Mums Want More Flexible Working Opportunities According to a survey by Workingmums.co.uk, almost three quarters of working mums identify flexible work as being crucial to getting more women into senior roles.

Research some case studies, ideally in your sector, that show how the work pattern you are suggesting can be mutually beneficial to you and your employer.

The survey shows that mums feel flexible working is vital for them to manage work and family life and that 60% of those who work flexibly would like even more flexibility.

If managers are dubious, suggest a trial period.

So what can individuals do to help persuade their employers to agree to them working flexibly?

Have a compromise solution as a back-up.

For more information and flexible work opportunities, visit www.workingmums.co.uk

Here are some tips: Think through what the job requires and whether the tasks you have to perform can be done at a different location i.e. from home, or at times outside of the standard working day. Take account of any additional costs or challenges this might involve and discuss them honestly.

Give examples of the ways in which your work can be successfully carried out under any new working pattern you are proposing, and show that it will not harm the business. Point out any business advantages.

Spin a Tale during

National Storytelling Week The first week of February marks National Storytelling Week, a chance to reflect on one of the oldest art forms in the world.

We are all immersed in stories — from conversations retelling events in our lives, to watching our favourite television shows.

Speech and language therapists believe that storytelling is vital for children’s academic success as it promotes narrative skills and strengthens the ability of children to correctly sequence ideas. To be a good reader and writer a child needs to be a good speaker and listener first. But above all, storytelling is fun.

Whether we are listening to someone else’s story or telling our own, inventing and adapting narratives can open doors to exciting new worlds — both real and imaginary.

National Storytelling Week takes place in storytelling clubs, theatres, museums, schools, hospitals, spoken word venues, and care homes.

The Society for Storytelling has lots of information as “the home of UK oral storytelling” and offers free packs for schools to download. To find a local event or to look through its extensive archive visit www.sfs.org.uk

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New Year Book Reviews By Justine Crow

Lack of Sleep Damaging for Children More than a third of primary school children are failing to get sufficient sleep, according to new research.

The study has linked poor sleep with difficulties in paying attention in class, keeping up with school work, forgetfulness and absenteeism.

The research, carried out by the University of Leeds has shown that despite the NHS recommendation of 10 hours, 36 per cent of primary age children get eight hours of sleep or less per night.

Even more worryingly, 15 per cent get less than seven hours.

The researchers found links between poor sleep and children having access to mobile phones or computer devices in their bedrooms. They said parents should consider removing technology from their children’s bedrooms. The researchers further claim that where parents are able to encourage children to not have technology in the bedroom at all sleep outcomes are much better.

Other factors contributing to poor sleep were poor parental sleep patterns and lack of routine.

More information on the study can be found at www.leeds.ac.uk

Most of the books featured this time round are a little on the large size and all are most definitely sublimely illustrated, even the titles for older readers.

And why not?

FOR AGES 0-2 YEARS Deep in the Forest Seek & Find Adventure

By Josef Anton & Lucie Bruniellere, Abrams RRP £10.99 There are over 50 animals to find in this beautiful bright and feisty big book full of flaps to lift and names to shout out in triumph.

FOR AGES 3-5 YEARS The Glassmaker’s Daughter By Dianne Hofmeyr, illustrated by Jane Ray, Frances Lincoln RRP £12.99 This clever picture book depicts the actual history of glassmaking in Venice through the tale of Daniela, an inconsolable craftsman’s daughter who spends her days staring into the dark depths of the canals in existential torment.

FOR AGES 6-8 YEARS 50 Cities of the USA By Gabrielle Balkan, illustrated by Sol Linero, Wide Eyed Books RRP £20.00 Along with the more obvious candidates of New York and San Francisco, we learn that as well as the famous Kentucky Derby, Louisville hosts the oldest Shakespeare festival in America; that Memphis as well as being home to Graceland, is where Justin Timberlake was born. And that huckleberries are a real thing and they grow in Boise.

FOR AGES 9-12 YEARS The Gritterman By Orlando Weeks, Penguin RRP £17.99

Pennines

FOR SALE

Would you like the flexibility of working from home?

Would you like to work around the needs of your family?

Are you interested in running your own business?

Are you self-motivated and well organised?

Then why not get in touch about owning Families Pennines.

For more information, contact Emily Raleigh on 07974 401663 or drop her a line at editor@familiespennines.co.uk

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A softly penned graphic novel from a musician that speaks of stoicism and patience through many winters and questions the definition of loneliness through the eyes of a dignified man who knows his place in the universe. Thanks to him the traffic travels, pedestrians pass and life goes on.

Justine Crow is co-founder of the famous South London bookshop ‘Bookseller Crow on the Hill’ based in Crystal Palace. As well as being a blogger and reviewer, parent of three and qualified swimming teacher, she also co-authored The Little Book of Nits published

by Bloomsbury.

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FAMILY LIFE

New Year, New You...

Fitness Ideas to Inspire Busy Parents

The New Year is a good time to start a health regime or exercise routine. It may be as simple as just giving up cake and walking to work, or it could be taking up boxing or giving weightlifting a go.

If you have 10 Minutes

10

Why not scoot to school with the kids? Adult scooting is also a great way to build up fitness; it’s low impact and works major muscle groups. You can also burn around 300 kcals per hour.

You could even use it on your commute to work! Further info at www.micro-scooters.co.uk

If you have 20 Minutes

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30

40

images - www.micro-scooters.co.uk

60

Try a HIIT workout. High Intensity Interval Training for the uninitiated is a timed set of exercises, which work the whole body. The idea is that you push the body hard doing the exercise for a short amount of time, followed by a short period of rest or transition. You don’t need to sign up to an expensive course to join in; there are plenty of free apps and online tutorials available too.

Further info at www.bodycoach.com

If you have 30 Minutes

Why not channel your inner Rocky and try a high energy boxing routine, the Boxx Method, in the comfort of your home? It’s an online platform, so you can do a workout that fits in with family life. The signature workout is BoxxHIIT, which is a full body fat burning, muscle toning workout which combines intense shadow boxing with high intensity interval training. All you need is a 1kg pair of dumbbells.

Further info at www.theboxxmethod.com

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By Claire Winte

Last but not Least If traditional classes and workouts leave you cold, you could try something simple or fun instead.

Go walking. It’s good for the soul and so is being in nature. If you want to switch it up, try Nordic walking with poles; you burn more calories, and it is very sociable (Further info at www.nordicwalking.co.uk).

You could also look on www.meetup.com for local groups that meet for walks.

Relive your childhood and give hula-hooping a go, it’s great for thinning your waist and can be done in the comfort of your own home.

You can also attend classes across the UK. More info at www.hulafit.com Do a trampolining class. Trampoline parks have sprung up all across the country. When you book the kids a session, don’t sit on the sidelines watching, make sure you join in too (you can always have coffee and cake afterwards!) Many trampoline parks also offer adult exercise classes too. Jumping is brilliant fun, good for your circulation and burns more calories than most standard fitness classes.

If you have 40 Minutes

Join a game of British Bulldog and many other fun team games at www.rabble.com.

The site aims to make fitness fun and not faddy. You can search by location and join a team near you.

If you have 60 Minutes

Get skipping! Boxers skip for a reason. It’s a great full body workout and a great form of exercise for endurance training and conditioning.

It’s low impact, and you burn more calories than running.

It’s also a budget option; you can pick up a decent rope for less than £20!

Try strength training. Hashtags like #fitisthenewthin are flooding social media platforms like Instagram. Many fitness fans are swapping high intensity workouts and cardio for weightlifting and are enjoying the benefits of strong, lean muscles. Your local gym or a personal trainer should be able to give you a routine, or you could check out your local CrossFit class.

If you love to dance but your clubbing days are well and truly over, why not give Clubbercise a go? You can work out in the dark with disco lights, glowsticks and your favourite club classics.

To find your nearest teacher go to www.clubbercise.com. You could also try a swimming HIIT workout. Swimming is a great full body workout and gyms like Virgin Active are offering low-impact, high-intensity water-based classes. These incorporate long distance and sprint swims as well as resistance activities, a great change from just swimming lengths.

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EDUCATION

"How to Get Your Child Talking About Their Day"

Model “Sharing” about your Day

"I had a great day today or I talked to nanna about…" It is important to share with your kids so they see communication modelled for them.

Give Children Time to Unwind

Give them a snack and a run before you get home. They’ll be more inclined to give you a glimpse of their day once they’ve been fed and exercised!

Play Talking Games

At the dinner table everyone takes turns answering “I was glad today because…..” and “I was sad today because…..”

Give your Child Special One-to-One Time

It could be as simple as preparing a meal. These are times when easy conversations occur.

Use 'reflective listening'

Instead of “Are you worried about your test?” try “Lots of kids your age get worried about tests.”

We all want to hear about our child's day. Here are some tips for getting your child to open up when they come home.

Ask Open-Ended Questions

Avoid questions that can be answered in one word, especially with a “yes” or “no.” Try open-ended questions like, “Tell me about what you played at break today?”

Use their Artwork to Start Conversations

Be Ready and Available to Listen

When your child wants to speak, put the device down and listen fully to them.

Try Communicating without Words

Many children prefer to reconnect with a hug, by playing a game or even roughhousing.

Avoid Face-to-Face Interrogations

Showing interest in their work can increase self-esteem, as well as linking school and home, mentally and emotionally.

You might do better in situations where you’re not face-to-face like in the car.

Know their Timetable

Listen Before you Talk

This way you can start talking about library day, sports or art class.

Discuss what your child feels went right – or wrong - in the football match or read the library book they chose with them.

F

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Sometimes your child will drop hints without your asking, like “We planted seeds today. These are perfect openings to talk together about their day.

E

YEAR 7 ENTRANCE EXAM Academic excellence is only part of the story.

0161 624 4497 | www.ohgs.co.uk | admissions@ohgs.co.uk

Wednesday 17th January 2018 8.45am - 3.30pm

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EDUCATION r

By Claire Winte

How Parents can Help Children with Exam Pressure Children are facing an increasing amount of pressure when it comes to exams, whether it's SATs, the 11+ or school entrance exams. Here’s how parents can help their children cope with the stress.

Expectations are Important Research shows that parents who place a high value on education and have high academic expectations can have a positive impact on children. However, with high expectations there must come a high level of support and children are more likely to struggle. They also need to learn how to build up resilience, teaching them how to cope with the highs and lows of life, and how to handle exams.

Setbacks are not Failures If they are taught that mistakes are opportunities to learn, rather than being made to feel bad or a ‘failure,’ they are more likely to develop a growth mindset. Using the word ‘yet’ is incredibly powerful, “I am not good at spelling yet.” When your child faces a setback remind them that the more they learn and try, the more their brains will grow.

Find the Revision Techniques that Work for your Child Does your child remember best by what they see or hear, or do they learn by doing? Children may find learning easier if they know their learning style. There are lots of online quizzes, which children can do to find out whether they are visual, auditory or kinaesthetic learners.

Agree on a Plan Talk to your child about the schoolwork they need to do and devise a realistic programme of revision and work that they can realistically

8 Families Pennines

achieve. Remember they will need additional support from you, so make sure you can stick to what you have agree.

Avoid Distractions The average person checks their phone over 80 times a day. If you set them up to study without outside distraction from the get-go, they will hopefully continue to revise this way when they go to secondary school.

Take a Break Make sure your children still have hobbies, see their friends and have a life away from studying, exams and schoolwork.

Sleep Matters Children ages 10 and 11 should be getting 9.5 hours of sleep a night, and this doesn’t really change when they become teenagers. Make sure they get adequate sleep by taking digital distractions out of their rooms. Give them an alarm clock, so they don’t use their phone as an alarm.

Set Them Up for the Future Remember you are setting up your children with good habits for the future. Sarah Brazenor, a tutor from Connective Learning (www. connective-learning.co.uk) says, “Find family mantras that work for you and your children. We have, 'There’s no such thing as failure, just feedback.' We have to get things wrong to learn from them. It took the lighting pioneer Edison 1000 tries before he developed the light bulb. Without him continuing to learn by his 'failures', we’d all be sitting in the dark.”

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EDUCATION

Explore Learning gets behind “more maths for everyone!”

In November 2017, the government released their budget which stated they were committed to investing more money for maths teaching in schools. Whatever your political belief and aside from the debate, we can all get behind the chancellor’s sentiment of “more maths for everyone”.

Helping the next generation to master maths concepts, be confident mathematicians and proud problem solvers is our responsibility as educators and parents.

Charlotte Gater, Head of Education at Explore Learning added, "This way we can help children to develop the skills needed, not only in so many jobs, but also to be financially healthy. Whilst listening to the budget speech, and the chancellor’s comments on how much the country spends on debt, it is clear that we need to teach children the importance of good financial management.

Charlotte has put together some top tips to help you help your children have a good understanding of budgets: 1) Get them involved with shopping. Give them a budget to spend for the week and get them to meal plan. Encourage them to shop around different brands or supermarkets to see if they can get more for their money.

2) Teach them about interest rates. Does your child turn to the bank of Mum and Dad to borrow money? Give them some options.

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a) They can either save up their pocket money or do jobs to earn the money. b) You will give them the money upfront, but they then have to pay you back with interest. So, if they want £50 they have to give you £55 back over a set period of time. This way they will start to understand about the debt they could create by using loans.

3) Learn about pay. A great activity we do with our older members at Explore Learning is to get them to research how much they would get paid for their ideal job. They then have to see how far their monthly wages would go. Looking at tax, rent, bills etc gets them to see how much disposable income they would have!

Let’s take the fear out of maths, relate it to real life situations and encourage children to get to grips with finances. More maths for everyone…yes please!

Explore Learning is award-winning maths and English tuition for children aged four to 14, voted number one private tuition centre in the UK! We’re confident you’ll love it so why not call to book your free trial with your nearest centre today on 033 0124 3802.

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EARLY YEARS

Ensuring Your Child is Happy at Nursery

The process of introducing a child to a new caring environment can throw up a number of challenges.

However, some can be prevented if your child’s nursery gets to know upfront what both you and your child need and want from the childcare arrangement.

Before a child arrives at a new nursery, nursery staff should take time to fully understand your child’s home routine. In this way, potential issues can also be nipped in the bud early.

Settling In This is a key part of the adjustment process. A change in environment can upset a child and parents are generally stressed and worried when their child is unsettled. For this reason, it’s vital that your chosen nursery takes time to help your child gently settle in. Communication between your child’s nursery and yourself is very important at this stage. You need to develop a trusting relationship with the staff and settle into the new arrangement just as much as your child does. In fact, it’s often parents that have most difficulty leaving a child behind in a new setting! However, communicating regularly and in as much detail as you need with the nursery setting can help ease your nervousness and worry. In turn, any insecurity your child is feeling will also lessen.

Separation Anxiety Regardless of the time taken beforehand, separation anxiety is a natural and sometimes unavoidable part of leaving a child at a nursery. Generally, separation anxiety lessens over time but you can help by ensuring that nursery staff understand as much as possible about your child’s individual needs, how they behave when they are sad, anxious or upset and what helps calm them. This will ensure that your child’s nursery cares for your child in the very best way during this difficult period.

Don’t start potty training as your child is starting nursery. When you do decide to begin, ensure it’s not at a time of change or a stressful period at home. Share training methods with your child’s nursery to ensure consistency of approach. For instance, do you want nursery staff to ask your child if they would like to go or do you want them to sit them on the potty at specific times of day?

Sleep It is important that home and nursery work together over nap times, as the needs of individual children differ. When a child starts at a nursery, the nursery should follow the child’s home routine before adapting it slowly to suit the nursery pattern. It’s then helpful if you try to prevent your child taking extra naps, as their routine is likely to be disrupted. If your child struggles to sleep at the nursery, a toy or blanket from home can provide comfort and help them drift off.

Whilst challenges are bound to arise during your child’s time at nursery, most particularly at the beginning, these can generally be dealt with as long as there is good communication between you and your child’s setting.

Kristen Harding is a childcare expert at Tinies Childcare UK. For more information, visit www.tinies.com

Often the anxiety of a child lessens when their nursery assigns a key worker to him/her. By identifying one particular carer who is going to form a strong bond and connection with your child, they will have the stability of knowing there is an individual there that they can rely on.

Eating Meal times at nursery are important and can have a real impact on the confidence and comfort of a young child. What your child is used to at home may differ greatly from what occurs in the nursery setting, whether it’s the food eaten or the way in which meals are consumed.

When you visit your child’s nursery, try to do so at meal time occasionally. In a good setting, you will see nursery staff leading by example, engaging children with different food choices, helping them to learn about what they are eating and introducing new foods gradually. Meal times at nursery, as at home, should be unpressurised and enjoyable.

Potty Training This is another key milestone in your child’s development and reaching it may throw up stumbling blocks!

Again, it is important to remember that each child is different and so will begin to learn at a different point and progress at a different speed to other children. A good nursery will ensure there’s no feeling of peer pressure between parents or children!

10 Families Pennines familiesonline.co.uk

EARLY YEARS

School Readiness!

What does that really mean?

Building the knowledge, skills and confidence for a bright future “Readiness" is a term used to describe preparation for what comes next; ensuring children are "ready to learn". Children should start school healthy, happy, communicative, sociable, curious, active and prepared for the next phase of life and learning. What School Readiness is not about, is compliant behaviour, such as sitting still or lining up. It is not about embarking too early on a formal approach to learning; knowing the alphabet and times tables does not mean your child is ready for school!

How ready your child is will be affected by the early care and learning experiences they receive. Research in brain development emphasises that early learning, from birth to five, directly influences their ability to succeed in school. Children attending high quality nurseries/pre-schools where the Early Years Foundation Stage is implemented by qualified practitioners:

Remember, it is important to consider each child as an individual.

There can be huge differences initially between a September born and a summer born child and all children develop at their own pace. As long as parents and carers are supporting them in their work towards responsible self-care and self-regulation, building the foundations to be a confident and resilient individual, that is the best that can be done.

Anastasia Murphy is general manager at Portland Nurseries, a family-owned group of four day nurseries in Huddersfield Harlequin, Holly Bank, Oakwood House and Portland House www.portlandnurseries.co.uk

o enter Reception with skills for school success; o are more socially and emotionally competent; o show greater understanding of verbal and numerical concepts; o show ability to stay with an activity longer; o are less often placed in special education classes.

Outdoor play and a connection to nature are key to a child's learning and development. The natural environment stimulates children’s imaginations in a very different way to the indoors, quickly tapping into their creativity. Children gain confidence to explore the area around them and become more self-reliant and take risks while they negotiate a more challenging environment. Giving children the freedom of playing outdoors helps them to feel happier, calmer and more focused.

Provide an environment where your child can develop at their own pace; have fun; make friends; and learn while they play. Where they are encouraged to be creative, explore and experiment while learning the important social skills of sharing and cooperating. A place with natural garden areas or woodland where they can make dens, climb trees, investigate nature, find insects and create art from mud, leaves and sticks!

What to look for: o an Ofsted ‘Outstanding’ nursery/pre-school; o a highly qualified and dedicated staff team (with Early Years Teachers); o a natural environment with a big focus on outdoor play (a Forest School); o a place where individuality, confidence and independence are encouraged; o a good reputation.

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Families Pennines 11

EARLY YEARS Outstanding Nursery

Water’s Edge Nursery Limited in Elland has celebrated 16 years of providing exceptional childcare. In October 2017 the nursery celebrated receiving an ‘Outstanding’ Ofsted rating, and also holds the final Steps to Quality Level 3 Award.

Owner Joanne Wood opened the nursery in September 2001, along with directors Kelly and Carl Heavyside.

A major re-development in 2016 saw the creation of a new look to the nursery which involved new age-appropriate rooms where children can play and learn, a performing arts space, and a place where children can eat in a social manner. The outdoor play area includes a boat with slide and climbing wall, a platform area giving views of the canal life, and an ‘investigation’ area for digging and looking for insects or plant life with magnifying glasses.

Local nurseries and pre-schools PROVIDENCE NURSERY Fordsall House, Providence St, Elland HX5 9DL, 01422 379300 providencenursery@firstforchildcare.com Providence Day Nursery is in the centre of Elland, 5 minutes away from the M62 - an ideal location for those working in Leeds, Bradford & Manchester. Through a childled planning approach, all children’s needs are met and monitored appropriately. They can accommodate parents’ shift patterns, as well as the government funded 30 hours.

The nursery is open Monday to Friday from 7.15am until 6.00pm.

For more information, call 01422 373723 or go to www.watersedgechildrensnursery.co.uk.

HOPPERS PRE-SCHOOL AND OUT OF SCHOOL CLUB Bolster Moor Chapel, Bolster Moor Road, Golcar, Huddersfield, HD7 5SZ, 01484 651352 alison@hoppers-preschool.co.uk www.hoppers-preschool.co.uk Hoppers is a rural nursery and pre-school, with its preschool room on the ground floor and baby room on the 2nd floor. All staff are fully qualified and passionate about the children and the setting. 2018 will see the development of its outdoor space into a fun and inviting learning and exploring area.

A-Z of Local nurseries and pre-schools Bradley Bar Private Day Nursery, Huddersfield www.bradleybar.co.uk Bramley Grange Childcare, Brighouse www.bgchildcare.co.uk Diggle Day Nursery & Education Centre, Saddleworth www.diggledaynursery.co.uk Eureka! Nursery and Holiday Club, Halifax, www.eureka.org.uk First Steps, Littleborough, 01706 378888 FixBees Private Day Nursery, Huddersfield www.birkbees.co.uk/fixbeesnursery/ Grey Fell Academy, Huddersfield www.greyfellacademy.co.uk

Happy Jacks, Littleborough, www.happy-jacks-nursery.co.uk Harlequin Day Nursery, Huddersfield www.portlandnurseries.co.uk Holly Bank Nursery, Huddersfield www.portlandnurseries.co.uk Honley Daycare & Pre-Preparatory, Huddersfield www.honleydaycare.co.uk Lightcliffe Pre-School, Hipperholme www.lightcliffepreschool.co.uk Lindley Pre-School, Huddersfield www.lindleypreschoolplay group.org.uk Little Acorns Day Nursery, Huddersfield www.littleacorns-nursery.com

Little Angels Children’s Day Nursery, Huddersfield www.shinechildcare.co.uk/littleangels-huddersfield Looby Loos, Holmfirth, 01484 688974 Oakwood House Nursery, Huddersfield www.portlandnurseries.co.uk Old Fire Station Day Nursery, Mossley www.firestationdaynursery. co.uk Portland House Nursery, Huddersfield www.portlandnurseries.co.uk Providence Day Nursery, Elland www.providenceday.co.uk Sowood Pre-School, Halifax www.sowoodpreschool.org

The Ark Experience and Space, Mytholmroyd www.thearkexperience.co.uk The Counting House Private Day Nursery, Heckmondwike and Birstall www.countinghousenursery. co.uk The Hipperholme Private Day Nursery, Hipperholme www.hipperday.co.uk Triangle House Private Nursery, Sowerby Bridge www.trianglehouse.co.uk Waters Edge Nursery, Elland www.watersedgechildrens nursery.co.uk Willow House Nursery and Holiday Club, Huddersfield www.willowhousenursery.co.uk

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EARLY YEARS

Toddler classes Here’s a snapshot of baby and pre-school clubs and classes taking place across the region: Babyballet, Halifax www.babyballet.co.uk

Puddle Ducks www.puddleducks.com

Baby Sensory/ Toddler Sense www.babysensory.com

Pyjama Drama www.pyjamadrama.com

Bilinguasing www.bilinguasing.com

Relax Kids www.relaxkids.com

Jo Jingles www.jojingles.com

Rugby Tots www.rugbytots.co.uk

KidsBeeHappy sales.kidsbeehappy.com

Swimrite www.swimriteleisure.com

LilyPadBaby www.lilypadbaby.co.uk

Swim Stars www.ukswimstars.com

Little Kickers www.littlekickers.co.uk

Teenie Tennis Kids www.teenietenniskids.com

Moo Music www.moo-music.co.uk

Tumble Tots www.tumbletots.com

Play Gyms Contact your nearest play gym for more details on toddler classes they host.

Shocking Statistics about Infant Colic Revealed In New Survey A survey, conducted on behalf of Infacol, surveyed over 4,000 parents about the effectiveness of simethicone in treating infant colic. Simethicone drops, such as Infacol can be added to breast or bottle milk to aid digestion and release any bubbles of trapped air in the baby’s digestive system.

Big Blue Frog, Halifax www.bigbluefrog.co.uk

Safari Sam’s, Honley www.safarisamsplaygym.co.uk

Cheeky Chimps, Saddleworth www.cheekychimpsplay centre.co.uk

Sparkles Adventure Play, Royton, www.sparkles-play. co.uk

Diddy Middy’s, Cleckheaton www.diddymiddys.co.uk

The Edge, Brighouse www.edgeplaygym.com

Fizzy Lizard, Huddersfield www.fizzylizard.co.uk

The Fun Factory, Linthwaite, Huddersfield, 01484 845711

Fun House, Halifax www.funhousehalifax.co.uk

The Magical Forest, Huddersfield www.themagicalforest.co.uk

Jitterbugs Play Centre, Littleborough, 01706 378123 Play Oldham, Royton www.playoldham.com Play Palace, Halifax www.play-palace.co.uk

The Zone, Huddersfield www.thezonehct.com Tumbles Play gym, Cleckheaton www.tumblesplaygym.com

The survey found that the vast majority of parents (63%) diagnosed infant colic themselves by associating the typical symptoms like squirming and excessive crying (more than 3 hours a day). Almost all of the respondents (93.2%) considered the use of simethicone oral suspension either totally resolved or had an impact on the signs of infant colic. And a further 81.2% reported an improvement in the baby’s sleeping patterns during the course of the treatment and an improvement in their own sleeping patterns and stress levels. Infant colic affects 1 in 5 babies in the UK, yet 1 in 3 new mums admit that they don’t know what it is.

The NHS urges concerned parents to speak to a GP or pharmacist before trying Simethicone drops. Support groups, such as Cry-sis, can also offer help and advice on 0845 122 8669 from 9am-10pm, seven days a week.

familiesonline.co.uk

Families Pennines 13

CLUBS & CLASSES

WINTER CLUBS & CLASSES With the nights closing in and the temperature dropping, the idea of sending your child out on to the football pitch, tennis court or athletics track is not an attractive one. But active after school activities offer children great developmental benefits including: IMPROVED ACADEMIC PERFORMANCE

Research has found that children from disadvantaged backgrounds who participate in after-school clubs get better results at age 11 than their peers.

ENHANCED SOCIALISATION SKILLS

Making friends with children from outside their school allows children to broaden their social experience, whilst extra-curricular activities at school give children the chance to enjoy a different type of social experience with their school friends and other children in their class.

BETTER HEALTH AND FITNESS

According to the National Association of Sport and Physical Education, kids aged 5-12 should exercise for at least 60 minutes of each day, and this figure shouldn’t be ignored just because it’s cold outside.

STRESS RELIEF

Exercise helps to relieve stress built up by homework, exams and peer pressures. As parents, we are responsible for setting up opportunities for our children to keep active during winter months.

So here are our ideas for keeping your restless young ones on the go – and the good news is you don’t have to force them (or you!) outside:

> TRAMPOLINE CLUBS AND PARKS

These are popping up all over the region and classes are fun and social. The UK now has over 190 trampoline parks and most offer kids a safe environment to cut loose as well lessons and classes for children from as young as toddlers upwards. Local ones include Adrenaline International, Jump One, Sky Fall, Extreme Air and Tramp2Lean.

> INDOOR ROCK CLIMBING

This activity is also growing in popularity across the country with a number of centres across the region, including the Huddersfield Climbing Centre, ROKT and Sky High Adventure. Even the NHS recommends it as an activity that provides unique physical and mental benefits whilst at the same time catering for all ages, fitness levels and abilities. To find a centre visit www.thebmc.co.uk.

> GIRL GUIDES AND SCOUTING

Scouting and Girl Guides are experiencing an unprecedented surge in popularity. Why? Because they offer an antidote to the modern world with adventure being at the heart of everything they do. From as young as 6, children can get involved in learning outdoor skills and undertaking leadership qualifications, as well as enjoying camps and residential experiences. However, waiting lists can be long so act quickly! To register interest, visit www.girlguiding.org.uk or www.scouts.org.uk.

> ICE RINKS/SNOW SLOPES

Local snow slopes and ice rinks are great places to get kids active during the winter and offer kids the opportunity to try tobogganing, skiing or snowboarding, or get a pair of skates on. There are indoor and outdoor rinks and centres, depending on how you feel about braving the cold or damp weather. Check out Halifax Ski & Snowboard Centre, Bradford Ice Rink, Xscape and Chill Factore.

> INDOOR SPORTS

You can access indoor classes for most outdoors sports such as football, cricket and tennis at leisure centres or school recreation halls. Likewise, for toddlers and pre-schoolers, multi-sport and ball skills classes are often run inside during winter.

HOW MANY IS TOO MUCH?

Whilst clubs and classes are important for children, be careful how many activities you sign your child up for. Some require significant time commitment. For example, joining a swimming class can involve two or more weekly training sessions, as well as competitions. Are you and your child up for that? What else will suffer or be sacrificed?

If your child’s opportunity to have unstructured time for play will go by the wayside, then this is probably not a good thing. Children these days have much more structured lives than ever before and already often have less unstructured play time than previous generations.

Research indicates that unstructured play with minimal adult supervision helps children to learn important social skills, use their imagination, concentrate and be more self-directed.

Go on, give it a go!

Fresh Air

If you do opt for indoor class and club options for your child during winter, try to get them some regular fresh air at weekends when time and weather permit.

Consider heading to the countryside or a beach (even at the darkest time of year), where you can breathe different air and be closer to nature. You don’t have to organise a full itinerary and it doesn’t have to cost much either. Simple games like running races on a beach or climbing a tree can be exhilarating for children after a week cooped up at school, and being outside is both refreshing and invigorating for everyone and will improve everyone’s mood!

The National Trust offers loads of activities at their sites across the UK including treasure hunts, nature trails, and even horse rides. The Woodland Trust has great expanses of woodland which are ripe for families to explore and provide a great natural habitat for nature walks. Some are very ancient and provide a great historical backdrop of legend and myth. It’s also worth checking out The Wild Network that brings together thousands of people and groups across the UK to share the simple goal of getting children back in touch with nature. www.nationaltrust.org.uk www.woodlandtrust.org.uk www.thewildnetwork.com

14 Families Pennines familiesonline.co.uk

WHAT'S ON THIS JANUARY / FEBRUARY

JAN/FEB EVENTS

THEATRE & FILM

Until 28 January 18

CINDERELLA The Alhambra Theatre, Morley Street, Bradford, BD7 1AJ, 01274 432000 bradford-theatres.co.uk Starring Alhambra Theatre favourite singer Billy Pearce, Loose Women panellist Coleen Nolan and stage star Shane Nolan. £15.50 - £40.

17 February

22 TREASURE LANE Astley Cheetham Art Gallery, Trinity St, Stalybridge, SK15 2BN, 0161 342 4144 tameside.gov.uk/culture Oldham Coliseum’s award winning Young Reps return with another brilliant fun-packed performance and workshop. 3+. Approx 1 hour.

11.30am & 1.00pm. FREE. Booking essential.

20 February

THE WIZARD OF OZ Theatre Royal Wakefield, Drury Lane, Wakefield, WF1 2TE, 01924 211311, theatreroyalwakefield.co.uk Join the Scarecrow, Lion and Tin Man as they travel through the weird and wonderful land of Oz, encountering Wet Witches, Flying Monkeys, Poisonous Poppies and a multitude of Munchkins along the way! 5+, £14, £12, £9. 1pm and 5pm.

20 February

WHERE’S MY IGLOO GONE! Central Art Gallery, Old Street, Ashton-underlyne, OL6 7SG, 0161 342 4144 tameside.gov.uk/culture Fun theatre and live music, this is a great magical arctic adventure by The Bone Ensemble.

5+. 50 mins. £3 per child, accompanying adults free (max 1 adult per child). Booking essential.

23 February

THE BLACK KNIGHT AND TAMESIDE TERRIBLE TALES Portland Basin Museum, Portland Place, Ashton-under-Lyne, OL7 0QA, 0161 343 2878 tameside.gov.uk/culture ScallyWags Theatre Company are back to tell some terrible tales about Tameside’s horrible history. There will be stories and activities that would make the Black Knight quiver and shake!

Lots of fun for all the family.

Please be aware that things change so check details and suitability for your family with the provider before setting out as Families Pennines cannot be held responsible for the events we list.

familiesonline.co.uk

13 January

FEBRUARY HALF TERM

STARGAZING RSPB Dearne Valley, Old Moor, Old Moor Lane, Dearne Valley Nature Reserve, Wombwell, Barnsley, S73 0YF, 01226 751593 rspb.org.uk/oldmoor An evening of natural spectacle. Come on a guided walk to see the birds coming in to roost at sunset and then as the skies darken see the stars come out. 6pm-8.30pm. £6 adults (discount available for children and RSPB Members) Booking essential.

24 January

KITE (Kids In The Environment) Park Bridge Heritage Centre, off the A627 Oldham Road, Ashton-u-Lyne, OL6 8AQ whatson.tameside.gov.uk Fun activities for 7-11 years discovering and exploring nature. 10am for 2 hours.

12 – 16 February

HALF TERM FUN AT RSPB OLD MOOR RSPB Dearne Valley, Old Moor, Old Moor Lane, Dearne Valley Nature Reserve, Wombwell, Barnsley, S73 0YF, 01226 751593 rspb.org.uk/oldmoor Pond dipping kits and backpacks are available to hire.

12 February

Drawing, Dipping and Discovery Enjoy self-led crafts, then explore the reserve to see what bugs, birds and pond life you can see. 10am–3:30pm.

4 February

13 February

SPLAY Fun Physical Activity session

Tuesday Tales Join Chris and Bob for tales of wildlife and wonder in the heart of the nature reserve.

11am/1pm/2.30pm.

Oldham Library, Civic Centre, West Street, Oldham, OL1 1UT, 0161 770 3000 oldham.gov.uk/libraries SPLAY- sport through play is a fun, physical session for children 18 months – 4 years.

Free. Booking essential as places are limited.

10.30am – 11.30am.

Thursdays during Tameside term time

LITTLE HANDS Portland Basin Museum, Portland Place, Ashton-under-Lyne. OL7 0QA, 0161 343 2878 tameside.gov.uk/museumsgalleries/families An hour of storytelling, crafts and fun for preschoolers. £2 per child (£1 for siblings) 10 -11am.

14 February Wild Wednesdays Nature themed craft activities plus pond dipping or bug hunting on the reserve with a wildlife expert. 9am-5pm.

15 February

Day with the Dearne Valley Landscape Partnership Come find out about the wonderful activities happening across the Dearne Valley.

16 February

Free Fridays Children get in to the amazing nature reserve for free! 9am-5pm.

Code: FPenn Valid to 28.2.18

Families Pennines 15

WHAT'S ON THIS JANUARY / FEBRUARY

FEBRUARY HALF TERM

9 February onwards

WILDLIFE WORLD! - OPENS HALF TERM AT LOTHERTON Lotherton Hall, Off Collier Lane, Aberford, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS25 3EB, 0113 378 2959 leeds.gov.uk/wildlifeworld The new Wildlife World attraction, opens officially for February half term. Home to wildlife from around the world, including penguins, tapir, capybara, and warty pigs. Enjoy regular animalthemed activities in in the Nestbox Education Centre.

12–16 February

17 - 25 February

FEBRUARY HALF TERM

EARLY BIRD QUIZ

Temple Newsam Estate, Temple Newsam Park, Leeds, LS15 0AE, 0113 336 7461 leeds.gov.uk Inspired by Lady Hertford's famous Chinese wallpaper, come and make your own beautiful bird to give as a gift to a special person. With a host of themed craft activities during the holidays and story time on 14 Feb.

Oakwell Hall Country Park, Nova Lane, Birstall, Batley WF17 9LG, 01924 324761 kirklees.gov.uk/museums Celebrate National Nest Box Week with a fun quiz for bird brains around the Hall. Free, but normal Hall admission charges apply. The Hall will be closed on Monday and Friday.

19 February

13-16 February

SUPERHEROES - FEBRUARY HALF TERM Abbey House Museum, Abbey Walk, Abbey Rd, Kirkstall, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS5 3EH, 0113 230 5492 leeds.gov.uk/abbeyhouse Make your own shields, masks or accessories on 13 & 16 Feb or get involved in some silly superhero science on 14 Feb. Crack the murder mystery case on 15 Feb. 10am-12pm & 2-4pm.

10 – 25 February

FEBRUARY HALF TERM FUN! Eureka! The National Children's Museum, Discovery Road, Halifax, West Yorkshire, HX1 2NE, 01422 330069 eureka.org.uk Head to Eureka! for a fun February half term!

14, 15, 16 February

SUITCASE STORIES

12 February

Libraries across Oldham oldham.gov.uk/libraries Free event at Uppermill Library, Lees Library, Royton Library and Crompton Library, Limehurst Library and Chadderton Library.

See website for specific dates and times. 3+.

THE WALRUS AND THE CARPENTER

15 February

Oldham Library, Civic Centre, West Street, Oldham, OL1 1UT, 0161 770 3000 oldham.gov.uk/libraries Age 4+. £3. 11am & 2pm.

12, 13, 14 February

HOLIDAY FUN Gallery Oldham, Greaves Street, Oldham, Greater Manchester, OL1 1AL, 0161 770 4742 galleryoldham.org.uk Free family activities take place during the school holidays.

Activities run from 1 – 4pm. Face painting (£2) and craft activities at each session. 4–10 years.

MUSEUM MAKES - LOCAL HEROES AND HEROINES Saddleworth Museum, High Street, Uppermill, Saddleworth, OL3 6HS, 01457 874093 saddleworthmuseum.co.uk Come and take part in craft activities to celebrate Saddleworth's local heroes who wanted to make life fairer for all people. £3 per child (age 4-11). 1 free adult per child.

17 February

HORRIBLE HALIFAX FAMILY OPEN DAY Bankfield Museum, Akroyd Park, Boothtown Rd, Halifax, HX3 6HG, 01422 354823 museums.calderdale.gov.uk Free exhibition and events day suitable for all ages. Explore our handling objects linked to Horrible Halifax and create your own replica coin as the Cragg Vale Coiners did.

TAMESIDE JUNIOR HISTORY CLUB - NAME DETECTIVES Local Studies and Archives Centre, Old Street, Ashton under Lyne.

OL6 7SG, 0161 342 4242 whatson.tameside.gov.uk Discover what your name means and where it comes from, design your own coat of arms and make a shield. 2-3pm.

20 February

BUSH BABIES Oakwell Hall Country Park, Nova Lane, Birstall, Batley WF17 9LG, 01924 324761 kirklees.gov.uk/museums Fun environmental themed activities for the under 5s including storytelling, crafts and games.

Children must be accompanied. £5 per child, including juice drink.

Booking essential. 10-11.30am.

20 February

HALF TERM ACTIVITIES Bagshaw Museum, Wilton Park, Batley WF17 0AS, 01924 324765 kirklees.gov.uk/museums Be inspired by the objects on display and get creative with our bird themed children’s activities and crafts. Don’t forget to say hello to Snowy the Snowy Owl. £2 per session. All ages welcome.

No booking required. 11am-1pm and 2pm-4pm.

20, 22 February

MAKE, DO AND PLAY Portland Basin Museum, Portland Place, Ashton under Lyne, OL7 0QA, 0161 343 2878 tameside.gov.uk/culture Artist led craft activities for all ages. £1 per child. 11am to 3pm 20 - 23 February

SPARKS! HALF TERM FUN Bankfield Museum, Boothtown Road, Halifax, HX3 6HG, 01422 352334 museums.calderdale.gov.uk Meet a Victorian teacher and create your own silhouette picture (20th). Find out about the healthcare of the Victorians and

create your own special potion (21st). Find out about the job you might have had as a Victorian child and make your own Victorian character (22nd). Find out about inventions of the Victorian Age and make your own special creation (23rd). 11- 12pm, 1-2pm, 2-3pm.

21 February

BUSHCRAFT WEDNESDAYCAMPFIRES AND MARSHMALLOWS Oakwell Hall Country Park, Nova Lane, Birstall, Batley WF17 9LG, 01924 324761 kirklees.gov.uk/museums Outdoor activities for the over 5s. Children 8 and under must be accompanied by an adult. £7.50 per child. Booking essential. 10.30am12noon.

21 February

MEET TOMMY ATKINS: FIRST WORLD WAR SOLDIER Portland Basin Museum, Portland Place, Ashton under Lyne.

OL7 0QA, 0161 343 2878 tameside.gov.uk/museumsgalleries/ families Have you ever wondered what a soldier wore, what he ate, how he lived, fought and died in the ‘Great War for Civilisation’? 11am to 3pm.

21 February

HALF TERM ACTIVITY DAY Tolson Museum, Ravensknowle Park, Wakefield Road, Huddersfield HD5 8DJ, 01484 223240 kirklees.gov.uk/museums Join them for activities as part of National Nest Box Week. £2 per child. 11am-1pm & 2pm-4pm.

21 February

NATURE AND NESTBOXES Cheetham Park, Acres Lane, Stalybridge SK15 2JR. whatson.tameside.gov.uk Come and give your feathered friends a helping hand this half term. Create a giant nest in the woods and build a bird box to take home. 12 – 3pm drop in. £3 charge per nest box.

22 February

DROP IN: FAMILY ART DAY Huddersfield Art Gallery, Princess Alexandra Walk, Huddersfield, HD1 2SU, 01484 221964 kirklees.gov.uk/museums Be creative and try something new at the drop-in art and craft session. To link with National Nest Box Week they’ll be looking at feathered friends for inspiration. £1 per child. 1pm-3pm.

16 Families Pennines familiesonline.co.uk