LOCAL INFORMATION for parents of 0-12 year olds in HALIFAX TODMORDEN LITTLEBOROUGH OLDHAM ASHTON-UNDER-LYNE Let's SADDLEWORTH party!

WHAT’S ON

over MAY and JUNE

PARTY PULL OUT FEATURE

plus NEWS EDUCATION FREE CLASSES TAKE A COPY ISSUE 38 MAY/JUN 2017 BOOK YOUR FREE TRIAL TODAY!

BEATTHE SUMMERSLUMP WITH EXPLORE LEARNING!

EducationInvestor Awards 2016

/explorelearning @exploretutors

2 www.familiesonline.co.uk WELCOME It's PARTY TIME!! 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, IN THIS showcasing what our region has to offer for 04 07 PARTY parties. From venues, unique experiences, ISSUE NEWS PULL OUT as well as where to buy the perfect present, so hopefully we can help take the stress away from party planning.

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 11 EDUCATION 13 CLUBS 15 back of the magazine for what to do over AND CHILDCARE AND CLASSES WHAT’S ON the Spring bank holidays. iStock.com/Imgorthand iStock.com/real444 iStock.com/kali9 LeedsMuseums

If you want to feature your business in the magazine, get in touch at [email protected]. FAMILIES PENNINES We’d love to hear from you! Editor: Emily Raleigh 07974 401663 Enjoy! [email protected] www.familiesonline.co.uk

@FamiliesPenn /FamiliesPennines

CIRCULATION 20,000 DEADLINE Early June 2017 FRONT COVER Evgeny Atamanenko/Shutterstock.com Emily Raleigh Editor, DESIGNED BY Theresa McDermott, 07462 961793, Families Pennines 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.

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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 dip/Shutterstock.com 07974 401663 or e-mail [email protected].

www.familiesonline.co.uk 3 News MEDIA MUSEUM GETS NEW NAME

The National Media Museum in 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 There’s a new play gym in town the Museum for three months from September. 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 Will you be walking to School? disco room for 2-16 year olds within a brand new, secure environment.

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 Walk to School Week is 15-19 May 2017.

Join thousands of children across the country celebrating the Introducing… Soren’s House benefits walking brings. We know that walking to school makes children feel healthier and happier, while reducing congestion and pollution outside From playtime to suppertime, new children’s brand Soren’s House the school gates. Yet less than half of primary school children features a wide range of beautifully made, stylish accessories currently walk to school. Living Streets, who organise the annual sourced from a wide range of designer Scandinavian brands. event want to reverse this decline and see every child that can, Designed to please parents and little walk to school. ones alike, each piece has For more information or to order a challenge pack see: been chosen by local Mum www.livingstreets.org.uk/what-we-do/projects/walk-to-school-week of two Sally Jackson.

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

4 www.familiesonline.co.uk Ed’s School children take Reading control for Healthy Room Eating Week I’m Ed and here is my early Summer The British Nutrition Foundation’s (BNF) Healthy Eating book selection for you to enjoy. Have fun Week 2017 is taking place from 12 – 16 June and will reading! focus on building children’s knowledge about healthy eating and wellbeing, being active, food provenance and FOR AGES 5-7 YEARS cooking. Cowboy Pug: The Dog Who Rode for Glory by The theme is ‘applied learning’ to encourage children to Laura James (Bloomsbury £5.99) take ownership for their own health by becoming BNF ED SAYS: ‘Pug and Lady Miranda are ready for Healthy Eating Week Ambassadors and championing an exciting adventure with fun things in store like the Week in their own schools and at home. the county fair and candyfloss, but they also have to deal with Roy Ballam, managing director and head of education the runaway train, a water jump and even bandits. at the British Nutrition Foundation, said: “Positive 'This is part of a super new series with very funny illustrations. It behaviour change will only be sustained if is a great story for newly confident readers, boys and girls alike.' children, themselves, are motivated to lead

healthier lifestyles. We need to equip them with

the knowledge and skills to make better choices Evie’s Magic Bracelet: The Silver Unicorn by Jessica Ennis-Hill (Hodder £5.99) and, what better way to do this than by giving them the tools and motivation to work together and ED SAYS: ‘The day Evie starts her new encourage each other to take ownership of their school, she receives a gift from Grandma health.” Iris in Jamaica – a beautiful bracelet with a message. ‘Have a magical time!’ Evie is For more information about BNF Healthy amazed when she understands what the Eating Week 2017, visit seagulls and the animals at the city farm are www.healthyeatingweek.org.uk. saying, and realises this all started when she put on the bracelet from Grandma Iris.

iStock.com ‘This is a warm-hearted story with lovely illustrations. It is ideal for children reading on their own or reading together.’ Be part of... FOR AGES 7 YEARS PLUS A NATIONAL CELEBRATION OF CHILDHOOD 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 Learny- Go-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? ‘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, iStock.com/FatCamera although at first he thinks it’s really cool that his National Children's Day UK on 14 May is all about the importance father will be doing a spacewalk, he is actually of a healthy childhood and how we need to protect the rights and just missing him being at home. When parts of freedoms of children in order to ensure that they can grow into happy, the family solar system start to shake, Jamie healthy adults. picks up a strange signal on his mobile and things start to get really complicated. From small family and community get-togethers to city celebrations 'If you’ve ever wondered what’s out there with and countywide events, it's a great opportunity to raise awareness the stars, you will find this book a real page-turner.’ about local projects and things that you care about. Ed’s Reading Room is an exciting free book review website You can run any kind of big or small event in the week up to and for primary children created by Maggie Humphreys and Les including the day. Snowdon. See these reviews, download the reading activities for For more information go to www.nationalchildrendayuk.com these books and buy the books online at www.EdontheWeb.com.

www.familiesonline.co.uk 5 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.

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.”

The App is free to download via iTunes and is designed for discreet usage. Communication counts! Read more at www.childline.org.uk Research suggests early speech and language skills are the underlying foundation of later

literacy development. Communication skills Syda Productions/Shutterstock.com 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 award- winning 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.

6 www.familiesonline.co.uk PARTY pull-out

It's Party Time!

NEW

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 [email protected] 01484 400447 It’s amazing The Edge Play Gym, Church Lane, Brighouse, what’s out there in the HD6 1AT mind-boggling world of Free parking|Classes| Homemade food children’s party planning. From Private Hire optional | Parties science parties that go off with a bang, Play gym (0-8 yrs) | Disco room (2-16yrs) 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. But what happened to the good old days when parties used to be at home, and 10% off parties involved a cake, sleeping lions and pin the taking place during June 2017. tail on the donkey? Bring voucher with you on day of party. www.edgeplaygym.com 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. So, if you’re planning your child’s party, check out this special feature for inspiration. You can Shutterstock.com even pull it out and keep it all year round! Happy party planning! Skokan Olena/

iStock.com/mediaphotos

www.familiesonline.co.uk 7 PARTY pull-out

The A-Z

of party buzz words

is for Animals. is for Karts. Go Kart Parties are a whole lot of fun Most children are intrigued by them and enjoy and suit kids from age 4 to 14. They can be held on almost opportunities to get close. 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 Baking. Parties are available for children from age 4 and kids of all ages will enjoy licking out the is for Leisure Centres. Many leisure centres provide bowls! Most parties take place in your own great sport, soft play, trampoline or gymnastics parties. home or anywhere with a kitchen, but you don’t have to do the clearing up! Great for small groups. is for Music. Often with similar features to the classes they derive from, music parties is for Ceramics. are generally suitable for the 0-5 age group An ideal choice for arty children, who can decorate who love the mix of music, dance and musical pottery animals, mugs, egg cups and more, and have instruments. them fired and glazed on-site.

is for Nature. For kids who like the is for Dance. Book a dance party! Choose between great outdoors, head to an outdoor venue. ballet, street dance, latin and more, depending on your Many provide engaging games and activities child’s taste. Alternatively, opt for a dance-themed party as well as a venue for birthday tea. which might include dancing games, action songs, and dance ribbons. is for One Stop Shop. Reduce party stress with a party provider that offers a venue, is for Entertainer. Some specialise in magic or entertainment and food. Remember to check this dance, others provide all round entertainment tailored to a out when you are doing your research! particular theme, some provide a “special appearance” by a television character and others still focus on party games. is for Ponies. Many children love ponies, so imagine how special a party at a riding stables would is for Face Painting. A great choice for the younger be! Children can learn to groom the horses, go on a ride age group, with truly talented painters and good value for in a nearby park and learn some riding techniques. money!

is for Quality. Remember that the most expensive is for Golf. Enjoyable and exciting parties are not necessarily the best quality! indoor golfing parties include stimulating games that use a range of large, colourful targets, child-friendly is for Rugby. These parties often follow a similar equipment and safe foam balls. 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 Soft Play. These venues can be hired inclusive of is for Inflatables. There is nothing that is more toys, inflatables and ball pits and are a very popular choice guaranteed to get a young child smiling than the sight of a for kids of all ages, as most either cater for under 5’s or bouncy slide and castle at a birthday party! Find a suitable have a separate area for young children. venue to house these inflatables and hire them in!

is for Traditional. Remember you can keep is for Jeeps. Jeep driving parties are still fairly it simple. Young children are more than happy with party unique, considering that you can hold them indoors or games, a birthday tea and cake. If you want, you can hire outdoors, on a tennis court or in a church hall. An inflatable someone experienced to plan and execute the games! 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. is for Umbrella. Essential for outdoor parties, even in Summer! Nadezda Barkova/Shutterstock.com Skokan Olena/Shutterstock.com 8 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:

Something Bath bomb making classes is for Weather: a little Scented Events, Huddersfield, HD1 3EE, Remember not to rely on it! different? www.scentedevents.co.uk, 07980 586813

Lego parties Bricks 4 Kidz, Brighouse, HD6 4FW, is for eXtraordinary! www.brickparties.co.uk Don’t worry, your child’s birthday party Nerf Gun parties Colne Valley Black Belt Academy, Huddersfield, will always be eXtraordinary, just like HD7 5QG, www.cvbba.co.uk your child! Train fun Light Railway, Huddersfield, HD8 9XJ, www.kirkleeslightrailway.co.uk is for Yoga. Want your kids to have a zen experience? Yoga parties often provide a combination Disco of yoga and other forms of party entertainment. POP KIDZ Fun! Huddersfield, HD1 4LQ, Halifax, HX1 3NS, , WF2 8PG, 01484 429771, is for Zumba. You don’t have to be a teenager www.popkidz.co.uk or an adult to enjoy this latin-influenced dance/exercise A stylish, funky and fresh VIP sensation. Try a Zumba children’s party! 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.

Arts and THE STAR TREE STUDIO crafts 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

Bespoke children’s birthday parties and Cupcake cakes are a speciality. With two rooms available making 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 9 PARTY pull-out

Leisure Centres Play gyms

Leisure centres have lots to offer for parties. Play gyms are great places for birthday parties. Whether it’s a pool party, gymnastics or They do all the hard work for you, and you can sit football, there's lots to choose from, plus party back and relax. Below are some of the region’s rooms for food and party games. Contact your play gyms that offer fantastic party packages. local leisure centre for more details: BIG BLUE FROG Halifax HX1 5AN 01422 363878 ACTIVE ASHTON OL6 7AN 0161 330 1179 www.bigbluefrog.co.uk www.activetameside.com/active-ashton CHEEKY CHIMPS Saddleworth OL4 3DE 0161 626 2552 BATHS & RECREATION CENTRE WF17 5JH www.cheekychimpsplaycentre.co.uk 01924 565388 www.kirkleesactive.co.uk/batley-baths DIDDY MIDDY’S Cleckheaton BD19 5LY 01274 865495 h you www.diddymiddys.co.uk o teac r kids thei BRIGHOUSE POOL & FITNESS CENTRE HD6 4AX ow t r times 01422 288068 www..gov.uk/leisure FUN HOUSE Halifax HX1 1QR 01422 383131 H tab www.funhousehalifax.co.uk les COLNE VALLEY LEISURE CENTRE HD7 5AB ... 01484 766292 www.kirkleesactive.co.uk/colne JITTERBUGS PLAY CENTRE Littleborough OL15 9EG DEWSBURY SPORTS CENTRE WF12 8EN 01924 565254 01706 378123 www.jitterbugsplaycentre.com www.kirkleesactive.co.uk/dewsbury PLAY OLDHAM Royton OL2 6LH 0161 627 3000 HUDDERSFIELD LEISURE CENTRE HD1 4BP www.playoldhamltd.co.uk 01484 766269 www.huddersfieldleisure.co.uk PLAY² DIGGLE Diggle OL3 5PJ 01457 237260 OLDHAM LEISURE CENTRE OL9 6AF 0161 207 7000 www.playoldhamltd.co.uk/Diggle www.oclactive.co.uk PLAY PALACE Halifax HX1 2TE 01422 353700 SADDLEWORTH POOL AND LEISURE CENTRE OL3 6HQ www.play-palace.co.uk 0161 207 7000 www.oclactive.co.uk SAFARI SAM’S Honley HD9 6QB 01484 667383 SOWERBY BRIDGE SWIMMING POOL www.safarisamsplaygym.co.uk AND FITNESS CENTRE SPARKLES ADVENTURE PLAY Royton OL2 5QD HX6 3AB 01422 288078 www.calderdale.gov.uk/leisure 0161 628 5530 www.sparkles-play.co.uk SPENBOROUGH SWIMMING POOL & FITNESS COMPLEX TUMBLES PLAY GYM Cleckheaton BD19 3AF 01274 852542 WF15 6LW 01274 891767 www.tumblesplaygym.com www.kirkleesactive.co.uk/spenborough THE FUN FACTORY Linthwaite Huddersfield HD7 5QG TODMORDEN LEISURE CENTRE OL14 7DF 01706 839090 01484 845711 @thefunfactoryhuddersfield www.calderdale.gov.uk/leisure THE MAGICAL FOREST Huddersfield HD1 4QA 01484 537799 www.themagicalforest.co.uk And those little extras…. THE ZONE Huddersfield HD1 6PT 01484 484134 Soft www.huddersfieldcommunitytrust.co.uk Play A party isn’t a party without the cake, party bags, presents and outfit. Check out our THE EDGE PLAY GYM selection of providers that can help you put the Brighouse HD6 1AT 01484 400447 www.edgeplaygym.com [email protected] cherry on top of your party! This new play gym in Brighouse offers a fantastic PARTY BAG KIDS Huddersfield HD4 5NX disco room with state of the art lighting and sound www.partybagkids.co.uk system. Suitable for children of all age groups. HELEN GLEESON Independent Usborne books at home Private hire is optional and themed parties are organiser – Brighouse HD6 3TZ Facebook/bookclubhelen available. Prices start from £11 per child and include party food. Free parking. 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 Unique SOREN’S HOUSE Huddersfield, Gifts PEPPERMINT PIG Cleckheaton BD19 3JD 01274 878592 www.sorenshouse.co.uk This new children’s brand features a DESIGN 24 Cleckheaton BD19 3JD 01274 851371 wide range of beautifully made, stylish www.design-24.co.uk accessories sourced from a wide range of designer SHOELY SCRUMPTIOUS Mirfield WF14 8AT 01924 503825 Scandinavian brands by a local www.shoelyscrumptious.co.uk mum of two. From practical storage THE LOLLIPOP TREE Almondbury HD5 8US 01484 533660 solutions, tableware and accessories www.lollipoptreesweets.co.uk to educational and fun games and toys along with decorative prints and MILLIE AND BERTIE’S Mirfield WF14 8AB 01904 848510 soft furnishings. Facebook/Millie & Bertie’s

10 www.familiesonline.co.uk SEND YOUR SCHOOL OR NURSERY NEWS TO [email protected] and ChildcareEducation

teach your kids the ow to ir times H tabl ...easily es...

Hands up who got their smartphone out the last time they had to add anything up? You’re not Brighouse Dyslexia Centre the only one. Relying on a calculator is easy and SUPPORTING CHILDREN AND ADULTS convenient but getting to grips with maths, in Building confidence, self-esteem and achievement particular times tables, is vital for children if they Assessment of dyslexia, dyscalculia, dyspraxia and dysgraphia. iStock.com/real444 are to succeed at school. Here are some top tips to For diagnosis, support and specialist dyslexia & dyscalculia help make times tables practice that little bit easier: private tuition contact Francine Garnier. What should they know? Services are offered to children, adults, schools, FE and HE institutions, If they can already work out an equation like 3x6=18 without using a employers and employees 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. 07971 105743 www.brighousedyslexia.co.uk 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. YOUR CHILDREN ARE Start with the twos Adding two to a previous number is something most children will find AMAZING ALREADY. achievable in primary school and helps towards learning other times tables - the 2, 4, 6, 8, 10 pattern has an easy rhythm to remember. WE JUST HELP THEM Apply it to real life PROVE IT. 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.

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 Hudds_Assessment_Voucher_new.indd 1 23/12/2013 17:21 Everyone has a favourite times table, because they find it the easiest Maths & English to remember. The 9 times table has one of the easiest patterns FREE ASSESSMENT – to remember because, whilst the tens go up each time, the other From Reception to Year 11, BOOK NOW! number just goes down; 9, 18, 27, 36, 45, 54, 63, 72, 81 and 90. NumberWorks’nWords after- school tuition brings out the Don’t bring your own feelings into it best in every student by: Teaching methods have changed, so you may have to brush up • tailoring lessons according to Registered with Ofsted each individual’s needs on your own arithmetic. Order a book like Maths for Mums and Dads • setting achievable goals and Huddersfi eld 01484 487911 if you are feeling outside your comfort zone. monitoring their progress numberworksnwords.co.uk • developing our own programmes Build their confidence using only qualifi ed Maths and English experts It’s important that your little ones don’t lose interest in maths. Break • following the national curriculum down learning into bite-size chunks and make it as playful as • teaching Verbal Reasoning skills possible. Encourage and praise them. Show them how far they have and strategies come, which should spur them on to keep improving. Hudds_Assessment_Voucher_new.indd 1

23/12/2013 17:21 www.familiesonlineHudds_Assessment_Voucher_new.indd.co.uk 1 23/12/201311 17:21

Hudds_Assessment_Voucher_new.indd 1 23/12/2013 17:21

Hudds_Assessment_Voucher_new.indd 1 23/12/2013 17:21 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.

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.

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 iStock.SolStock will tell me that they achieved a merit in their Speech and Drama exam but that they are aiming for a distinction next time. There are many proven benefits to participating in extracurricular activities and I would encourage all parents to allow their children Participants of clubs also learn to prioritise their workload at a very to try out an array of activities in order to find a new passion or skill. young age, by deciding when to do their homework and when to Maybe we have the next Darcey Bussell or David Beckham in our practise playing an instrument or learning the lines and songs that dance classes or football sessions. they have been given. Our Gardening Club members and School Councillors at Hulme are developing an awareness of the importance Carolyn Barnett is Head of Nursery and Infants at Oldham Hulme Grammar of helping the school and our local community. School. Visit www.ohgs.co.uk

F I E D D E VI SED CUI

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 | [email protected]

12 www.familiesonline.co.uk Clubs & Classes

Why children should do balletAnna 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. 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 teaches body awareness and self-control, and helps a child with fine and gross motor skills, coordination, balance and posture. iStock.com/kali9 The skills learned in ballet are applicable to many other forms of Ballet is a wonderful channel for a young child’s energy and dance, and the strength and flexibility acquired provide an excellent enthusiasm. As a child begins a ballet practice, it’s important to foundation for future physical activity. 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

Unit 11D, Nortonthorpe Mills, Classes in Holmfirth, Shelley and Kirkheaton | from 18 months Scissett, Ballet, Tap, Jazz, Acro and Musical Theatre. Huddersfield, HD8, 9LA www.SilkSchoolofdance.co.uk Call Miss Natalie Cook on 07760 305506 Silk School of Dance, Huddersfield 07795 573030 or e-mail [email protected]

www.familiesonline.co.uk 13 CLUBS & CLASSES

Giving parents peace of mind Clubs and classes in your area... 5, 12, 19, 26 May 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 BANKFIELD BUDDIES! children’s activities sector or to help parents make informed choices , Road, Halifax, HX3 6HG, about clubs and classes for their children? 01422 352334 museums.calderdale.gov.uk A relaxed, friendly environment to play, enjoy a story and learn more about the objects on Children’s activities are a valued and much loved feature in the display. Ages 0- 5. £2 per child. Meet in Akroyd Library in the museum. 10.30-11.15am. weekly routine for many families countrywide and when attending a structured activity, class or club it is only natural for parents to 13, 27 May, 10, 24 June assume that the organiser is regulated. SATURDAY ART CLUBS Set-up by leading industry experts in 2015, the Children’s Activities Bankfield Museum, Boothtown Road, Halifax HX3 6HG, 01422 352334 Association (CAA), is a not-for-profit, industry-led independent calderdale.gov.uk/museums A variety of creative arts and crafts activities association that is committed to setting and raising standards in all in museums and galleries. To book a place please contact Jeffrey Andrews. Ages 8–14. £5. 10.30am-12.30pm organised children’s activities across the UK.

When choosing activities, parents can now easily get peace of mind 6, 20 May, 3, 17 June on a range of important issues such as insurance, health and safety, SATURDAY ART CLUBS criminal record checks, training, qualifications, class content and Smith Art Gallery, Halifax Road, Brighouse HD6 2AF, 01422 352334 much more just by asking one question – ‘Are you a CAA member? calderdale.gov.uk/museums A variety of creative arts and crafts activities in museums and galleries. To book a place please contact Jeffrey The CAA gives recognition to those providers who excel and gives Andrews. Ages 8–14. £5. 10.30am-12.30pm parents a ‘benchmark’ when selecting classes for their little ones from 24 May the myriad of providers out there. From baby massage to swimming, gymnastics to crafts and football to yoga, ensuring that the provider SPLAY ACTIVITY SESSION is a CAA member is now a very important part of the decision-making Oldham Library, Civic Centre, West Street, Oldham, OL1 1UT, process for mums, dads and carers. 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. CAA founder, businesswoman and mum Sam Willoughby, said: 1.30pm – 2.30pm. “Having worked in this thriving area of business for over a decade 7, 14 June I realised that the companies working so hard to deliver excellence for children had no way to get any independent accreditation. BABY DAYS NATIONAL BOOKSTART WEEK EVENT Oldham Library (OL1 1UT) and Limehurst Library (OL8 3HH), “We have worked hard to develop a relevant Code of Practice and 0161 770 8013 oldham.gov.uk/libraries These wonderful, relaxed robust accreditation process and so now for the first-time parents can sensory sessions are free and a great way to introduce babies up to 18 feel confident making informed decisions when making their choices.” months to the library. 10am – 12 at Oldham Library 9.30am – 11.30am at Limehurst Library. The CAA is led by Dr Amanda Gummer PhD, one of the UK’s leading experts in child development and Founder of Fundamentally 9, 16, 23, 30 June Children, an organisation dedicated to helping children develop skills BANKFIELD BUDDIES! through play. Bankfield Museum, Boothtown Road, Halifax, HX3 6HG, 01422 352334 museums.calderdale.gov.uk A relaxed, friendly For more on the CAA including list of members and full information environment where children can play, enjoy a story and learn more about visit www.childrensactivitiesassociation.org objects on display. Ages 0-5. £2 per child. Meet in Akroyd Library in the museum. 10.30-11.15am.

21 June ROCKABY ROADSHOW 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 Kzenon/Shutterstock.com

14 www.familiesonline.co.uk WHAT’S ON MAY – JUNE 2017

10 & 11 June A DAY OUT WITH THOMAS THEATRE Kirklees Light Railway, Park Mill Way, Clayton SPRING West, Huddersfield, , HD8 9XJ, & FILM 01484 865 727 kirkleeslightrailway.com Kirklees Light Railway is expecting a visit from a very special Tank Engine and his friends. A great 7 May day out plus fun activities. Booking advised. 10am THE SCARECROWS’ WEDDING 18 June Theatre Royal Wakefield, Drury Lane, BRASS IN THE GARDEN Wakefield, WF1 2TE, 01924 211311 theatreroyalwakefield.co.uk , Ravensknowle Park, Wakefield A heart-warming adaptation of Julia Donaldson & Road, Huddersfield HD5 8DJ, 01484 223240 Axel Scheffler’s bestselling book bursting at the kirklees.gov.uk/museums seams with Scamp Theatre’s inimitable style, with Join us for an enjoyable afternoon of music by wit, drama, and wedding bells! MusicaKirklees Brass Band in the Memorial Age recommendation 3+. £12-£15 Garden. Please bring your own seats. Organised by the Friends of Tolson and Ravensknowle. 13 - 14 May 2pm. Free DINOSAUR DETECTIVES 25 June The Lawrence Batley Theatre, Queen’s Square, RAVENSKNOWLE GALA Queen Street, Huddersfield, HD1 2SP, 01484 430528 thelbt.org Tolson Museum, Ravensknowle Park, Wakefield

A historical story about looking for dinosaur bones, LeedsMuseums Road, Huddersfield HD5 8DJ, 01484 223240 combining puppetry with projection and shadow kirklees.gov.uk/museums theatre. For all dinosaur enthusiasts, both young 13 & 14 May Stalls, entertainment, music and rides. The and old. 5-10 years. £7. A DAY OUT WITH THOMAS Museum will be open too with refreshments for sale. 12-7pm. Free entry, some attractions may Kirklees Light Railway, Park Mill Way, Clayton charge a fee. 20 May West, Huddersfield, West Yorkshire, HD8 9XJ, KUBO AND THE TWO STRINGS (PG) 01484 865 727 kirkleeslightrailway.com Kirklees Light Railway is expecting a visit from a Gallery Oldham, Greaves Street, Oldham, very special Tank Engine and his friends. A great Greater Manchester, OL1 1AL, 0161 770 4742 day out plus fun activities. Booking advised. 10am galleryoldham.org.uk/small-cinema £3.50 including a goodie bag with drink and popcorn for kids. Booking required. 2pm (12pm- 14 May 2pm – art and craft activities). NATIONAL CHILDREN’S DAY Eureka! The National Children's Museum, 27 - 28 May Discovery Road, Halifax, West Yorkshire, BEN & HOLLY’S LITTLE KINGDOM HX1 2NE, 01422 330069 eureka.org.uk A chance for kids to be kids at the UK’s leading Abbey Markets LeedsMuseums – The Victoria Theatre, Fountain Street, Halifax, interactive museum for children as they celebrate 27 – 28 May HX1 1BP, 01422 351158 victoriatheatre.co.uk this national day dedicated to children. Standard Join Ben and Holly and friends on an exciting, MARKETS entry or free with your Annual Pass. enchanting and magical musical adventure packed Kirkstall Abbey, Abbey Walk, Kirkstall Road, full of games, songs and laughter. For families. , West Yorkshire, LS5 3EH, 0113 230 5492 £17 & £15 (plus concessions & family tickets). 19 May leeds.gov.uk/kirkstallabbeymarket MUSEUMS AT NIGHT – Find some of Yorkshire’s best produce. All products 1 June BANKFIELD CHRONICLES VICTORIAN are locally sourced, produced and supplied by MURDER MYSTERY award winning people. You will also find jewellery, THE WIND IN THE WILLOWS fashion and collectables. FREE. 12pm-3pm. Bankfield Museum, Boothtown Road, Halifax, The Victoria Theatre, Fountain Street, Halifax, HX3 6HG, 01422 352334 ticketsource.co.uk HX1 1BP, 01422 351158 victoriatheatre.co.uk Follow the two Victorian characters to solve the Join the hilarious Mr Toad and his trusted mystery at the mansion. Ages 8+. £9.50 per adult companions as they leap through the countryside and £6.50 for children, including refreshments. and battle the wicked Weasel King in this all-new Children must be accompanied by a parent/carer. family musical adventure. For families. £17 6-8pm. Booking essential. 2-4 June 3 June PASS IT ON LEEDS WOOL FESTIVAL National Coal Mining Museum for England, Leeds Industrial Museum, Canal Road, Armley, Caphouse Colliery, New Road, Overton, Leeds, LS12 2QF, 0113 378 3173 Wakefield, Yorkshire, WF4 4RH, 01924 848806. leeds.gov.uk/WoolFestival ncm.org.uk/ whispering-wood-folk.co.uk/ Leeds Wool Festival is a celebration of all things Whispering Wood Folk bring the National Coal woolly! With spinning, felting, market stalls, a Mining Museum to life with a daring mixture of aerial 1930s cinema, WI pop up café, plus livestock, acrobatics, folk story-telling and outdoor theatre. performances, workshops and more! 10am-5pm £7.50 per adult (16+). £5 per child (under 16) 8 June 27 Jun - 2 Jul ‘LET’S EXPLORE OUTDOORS’ FANTASTIC MR FOX Alexandra Park, Oldham, OL8 2BN, The Alhambra Theatre, Morley Street, Bradford, 0161 770 4056 BD7 1AJ, 01274 432000 bradford-theatres.co.uk National Bookstart Week activities include: A juicy tale of greed, pride and the power of PramPush/Toddle Waddle/Information/history friendship, with live music and songs and walk around the park; treasure Hunt; teddy bear’s gloriumptious designs, part of the Roald Dahl picnic; themed stories, songs and craft activities centenary celebrations. Suitable for ages 5+. plus lots more. 10am-12pm £14-£22.50

www.familiesonline.co.uk 15 WHAT’S ON MAY – JUNE 2017

27 May - 4 June 30 May, 1,6, 8 June 1 June ANIMAL ISLAND MAKE, DO AND PLAY MUSEUM MAKES: Watermill, Thwaite Portland Basin Museum, Portland Saddleworth Museum, High Lane, Stourton, Leeds, LS10 1RP, Place, Ashton under Lyne, Street, Uppermill, Saddleworth, 0113 3782983 OL7 0QA, 0161 343 2878 OL3 6HS, 01457 874093 HALF leeds.gov.uk/school holidays tameside.gov.uk/museumsgalleries/ saddleworthmuseum.co.uk TERM Explore animal and insect life on families Make a Brass Band Banner and the Island, with activities for all the Artist led craft activities for all ages. masking tape musical instruments. family. With nature packs, art kits, £1 per child. 11am-3pm. With Soundscaping, drawing and 3D and the chance to make a butterfly modelling. Book essential. £3 per or dragonfly. 30 May - 4 June child (age 4-11) 1 free adult per child (Free with admission) MINI GNOMES 27 May – 4 June 1 June Kirkstall Abbey, Abbey Walk, 29 May - 1 June DROP IN: FAMILY ART DAY THE DINOSAUR RETURNS Kirkstall Road, Leeds, West DRAWING, DIPPING Yorkshire, LS5 3EH, Huddersfield Art Gallery, Princess , Millennium AND DISCOVERY DAY Square, Leeds, LS2 8BH, 0113 230 5492 Alexandra Walk, Kirklees, West 0113 224 3732 RSPB Dearne Valley, Old Moor, leeds.gov.uk/schoolholidays Yorkshire, HD1 2SU, 01484 221964 leeds.gov.uk/schoolholidays Old Moor Lane, Dearne Valley Under-5s session with lots of gnome kirklees.gov.uk/museumsGalleries The dinosaur bones are back for the Nature Reserve, Wombwell, based activities. Older siblings Be creative and try out something holidays, with fossils to investigate, Barnsley, S73 0YF, welcome. 10-11am. FREE new. Great craft sessions to spark crimes to solve, costumes to wear 01226 751593 the interest of both parents and and dino things to craft. Prizes for rspb.org.uk/oldmoor 31 May children. 1-3pm. £1 per child, no dino-tastic fancy dress. From 11am. Enjoy self-led crafts, then explore HALF TERM ACTIVITY DAY need to book. FREE the reserve to see what bugs, birds and pond life you can see. Pond Tolson Museum, Ravensknowle 1 June Park, Wakefield Road, 27 May – 4 June dipping kits and backpacks are EXPERIMENTAL THURSDAY – Huddersfield HD5 8DJ, available to hire. 10am–3:30pm. A BUG’S LIFE THEMED CRAFTS 01484 223240 , Abbey 29 May - 1 June kirklees.gov.uk/museums Thwaite Mills Watermill, Thwaite Celebrate Local History Month with Lane, Stourton, Leeds, LS10 1RP, Walk, Abbey Rd, Kirkstall, Leeds, HALF TERM HOLIDAY FUN! West Yorkshire, LS5 3EH, a local history quiz and the chance 0113 3782983 0113 230 5492 Gallery Oldham, Greaves Street, to design cloth, card & spin wool and leeds.gov.uk/school holidays leeds.gov.uk/schoolholidays Oldham, Greater Manchester, make a mini rag rug. 12-4pm. £1 Become an investigator and discover Daily themed trails and crafts – from OL1 1AL, 0161 770 4653 per child. the secret lives of bugs. 1pm-3pm. a murder mystery in the Victorian galleryoldham.org.uk (Free with admission) street on Monday, to superhero Free family activities taking place 31 May crafts. 10am-12pm & 2pm-4pm during the school holidays. Face WILDLIFE GARDENING AND 2 June (Free with admission) painting and craft activities. Suitable HEDGEHOG DAY FREE FRIDAY for ages 4–10 years. 1-4pm 27 May – 4 June Manor Heath Park and Jungle RSPB Dearne Valley, Old Moor, 30 May Experience, Manor Heath Road, Old Moor Lane, Dearne Valley FAIRYTALE WEEK Halifax, HX3 0EB, 01422 365631 Nature Reserve, Wombwell, HALF TERM ACTIVITY EVENT , Off Collier Lane, calderdale.gov.uk Barnsley, S73 0YF, 01226 751593 , Leeds, West Yorkshire, , Wilton Park, Learn about wildlife gardening and rspb.org.uk/oldmoor LS25 3EB, 0113 378 2959 Batley WF17 0AS, how to encourage hedgehogs, bats Explore the reserve to see what leeds.gov.uk/schoolholidays 01924 324765 and butterflies to adopt your garden bugs, birds and pond life you can Follow the traditional tales trail kirklees.gov.uk/museums as their home, plus craft activities. see plus self-led crafts. Reserve and get lost in your imagination Celebrate Local History Month with Ages 2+. 10.30am-12.30pm and entry is free to all children every in Lotherton’s own fairy tale. With an event relating to a famous local 1.15pm-3.15pm Friday of school holidays. 9am-5pm. storytelling, storybook crafts, biscuit manufacturer, with a crumbly dressing up and a fairytale picnic on biscuit trail and decorating biscuits. 31 May, 7 June 2 June 1 June. 12-4pm. £1 per child MEET TOMMY ATKINS: KITE MAKING (Free with admission) FIRST WORLD WAR SOLDIER 30 & 31 May Centre Vale Park, Burnley Portland Basin Museum, Portland Road, Todmorden, OL14 7BS, 27 May - 4 June SPARKS! HALF TERM FUN Place, Ashton under Lyne, 07712867619 calderdale.gov.uk ANIMAL ADVENTURE Bankfield Museum, Boothtown OL7 0QA, 0161 343 2878 Build your own kite and fly it (wind Eureka! The National Children's Road, Halifax, HX3 6HG, tameside.gov.uk/museumsgalleries/ permitting). Look out for the large Museum, Discovery Road, Halifax, 01422 352334 families white marquee. £3.80 per kite (£2.80 West Yorkshire, HX1 2NE, ticketsource.co.uk Have you ever wondered what a for PTL). No dogs. Ages 5+. 10am- 01422 330069 eureka.org.uk Create a Native American soldier wore, what he ate, how he 12noon or 1-3pm. Meet some very special 2 and instrument, learn some campfire lived, fought and died in the ‘Great 4-legged friends with the chance to songs and make a cowboy/girl or War for Civilisation’? 11am-3pm stroke, feed and cuddle the visiting Native American puppet. Booking DON’T FORGET farm animals. Standard entry or free essential. Ages 4-12. £3.50/ £2.50 1 June TO CHECK OUT with your Annual Pass. for PTL. 11-12pm, 1-2pm and 2-3pm. TUDOR PASTIMES OUR WEBSITE www.familiesonline.co.uk 27 May - 4 June 30 - 31 May, 1 - 2 June, Hall, Lister's Road, Halifax, West Yorkshire, HX3 6XG, FOR EVEN MORE EVENTS WOOLLY WONDERS ODD ONE OUT 01422 352246 Country Park, Nova Leeds Industrial Museum, Canal museums.calderdale.gov.uk AND ACTIVITIES Lane, Birstall, Batley WF17 9LG, Road, Armley, Leeds, LS12 2QF, Take a Tudor tour and investigate IN YOUR AREA!

01924 324761 0113 378 3173 Tudor toys. Ages 4-12. Included in kirklees.gov.uk/museums leeds.gov.uk/schoolholidays usual admission to the hall. 11am- Fun quiz spotting objects in the A celebration of all things woolly, 12noon, 1-2pm and 2-3pm Booking rooms that wouldn’t have been leading up to the Leeds Wool essential. around when the Batts lived here. festival. Have a go at making your own felt or try weaving! 10.30am- 12noon-5pm. Free to take part but Please be aware that things change so check details and suitability for your normal Hall admission charges 12.30pm and 1.30-3.30pm (Free family with the provider before setting out as Families Pennines cannot be apply. with admission) held responsible for the events we list.

16 www.familiesonline.co.uk