Families Pennines May/June 17 Issue 38

LOCAL INFORMATION

for parents of 0-12 year olds in

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

Let's

party!

WHAT’S ON over MAY and JUNE E R U T A E F T U O L L U P Y PART N

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FR TA E KE MA E A Y 38

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NEWS EDUCATION CLASSES

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plus

BOOK YOUR

FREE TRIAL TODAY!

BEAT THE SUMMER SLUMP WITH EXPLORE LEARNING!

EducationInvestor

Awards 2016

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WELCOME

We’re celebrating at Families Pennines this issue.

Summer is finally on its way and we have another bumper issue with our pull-out party feature, showcasing what our region has to offer for parties. From venues, unique experiences, as well as where to buy the perfect present, so hopefully we can help take the stress away from party planning.

IN THIS

ISSUE

04 NEWS

07 PARTY PULL OUT

11 EDUCATION AND CHILDCARE

13 CLUBS AND CLASSES

15 WHAT’S ON

As usual, there’s lots of interesting reads from local experts, from tips on how to support your child’s speech development, how to make times tables practice easier and more fun, and the long-term benefits of learning ballet.

Check out our What’s on section at the back of the magazine for what to do over the Spring bank holidays.

If you want to feature your business in the magazine, get in touch at editor@familiespennines.co.uk.

We’d love to hear from you!

Enjoy!

iStock.com/Imgorthand iStock.com/real444 iStock.com/kali9 LeedsMuseums

It's PARTY TIME!!

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

/FamiliesPennines

CIRCULATION 20,000 DEADLINE Early June 2017 FRONT COVER Evgeny Atamanenko/Shutterstock.com DESIGNED BY Theresa McDermott, 07462 961793, www.designedbytree.com PRINTED BY Brookfoot Print, 01484 722732, www.brookfootptrint.co.uk Copyright Families Pennines May/ June 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.

WORK OPPORTUNITY WITH

We are looking for a responsible person with a cheerful, polite manner to deliver Families Pennines magazines in the Halifax and surrounding areas.

If you would like to earn a little extra cash and can spare a day every two months to distribute Families Pennines magazine to local schools, nurseries, activity groups, etc, please contact us today. A car is essential. please contact Emily on 07974 401663 or e-mail editor@familiespennines.co.uk.

www.familiesonline.co.uk

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Emily Raleigh Editor, Families Pennines

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s

New

MEDIA MUSEUM GETS NEW NAME The National Media Museum in Bradford has changed its name to the National Science and Media Museum and launched a new £1.8m state-of-the-art gallery. Wonderlab is an interactive experience filled with live experiments, shows and over 20 mind-bending exhibits.

Don’t miss out on the Soyuz TMA-19M spacecraft that took Tim Peake to the International Space Station. It will be on display in the Museum for three months from September.

There’s a new play gym in town If you’re looking for a new play venue, then look no further – The Edge Play Gym has just opened in the heart of Brighouse!

The Edge has a great play gym for 0-8 year olds and a funky disco room for 2-16 year olds within a brand new, secure environment.

Will you be walking to School?

With plenty of free parking and homemade fresh food, it’s open every day from 9.30am-4pm on Mondays and 9.30am-5.45pm Tuesday – Sunday. Entry for under 1’s is free, then ranges between £2.50 - £4.50 depending on the age of the child.

The Edge will also host a range of classes, including Rhythm Time, Baby Ballet, Groovy Movers, Sling Swing and Boogie Babes.

For more information and special weekday offers, go to www.edgeplaygym.com

Introducing… Soren’s House From playtime to suppertime, new children’s brand Soren’s House features a wide range of beautifully made, stylish accessories sourced from a wide range of designer Scandinavian brands.

Designed to please parents and little ones alike, each piece has been chosen by local Mum of two Sally Jackson.

Walk to School Week is 15-19 May 2017.

Join thousands of children across the country celebrating the benefits walking brings.

We know that walking to school makes children feel healthier and happier, while reducing congestion and pollution outside the school gates. Yet less than half of primary school children currently walk to school. Living Streets, who organise the annual event want to reverse this decline and see every child that can, walk to school.

For more information or to order a challenge pack see: www.livingstreets.org.uk/what-we-do/projects/walk-to-school-week

The range includes everything you need to create a stylish space for you and your little one, from practical storage solutions, tableware and accessories to educational and fun games and toys along with decorative prints and soft furnishings. www.sorenshouse.co.uk

For more news, visit Families Online:

www.familiesonline.co.uk/news

Congratulations

to Emma England who won the amazing Alexandra House Spa pamper day for two competition which featured in our January/February issue! Enjoy your day Emma!

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School children take control for Healthy Eating Week

The British Nutrition Foundation’s (BNF) Healthy Eating Week 2017 is taking place from 12 – 16 June and will focus on building children’s knowledge about healthy eating and wellbeing, being active, food provenance and cooking.

The theme is ‘applied learning’ to encourage children to take ownership for their own health by becoming BNF Healthy Eating Week Ambassadors and championing the Week in their own schools and at home.

Roy Ballam, managing director and head of education at the British Nutrition Foundation, said: “Positive behaviour change will only be sustained if children, themselves, are motivated to lead healthier lifestyles. We need to equip them with the knowledge and skills to make better choices and, what better way to do this than by giving them the tools and motivation to work together and encourage each other to take ownership of their health.”

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For more information about BNF Healthy Eating Week 2017, visit www.healthyeatingweek.org.uk.

I’m Ed and here is my early Summer

book selection for you to enjoy. Have fun reading!

FOR AGES 5-7 YEARS Cowboy Pug: The Dog Who Rode for Glory by Laura James (Bloomsbury £5.99) ED SAYS: ‘Pug and Lady Miranda are ready for an exciting adventure with fun things in store like the county fair and candyfloss, but they also have to deal with the runaway train, a water jump and even bandits.

'This is part of a super new series with very funny illustrations. It is a great story for newly confident readers, boys and girls alike.'

Evie’s Magic Bracelet: The Silver Unicorn

by Jessica Ennis-Hill (Hodder £5.99) ED SAYS: ‘The day Evie starts her new school, she receives a gift from Grandma Iris in Jamaica – a beautiful bracelet with a message. ‘Have a magical time!’ Evie is amazed when she understands what the seagulls and the animals at the city farm are saying, and realises this all started when she put on the bracelet from Grandma Iris.

‘This is a warm-hearted story with lovely illustrations. It is ideal for children reading on their own or reading together.’

Be part of...

A NATIONAL CELEBRATION OF CH

Ed’s Reading Room

ILDHOOD

FOR AGES 7 YEARS PLUS Jinks & O’Hare: Funfair Repair by Philip Reeve and Sarah McIntyre (Oxford £8.99) ED SAYS: ‘Jinks and O’Hare are the repair team at Funfair Moon that boasts the highest helter-skelter and the scariest ghost train in the universe. Emily loves helping them and as her school, the LearnyGo-Round, is open only every other day she has plenty of time. But when the Funfair Inspector arrives everything seems to go wrong. Is someone sabotaging the funfair?

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‘It is fast-moving, funny and entertaining – a rollercoaster of a story.’

The Jamie Drake Equation by Christopher Edge (Nosy Crow £6.99) ED SAYS: ‘Jamie’s dad is an astronaut and, although at first he thinks it’s really cool that his father will be doing a spacewalk, he is actually just missing him being at home. When parts of the family solar system start to shake, Jamie picks up a strange signal on his mobile and things start to get really complicated.

National Children's Day UK on 14 May is all about the importance of a healthy childhood and how we need to protect the rights and freedoms of children in order to ensure that they can grow into happy, healthy adults.

From small family and community get-togethers to city celebrations and countywide events, it's a great opportunity to raise awareness about local projects and things that you care about.

You can run any kind of big or small event in the week up to and including the day.

For more information go to www.nationalchildrendayuk.com

'If you’ve ever wondered what’s out there with the stars, you will find this book a real page-turner.’

Ed’s Reading Room is an exciting free book review website for primary children created by Maggie Humphreys and Les Snowdon. See these reviews, download the reading activities for these books and buy the books online at www.EdontheWeb.com.

www.familiesonline.co.uk

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FAMILY LIFE Childline launches new app to offer counselling for kids The NSPCC’s Childline service has just launched a new iPhone app to provide counselling for kids directly through their mobile phones.

The ‘For Me’ app allows kids to access Childline’s online services, including 1-2-1 live chats with a counsellor, the ‘Ask Sam’ problem pages and entrance to their private ‘lockers’ – areas where they can write down their own personal thoughts and track their moods.

Communication counts!

The App is free to download via iTunes and is designed for discreet usage.

Read more at www.childline.org.uk

Research suggests early speech and language skills are the underlying foundation of later literacy development. Communication skills such as understanding spoken language are essential for classroom learning, following instructions, making friends and academic attainment, while children with speech difficulties may experience problems with phonics and learning to read.

There are lots of simple strategies that both parent/carers at home and childcare staff can use to support all children’s language development.

These include: Talking about what the child is doing or interested in.

Using gesture.

Asking fewer questions – try commenting rather than asking a question, e.g. “it’s a car”, “red car” instead of “what’s that?.

Giving choices – offer two choices whenever possible, always showing the object while using the word. This can be done at any stage – babies can look to choose. Always act upon any form of communication.

Modelling – repeat back what the child says using the correct form for them to hear but DO NOT ask them to copy, e.g “tup” could be simply repeated by the adult as “cup”.

Kerry Higginbottom is a speech and language expert from awardwinning not-for-profit organisation, Twinkleboost, that provides speech and language sessions and training for early years settings.

It aims to equip children starting school with the speech, language and communication skills they need to succeed. Go to www.twinkleboost.com for more information.

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It was invented by four teenagers who wanted to use technology to address the urgent need for support among young people. Childline founder Esther Rantzen said: “We know hundreds of thousands of young people use our website for help and support, with more than half those visits coming via mobile devices. Now young people can get immediate access to our counsellors through this brilliant, innovative app.”

PARTY pull-out

It's

Party Time!

EW

N Open Monday 9.30am-4pm & Tues – Sun 9.30am -5.45pm Under 1’s Free | 1-2 £2.50 2-3 £3.50 | 3+ £4.50 www.edgeplaygym.com info@edgeplaygym.com 01484 400447 The Edge Play Gym, Church Lane, Brighouse, HD6 1AT

It’s amazing what’s out there in the mind-boggling world of children’s party planning. From science parties that go off with a bang, getting messy with arts and crafts, snowboarding in the Summer, to letting it go at Frozen themed parties with guest appearances from Elsa and Anna.

Free parking|Classes| Homemade food Private Hire optional | Parties Play gym (0-8 yrs) | Disco room (2-16yrs)

But what happened to the good old days when parties used to be at home, and involved a cake, sleeping lions and pin the tail on the donkey?

10% off parties

taking place during June 2017.

These days, party planning is a little bit trickier, but fear not, because the region is full of great venues, entertainers, party bag suppliers, and some very talented cake makers.

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Happy party planning!

os

So, if you’re planning your child’s party, check out this special feature for inspiration. You can even pull it out and keep it all year round!

Skokan Olena/Shutterstock.com

Bring voucher with you on day of party. www.edgeplaygym.com

www.familiesonline.co.uk

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PARTY pull-out The A-Z of party buzz words is for Animals.

Most children are intrigued by them and enjoy opportunities to get close. is for Baking.

Parties are available for children from age 4 and kids of all ages will enjoy licking out the bowls! Most parties take place in your own home or anywhere with a kitchen, but you don’t have to do the clearing up! Great for small groups.

is for Karts. Go Kart Parties are a whole lot of fun and suit kids from age 4 to 14. They can be held on almost any surface, so leisure centres, local halls, sports fields or playgrounds are all feasible. Parties generally build to a big, final race at end the day. is for Leisure Centres. Many leisure centres provide great sport, soft play, trampoline or gymnastics parties. is for Music. Often with similar features to the classes they derive from, music parties are generally suitable for the 0-5 age group who love the mix of music, dance and musical instruments.

is for Ceramics.

An ideal choice for arty children, who can decorate pottery animals, mugs, egg cups and more, and have them fired and glazed on-site. is for Dance. Book a dance party! Choose between ballet, street dance, latin and more, depending on your child’s taste. Alternatively, opt for a dance-themed party which might include dancing games, action songs, and dance ribbons. is for Entertainer. Some specialise in magic or dance, others provide all round entertainment tailored to a particular theme, some provide a “special appearance” by a television character and others still focus on party games. is for Face Painting. A great choice for the younger age group, with truly talented painters and good value for money!

is for Ponies. Many children love ponies, so imagine how special a party at a riding stables would be! Children can learn to groom the horses, go on a ride in a nearby park and learn some riding techniques.

is for Rugby. These parties often follow a similar format to football parties, and include lots of running around, rugby-related activities, and fun for girls and boys from age 2 upwards.

is for HAPPY BIRTHDAY! is for Inflatables. There is nothing that is more guaranteed to get a young child smiling than the sight of a bouncy slide and castle at a birthday party! Find a suitable venue to house these inflatables and hire them in!

Nadezda Barkova/Shutterstock.com Skokan Olena/Shutterstock.com

is for One Stop Shop. Reduce party stress with a party provider that offers a venue, entertainment and food. Remember to check this out when you are doing your research!

is for Quality. Remember that the most expensive parties are not necessarily the best quality!

is for Golf. Enjoyable and exciting indoor golfing parties include stimulating games that use a range of large, colourful targets, child-friendly equipment and safe foam balls.

is for Jeeps. Jeep driving parties are still fairly unique, considering that you can hold them indoors or outdoors, on a tennis court or in a church hall. An inflatable track and jeeps are provided and jeep parties are fantastic entertainment for children aged 4 to 8 and can cater for a maximum of 8.

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is for Nature. For kids who like the great outdoors, head to an outdoor venue.

Many provide engaging games and activities as well as a venue for birthday tea.

is Soft Play. These venues can be hired inclusive of toys, inflatables and ball pits and are a very popular choice for kids of all ages, as most either cater for under 5’s or have a separate area for young children. is for Traditional. Remember you can keep it simple. Young children are more than happy with party games, a birthday tea and cake. If you want, you can hire someone experienced to plan and execute the games! is for Umbrella.

Essential for outdoor parties, even in Summer!

www.familiesonline.co.uk

PARTY pull-out Here are some of our favourite party venues and providers from across the region.

Kids are different, so why would they all want the same party theme? If you’re looking for something alternative for your child’s next party, check out what’s on offer across the region: g in

eth Som little a ent? er diff

is for Weather: Remember not to rely on it! is for eXtraordinary!

Don’t worry, your child’s birthday party will always be eXtraordinary, just like your child! is for Yoga. Want your kids to have a zen experience? Yoga parties often provide a combination of yoga and other forms of party entertainment. is for Zumba. You don’t have to be a teenager or an adult to enjoy this latin-influenced dance/exercise sensation. Try a Zumba children’s party!

Bath bomb making classes Scented Events, Huddersfield, HD1 3EE, www.scentedevents.co.uk, 07980 586813

Lego parties Bricks 4 Kidz, Brighouse, HD6 4FW, www.brickparties.co.uk Nerf Gun parties Colne Valley Black Belt Academy, Huddersfield, HD7 5QG, www.cvbba.co.uk Train fun Kirklees Light Railway, Huddersfield, HD8 9XJ, www.kirkleeslightrailway.co.uk

POP KIDZ Huddersfield, HD1 4LQ, Halifax, HX1 3NS, Wakefield, WF2 8PG, 01484 429771, www.popkidz.co.uk

Disco Fun!

A stylish, funky and fresh VIP party venue for children of all ages, where kids can dress up and feel special on their birthday or special occasions. Popular with parents and kids across the region and beyond. MAKING BIRTHDAY DREAMS COME TRUE with venues in Huddersfield, Halifax, and Wakefield.

Franchises now available.

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THE STAR TREE STUDIO Littleborough, OL15 9DB, 07778 543233, www.thestartreestudio.com

Create & Make Parties are perfect for boys and girls ages 1 to 12 years old. Book at The Studio or a venue of your choice. They provide a wide range of activities, can tailor make parties, offer keepsake creations, party games, pass the parcel, face painting and party bags.

RUDDI’S TREAT ROOMS Huddersfield, HD7 5NF, 01484 766 886, www.ruddistreatrooms.com

Cupca Bespoke children’s birthday parties and makinke cakes are a speciality. With two rooms available g for birthdays, christenings, baby showers, anniversaries and any other special event.

Packages include afternoon tea plus extras such as face painting, paint a pot, sweetie buffets and much more. They love turning your party vision into a reality.

www.familiesonline.co.uk

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PARTY pull-out Leisure Centres

Play gyms

Leisure centres have lots to offer for parties.

Whether it’s a pool party, gymnastics or football, there's lots to choose from, plus party rooms for food and party games. Contact your local leisure centre for more details: ACTIVE ASHTON OL6 7AN 0161 330 1179 www.activetameside.com/active-ashton BATLEY BATHS & RECREATION CENTRE WF17 5JH 01924 565388 www.kirkleesactive.co.uk/batley-baths BRIGHOUSE POOL & FITNESS CENTRE HD6 4AX 01422 288068 www.calderdale.gov.uk/leisure COLNE VALLEY LEISURE CENTRE HD7 5AB 01484 766292 www.kirkleesactive.co.uk/colne DEWSBURY SPORTS CENTRE WF12 8EN 01924 565254 www.kirkleesactive.co.uk/dewsbury HUDDERSFIELD LEISURE CENTRE HD1 4BP 01484 766269 www.huddersfieldleisure.co.uk OLDHAM LEISURE CENTRE OL9 6AF 0161 207 7000 www.oclactive.co.uk SADDLEWORTH POOL AND LEISURE CENTRE OL3 6HQ 0161 207 7000 www.oclactive.co.uk SOWERBY BRIDGE SWIMMING POOL AND FITNESS CENTRE HX6 3AB 01422 288078 www.calderdale.gov.uk/leisure SPENBOROUGH SWIMMING POOL & FITNESS COMPLEX WF15 6LW 01274 891767 www.kirkleesactive.co.uk/spenborough TODMORDEN LEISURE CENTRE OL14 7DF 01706 839090 www.calderdale.gov.uk/leisure

And those little extras….

BIG BLUE FROG Halifax HX1 5AN 01422 363878 www.bigbluefrog.co.uk CHEEKY CHIMPS Saddleworth OL4 3DE 0161 626 2552 www.cheekychimpsplaycentre.co.uk DIDDY MIDDY’S Cleckheaton BD19 5LY 01274 865495 www.diddymiddys.co.uk FUN HOUSE Halifax HX1 1QR 01422 383131 www.funhousehalifax.co.uk JITTERBUGS PLAY CENTRE Littleborough OL15 9EG 01706 378123 www.jitterbugsplaycentre.com PLAY OLDHAM Royton OL2 6LH 0161 627 3000 www.playoldhamltd.co.uk PLAY² DIGGLE Diggle OL3 5PJ 01457 237260 www.playoldhamltd.co.uk/Diggle PLAY PALACE Halifax HX1 2TE 01422 353700 www.play-palace.co.uk SAFARI SAM’S Honley HD9 6QB 01484 667383 www.safarisamsplaygym.co.uk SPARKLES ADVENTURE PLAY Royton OL2 5QD 0161 628 5530 www.sparkles-play.co.uk TUMBLES PLAY GYM Cleckheaton BD19 3AF 01274 852542 www.tumblesplaygym.com THE FUN FACTORY Linthwaite Huddersfield HD7 5QG 01484 845711 @thefunfactoryhuddersfield THE MAGICAL FOREST Huddersfield HD1 4QA 01484 537799 www.themagicalforest.co.uk THE ZONE Huddersfield HD1 6PT 01484 484134 www.huddersfieldcommunitytrust.co.uk

A party isn’t a party without the cake, party bags, presents and outfit. Check out our selection of providers that can help you put the cherry on top of your party!

PARTY BAG KIDS Huddersfield HD4 5NX www.partybagkids.co.uk HELEN GLEESON Independent Usborne books at home organiser – Brighouse HD6 3TZ Facebook/bookclubhelen LITTLE CAKE CORNER LTD Oldham OL4 5DJ 0161 879 1309 www.littlecakecorner.co.uk THE MAGIC BOX TOY SHOP MARSDEN 01484 841365 www.magicboxtoys.co.uk PEPPERMINT PIG Cleckheaton BD19 3JD 01274 878592 DESIGN 24 Cleckheaton BD19 3JD 01274 851371 www.design-24.co.uk SHOELY SCRUMPTIOUS Mirfield WF14 8AT 01924 503825 www.shoelyscrumptious.co.uk THE LOLLIPOP TREE Almondbury HD5 8US 01484 533660 www.lollipoptreesweets.co.uk MILLIE AND BERTIE’S Mirfield WF14 8AB 01904 848510 Facebook/Millie & Bertie’s

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Play gyms are great places for birthday parties.

They do all the hard work for you, and you can sit back and relax. Below are some of the region’s play gyms that offer fantastic party packages.

THE EDGE PLAY GYM Brighouse HD6 1AT 01484 400447 www.edgeplaygym.com info@edgeplaygym.com This new play gym in Brighouse offers a fantastic disco room with state of the art lighting and sound system. Suitable for children of all age groups.

Private hire is optional and themed parties are available. Prices start from £11 per child and include party food. Free parking.

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SOREN’S HOUSE Huddersfield, www.sorenshouse.co.uk This new children’s brand features a wide range of beautifully made, stylish accessories sourced from a wide range of designer Scandinavian brands by a local mum of two. From practical storage solutions, tableware and accessories to educational and fun games and toys along with decorative prints and soft furnishings.

www.familiesonline.co.uk

Soft Play

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

ion e at ar uc ildc Ed Ch d an to teach your kids their times w o H table s...

...easily

What should they know?

If they can already work out an equation like 3x6=18 without using a calculator, then they will find it easier when it comes to tackling harder arithmetic. At present, children are required to know 12x12 by the age of nine.

How can you help them know it?

Buy posters of times tables or make your own. Stick them up around the house, so that they are taking them in without even realising it.

Start with the twos Adding two to a previous number is something most children will find achievable in primary school and helps towards learning other times tables - the 2, 4, 6, 8, 10 pattern has an easy rhythm to remember.

Apply it to real life Instead of testing them, be playful about it. When you’re at the supermarket, if you’re buying loose fruit and veg, ask them if they know what the price would be if you bought three instead of two.

Brighouse Dyslexia Centre SUPPORTING CHILDREN AND ADULTS

iStock.com/real444

Hands up who got their smartphone out the last time they had to add anything up? You’re not the only one. Relying on a calculator is easy and convenient but getting to grips with maths, in particular times tables, is vital for children if they are to succeed at school. Here are some top tips to help make times tables practice that little bit easier:

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

YOUR CHILDREN ARE AMAZING ALREADY. WE JUST HELP THEM PROVE IT.

Find out what works best for your child If your child learns best using visual aids then go down that route, likewise, if listening and chanting helps them learn. Research relevant apps for helpful tools. Supervise these activities so if your child makes a mistake, you are on hand to explain and encourage them to try again.

Pick out the patterns Everyone has a favourite times table, because they find it the easiest to remember. The 9 times table has one of the easiest patterns to remember because, whilst the tens go up each time, the other number just goes down; 9, 18, 27, 36, 45, 54, 63, 72, 81 and 90.

Don’t bring your own feelings into it Teaching methods have changed, so you may have to brush up on your own arithmetic. Order a book like Maths for Mums and Dads if you are feeling outside your comfort zone.

Build their confidence It’s important that your little ones don’t lose interest in maths. Break down learning into bite-size chunks and make it as playful as possible. Encourage and praise them. Show them how far they have come, which should spur them on to keep improving.

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Maths & English From Reception to Year 11, NumberWorks’nWords afterschool tuition brings out the best in every student by:

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• developing our own programmes using only qualified Maths and English experts • following the national curriculum • teaching Verbal Reasoning skills and strategies Hudds_Ass

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EDUCATION

Finding your

passion

What do you remember from your childhood? Learning how to spell common exception words? Being shown by your maths teacher how to use the greater than and less than symbols? Probably not.

There are many things that we learn in school that are vital to our education and our future and yet they are often not the memories that stand out to us later in life.

I see this in our own pupils at Hulme. For the majority of children who attend an extracurricular club their self-esteem receives a great boost as they see themselves acquiring new skills and interests. I also notice how children start to set themselves goals. For example, pupils will tell me that they achieved a merit in their Speech and Drama exam but that they are aiming for a distinction next time.

Participants of clubs also learn to prioritise their workload at a very young age, by deciding when to do their homework and when to practise playing an instrument or learning the lines and songs that they have been given. Our Gardening Club members and School Councillors at Hulme are developing an awareness of the importance of helping the school and our local community.

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Giving children the opportunity to find their passion is something that is very important to me in my new role and it is why I firmly believe that extracurricular activities should be an integral part of school life for all children. Research shows that giving children access to a diverse range of activities can be hugely advantageous for them.

There are many proven benefits to participating in extracurricular activities and I would encourage all parents to allow their children to try out an array of activities in order to find a new passion or skill.

Maybe we have the next Darcey Bussell or David Beckham in our dance classes or football sessions.

Carolyn Barnett is Head of Nursery and Infants at Oldham Hulme Grammar School. Visit www.ohgs.co.uk

E

DiD your chilD secure their recePtioN clAss PlAce? If your child hasn’t been offered a place at their chosen primary school for September 2017, there is still time to join our boys and girls in Reception.

Call our team or visit our website to find out more.

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

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C lu bs & C la ss es

Why children should do ballet

Anna Jurkovska/Shutterstock.com

A ballet practice provides many benefits that go beyond the classroom, even for a young child.

Young children naturally respond to music with joyful movement, and are enthusiastic about learning new things. Because a young child’s brain acquires knowledge more easily, an early introduction to ballet is beneficial.

Ballet teaches body awareness and self-control, and helps a child with fine and gross motor skills, coordination, balance and posture.

The skills learned in ballet are applicable to many other forms of dance, and the strength and flexibility acquired provide an excellent foundation for future physical activity.

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In ballet, a child learns to focus and follow instructions in a fun setting. The child develops confidence and pride in a job well done.

The practice benefits the child’s social development and teaches teamwork. The routine encourages discipline that will positively affect all areas of life going forward.

Ballet is a wonderful channel for a young child’s energy and enthusiasm. As a child begins a ballet practice, it’s important to remember that all children are different and will find comfort in a new setting on their own schedule. A child may not participate in every exercise right away, please be patient and let your child develop in their own time.

Pennie Lee-Connell runs Silk School of Dance in Huddersfield. For more information, visit www.silkschoolofdance.co.uk.

Dance classes for ages 2 to adult Specialising in Ballet, Tap, Modern, Contemporary, Acro and Street Dance.

Competitions, IDTA Examinations and Show Work

Classes in Holmfirth, Shelley and Kirkheaton | from 18 months Ballet, Tap, Jazz, Acro and Musical Theatre. www.SilkSchoolofdance.co.uk Silk School of Dance, Huddersfield

07795 573030

Unit 11D, Nortonthorpe Mills, Scissett, Huddersfield, HD8, 9LA k on 07760 305506 Call Miss Natalie Coo om cademy@outlook.c cea dan alia nat ail or e-m

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CLUBS & CLASSES Giving parents peace of mind Did you know that up until two years ago there was no code of practice or even any guidelines in place to monitor standards in the children’s activities sector or to help parents make informed choices about clubs and classes for their children?

Children’s activities are a valued and much loved feature in the weekly routine for many families countrywide and when attending a structured activity, class or club it is only natural for parents to assume that the organiser is regulated.

Clubs and classes in your area...

5, 12, 19, 26 May BANKFIELD BUDDIES! Bankfield Museum, Boothtown Road, Halifax, HX3 6HG, 01422 352334 museums.calderdale.gov.uk A relaxed, friendly environment to play, enjoy a story and learn more about the objects on display. Ages 0- 5. £2 per child. Meet in Akroyd Library in the museum.

10.30-11.15am.

13, 27 May, 10, 24 June SATURDAY ART CLUBS

Set-up by leading industry experts in 2015, the Children’s Activities Association (CAA), is a not-for-profit, industry-led independent association that is committed to setting and raising standards in all organised children’s activities across the UK.

Bankfield Museum, Boothtown Road, Halifax HX3 6HG, 01422 352334 calderdale.gov.uk/museums A variety of creative arts and crafts activities in museums and galleries. To book a place please contact Jeffrey Andrews. Ages 8–14. £5. 10.30am-12.30pm

When choosing activities, parents can now easily get peace of mind on a range of important issues such as insurance, health and safety, criminal record checks, training, qualifications, class content and much more just by asking one question – ‘Are you a CAA member?

6, 20 May, 3, 17 June

The CAA gives recognition to those providers who excel and gives parents a ‘benchmark’ when selecting classes for their little ones from the myriad of providers out there. From baby massage to swimming, gymnastics to crafts and football to yoga, ensuring that the provider is a CAA member is now a very important part of the decision-making process for mums, dads and carers.

CAA founder, businesswoman and mum Sam Willoughby, said: “Having worked in this thriving area of business for over a decade I realised that the companies working so hard to deliver excellence for children had no way to get any independent accreditation.

“We have worked hard to develop a relevant Code of Practice and robust accreditation process and so now for the first-time parents can feel confident making informed decisions when making their choices.”

The CAA is led by Dr Amanda Gummer PhD, one of the UK’s leading experts in child development and Founder of Fundamentally Children, an organisation dedicated to helping children develop skills through play.

For more on the CAA including list of members and full information visit www.childrensactivitiesassociation.org

SATURDAY ART CLUBS Smith Art Gallery, Halifax Road, Brighouse HD6 2AF, 01422 352334 calderdale.gov.uk/museums A variety of creative arts and crafts activities in museums and galleries. To book a place please contact Jeffrey Andrews. Ages 8–14. £5. 10.30am-12.30pm

24 May SPLAY ACTIVITY SESSION Oldham Library, Civic Centre, West Street, Oldham, OL1 1UT, 0161 770 3000 oldham.gov.uk/libraries Sport through Play (SPLAY) is a fun and physical play activity session for children 18 months – 4 years.

1.30pm – 2.30pm.

7, 14 June BABY DAYS NATIONAL BOOKSTART WEEK EVENT Oldham Library (OL1 1UT) and Limehurst Library (OL8 3HH), 0161 770 8013 oldham.gov.uk/libraries These wonderful, relaxed sensory sessions are free and a great way to introduce babies up to 18 months to the library. 10am – 12 at Oldham Library 9.30am – 11.30am at Limehurst Library.

9, 16, 23, 30 June BANKFIELD BUDDIES! Bankfield Museum, Boothtown Road, Halifax, HX3 6HG, 01422 352334 museums.calderdale.gov.uk A relaxed, friendly environment where children can play, enjoy a story and learn more about objects on display. Ages 0-5. £2 per child. Meet in Akroyd Library in the museum. 10.30-11.15am.

21 June ROCKABY ROADSHOW

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Oldham Library, Civic Centre, West Street, Oldham, OL1 1UT, 0161 770 3000 oldham.gov.uk/libraries Soothing live music sessions with multisensory lights and aromas to create the right mood to help you and you baby relax. For non-crawlers. Booking essential. 10.15–11.30am & 1.15–2.30pm

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WHAT’S ON MAY – JUNE 2017 10 & 11 June A DAY OUT WITH THOMAS

THEATRE & FILM

SPRING

Kirklees Light Railway, Park Mill Way, Clayton West, Huddersfield, West Yorkshire, HD8 9XJ, 01484 865 727 kirkleeslightrailway.com Kirklees Light Railway is expecting a visit from a very special Tank Engine and his friends. A great day out plus fun activities. Booking advised. 10am

7 May THE SCARECROWS’ WEDDING

18 June

Theatre Royal Wakefield, Drury Lane, Wakefield, WF1 2TE, 01924 211311 theatreroyalwakefield.co.uk A heart-warming adaptation of Julia Donaldson & Axel Scheffler’s bestselling book bursting at the seams with Scamp Theatre’s inimitable style, with wit, drama, and wedding bells!

Age recommendation 3+. £12-£15

BRASS IN THE GARDEN Tolson Museum, Ravensknowle Park, Wakefield Road, Huddersfield HD5 8DJ, 01484 223240 kirklees.gov.uk/museums Join us for an enjoyable afternoon of music by MusicaKirklees Brass Band in the Memorial Garden. Please bring your own seats. Organised by the Friends of Tolson and Ravensknowle.

2pm. Free

20 May KUBO AND THE TWO STRINGS (PG) Gallery Oldham, Greaves Street, Oldham, Greater Manchester, OL1 1AL, 0161 770 4742 galleryoldham.org.uk/small-cinema £3.50 including a goodie bag with drink and popcorn for kids. Booking required. 2pm (12pm2pm – art and craft activities).

27 - 28 May BEN & HOLLY’S LITTLE KINGDOM The Victoria Theatre, Fountain Street, Halifax, HX1 1BP, 01422 351158 victoriatheatre.co.uk Join Ben and Holly and friends on an exciting, enchanting and magical musical adventure packed full of games, songs and laughter. For families. £17 & £15 (plus concessions & family tickets).

1 June THE WIND IN THE WILLOWS The Victoria Theatre, Fountain Street, Halifax, HX1 1BP, 01422 351158 victoriatheatre.co.uk Join the hilarious Mr Toad and his trusted companions as they leap through the countryside and battle the wicked Weasel King in this all-new family musical adventure. For families. £17

2-4 June PASS IT ON National Coal Mining Museum for England, Caphouse Colliery, New Road, Overton, Wakefield, Yorkshire, WF4 4RH, 01924 848806. ncm.org.uk/ whispering-wood-folk.co.uk/ Whispering Wood Folk bring the National Coal Mining Museum to life with a daring mixture of aerial acrobatics, folk story-telling and outdoor theatre. £7.50 per adult (16+). £5 per child (under 16)

27 Jun - 2 Jul FANTASTIC MR FOX The Alhambra Theatre, Morley Street, Bradford, BD7 1AJ, 01274 432000 bradford-theatres.co.uk A juicy tale of greed, pride and the power of friendship, with live music and songs and gloriumptious designs, part of the Roald Dahl centenary celebrations. Suitable for ages 5+. £14-£22.50

LeedsMuseums

DINOSAUR DETECTIVES The Lawrence Batley Theatre, Queen’s Square, Queen Street, Huddersfield, HD1 2SP, 01484 430528 thelbt.org A historical story about looking for dinosaur bones, combining puppetry with projection and shadow theatre. For all dinosaur enthusiasts, both young and old. 5-10 years. £7.

13 & 14 May A DAY OUT WITH THOMAS Kirklees Light Railway, Park Mill Way, Clayton West, Huddersfield, West Yorkshire, HD8 9XJ, 01484 865 727 kirkleeslightrailway.com Kirklees Light Railway is expecting a visit from a very special Tank Engine and his friends. A great day out plus fun activities. Booking advised. 10am

25 June RAVENSKNOWLE GALA Tolson Museum, Ravensknowle Park, Wakefield Road, Huddersfield HD5 8DJ, 01484 223240 kirklees.gov.uk/museums Stalls, entertainment, music and rides. The Museum will be open too with refreshments for sale. 12-7pm. Free entry, some attractions may charge a fee.

LeedsMuseums –Kirkstall Abbey Markets

13 - 14 May

14 May NATIONAL CHILDREN’S DAY Eureka! The National Children's Museum, Discovery Road, Halifax, West Yorkshire, HX1 2NE, 01422 330069 eureka.org.uk A chance for kids to be kids at the UK’s leading interactive museum for children as they celebrate this national day dedicated to children. Standard entry or free with your Annual Pass.

19 May MUSEUMS AT NIGHT – BANKFIELD CHRONICLES VICTORIAN MURDER MYSTERY Bankfield Museum, Boothtown Road, Halifax, HX3 6HG, 01422 352334 ticketsource.co.uk Follow the two Victorian characters to solve the mystery at the mansion. Ages 8+. £9.50 per adult and £6.50 for children, including refreshments.

Children must be accompanied by a parent/carer.

6-8pm. Booking essential.

27 – 28 May KIRKSTALL ABBEY MARKETS Kirkstall Abbey, Abbey Walk, Kirkstall Road, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS5 3EH, 0113 230 5492 leeds.gov.uk/kirkstallabbeymarket Find some of Yorkshire’s best produce. All products are locally sourced, produced and supplied by award winning people. You will also find jewellery, fashion and collectables. FREE. 12pm-3pm.

3 June LEEDS WOOL FESTIVAL Leeds Industrial Museum, Canal Road, Armley, Leeds, LS12 2QF, 0113 378 3173 leeds.gov.uk/WoolFestival Leeds Wool Festival is a celebration of all things woolly! With spinning, felting, market stalls, a 1930s cinema, WI pop up café, plus livestock, performances, workshops and more! 10am-5pm

8 June ‘LET’S EXPLORE OUTDOORS’ Alexandra Park, Oldham, OL8 2BN, 0161 770 4056 National Bookstart Week activities include: PramPush/Toddle Waddle/Information/history walk around the park; treasure Hunt; teddy bear’s picnic; themed stories, songs and craft activities plus lots more. 10am-12pm

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WHAT’S ON MAY – JUNE 2017

HALF TERM

27 May – 4 June THE DINOSAUR RETURNS Leeds City Museum, Millennium Square, Leeds, LS2 8BH, 0113 224 3732 leeds.gov.uk/schoolholidays The dinosaur bones are back for the holidays, with fossils to investigate, crimes to solve, costumes to wear and dino things to craft. Prizes for dino-tastic fancy dress. From 11am.

FREE

27 May – 4 June THEMED CRAFTS Abbey House Museum, Abbey Walk, Abbey Rd, Kirkstall, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS5 3EH, 0113 230 5492 leeds.gov.uk/schoolholidays Daily themed trails and crafts – from a murder mystery in the Victorian street on Monday, to superhero crafts. 10am-12pm & 2pm-4pm (Free with admission)

27 May – 4 June FAIRYTALE WEEK Lotherton Hall, Off Collier Lane, Aberford, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS25 3EB, 0113 378 2959 leeds.gov.uk/schoolholidays Follow the traditional tales trail and get lost in your imagination in Lotherton’s own fairy tale. With storytelling, storybook crafts, dressing up and a fairytale picnic on 1 June.

(Free with admission)

27 May - 4 June ANIMAL ADVENTURE Eureka! The National Children's Museum, Discovery Road, Halifax, West Yorkshire, HX1 2NE, 01422 330069 eureka.org.uk Meet some very special 2 and 4-legged friends with the chance to stroke, feed and cuddle the visiting farm animals. Standard entry or free with your Annual Pass.

27 May - 4 June

30 May, 1,6, 8 June

ANIMAL ISLAND

MAKE, DO AND PLAY

Thwaite Mills Watermill, Thwaite Lane, Stourton, Leeds, LS10 1RP, 0113 3782983 leeds.gov.uk/school holidays Explore animal and insect life on the Island, with activities for all the family. With nature packs, art kits, and the chance to make a butterfly or dragonfly.

(Free with admission)

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.

29 May - 1 June

Kirkstall Abbey, Abbey Walk, Kirkstall Road, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS5 3EH, 0113 230 5492 leeds.gov.uk/schoolholidays Under-5s session with lots of gnome based activities. Older siblings welcome. 10-11am. FREE

DRAWING, DIPPING AND DISCOVERY DAY 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.

29 May - 1 June HALF TERM HOLIDAY FUN! Gallery Oldham, Greaves Street, Oldham, Greater Manchester, OL1 1AL, 0161 770 4653 galleryoldham.org.uk Free family activities taking place during the school holidays. Face painting and craft activities. Suitable for ages 4–10 years. 1-4pm

30 May HALF TERM ACTIVITY EVENT Bagshaw Museum, Wilton Park, Batley WF17 0AS, 01924 324765 kirklees.gov.uk/museums Celebrate Local History Month with an event relating to a famous local biscuit manufacturer, with a crumbly biscuit trail and decorating biscuits.

12-4pm. £1 per child

30 & 31 May SPARKS! HALF TERM FUN Bankfield Museum, Boothtown Road, Halifax, HX3 6HG, 01422 352334 ticketsource.co.uk Create a Native American instrument, learn some campfire songs and make a cowboy/girl or Native American puppet. Booking essential. Ages 4-12. £3.50/ £2.50 for PTL. 11-12pm, 1-2pm and 2-3pm.

27 May - 4 June

30 - 31 May, 1 - 2 June,

ODD ONE OUT

WOOLLY WONDERS

Oakwell Hall Country Park, Nova Lane, Birstall, Batley WF17 9LG, 01924 324761 kirklees.gov.uk/museums Fun quiz spotting objects in the rooms that wouldn’t have been around when the Batts lived here.

12noon-5pm. Free to take part but normal Hall admission charges apply.

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Leeds Industrial Museum, Canal Road, Armley, Leeds, LS12 2QF, 0113 378 3173 leeds.gov.uk/schoolholidays A celebration of all things woolly, leading up to the Leeds Wool festival. Have a go at making your own felt or try weaving! 10.30am12.30pm and 1.30-3.30pm (Free with admission)

30 May - 4 June MINI GNOMES

31 May HALF TERM ACTIVITY DAY Tolson Museum, Ravensknowle Park, Wakefield Road, Huddersfield HD5 8DJ, 01484 223240 kirklees.gov.uk/museums Celebrate Local History Month with a local history quiz and the chance to design cloth, card & spin wool and make a mini rag rug. 12-4pm. £1 per child.

31 May

1 June MUSEUM MAKES: Saddleworth Museum, High Street, Uppermill, Saddleworth, OL3 6HS, 01457 874093 saddleworthmuseum.co.uk Make a Brass Band Banner and masking tape musical instruments.

With Soundscaping, drawing and 3D modelling. Book essential. £3 per child (age 4-11) 1 free adult per child

1 June DROP IN: FAMILY ART DAY Huddersfield Art Gallery, Princess Alexandra Walk, Kirklees, West Yorkshire, HD1 2SU, 01484 221964 kirklees.gov.uk/museumsGalleries Be creative and try out something new. Great craft sessions to spark the interest of both parents and children. 1-3pm. £1 per child, no need to book.

1 June EXPERIMENTAL THURSDAY – A BUG’S LIFE Thwaite Mills Watermill, Thwaite Lane, Stourton, Leeds, LS10 1RP, 0113 3782983 leeds.gov.uk/school holidays Become an investigator and discover the secret lives of bugs. 1pm-3pm.

(Free with admission)

WILDLIFE GARDENING AND HEDGEHOG DAY

2 June

Manor Heath Park and Jungle Experience, Manor Heath Road, Halifax, HX3 0EB, 01422 365631 calderdale.gov.uk Learn about wildlife gardening and how to encourage hedgehogs, bats and butterflies to adopt your garden as their home, plus craft activities.

Ages 2+. 10.30am-12.30pm and 1.15pm-3.15pm

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. 9am-5pm.

31 May, 7 June

2 June

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-3pm

1 June TUDOR PASTIMES Shibden Hall, Lister's Road, Halifax, West Yorkshire, HX3 6XG, 01422 352246 museums.calderdale.gov.uk Take a Tudor tour and investigate Tudor toys. Ages 4-12. Included in usual admission to the hall. 11am12noon, 1-2pm and 2-3pm Booking essential.

FREE FRIDAY

KITE MAKING Centre Vale Park, Burnley Road, Todmorden, OL14 7BS, 07712867619 calderdale.gov.uk Build your own kite and fly it (wind permitting). Look out for the large white marquee. £3.80 per kite (£2.80 for PTL). No dogs. Ages 5+. 10am12noon or 1-3pm.

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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.

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