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LOCAL INFORMATION

for parents of 0-12 year olds in

HUDDERSFIELD DEWSBURY HALIFAX BRIGHOUSE TODMORDEN LITTLEBOROUGH OLDHAM ASHTON-UNDER-LYNE SADDLEWORTH

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FR TA E KE MA E A R 37

NEWS EDUCATION CLASSES

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British SCIENCE week

AWARD-WINNING

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/explorelearning /explorelearning

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@exploretutors @exploretutors

WELCOME

Spring has sprung! I can’t believe I’ve been with the magazine for a year now. That’s really flown by!

ISSUE

04 NEWS

06 FAMILY LIFE

7 EDUCATION AND CHILDCARE

10 OUTDOORS THIS SPRING

12 EASTER

07-Explore Learning / Dominic James

IN THIS

I do hope you like what we’ve done with the magazine. We’d love to hear your feedback, what you’d like to see more of, so feel free to drop me a line at editor@familiespennines.co.uk or tweet or facebook us!

06-Pavel Ilyukhin/Shutterstock.com

In this issue, we’ve introduced a new Family Life page which will feature information on anything relating to parenting, health and just general family life. If you have any suggestions or would like to feature on this page do get in touch. Our education pages are packed with useful information on how to improve homework time, how to spot the signs of dyscalculia, and how to prepare your child for exams. With lots of events and activities taking place during the Easter holidays, your children will have no excuse to get bored. The Easter Bunny will be bouncing around the region, eggs will be hidden, plus there will be lots of places to go to see baby animals and enjoy the Spring outdoors. I’m looking forward to going on some al fresco adventures with the family!

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

CIRCULATION 20,000 DEADLINE Early April 2017 FRONT COVER Just Play Photography, www.justplay.photography DESIGNED BY Theresa McDermott, 07462 961793, www.designedbytree.com PRINTED BY Russell Press, 0115 9784505, www.russellpress.com Copyright Families Pennines March / April 2017 Families Pennines 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, Temple 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 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.

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Emily Raleigh Editor, Families Pennines

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COVER Inset image – ArtMarie/Shutterstock.com

Have a great Easter!

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New

Eureka! still as popular as ever

Eureka! The National Children’s Museum has revealed their numbers have steadily risen and are holding fast at 289,000, despite a national decline of over 2 million museum visitors last year.

Huddersfield Literature Festival is back

Do you love books? Then why not head to h this year’s Huddersfield on 24 Marc you w o h Literature Festival t u o To find d, go to e lv which is being held at o v in t e can g Museums have also seen a 6% fall in schoolchildren day.com. e various venues across s o n d e .r www visiting museums and attractions, largely attributed Huddersfield between to the increasing challenges schools face including 4-19 March. Since 2006, time restrictions and funding, rising transport costs and its growing success has security fears. However, school visits at Eureka! increased turned it into a major event in the by 6% in 2016, accounting for around 12 per cent of overall literary world calendar. From workshops, visitor numbers. comedy nights and theatre to talks with best-selling authors, including Joanne Eureka! Chief Executive Harris and Ian Rankin, it’s not to be Leigh-Anne Stradeski, missed! said: “Museums have to challenge themselves to For more information, go to stay relevant and that’s www.litfest.org.uk why we’re investing in Eureka! in 2017 with a brand new flexible gallery space. This will initially host an international digital arts touring exhibition, a first for us, showing that Thanks to the fairandfunky team Around 70% of the world’s hand 25 years since opening we for our football. We love it! We stitched sports balls are made are still as relevant to our are very lucky to have just one in Pakistan, and Bala balls are audience as ever.” of 50 limited edition balls that made in two of the six Fairtrade were made by workers in factories. Currently less than This year Eureka! celebrates its 25th birthday and a quarter Pakistan. fairanda quarter of the 6 million century of learning through play. funky worked or so sports balls sold with cooperative in the UK each year Bala Sports to are Fairtrade certified. For more news, visit Families Online: produce the balls Bala exists to increase www.familiesonline.co.uk/news to help make a that amount in order for difference to the more and more workers lives of the workers to benefit from the Fairtrade who hand-make up to 3 to system on an ongoing basis. Don’t forget to wear a hat on 31 March in aid 4 balls a day – from better pay to of Brain Tumour Research. For more For more information go to improved working conditions. information, go to www.braintumourresearch.org. www.fairandfunky.com

Y NOSE DA It’s RED .

Fairtrade football supports better working conditions

Independent family-run garden centre and bistro café

Gardening... Homeware... Eat... Drink... Relax... Outdoor play... Kids’ craft events... Parties

Totties, Downshutts Lane, Holmfirth HD9 1AU (2 mins from A635 at New Mill) Open 7 days www.tottiesgardencentre.co.uk 01484 680227

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NEWS Is the Tour coming near you? Taking place across the May bank holiday weekend, this free region-wide event is great to get kids excited and inspired by cycling – and it’s coming to Halifax and Huddersfield on Sunday 1 May! The route consists of three stages: stage 1 - Bridlington to Scarborough, stage 2 - Tadcaster to Harrogate and stage 3 - Bradford to Fox Valley, Sheffield via Halifax and Huddersfield.

Nat Thom/Shutterstock.com

Le Tour de Yorkshire returns!

Books to help kids learn about money Money makes the world go around, so teaching your children the subject is pretty important! Master money the millionaire by Allan Ahlberg

For more information on the route, go to www.letour.yorkshire.com jiris/Shutterstock.com

Call for official guidance on SCREEN TIME

Master Money is very, very rich! In fact this little boy is so rich that he even smells of money! By the age of four years old he’s managed to find buried treasure in his very own back garden! By the time he’s five, he’s found even more treasure in the sandpit at school – and by six he’s got his hands on more at the beach! However, Mister Creep soon finds him…

NadyaEugene/Shutterstock.com

It’s not what you’ve got! By Dr Wayne W. Dyer A group of 40 leading authors, educationalists and childdevelopment experts have called for official guidelines on the use of screen devices by children up to 12 to be drawn up by recognised authorities on child health and development.

This beautifully illustrated book presents concepts such as; money doesn’t have to define who you are, along with it doesn’t matter what other people have. Unlike many other books on the subject of money, this one doesn’t try to teach little ones how to spend and save, instead it provides a rather spiritual approach on the matter.

In a letter to The Guardian the group said it also wants to see the creation of a minister for children. This cabinet-level role would have the responsibility for assessing the impact of all government policies on children’s health and wellbeing.

Noggin and the money by Oliver Postgate The story of a friendly Viking, Olaf the Lofty who invents money – after all, it seems like a genius idea! However, it soon seems that money is actually more trouble than it’s worth. This book is perfect for newly independent readers looking to learn about money.

Bronze for Yorkshire café in ‘free from’ awards The Olive Tree Café at Totties Garden Centre, Holmfirth, has been awarded bronze in a national award to promote ‘free from’ dining out. Owner and manager, Sue Brimble, said: “It’s the first time we’ve been encouraged to enter these awards following great feedback from our customers. To get a bronze is a real achievement and we’re very

pleased. When designing our menu we ensure that we offer a great variety of dishes to suit those with allergies, especially gluten free. This award shows we’re succeeding in that.” The café has long been known for its gluten free afternoon tea and fish and chips, which was something the judges picked up on. It was the only café representing Yorkshire.

What is money? By Claire Llewellyn This book is great for answering kid’s questions about all things money. From how to tell the difference between different notes and coins to how to get money and what to do with it. There’s also lots of notes for teachers and parents too! Show me the money by Alvin Hall

This book introduces children to the concept of “money makes the world go around, only if you know how to use it”. Within minutes of reading this wonderful book your kids will be entered into the crazy world of business and economics – learning everything from the history of money to how to use it.

The story of money by Martin Jenkins

A hilarious look on the subject of money; perfect for kids! This thought provoking tale explains that in some parts of the world money is a stone with a hole in it, a copper slab, or a string of shells. But one thing remains the same; money makes the world go around. And it doesn’t grow on trees! If you want a little more help finding books for your kids, visit www.familiesonline.co.uk/Bookclub

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FAMILY LIFE When to say no! Most parents want to appear to be in control, organised, and have appreciative, polite and well behaved children. Some try to perfect the art of ‘photo shop parenting’, only presenting the image of consistent perfection. However, this is never really the case. Children are complex. They need to learn boundaries and social skills, just as they need to learn to read a book and ride a bike. Pavel Ilyukhin/Shutterstock.com

The word no is often seen as failure on the parents’ part as it implies your child is wrong, therefore we shouldn’t say it. Alternatively, it can quickly become a word that is an immediate response – it’s always better to say no first.

Remember your gut response is often the best one.

ild has What to do if your ch a febrile convulsion Febrile convulsions in children are often caused by a rise in the child’s body temperature often related to an infection. The electrical systems in the brain are not developed enough to deal with the rise in temperature and this leads to the child having a convulsion or seizure. The body may display some of the following symptoms: Vigorous shaking all over the body

Other ways to say no: We don’t do that, do we?

Is that a good thing to do?

Holding of breath

Develop the ‘stare!’

Possible vomiting

Repeat what you expect, don’t change the words at all! ‘Billy, I expect you to sit still’

Possible loss of bowl and bladder control Possible loss of consciousness

Have the back-up choices ready

Call 999 Never restrain the child or hold them down Place soft padding around the child to prevent injury Cool the child down by letting in fresh air or removing big items of clothing Talk to them in a calm voice to reassure them Place them in the recovery position when the seizure has stopped and monitor their breathing and airway The majority of seizures only occur once but if they continue to happen then you should seek medical advice. Sue Bagworth runs Baby Babbles that specialises in Baby Natal practical baby workshops and first aid classes for babies and toddlers. For more information on her classes go to www.babybabbles.co.uk

Be confident in why you are saying no. Other parents may disagree, but they are your children. We have all had different upbringings and as such our parenting styles vary. Remember your gut response is often the best one. Michael Smith is a former school leader, dad of two, and managing director of Pivot that specialises in the personal development, behaviour and welfare of children and young people.

www.familiesonline.co.uk

Yuliya Evstratenko/Shutterstock.com

Although watching a child experience a seizure can be distressing, they are rarely dangerous and there are several things you can do to help the child move through the seizure.

To say no for a genuine reason and let the child understand it is not OK to do something is fine. This must be backed up with an alternative yes, or ‘yes we can do that, but later’. Stick to your word and ensure that the child knows you are genuine and consistent. If you say no and then change your mind after more tantrums, your child will learn that no means ‘try harder for guaranteed success’.

This is not the place to do that.

Clenched fists and arched back

Often a lot of the behavioural issues that I deal with in children are as a direct result of a child not learning that the word no means no, because parents have become subject to ‘photo shop parenting’.

SEND YOUR SCHOOL OR NURSERY NEWS TO EDITOR@FAMILIESPENNINES.CO.UK

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HOMEWORK

What is homework time like in your house? Harmony or horror? Most families will recognise that it can go either way – sometimes in the same night! Homework should be material which arises out of the work completed during the day, deftly balancing challenge and consolidation in roughly equal measures. Not an easy ask. So, what can be done at home to encourage harmony and minimise the horror? Here are five top tips: 1

Maintain a quiet, private space. Some children – and some adults – can work in the middle of chaos, but it is rare to manage that truly efficiently.

Work to an agreed timetable, including some ‘downtime’ – no-one can, or should, work flat-out, and don’t we all work to live, not the other way around?

4 5

Try to let the child do the work – if it seems too difficult, call a halt and let the School know. Resist the urge to do it yourself. It certainly cannot help – and imagine if you get it all wrong! A snack, short breaks, a bit of leg stretching – all fine, but avoid introducing opportunities for minds to wander. Get some sleep – after all, tomorrow is another day! Anthony Wilkins is Head of Heathfield School in Rishworth. For more information on the school, go to www.rishworth-school.co.uk, email admissions@rishworth-school.co.uk, or call Mrs Gill Battye on 01422 823564.

SCHOOL EVENTS 6 MARCH Open evening Rishworth School, Rishworth, West Yorkshire, HX6 4QA 01422 822217, rishworth-school.co.uk Opening evening at Rishworth School for 11-18 year olds, from 6-8:15pm. Contact school for more information.

Monkey Business Images/Shutterstock.com

HORROR?

9 MARCH Senior School open evening Hipperholme Grammar Senior School, Bramley Lane, Hipperholme, Halifax, HX3 8JE. 01422 202256, hgsf.org.uk Open evening from 6:30-8:30pm. For enquiries or to book, fill out the online form. 11 MARCH Opening morning Heathfield School, Oldham Road, Rishworth, West Yorkshire, HX6 4QF, 01422 823564, heathfieldjunior.co.uk Open morning at Heathfield School for ages 3-11, from 9am-12noon. Contact school for more information. 15 MARCH Junior School and Nursery open morning Hipperholme Grammar Junior School, 45 Wakefield Road, Lightcliffe, Halifax, HX3 8AQ. 01422 201330, hgsf.org.uk Open morning from 9:30-11:30am. For enquiries or to book, fill out the online form. 26 APRIL Open event Bradford Grammar School, Keighley Road, Bradford, BD9 4JP, 01274 542492, bradfordgrammar.com/signup Open event for Junior, Senior and Sixth Form. Complete and submit the online form. 9:15am-12noon.

Brighouse Dyslexia Centre SUPPORTING CHILDREN AND ADULTS Building confidence, self-esteem and achievement Assessment of dyslexia, dyscalculia, dyspraxia and dysgraphia. For diagnosis, support and specialist dyslexia & dyscalculia private tuition contact Francine Garnier. Services are offered to children, adults, schools, FE and HE institutions, employers and employees

07971 105743 www.brighousedyslexia.co.uk www.familiesonline.co.uk

EDUCATION

What is dyscalculia? You may not have heard of dyscalculia as it isn’t as widely discussed as dyslexia. It is a specific learning difficulty that causes difficulties with maths.

With the right kind of teaching children with dyscalculia can make good progress. They might find it difficult to retain and apply information they have been previously taught in maths lessons. Children with dyscalculia may be doing well in other subjects, such as English. Those working with them may not understand why maths is causing such difficulty. Maths homework may cause tears and tantrums and can sometimes be exasperating for parents.

Malota/Shutterstock.com

Signs and symptoms of dyscalculia include difficulty learning to count in the early years, an inability to understand or apply basic maths concepts such as number bonds to 10 or 20, or struggling with place value or simple sums. Some children may be easily confused when working with simple numbers, use their fingers to count and have difficulty learning and remembering times tables.

Struggling in maths can lead to feelings of stress, frustration and anxiety around maths. If your child is having trouble with maths, it’s a good idea to find out exactly what’s going on so you and your child’s teachers can offer the right type of support so your child can make progress. With the right kind of teaching children with dyscalculia can make good progress. To book a dyscalculia assessment, or, if have concerns about your child's progress in maths, contact Francine Garnier at Brighouse Dyslexia Centre on 07971 105743 or e-mail info@brighousedyslexia.co.uk.

BradfordGrammar.com @BradfordGrammar

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At ease with excellence Open Event Wednesday 26 April bradfordgrammar.com/signup

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EDUCATION Take the fear out of exams in 2017 We all know that the lead up to exam season can be a daunting time for child and parent. With phonics screening checks, teacher assessments, and SATs, you might often wonder how best to support your child. While there is no magic formula for exam success, there are many ways to help children feel prepared and confident about assessments. Start early by planning ahead. Revisiting a range of subject areas in manageable, weekly chunks can be much more beneficial to supporting memory, skills, and confidence than ‘cramming’. Everyone learns and revises in their own way. Some children like visual representations and sticky notes around the house whereas others will

respond better to conversations and answering questions aloud. Find a learning style and timetable that works for your child and create a plan to suit this. Be sure to remain positive and praise them when you see them accomplish something great: hearing “you’ve done a fantastic job today!” will undoubtedly build their self-belief. At Explore Learning, we’re here to support the whole family from day one. We offer tailored Maths and English tuition from expert staff, and exam preparation workshops and parent information evenings throughout the year so that everyone feels confident at home! For more advice and top tips, and to book your free trial session, visit our website: www.explorelearning.co.uk

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Explore Learning / Dominic James

DiD your chilD secure their seconDary school place? If your child hasn’t been offered a place at their chosen secondary school, there is still time to join our boys and girls in Year 7. Academic excellence is only part of the story, so discover more and call our team or visit our website.

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

Mandarin Chinese

most useful non-European language UK parents see Mandarin Chinese as the most important nonEuropean language for their children to learn. French, Spanish and German were still the top languages of choice but a majority of parents saw value in learning Mandarin. More than half (56%) of those questioned in a Populus survey commissioned by the Mandarin Excellence Programme (MEP) felt that the language would open their children’s minds to an “exciting and dynamic” culture. 51% also thought that learning Mandarin Chinese would boost their kids’ future career prospects.

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RS OO TD

Outdoor Learning

– just a gimmick or an essential tool in the development of our children? There has been much discussion in the press recently about wellbeing and mental health in young people. Our children are facing huge pressures and expectations from society, their peers and schools. Some of these pressures are unreasonable and can cause lasting damage to children’s self-confidence, self-esteem and resilience.

There are many approaches to dealing with this within primary school. One extremely successful intervention is Nurture. I run a Nurture Unit at a school in Huddersfield and have seen tangible benefits for children with wide ranging needs. Children struggling in the classroom or school environment attend Nurture regularly. It is a dedicated space which is homely, calm and comfortable. It is a safe place for children to express themselves, explore their feelings and find ways to be at ease with themselves and their surroundings. At Eden’s Forest we believe strongly that the outdoors provides the perfect context to compliment children’s wellbeing provision. The connection with nature, fresh air, freedom from the confines of the school building, opportunities to trust and be trusted all contribute to creating ‘rounded’ children. We have seen the outdoors be transformative for children on the brink of exclusion, who have suffered trauma or abuse, or who cannot access academic subjects in a classroom setting. Find out what your school is doing to encourage Outdoor Learning or take a look at our website or Facebook page to see what other schools in the Yorkshire area are doing to inspire and enthuse their children outdoors. Jerome Barton is director and senior practitioner at Eden’s Forest that provides bushcraft and outdoor learning across the curriculum for children.

Nature’s classroom The Forest School philosophy is becoming more popular as people realise the vast benefits to children and young people, and even adults. Introducing new independent and practical skills can help build confidence, self-esteem and resilience, as well as make them more aware of their surroundings and appreciate their natural environment. Interested in outdoor learning for your child? Check out these Forest Schools across the region: Babes in the Wood Forest School and Family Bushcraft Huddersfield, 07980 898113 bemoreoutdoors.org Eden’s Forest Huddersfield, 07769 271020 edensforest.co.uk KITE (Kids In The Environment) Ashton under Lyne, 0161 342 4144 tameside.gov.uk/culture Live Wild Hebden Bridge, 07866 514094 livewild.org.uk Manchester Forest School Greater Manchester, 07791 428876 manchesterforestschool.com Natures Footprints Huddersfield, 07843 673011 naturesfootprints.co.uk Nature Tots Huddersfield, 01904 659570 ywt.org.uk/events White Wolf Bushcraft Huddersfield 07763 044927 castletrainingservices.co.uk

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CatJB/Shutterstock.com

As a primary class teacher, I have seen the crippling effects of low self-esteem on a child’s ability to succeed, socially or academically. If not addressed, poor self-confidence and self-esteem can be embedded during the primary years, and carried into adulthood.

Get outdoors this Spring Spring is the perfect time to get outside with the family for some good old fashioned outdoor fun. The weather is warming up and children are ready for some fresh air and adventure following months of cold weather and being stuck indoors. It’s also the time of year to explore nature as the flowers and trees start to bloom, and baby animals are being born – so let your child's imagination run wild this Spring. Our region offers plenty of opportunities to get al fresco, from woodland walks, nature reserves, petting farms and canal walks. Check out these events taking place across the region for some outdoor inspiration: 31 March and 29 April NATURE TOTS Stirley Community Farm off Hall Bower Lane Berry Brow, Huddersfield, Berry Brow, HD4 6RP, 01904 659570 www.ywt.org.uk Monthly outdoor play and activities for under 5's. Dress to get messy! £5. 13.30am-12pm

1-17 Apr SPRINGTIME BABIES Temple Newsam Estate, Temple Newsam Park, Leeds, LS15 0AE, 0113 3367460 leeds.gov.uk/schoolholidays Meet new born baby animals on the farm, from lambs and piglets to baby chicks. Activities are also at the house.

2 April KITE (KIDS IN THE ENVIRONMENT) Park Bridge Heritage Centre, Park Bridge, Ashton under Lyne, OL6 8AQ, 0161 342 4144 tameside.gov.uk/culture Fun, forest school activities, discovering and exploring the countryside. 7-12 years. 10am to 12pm

5 April SPRING HATCHLINGS Gorse Hall, High Street, Stalybridge Enjoy a family friendly nature trail through the grounds and look for life in the undergrowth. Meet at 1pm at the bottom gates opposite the junction with Caroline Street

7 April LAMBING LIVE Cannon Hall Farm, Cawthorne, Barnsley, South Yorkshire, S75 4AT, 01226 790427 cannonhallfarm.co.uk Watch lambs being born into the night. Your ticket gets you all-day entry into the farm and you can stay until midnight.

13 April HOOT, SCREECH AND TWEET Hyde Park, Tameside, SK14 4JX See their owls, falcons, hawks and buzzards and watch their flying displays. Get crafty and follow the bird themed trail around the park. 12-3pm. Drop in.

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Check out these great places to explore outdoors and get one with nature: CHILDREN’S FARMS Cannon Hall Farm Cawthorne, Barnsley, South Yorkshire, S75 4AT, 01226 790427 cannonhallfarm.co.uk Cockfields Farm Ashton-under-Lyne OL6 8AR, 0161 331 3322 cockfields.co.uk Lancaster Park & Animal Farm Middleton Road, Chadderton, Oldham, Greater Manchester, OL1 2TG, 07745 723 999 lancasterpark.co.uk Ponderosa Rural Therapeutic Centre, Ponderosa Park, Off Smithies Lane, Heckmondwike WF16 0PN, 01924 235276 ponderosa-park.co.uk

NATURE RESERVES Eastwood Nature reserve Stalybridge, Tameside, SK15 2QX, 01948 820728 cheshirewildlifetrust.org.uk Ogden Water Local Nature Reserve Halifax, HX2 8YA ogdenwater.org.uk RSPB Dearne Valley – Old Moor Old Moor Lane, Dearne Valley Nature Reserve, Wombwell, Barnsley, S73 0YF, 01226 751593 rspb.org.uk/oldmoor Upper Park Wood Nature Reserve Northgate Road, Holmfirth, HD9 6QN ywt.org.uk

WALKS Daisy Nook Country Park Off Stannybrook Road, Failsworth, Manchester, M35 9WJ, 0161 308 3909 oldham.gov.uk Dove Stone Reservoir Greenfield, Saddleworth, Oldham, OL3 7NE oldham.gov.uk Hardcastle Crags Hebden Bridge, West Yorkshire, HX7 7AA, 01422 846236 nationaltrust.org.uk/hardcastle-crags Huddersfield Narrow Canal Connecting Ashton-under-Lyne and Huddersfield, 01457 871800 huddersfieldcanal.com

ER Anna Tyukhmeneva/Shutterstock.com

DIY Easter Bunny Bags 1

The kids loved making these Easter bunny bags. They’re really simple to make and are great for Easter Egg hunts or just as a bag! Get creative and introduce more colours and patterns!

You’ll need White cardboard, pink cardboard, brown/ white paper bag, googly eyes, cotton wool balls, coloured pom poms, scissors, glue, black marker

Step 3 Using the black marker draw on whiskers and a mouth, and cut out two small strips of white card and stick them onto the mouth for teeth.

Step 1 Cut out two large ear shapes from the white card, and two smaller ones from the pink, and stick the pink in the middle of the white card to create your bunny ears.

Step 4 Glue your bunny ears to the top of the bag, taking care not to stick them too close to the handles.

Step 2 Glue on two googly eyes and a coloured pom pom for the bunny’s nose.

Step 5 Glue on a cotton wool ball to the back of the bag for the bunny’s fluffy tail.

Step 6 Why not use different coloured or patterned card for the ears or introduce new pom pom colours?

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EASTER EASTER FUN

holidays Here’s what’s on over the Easter

to entertain the kids

1-23 Apr

13 & 20 April

A MAD HATTER OF AN EASTER

EASTER BUNNY FUN

Lotherton Hall, Off Collier Lane, Aberford, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS25 3EB, 0113 378 2959 leeds.gov.uk Daily springtime crafts, outdoor games and a Mad Hatter’s trail to explore the house and gardens. On special days play hopping games with the Easter Bunny, meet the Mad Hatter and friends and make a spring planter or basket. 10am–4pm

14-17 April

8-23 April

EASTER HOLIDAYS

iStock.com/Imgorthand

EASTER EGG HUNT

1-16 Apr EASTER HOLIDAYS Abbey House Museum, Abbey Walk, Abbey Rd, Kirkstall, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS5 3EH, 0113 230 5492 leeds.gov.uk/schoolholidays Creative crafts and activities inspired by Alice in Wonderland, with everything from murder mystery to flamingo croquet! In the second week of the holidays it’s all about eggs, with family challenges and silly science plus the Easter Bunny.

1-17 Apr SPRINGTIME BABIES Temple Newsam Estate, Temple Newsam Park, Leeds, LS15 0AE, 0113 3367460 leeds.gov.uk/schoolholidays Make your very own jolly Easter headgear, and follow the trail and solve the clues to find the escaped lambs...to win a chocolate treat!

Shibden Hall, Lister's Road, Halifax, West Yorkshire, HX3 6XG, 01422 352246 ticketsource.co.uk/Calderdale Join the Shibden Bunny in search of eggs and friends hidden in Cunnery Wood and grounds, then make a felt Easter themed craft. 11am12pm, 1-2pm and 2-3pm. Ages 4-8. Booking essential

Oakwell Hall Country Park, Nova Lane, Birstall, Batley WF17 9LG www.kirklees.gov.uk/museums Look for the clues hidden around the walled garden. Correct entries win a mini egg and a 2 for 1 voucher for entry into Oakwell Hall. 50p per sheet. 12noon-5pm

Kirklees Light Railway, Park Mill Way, Clayton West, Huddersfield, West Yorkshire, HD8 9XJ, 01484 865 727 kirkleeslightrailway.com Meet the Easter Bunny. Other activities include: Easter egg hunt, egg & spoon races, arts & craft activities, children’s entertainer, face painting, donkey rides, miniature train rides, platform rides and sand art.

8-24 April

The Adventure Park, Stockeld Park, Wetherby, Yorkshire, LS22 4AN, 01937 586333 stockeldpark.co.uk Find hidden eggs around the Enchanted Forest. Follow the clues and work out the riddles. Complete the forest maps and you could win a Giant Easter egg all for yourself!

E ASTER EXTRAVANGANZA Stirley Community Farm off Hall Bower Lane Berry Brow Huddersfield, Berry Brow, HD4 6RP, 01904 659570 www.ywt.org.uk Easter themed activities at Stirley farm. 2:00pm-4:00pm. £5

EASTER EGG HUNT Tolson Museum, Ravensknowle Park, Wakefield Road, Huddersfield HD5 8DJ, 01484 223240 www.kirklees.gov.uk/museums Can you find the Easter Eggs hidden around the museum and solve the puzzle to win a small chocolate prize? 12noon-5pm. Free

15 April EASTER EGG TRAIL Bagshaw Museum, Wilton Park, Batley WF17 0AS, 01924 324765 kirklees.gov.uk/museums Hunt for the colourful eggs hidden around the museum and grounds. Find them all, and you will win a chocolaty prize. Booking not necessary, and its free! 1 prize per child. 12noon-5pm

14-17 April EASTER EGG HUNT RSPB Dearne Valley, Old Moor, Old Moor Lane, Dearne Valley Nature Reserve, Wombwell, Barnsley, S73 0YF, 01226 751593 rspb.org.uk/oldmoor Wily Weasel has hidden the Easter Bunny’s eggs all around the reserve. Can you ‘crack’ the code and solve the clues to find them? Reserve entry fee applies. 9am-5pm.

GIANT EGG HUNT AT THE EASTER ADVENTURE

12 April

14-23 April

Explore the city this Easter and discover nine fascinating attractions crammed with a range of exhibits, workshops, activities and headline events — we’ve got this school holiday sorted!

leeds.gov.uk/ schoolholidays

www.familiesonline.co.uk

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04/02/2016 11:04

Check out these science-themed events taking place over the coming weeks:

Power of

13-17 March SEASONAL CHANGE

Science Fiction We all know that kids love science fiction, from blockbuster film franchises to bestselling toys and videogames; there is no doubt that sci-fi fascinates children and big kids alike. But did you know that it can be more than just wookies and lightsabers? There are countless examples of people being inspired to turn science fiction into science fact. The communicators from Star Trek are a perfect example. In the 1960s when Star Trek first aired, having a device you could hold in your hand that would let you talk to somebody on the other end was pure science fiction. But did you know that after watching Captain James T. Kirk using his communicator in Star Trek, a Motorola engineer named Martin Cooper created the first prototype mobile phone in 1973! Over the last 40 years this has transformed into the truly world changing smartphone that most of us now carry in our pockets.

Ogden Water Local Nature Reserve, Halifax, HX2 8YA, 01422 284415 calderdale.gov.uk Seasonal Change workshops aimed at primary school children. Activities will vary depending on year group of children but will include time outdoors in the woods so warm, waterproof clothing will be required. 10-12pm. Booking required. 18 March THE BIG BANG FAIR The National Exhibition Centre (NEC), Birmingham, West Midlands, B40 1NT thebigbangfair.co.uk Largest free celebration of science, technology, engineering and maths (STEM) for young people. With exciting theatre shows, interactive workshops and exhibits and careers information from STEM professionals. Open to families on 18 March. 9am – 4:30pm. 18-19 March BRITISH SCIENCE WEEK Eureka! The National Children's Museum, Discovery Road, Halifax, West Yorkshire, HX1 2NE, 01422 330069 eureka.org.uk

What better time to remember just how fun, inspirational, and ground-breaking science can be than during British Science Week. Running from 10-19 March, BSW is a ten-day celebration of science, technology, engineering and maths – featuring fascinating, entertaining and engaging events and activities across the UK for people of all ages. At Eureka! we’ll be celebrating British Science Week with a programme of activities and special guests to inspire school children and families alike. From 18-19 March, we’re excited to welcome the amazing blue-hair Professor Pumpernickel to Eureka! for a limited number of truly explosive science shows full of whizzes, bangs, exotic chemical compounds. Perfect for your mini sci-fi addicts!

Celebrate all things science and make your weekend go with a bang at Eureka! Meet the amazing blue-haired Professor Pumpernickel and witness his truly explosive science show. 19 March STEAM PLAY DAY Huddersfield Library, Princess Alexandra Walk, Huddersfield, West Yorkshire, HD1 2SU, 01484 414868 kirklees.gov.uk/Libraries A day of free creative and engaging hands-on taster activities around science, tech, engineering, electronics, art, making, and coding. Aimed at age 7-14 but all welcome. 11am-3pm. Booking required. 19 & 20 March FAMILY SCIENCE EVENTS National Coal Mining Museum for England, Caphouse Colliery, New Road, Overton, Wakefield, WF4 4RH, 01924 848846 ncm.org.uk On 19th take part in hands-on activities that show real-world science in action. On 20th see mining machines working and take part in experiments to find out about the Flame Safety Lamp. 12pm-4pm. Free. 26 Mar SUPER SCIENCE DAY Leeds Industrial Museum, Canal Road, Armley, Leeds, LS12 2QF, 0113 378 3173 leeds.gov.uk A fun science day to coincide with British Science Week. Make simple machines, learn about local scientific heroes and take part in science experiments or the mystery science quiz. 1pm–4pm 5 & 12 April EGGSPERIMENTS Leeds Discovery Centre, Carlisle Road, Leeds, LS10 1LB, 0113 378 2100 leeds.gov.uk/schoolholidays Check out the amazing eggs and egg cases from the Natural Science collection. Take part in an egg drop challenge. Fun for the whole family. Free. Booking required. 10am–12pm 17 April MADLAB Portland Basin Museum, Portland Place, Ashton under Lyne. OL7 0QA, 0161 343 2878 tameside.gov.uk/museumsgalleries/families To celebrate British Science Week, the Museum will play host to 3 Mad Scientists and their Fun Stations. Come along and get involved with all sorts of exciting experiments, from 3D printing to gaming themed activities. 11am – 3.30pm

www.familiesonline.co.uk

Kiselev Andrey Valerevich/Shutterstock.com

BRITISH SCIENCE WEEK

WHAT’S ON MARCH – APRIL 2017 4, 12 April

EASTER

THEATRE

HOLIDAYS

7 March THE LITTLE ANGEL THEATRE PRESENTS WOW! SAID THE OWL

EASTER HOLIDAYS

8 April ROBIN HOOD The Victoria Theatre, Fountain Street, Halifax, HX1 1BP, 01422 351158 victoriatheatre.co.uk Join Robin Hood and Maid Marian in this dashing, arrow-slinging, tights-wearing comedy adventure! An all-star cast, including Dani Harmer from CBBC’s Tracy Beaker. £20 with concessions. 2pm/6pm

13,14,15 April THE RAILWAY CHILDREN Theatre Royal Wakefield, Drury Lane, Wakefield, WF1 2TE, 01924 211311 theatreroyalwakefield.co.uk A wonderful new musical adaptation of E. Nesbit's classic story by Stephen Kingsbury and Ben Sleep. 5pm. £14, £12, £9 (plus concessions)

14 April PACE EGG PLAY Littleborough Coach House, Coach House, Lodge Street, Littleborough, OL15 9AE, 07981 271 005 littleboroughcoachhouse.org A traditional Easter play. Come and see St George slay the bold Slasher ... marvel at the quack doctor's attempts at revival. No need to pre-book. Free. 11am.

15,16 April JUSTIN’S PARTY The Alhambra Theatre, Morley Street, Bradford, BD7 1AJ, 01274 432000 bradford-theatres.co.uk Justin's Party is a brand new show which is packed full of fantastic songs, dances and hilarious games guaranteed to make it THE party of the year! 11.30am/2.30pm. Age 2+

18,19 April WE'RE GOING ON A BEAR HUNT Theatre Royal Wakefield, Drury Lane, Wakefield, WF1 2TE, 01924 211311 theatreroyalwakefield.co.uk Michael Rosen’s award-winning book is brought to life. Expect catchy songs, interactive scenes and plenty of hands-on adventure. Age 3–7. £10.50£14.50. 18-13:30/16:30 & 19-10:30/13:30.

National Coal Mining Museum for England, Caphouse Colliery, New Road, Overton, Wakefield, WF4 4RH, 01924 848846 ncm.org.uk Make an Easter bonnet and a vesting day flag. Join the egg rolling competition on Easter Sunday and meet some historical characters who will be popping up around site. Drop in 1pm-4pm.

ArtMarie/Shutterstock.com

CHAMPIONS OF MAGIC The Victoria Theatre, Fountain Street, Halifax, HX1 1BP, 01422 351158 victoriatheatre.co.uk Direct from a hit season in London’s West End, the Champions of Magic team return for a spectacular night of mystery. Ages 5 + Contains strobe lighting, water based smoke effects, pyrotechnics and loud noises. £25 with concessions.

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-3pm

8-23 April 2017

Oldham Library, Cultural Quarter, Greaves Street, Oldham, OL1 1AL, 0161 770 8000 oldham.gov.uk/libraries Wow! Said the Owl is brought to life through a blend of beautiful storytelling, puppetry and music. This show will delight and excite. 11.30am and 1.30pm. £5 (£4 for library members). Age 2 – 5.

5 April

MEET TOMMY ATKINS: FIRST WORLD WAR SOLDIER

10, 11, 17 & 18 April DRAWING, DIPPING AND DISCOVERY DAY

1-17 Apr EASTER HOLIDAYS Thwaite Mills Watermill, Thwaite Lane, Stourton, Leeds, LS10 1RP, 0113 3782983 leeds.gov.uk/school holidays Explore the grounds or pick up an artist pack and get creative. Plus special activity afternoons; Creative Tuesdays (4&11 Apr) and Experimental Thursdays (6&13 Apr).

1-23 April MEDIEVAL MAYHEM Eureka! The National Children's Museum, Discovery Road, Halifax, HX1 2NE, 01422 330069 eureka.org.uk Bring your gallant young adventurers and go mad for the middle ages at Eureka! this Easter. Try your hand at jousting and archery, plus meet some truly noble knights and legendary princesses.

4,5,6 & 11,12,13 April FIRE ENGINE FUN Leeds Industrial Museum, Canal Road, Armley, Leeds, LS12 2QF, 0113 378 3173 leeds.gov.uk/schoolholidays Learn about the important role of our fire and rescue services. See a Victorian fire engine, dress up as a fire officer, make fire engines, and see some fire services objects. 11am-1.30pm

4, 6, 11,13 April MAKE, DO AND PLAY Portland Basin Museum, Portland Place, Ashton under Lyne, OL7 0QA, 0161 343 2878 tameside.gov.uk/museumsgalleries/families Artist led craft activities for all ages. £1 per child. 11am-3pm.

RSPB Dearne Valley, Old Moor, Old Moor Lane, Dearne Valley Nature Reserve, Wombwell, Barnsley, S73 0YF, 01226 751593 rspb.org.uk/oldmoor Enjoy self-led crafts, then explore the reserve to see what bugs, birds and pond life you can see. Pond dipping kits and backpacks are available to hire. 10am–3:30pm.

10-13 April EASTER HOLIDAY FUN Gallery Oldham, Greaves Street, Oldham, OL1 1AL, 0161 770 4742 galleryoldham.org.uk Free family art activities. 1-4pm

11 & 12 April SCRAPTASTIC WORKSHOPS WITH FAIRANDFUNKY Totties Garden Centre and The Olive Tree Bistro Cafe, Downshutts Lane, Totties, Holmfirth, HD9 1AU, 01484 680227 tottiesgardencentre.co.uk Create Easter Egg Wreaths (11) and Cress Heads (12) using recycled bits. 9.30-11.00am. Children 3-12 years. £3.50.

11-13 April SPARKS! EASTER HOLIDAY FUN Bankfield Museum, Boothtown Road, Halifax, HX3 6HG, 01422 352334 museums.calderdale.gov.uk Take part in a Wild West egg trail. Create an egg or horse shoe shaped dream catcher, make your own cowboy/girl, Native American Jewellery or hobby horse. 11am-12noon, 1-2pm & 2-3pm Ages 4–12. £3.50 per child

4-7, 11-14 April HIPPO EASTER HOLIDAYS Leeds City Museum, Millennium Square, Leeds, LS2 8BH, 0113 224 3732 leeds.gov.uk/schoolholidays Multi-sensory family adventure sessions about the hippo, with storytelling you can touch, smell, hear and maybe even taste! 10am–12pm & 1pm–3pm

www.familiesonline.co.uk

WHAT’S ON MARCH – APRIL 2017 29 April-1 May

12 & 19 April

13 & 20 April

WILD WEDNESDAYS

THINKBOMB! THURSDAYS

RSPB Dearne Valley, Old Moor, Old Moor Lane, Dearne Valley Nature Reserve, Wombwell, Barnsley, South Yorkshire, S73 0YF, 01226 751593 rspb.org.uk/oldmoor Nature themed craft activities plus pond dipping or bug hunting on the reserve with a wildlife expert. Pond dipping kits and backpacks are available to hire. 9am-5pm.

RSPB Dearne Valley, Old Moor, Old Moor Lane, Dearne Valley Nature Reserve, Wombwell, Barnsley, S73 0YF, 01226 751593 rspb.org.uk/oldmoor Discover the beautiful and noisy birds that live and breed on the reserve. Pond dipping kits and backpacks available. 9am-5pm.

13 April DROP-IN FAMILY ART DAY Huddersfield Art Gallery, Princess Alexandra Walk, Huddersfield, HD1 2SU, 01484 221964 kirklees.gov.uk/museums Drop-in art and craft sessions for both parents and children. 1pm-3pm. £1 per child.

13 April EASTER MUSEUM MAKES Saddleworth Museum, High Street, Uppermill, Saddleworth, OL3 6HS, 01457 874093 saddleworthmuseum.co.uk Find out how rabbits played a part in cloth weaving and how wool from local Lonk sheep was used to keep feet toasty! Felt making, printing and projection drawing! Book required. 1-3pm £3 per child (age 4-11)

FOOD & DRINK FESTIVAL

SPRING EVENTS

Lotherton Hall, Off Collier Lane, Aberford, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS25 3EB, 0113 378 2959 leeds.gov.uk Lotherton Hall hosts its second Food & Drink Festival with stalls, local produce plus family entertainment and live music. 10am–5pm

29 April-1 May

14 & 21 April

11-12 March

FREE FRIDAY RSPB Dearne Valley, Old Moor, Old Moor Lane, Dearne Valley Nature Reserve, Wombwell, Barnsley, S73 0YF, 01226 751593 rspb.org.uk/oldmoor Explore the reserve to see what bugs, birds and pond life you can see plus self-led crafts. Reserve entry is free to all children every Friday of school holidays (South Yorkshire and Kirklees only). 9am-5pm.

18 & 19 April KIDS BE HAPPY SAND ART WORKSHOPS Totties Garden Centre and The Olive Tree Bistro Cafe, Downshutts Lane, Totties, Holmfirth, HD9 1AU, 01484 680227 tottiesgardencentre.co.uk Make an Easter picture, including eggs, bunnies and Spring flowers. £3 per child. 9.30-11am – just come along.

DISABLED ACCESS DAY Eureka! The National Children's Museum, Discovery Road, Halifax, HX1 2NE, 01422 330069 eureka.org.uk Eureka! will be supporting Disabled Access Day with lots of playful and inclusive activities. Explore the ‘ickier’ side of the human body with Gross Lab – an accessible, interactive show for all the family. On 11 March the Gross Lab will be supported by a BSL interpreter.

MAY BANK HOLIDAY WEEKEND Eureka! The National Children's Museum, Discovery Road, Halifax, HX1 2NE, 01422 330069 eureka.org.uk Spring has sprung! Join Eureka! for a weekend packed full of family fun and games.

MOTHER'S DAY

18 March BISTRO NIGHT Totties Garden Centre and The Olive Tree Bistro Cafe, Downshutts Lane, Totties, Holmfirth, HD9 1AU, 01484 680227 tottiesgardencentre.co.uk 3 courses for £27.99pp. Pre-book only. From 7pm

25 March NATURE AND THE NIGHT SKY RSPB Dearne Valley, Old Moor, Old Moor Lane, Dearne Valley Nature Reserve, Wombwell, Barnsley, South Yorkshire, S73 0YF, 01226 751593 rspb.org.uk/oldmoor Take part in walks to see winter wildfowl, barn owls and bitterns. See a demonstration of a planetarium and watch new footage of earth from the International Space Station while you warm up with soup and hot drinks. £6 pp. 5–8.30pm

22 & 23 April ST GEORGE’S WEEKEND Lotherton Hall, Off Collier Lane, Aberford, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS25 3EB, 0113 378 2959 leeds.gov.uk Follow the Dragon Hunt Trail around the house and gardens or dress up as a knight, dragon or princess. Plus medieval family crafts and live music from the brass band. 11am–4pm

29 April-1 May LE TOUR DE YORKSHIRE letour.yorkshire.com Taking place across the county during May Bank Holiday weekend. It will be in Halifax and Huddersfield on Sunday 1 May. Free.

26 March MOTHER’S DAY Temple Newsam Estate, Temple Newsam Park, Leeds, LS15 0AE, 0113 3367460 leeds.gov.uk/schoolholidays Plan a special day out with all the family this Mother’s Day. Create your own special teatime craft using Temple Newsam’s beautiful collection of teapots for inspiration. 10.30am–12.30pm & 1.30–4pm

26 March MOTHER’S DAY Totties Garden Centre and The Olive Tree Bistro Cafe, Downshutts Lane, Totties, Holmfirth, HD9 1AU, 01484 680227 tottiesgardencentre.co.uk Brunch from 10am. Lunch from 12noon until 3.30pm. Cards & gifts are available too.

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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.