IN THIS ISSUE

Supporting your child through SATs

Food allergies: what you need to know

What’s on this Easter

B

GUIDING CHILDREN AGED 5)11 TO BUILD STRENGTH & AWARENESS, ALL WITH FEELING. ClassesClasses at the Grove Centre, Horsforth, LS18 4BH Tuesday 4.45pm & Friday 4pm E. [email protected] • T. 07903 366 753 W.W. bodymindandheartyoga.com Coming to your school soon.

Issue 63 March/April 2019 familiesonline.co.uk every te ache r who h as i ns pir ed me . i I a m Gr ovian. VENUE & TIMES Nort howram Met hod ist Chur ch Hal l MINI 9.15am - 10.00am - 2 years to 4 years The Dancing House, Gomersal BD19 4LF DRAMA 11.15am - 12.00pm - 2 years to 4 years Fu lly q ua lif ie d te ach ers The Gr ove Centr e, Horsfort h EVERY WEDNESDAY (TERM TIME ONLY) 2pm - 2.45pm - 2 years to 4 years from tw o yea rs old . COS T Advanced booking for half a ter m £5/session One of f bookings £5.50/session CONTACT US: Open D ay E: getintouch@northernartsfactory .co.uk W: www .northernartsfactory .co.uk T: 07747 105 277 or 07590 820 920 Thurs day 2 1st Marc h BRONTË Twitter: @NorthernArtsFac Facebook: @Northernartsfactory woodhouse grove.c o.uk HOU SE WELCOME BACK CONTENTS…

4 – 5 NEWS From around

6 MY CHILD CAN’T EAT THAT A guide to food allergies 5

8 –9 WHERE TO GO THIS EASTER Ideas for days out in March and April

11 TESTING TIMES How to support your child through SATs 9 14 – 15 WHAT’S ON? Theatre, activities and special events

Please contact Claire Bottomley to advertise in this magazine… 07799 667 041 Welcome back... 14 [email protected] Isn’t it great when you read something that completely chimes with what you’re going Make sure you pick up a copy of our through? This poem was sent in by a reader, and it basically describes my life right now. next issue, out early May! I’m sure many of you will relate or remember this stage. Thank you Kate.

Claire Bottomley CIRCULATION: (Editor) We distribute 25,000 copies of the magazine free of charge through schools, nurseries, playgroups, clubs and classes, selected retail I DON’T LIKE IT! – A CAUTIONARY TALE by Kate Edwards outlets and sports centres. Read by more This is a tale to warn you all To hear ‘Thankyou mummy for your culinary skill than 60,000 parents. If you would like copies The tale of the child, Of this tasty meal I will eat my fill!’ for your establishment please let us know. The toddler so small, Who, when they reach the age of ONE Now all this is fine If not for the WORST DESIGNED BY: Grow little opinions to warn everyone. To tell the world of the grown-ups so large The thing to make mums on the edge fit to burst Justin Leeming • 07745 038 005 ‘You didn’t really think you were in charge?’ The crockery and cutlery age old debate www.justinleeming.crevado.com The ‘THIS IS NOT AN APPROPRIATE PLATE!’ It starts with a face ‘I clearly asked for GREEN, not BLUE!’ PRINTED BY: That says… ‘And SPOTS, not STRIPES, ‘I’m really not sure Charlesworth Press, How naïve of you!’ If, of this meal I would like any more.’ ‘This knife is too big’ www.charlesworth.com ‘I may try it today just to make you feel ‘The cup is too round’ That you have prepared the most delicious meal ‘Keep looking ‘til the correct one is FOUND!’ Families Leeds is part of Families Print Ltd, a franchise But rest assured, tomorrow instead company. All franchised magazines in the group are I may just tip it over my HEAD! And of course independently owned and operated under licence. Families is Once the knife, fork and plate deal is sealed, a registered trademark of LCMB Ltd, Remenham House, Or on the floor, Regatta Place, Marlow Road, Bourne End, Bucks SL8 5TD. The dog or the cat, The meal has simply lost its appeal! The contents of Families Leeds are fully protected by copyright I may just MOULD it into a HAT ‘I’m full!’ the littlest ones declare and none of the editorial or photographic matter may be I may decide that you dear mummy But they always have room for the PUDDING fare – reproduced in any form without prior consent of Families Should wear my meal upon your TUMMY! The yogurt, the jelly, the custard to pour Leeds. Every care is taken in the preparation of this magazine, but Families Leeds Ltd; our distributors, the franchise And as for you my DARLING daddy, No ‘I don’t like it!’ to be heard any more. company, Families Print Ltd, and Lifecycle Marketing cannot You’ve not begun to see my PADDY!’ And when it’s all done, be held responsible for the claims of advertisers nor for the And meal time is through, accuracy of the contents, or any consequence thereof. For as they grow, these little ones We’ll do it again in an hour or two. Learn words to express their opinions The winner of our Ice Cube ticket competition was ‘Don’t like it!’ But as we message friends to reveal our woes Lizl Human. Congratulations to her and thank you to ‘NO!’ Or swap stories of how we’ve been kept on our toes all who entered. ‘Bleurgggh’ and ‘YUCK!’ We SMILE with such fondness, as if to say You very rarely have the luck ‘I wouldn’t have it any other WAY!’

familiesonline.co.uk Families Leeds 3 Families NEWS… FREE activities at Huddersfield LITERATURE FESTIVAL Step up for the WALK OF ART There will be something for the whole family at the Entry is now open for the 2019 Horsforth Walk of Art – so get in award-winning Huddersfield Literature Festival from touch if you live in the area and do something creative to inspire and March 21 to 31. From undersea exploration and Elmer the Elephant to engage others. Organisers are also looking for venues, so if you have parenting tips, autism-friendly events and a whole day of free family a shed, garage, conservatory or house that can be paired up with activities, there’s something for all ages to get stuck in to. an artist, or you would like to create something special for your front Marine biologist Dr Jon Copley – who worked on David Attenborough’s garden, get in touch. Follow news and updates on Facebook and popular BBC series Blue Planet II – will take you on a journey to the Twitter, or email [email protected] bottom of the sea with his family-friendly talk ‘Ask an Ocean Explorer’. Elmer the Elephant, who is celebrating his 30th birthday, will be meeting and greeting families at the Packhorse Centre in Huddersfield. School Governor Role… And for stressed out parents – there are proactive parenting tips from Mandy Saligari. Horsforth Featherbank Primary School is looking for a co-opted There will be dancing, food and fun for all ages, a chance to Governor complete the school’s full governing body. dress up as your favourite fictional character and free activities Applications are welcome from people within the local including crafts, storytelling, book stalls, free fresh fruit cocktails community, ideally with an interest in building maintenance. and a family film. If you would like to apply or to find out more, call 0113 2589 For more information, visit www.huddlitfest.org.uk or call 412 or email [email protected] 01484 951 108

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The Yorkshire Academy of Film and Television Acting (YAFTA) is and experience. open for applications to its Acting for Screen Youth Diploma, with “With previous auditions to be held on March 30. YAFTA students Based on Kirkstall Road in Leeds, opposite the Emmerdale Studios, securing paid acting the academy provides screen acting classes and diploma courses for work in everything both young people and adults who are passionate about pursuing from Emmerdale, to Casualty, Coronation Street, to Holby City, we’re careers as professional screen actors. incredibly proud of the YAFTA team and our actors.” The Acting for Screen Youth Diploma is a 12-month, part-time, The youth diploma is designed to fit around existing education blended learning course aimed at young people aged between 11 commitments to help young people to progress from beginner to and 16 who are looking to develop their skills and technique to professional actor within 12 months. It also provides an opportunity become professional screen actors. of representation with an accredited agency upon completion of Charlotte Armitage, YAFTA Managing Director, said,“Whether the course. your child has had previous drama training or looking to pursue a Successful applicants will be invited to attend an audition on dream to work in the acting industry, we support and guide our March 30, with an additional audition date in April to be confirmed. students through a structured syllabus specifically designed to help For more information, visit www.yafta.co.uk/acting-for-screen- them develop their craft as well as their industry skills, knowledge youth-diploma or email [email protected] looking for expert legal advice? “Very professional service, efficient and always very informative, keeping me we can help. updated throughout the 98% whole process. OF CLIENTS Thank you so much.” There comes a time when everyone needs advice from an expert. would use us again & Victoria recommend us

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4 Families Leeds familiesonline.co.uk FAMILIES NEWS

crèche for little ones not quite as active as you, with drinks in the bar for the grown-ups – or in the Jacuzzi on the terrace – we will make you wish that this was home!” She added,“Summer offers enough green (the mountains) and blue (the sky) to set you up for the whole year – and plenty of fresh air to fill your families’ lungs.” For more about Chilly Powder chalets for summer and winter visit www.chillypowder.com and more about summer in Morzine visit Anyone for ALL STARS CRICKET ? en.morzine-avoriaz.com/activities/summer-activities As summer approaches, children interested in getting involved in cricket can sign up to All Stars Cricket – a programme to help develop Lakeside PLAYGROUND gets a reboot… key skills in a fun and safe environment where parents can join in A group of parents too and help create moments to treasure. have successfully Aimed at children aged five to eight years old, to give them a great fundraised to give first experience in cricket, sessions are accredited by the England and a children’s play - Wales Cricket Board and delivered nationwide at over 2,000 centres. ground in Roundhay Following registration, All Stars Cricketers receive a kit bag full of Park a re-vamp. goodies to help them get their summer of cricket started and fully look The Friends of the part when they attend their eight weekly sessions. This year there Roundhay Park team is a brand-new Cricket World Cup themed activity book full of top tips of parents raised and games, and it’s a great place to keep the weekly stickers you get £159k in under a to celebrate All Stars achievements. year through events, For more information, visit www.allstarscricket.co.uk . Sessions grants and support begin in May. from local families and businesses. The money has replaced the worn-out equipment in Fancy a SUMMER the under-sevens area near the Lakeside café. They also added a new HOLIDAY in the Alps? historical timeline, featuring unseen images from the last 200 years, to the area. If you fancy a mountain holiday without Michelle Schneider, a Roundhay parent who visits the park regularly, the snow, family-friendly travel company said, “We use this playground about three or four times a week. The Chilly Powder is now offering summer location is fantastic but the playground was always such a let-down. stays in the Alps. The ground was full of holes and the equipment was falling apart. It’s With reasonably priced flights from fantastic to see some regeneration and the community coming together London airports to Geneva, then a short drive to Morzine, there is a to fund it. A big thank you to the Roundhay Playground Appeal.” warm welcome waiting from Chilly Powder’s Paul and Francesca Eyre. Sara Dawson, fundraiser and local mum who created the historical “With the main chalet – Au Coin du Feu – plus two chalets next timeline, said,“Roundhay Park is iconic it deserves a first-class play park door, you can organise your own meals, or join the party at Au Coin and we are so excited to make this a reality. The Lakeside Playground du Feu for dinners that you usually only dream of,” said Francesca. is accessed by children from all over Leeds, they will all benefit from a “Family friendly early evening meals for the children and a daytime better playground.”

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familiesonline.co.uk Families Leeds 5 HEALTH MY KIDS CAN’T EAT THAT! Tackling Food Allergies & Intolerances By Christine Bailey

If your child suffers with any type of food in the immune response that triggers their reaction, you are not alone. The latest surveys allergy. This means looking at your child’s estimate that true food allergies affect up digestive health since over 70% of the to 8% of children. Between 1997 and 2007, immune cells lie in the gut and probiotic the number of reported cases of food allergy supplements and fermented foods like in children increased by 18%. In a similar yogurts (coconut or dairy), kefir (coconut or timeframe, peanut allergy more than tripled dairy), sauerkraut, water kefir, kombucha and in those under age 18, going from 0.4% in kimchi are often recommended. They may 1997 to 1.4% in 2008. This does not take not all be tolerated by your child but consider into account the number of children with including some daily. Children also need food sensitivities and intolerances, coeliac plenty of fibre to support gut health. Avoid disease (an autoimmune condition triggered white refined foods and include plenty of by eating food containing gluten) or related starchy vegetables (carrots, sweet potato, atopic conditions such as asthma, eczema potato, beetroot, yams) and some whole - and allergic rhinitis. grains like rice or oats. In addition, healthy fats, particularly the What is a Food Allergy? essential omega-3 fatty acids and mono- An allergy occurs when your immune system unsaturated fats (found in avocado, olives responds aggressively to a harmless environ - Testing and nuts) reduce inflammation and help mental substance. This can include foods but If you do suspect your child may be reacting modulate the immune response and support also things like pollen, animal dander, dust, to certain foods, speak to your GP about gut health. So, if your child can eat fish, aim mould, nickel, copper, and latex. allergy testing. Depending on the suspected to serve it 2 or 3 times a week, especially oily These allergens can affect various parts of type of reaction, tests may involve skin prick fish (salmon, trout, mackerel, sardines). These the body and cause a range of symptoms tests or blood tests. In some cases, you will also provide vitamins A and D which are which may affect: be referred to an allergy clinic to undertake important for a healthy immune system. n the nasal passage (itchy, stuffy and/or these tests. If certain foods are identified, it is runny nose, postnasal drip) essential these are completely removed from EASY SUBSTITUTES… n the mouth area (tingling sensation, the diet. You will also need to avoid cross Having a food allergy does not mean your swollen mouth and lips, itchy throat) contamination with these foods when not child will miss out on their favourite foods. n the eyes (swollen, itchy, red eyes) eating at home. There are many savvy ways to replace n respiratory (wheezing, coughing, common allergen foods with alternatives difficulty breathing, shortness of breath) Nutritional Support in your cooking. n the skin (hives, rashes, swelling) One of the concerns many parents have Take eggs for example – these can be n gastrointestinal (stomach cramps, when their child is diagnosed with a food replaced with various alternatives in many vomiting, diarrhoea) reaction is what they CAN eat and how to recipes. ensure they are getting the required nutrients. In baking, you can replace one egg with Symptoms can occur from minutes to days Fortunately, there are now many super- any of the following: after exposure, ranging from mild to severe. market free-from products available for easy n 1tbsp agar flakes soaked in 2 tbsp hot Different types of food allergy trigger substitutions. Some are fortified with certain water to dissolve different types of immune response. A true vitamins and minerals. For instance, many n 60g of apple puree food allergy is known as an IgE-mediated milk alternatives contain added vitamin D and n ½ a mashed banana food allergy. This can be associated with calcium to support bone health. Remember n 1tbsp chia seeds soaked in 3 tbsp water anaphylaxis – a severe, potentially life-threat - though, just because a product is free-from for 10 minutes before use ening allergic reaction. Many people prone to does not mean it is healthy. Many free-from n 2 tbsp chickpea flour in 3 tbsp water anaphylaxis carry self-injecting epinephrine products are highly refined and nutrient poor n 4 tbsp drained liquid from a can of (epi) pens in case of emergencies. and can upset a child’s blood-sugar levels. chickpeas (known as aquafaba) The most common food allergies Prepared foods, such as free-from breads, n 1 tbsp ground flaxseed soaked in 3 tbsp in children are to: can be useful, but cooking from scratch water for 10 minutes before using n cow’s milk frequently is the healthiest and safest option. n 60g Greek yogurt, coconut yogurt or n eggs If you are concerned about your child’s soy yogurt n fish and shellfish diet, ask your GP to refer you to a nutritionist n 2 tbsp potato flour, arrowroot or n peanuts or dietician to guide you through a new cornflour with a little water n soybeans (and related products) meal plan and recommend nutritional n tree nuts (e.g. almonds, pistachios, supplements. Christine Bailey is the author of My Kids hazelnuts, walnuts, cashews, pecans, Can’t Eat That: How to Deal with Allergies Brazils, macadamia nuts) Immune Supporting Foods and Intolerances in Children (Nourish n wheat and gluten containing grains Supporting the health of your child’s immune Books 2018). (barley, rye) system is important since it is the imbalance

6 Families Leeds familiesonline.co.uk

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familiesonline.co.uk Families Leeds 7 Families Easter FAVOURITES From CSI investigations to medieval jousting; from mad hatter’s tea parties to campfire cooking, check out the wealth of activities on offer around Leeds and West Yorkshire this March and April. There’s really no need to be bored during the Easter holidays. Here are a some top picks… , East Leeds

Fall down the rabbit hole this Easter with four weeks of family fun at Lotherton. Get lost in the brand-new Wonderland Village, follow the white rabbit’s trail and get creative with kooky crafts. Join a Mad Hatter’s Tea Party each Wednesday during April, along with Flamingo Fun in the Nestbox Education Centre. On certain days also look out for the Easter Bunny for hopping games and challenges. www.leeds.gov.uk/museumsandgalleries The Deep, Hull

Visit the award-winning aquarium and encounter over 5,000 animals including magnificent sharks and rays, a colony of Gentoo penguins, The Piece Hall, Loggerhead sea turtles and hundreds of tropical fish. Throughout the Easter holidays, The Deep’s special agents will be Halifax taking a trip to the native coastline in CSI Seashore to find out all about the species that can be discovered at the seaside. Help them The Piece Hall is a stunning solve dastardly crimes as you go, and you might event earn a CSI location to explore this Easter. badge of your own. Set in the heart of Halifax, it has There’ll also be interactive presentations, family crafts, divers a fantastic programme of family feeding the animals, touchpool sessions, an interactive magic floor, events, workshops and activities fossil brushing station, soft play area and face painting. to keep the kids entertained. Check the website for timings. The Deep’s Day Plus Pass scheme They can decorate their own Easter eggs, meet Ryeland ewes means you pay once and visit as many times as you like for free for and lambs, join a local artist to create an illustration, plus a Family the next 12 months. Easter Egg trail and other fun activities. Check out the website for www.thedeep.co.uk. full details. www.thepiecehall.co.uk

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8 Families Leeds familiesonline.co.uk WHAT’S ON?

Thackray Medical Museum, Leeds

Calling all investigators! A crime has been committed. Can you help solve it? That’s the message at Thackray Museum, where Junior CSI will be taking Nostell, Wakefield place on weekdays between April 1 and 26. Use your finest detective skills to gather Nostell’s house and parkland are a treasure trove of adventure for evidence from around the museum galleries to families – with stunning architecture and furniture design inside and take back to the ‘lab’ for analysis. Get your white wildflower meadows, lakes, woodland and an adventure playground coat on and discover how fingerprints, hair, DNA outside. and insects help scientists get to the truth. There There’ll be a Cadbury Easter Egg hunt running over Easter from will also be the chance to learn about the April 15 to 22, and a range of activities including muddy play, history of forensics here in Yorkshire. cooking on a campfire, wild art and crafts. Check the websites for www.thackraymedicalmuseum.co.uk dates, times and occasional additional prices. www.nationaltrust.org.uk/nostell FREE Royal ENTRY! Armouries, Leeds

The museum will be bringing medieval England to life from March 30 to April 14 with activities including sword schools for little knights, have-a-go archery, daily storytelling performances and live combat demonstrations. On April 6 and 7, the Armouries’ impressive outdoor arena will be transformed into a battlefield to give visitors an insight into the brutal Ben & Holly’s Little War of the Roses. Over the weekend the arena will become a living museum as historical interpreters uncover the history of the conflict. Twice a day Kingdom at Victoria the arena will become a battlefield for a re-enactment. On April 13 and 14 visitors can get up close to the action at A Theatre, Halifax Day of Knights and see the knights from Team UK in training for an international tournament which will take place on Easter bank Join Ben and Holly, and their friends on this exciting, enchanting and holiday weekend. The sessions will take children aged six to 12 magical musical adventure packed full of games, songs and laughter. behind the scenes to meet the knights and learn what it takes to This beautiful story of elves, princesses and childhood innocence be a jousting champion. will be performed on March 22 and 23. Children under 12 months The International jousting tournament itself will be held from do not need a ticket and can go free. April 19 to 22, with tickets available via the website. www.victoriatheatre.co.uk www.royalarmouries.org

familiesonline.co.uk Families Leeds 9 Queen Eth elbur ga ’s C ollegia te

Queen Ethelburga’s has provided students with a vibrant and suppor tive school community since 1912. W elcoming day students from 3 months to 19 years and boarders from 6 years to 19 years. Outstanding a ca demic results • Extensive co -curricular programme Ex cellent pastoral care for all • Minibus ser vice a cross Y orkshire Academic, spor t, music & drama scholarships available Open day - 16th March • Infant / Junior school open morning 5th April

Queen Ethelburga’s, Thorpe Under wood Hall, Ouseburn, Y O26 9SS www .qe.org | [email protected] | 01423 333330 Education Supporting Your Child with Exam Stress As SATs tests approach in May, it can be a pressured and overwhelming time for the children sitting them and their parents. Here, children’s councillor Vicky Bellman shares some advice…

Stress and anxiety in young children is particularly heightened as they building blocks for emotional wellbeing. Make sure that your child deal with performance-related concerns, and their behaviour may is getting enough good food, water and sleep! suffer during a stress peak. It’s important to do what you can to respond from a place of Free time is Vital calm. Invite them to join you in feeling calm, rather than you joining them in emotional chaos. With that in mind, here are a few tips on It’s a difficult balancing act, but it’s important to remember that supporting your child at this time: primary school age children need plenty of free time – structured studying has to be balanced with plenty of unstructured free time. Keep it in Perspective Relaxation and fun are vital. Getting outside to play and spending time relaxing with family and friends are super-important at this time. Yes, of course exams are important. But everyone involved needs to A useful analogy to share with your children is that human beings remember it's not the end of the world if there’s a hiccup and things are basically machines. We need fuel, and we also need to switch don’t go as well as expected. There is almost always another chance. our engine off every now and again. Otherwise, we risk overheating! Help Manage Expectations Make Time for You Working longer than is advisable for their age, or expecting grades You can’t pour from an empty cup. Your children need more from significantly higher than their capabilities could well be detrimental you when preparing for and going through exams or tests. To be able to your child’s emotional and mental well-being. It’s important you to give more you need to be able to have more fuel in the tank. guide your children appropriately in this area. Connection is Important Encourage Good Work Habits Make sure you have family down time; perhaps, watching a movie Primary school children may find it hard to sustain concentration one night with popcorn, or going for a family walk, or day out. for longer than 30 minutes without a break. It’s important not to Don’t just save the treats for the exam results, as this reinforces to schedule too many study sessions in one day – one or two would be children that they have more value when they achieve more. Let the appropriate maximum for this age group on a weekend or school them know that their wellbeing and enjoyment of life is as vital when holiday day, but less if they are also managing homework. Otherwise they’re striving for success, as well as when they’re achieving it. your child will become stressed and it’s much harder for them to learn under pressure. Vicky Bellman is a counsellor at Fegans, a charity which counsels children and provides support for parents. Remember the Building Blocks For more parenting advice on stress and mental health, visit: www.fegans.org.uk/parent Again, when it comes to the real basics, we can easily forget the

familiesonline.co.uk Families Leeds 11 EDUCATION LAST MINUTE! Simple Creative Writing Workshops FREE World Book Day Costumes Free, drop-in creative writing workshops for children will be held at libraries around Bradford in April, run by Explore Learning. With World Book Day on March 7, you may Put A Spring in Your Step workshop will be held on April 16 at Great not have the time, energy, funds or inclination Horton Library, where children can jump straight into comprehension activities to provide a glitzy costume for your child to and learn some fantastic skills. Can they predict what will happen next? And wear to school. why did that character say that? Designed especially for children aged seven So here is Families list of book-related characters that require to nine years, it takes place between 1pm and 2pm. minimal accessories and that might work for your child this year: Journey to the King’s Throne workshop will be held at Bolling Hall Library and Museum on April 18, Eccleshill Library on April 23 and Laisterdyke Library TOM GATES SERIES by Liz Pichon • on April 25. All knights go through many quests and this journey White t-shirt, which children can decorate themselves to the king’s throne is no different. Travel back to medieval times, where with fabric or normal pens in the Tom Gates doodle style, children will joust their way through many grammar tournaments. Designed plus a paper plate for face. especially for children aged five to 11, they run between 1pm and 2pm. www.bradford.gov.uk/libraries • DIARY OF A WIMPY KID by Jeff Kinney White shirt, black shorts and black backpack. Early Years at THE MOUNT SCHOOL • BOY – LOST & FOUND by Oliver Jeffers Red and white striped top, hat and penguin toy. At The Mount School in Huddersfield, children can begin their early years education as soon as they turn three. • TINKERBELL – PETER PAN by J M Barrie Headteacher Janet Brook said,“Early Years education should ignite A fairy costume. children’s curiosity and enthusiasm for learning, so they develop their capacity to learn, form positive relationships and thrive.” Book characters that wear Pyjamas/Nightdress: She added,“At The Mount School, we know that children learn best WENDY – Peter Pan by JM Barrie when they are healthy, safe, secure and happy. Our Early Years classes SOPHIE – BFG by Roald Dahl provide a welcoming and stimulating environment with learning and TOM – Tom’s Midnight Garden by Philippa Pearce development opportunities planned around the needs and interests BOY – Polar Express by Chris Van Allsburg of each individual child so that every child is included and supported.” A wide range of active and interactive activities and extra curricular www.worldbookday.com/dressing-up provision give children the opportunity to find out about people and places, design and technology, art, music, drama and dance. www.themount.org.uk

Life Experience at QUEEN ETHELBURGA’S Emma Chapman, Head of Co-curricular at Queen Ethelburga’s, explains how students get involved in a wide range of activities at the school… At Queen Ethelburga’s, we believe the more direct experience of the world around them that students have, the better equipped they are to deal with life beyond QUEEN ETHELBURGA’S STUDENTS WORKING WITH BBC YORK school. We call it a Co-Curricular Enrichment programme because it is just that. Our students have over 100 activities to choose from and they discuss what and how they participate with their tutors, to get the best out of what is on offer, whilst maintaining a good balance with their studies. It helps them to build stronger friendships and social skills, develop a real team spirit and also gives them different tools to positively manage their time and both their physical and mental health. We run a Performing Arts academy on a Saturday morning, offer a huge range of sporting opportunities, as well as music and drama activities and clubs around academic subjects. This is in addition to the many more niche pastimes, such as fencing, parkour and Lego club. It builds their confidence, leadership and resilience, and gives them a taste of responsibility and autonomy, as they navigate their way through the different challenges each activity presents. www.qe.org

12 Families Leeds familiesonline.co.uk

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ASE ! T O C R ACK T HE C SOLVE T HE C LUES Easter 1–26 A pri l (W eekda ys) Just minut es from Leeds cit y c entre. On-sit e parking and refreshments. Beck et t S treet, Leeds, LS9 7LN thackraymedicalmu seum.c o.uk Fri 22 M ar ch, 4pm Sa t 23 M ar ch, 10am, 1pm & 4pm Box Of fice 01422 351158 www .victo ria theatr e. co .uk

familiesonline.co.uk Families Leeds 13 What’s On? THE DEEP, HULL

Have you got an event you’d like us to list? Code Club at Leeds Central Library – March 9 Email our What’s On editor, Lisa Ross, at Municipal Buildings, Calverley Street, Leeds, LS1 3AB [email protected] 0113 247 6016 www.leeds.gov.uk/leisure/libraries You will discover easy to follow projects which will help We took every care in preparing these entries you to learn a variety of coding languages by making but sometimes events are cancelled, or times games, robots, animations and websites. Code Club is a change. Please double check with the organiser global network for children aged 7 –11 (accompanied by to avoid disappointment. their parents). 11am to 12pm.

Queens of Industry at Leeds Industrial Rabbit Girl and the Search for Wonder at Museum – Except Mondays, to September 1 Leeds Central Library – March 9 Armley Mills, Canal Rd, Armley, Leeds, LS12 2QF Municipal Buildings, Calverley Street, Leeds, LS1 3AB 0113 263 7861 www.leeds.gov.uk/museums 0113 247 6016 andgalleries www.leeds.gov.uk/leisure/libraries Discover untold stories of women in industry from the Playful, poignant and with a little sprinkling of magic, early 20th Century to today. Rabbit Girl & The Search for Wonder is a new show inspired by stories about the joy of storytelling, coping Exhibition: Beavers to Weavers at Leeds City with loss and finding wonder in the world again. Museum – except Mondays, to June 1 Perfect for under 8s and their grown-ups too. Millennium Square, Leeds, LS2 8BH 12.30pm and 2pm. 0113 224 3732 www.leeds.gov.uk/museums andgalleries Christopher’s Caterpillars at Square Chapel Rainforests – Baby Friendly Curator Talks at An environmentally friendly exhibition displaying Halifax – March 3 – March 12 beautiful objects made by animals, from beavers to 10 Square Road, Halifax, HX1 1QG Millennium Square, Leeds, LS2 8BH weaver birds. 01422 349 422 www.squarechapel.co.uk 0113 224 3732 www.leeds.gov.uk/museums In his latest adventure, Christopher Nibble and his best andgalleries Michael Morpurgo: A Lifetime in Stories at friend Posie have been busy growing plants and food Curator of Natural History, Clare Brown, will discuss the Leeds City Museum – to June 16 in their garden whilst taking care of their six hairy pet mystery of the world’s rainforests, why they are there Millennium Square, Leeds, LS2 8BH caterpillars. Written especially for children aged 2 –7 and what lives in them. The museum’s baby friendly 0113 224 3732 www.leeds.gov.uk/museums (and their big people too) and told with Topsy Turvy curator talks are for new mums and dads; they welcome andgalleries Theatre’s own blend of energetic storytelling, hand- movement and noise from babies and toddlers along This exhibition is an exciting insight into the life and made puppets, original music and stunning scenery, with the opportunity for them to play, colour in and sit work of Michael Morpurgo, author of War Horse. Christopher’s Caterpillars is a bright and beautiful tale on comfy cushions. 10.30am. Exploring the imagination and story-telling of the much- of minibeasts and mystery! 2.30pm. loved children’s writer with original manuscripts and Disney on Ice at First Direct Arena – immersive experiences to let your imagination run wild. Ned Go to Bed at Bingley Library – March 7 March 13 to April 28 Every day during opening hours. An exhibition from Myrtle Walk, Bingley, BD16 1AJ Arena Way, Leeds, LS2 8BY Seven Stories, The National Centre for Children’s Books. 01274 438 780 www.bradford.gov.uk/libraries www.disneyonice.com Hear about Ned’s adventures with author Cathy Oakley Figure skaters portraying the roles of Disney characters Story time at Leeds City Museum – Tuesdays, Calvert and then create your own Ned storyboard with in performances derived from various Disney films. Daily. Thursdays and Sundays to June 16 illustrator Margaret Swift. Free drop-in family event for Millennium Square, Leeds, LS2 8BH younger children. Books will be available to buy and to Family Yoga – Adventure into the Woodland at www.leeds.gov.uk/museumsandgalleries have signed. 10am to 11am. We Are Wellness – March 17 Drop in to the Michael Morpurgo exhibition and enjoy 2 North Hill Road, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS6 2EN story time with one of the visitor assistants. 11.30am Ned Go to Bed at Burley Library – March 7 07403 868 551 www.wearewellness.co.uk to 12pm. This event will not run during school holidays. Grange Road, Burley-In-Wharfedale, Ilkley, LS29 7HD Family Yoga adventure into the woodland. Parents stay All dates are subject to staffing, if you’re making a 01943 863 714 www.bradford.gov.uk/libraries with their children. 3.30pm. special visit call 0113 378 5100 to check on the day. See above. 1.45pm to 2.45pm Ben & Holly’s Little Kingdom at The Victoria Matilda the Musical at Alhambra Theatre – World Book Day Activity Afternoon at Heaton Theatre – March 22 to 23 to March 23 Hub, Bradford – March 7 Fountain Street, Halifax, HX1 1BP Morley Street, Bradford, BD7 1AJ St Martin’s Church, Haworth Road, Bradford, BD9 6LL 01422 351 158 www.victoriatheatre.co.uk 01274 432 000 uk.matildathemusical.com www.bradford.gov.uk/libraries From the makers of Peppa Pig comes this BAFTA Matilda The Musical is the multi-award winning musical Decorate the library with “Story Bunting” or make a mini award-winning television animation live on stage. from the Royal Shakespeare Company, inspired by the story-book to take home. Listen to library volunteers 10am, 1pm and 4pm. beloved book by the incomparable Roald Dahl. reading aloud their favourite picture books every half hour. Free family event. 2pm to 6pm. My First Days Out with Thomas at Kirklees Rainbow Bears at Leeds City Museum – Last Light Railway – March 23 to 24 Wednesday of the month, to May 22 World Book Day Make Your Own Dalmatian at Park Mill Way, Clayton West, Huddersfield, HD8 9XJ Millennium Square, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS2 8BH Laisterdyke Library, Bradford – March 7 01484 865 727 www.kirkleeslightrailway.com www.leeds.gov.uk/museumsandgalleries 673 Leeds Road, Bradford, BD3 8EL Join Thomas the Tank Engine and his friends, Percy, Explore some of the stories in the Michael Morpurgo 01274 434 724 www.bradford.gov.uk/libraries Toby, Mavis and Emily as they visit the Kirklees Light exhibition. A craft session for under 5s and their carers. Make your own Dalmatian based on the book 101 Railway from the Island of Sodor. 10am –12.30pm. Dalmatians, one of this year’s World Book Day books. Free event for families with children up to 11 years. Code Club at Leeds Central Library – March 23 50 years of Lotherton at Lotherton Hall – daily 5pm start. Municipal Buildings, Calverley Street, Leeds, LS1 3AB Lotherton Lane, Aberford, Leeds, LS25 3EB 0113 247 6016 0113 281 3259 www.leeds.gov.uk/museums Zog at Leeds Town Hall – March 8 to 9 www.leeds.gov.uk/leisure/libraries andgalleries The Headrow, Leeds, LS1 3AD You will discover easy to follow projects which will help Lotherton hosts three exhibitions to celebrate its 0113 247 8384 www.leedstownhall.co.uk you to learn a variety of coding languages by making 50th anniversary as a museum, representing the past, Much-loved Zog by Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler games, robots, animations and websites. Code Club is a present and future of Lotherton. All three are free with comes to life in Mike Shepherd’s magical adaptation global network for children aged 7 –11 (accompanied by admission into Lotherton. with Johnny Flynn’s sumptuous folk score featuring live their parents). 11am to 12pm. musicians. 4.30pm Friday and 10.30am Saturday. Bedknobs and Broomsticks at Hyde Park Picture Billy Shakes: Wonderboy! Workshop at Leeds House – March 2 Superheroes Dance Workshop at Yorkshire Central Library – March 24 73 Brudenell Road, Headingley, Leeds, LS6 1JD Dance, Leeds – March 9 Municipal Buildings, Calverley Street, Leeds, LS1 3AB 0113 275 2045 www.hydeparkpicturehouse.co.uk St Peter’s Square, Leeds, LS9 8AH 0113 247 6016 www.leeds.gov.uk/leisure/libraries During WWII in England, Charlie, Carrie, and Paul www.yorkshiredance.com This hands-on drama workshop is a fantastic Rawlins are sent to live with Eglantine Price, Discover your dance superpowers at this fun workshop introduction to the life, stories and characters of an apprentice witch. 12pm. with heroic dance artists Laura ’LightSpeed’ Liddon and William Shakespeare for young people and their Danni ’Danger’ Byars. Ages 2 –8. 9.30am to 10.30am. families. Suitable for families with children aged Anything Could Happen at Seven Artspace – five to 11. Part of the National Shakespeare Week March 3 Make a Dance in a Day at Yorkshire Dance, programme. 11.30am – 12.30pm and 1.30pm – 31(a) Harrogate Road, Chapel Allerton, Leeds, LS7 3PD Leeds – March 9 2.30pm. www.anythingcouldhappenleeds.com St Peter’s Square, Leeds, LS9 8AH Join the growing throng of young storytellers and have www.yorkshiredance.com your children’s make believe brought to life, live on Work with professional choreographer TC Howard to stage. 1pm. explore what it means to be a girl, a woman, a mother or a daughter through dance. Ages 8 – 108! Under 18s need to go with an adult. 10am to 5pm.

14 Families Leeds familiesonline.co.uk What’s On?

AniMalcom at Square Chapel, Halifax – E.T. The Extra-Terrestrial in Concert at Leeds March 26 Town Hall – April 14 10 Square Road, Halifax, HX1 1QG The Headrow, Leeds, LS1 3AD 01422 349 422 www.squarechapel.co.uk 0113 247 8384 www.leedstownhall.co.uk Malcolm doesn’t like animals, which is a problem Showing of the film with John Williams’ Academy because his family love them, in fact, they’re wild about Award winning score performed live by the Czech them. A vibrant, energetic and gloriously funny musical National Symphony Orchestra. 7.30pm. from the award-winning Story Pocket Theatre. 7pm. Making Monday: Pom Pom Bunnies at the Hansel and Gretel at Carriageworks Theatre – Piece Hall, Halifax – April 15 March 27 to 30 Blackledge, Halifax, HX1 1RE The Electric Press, 3 Millennium Square, Leeds, LS2 3AD 01422 525 217 www.thepiecehall.co.uk 0113 376 0318 www.carriageworkstheatre.co.uk Go and make a cute pom pom bunny rabbit at the Children’s Theatre presents this lovable classic folktale, activity cart. told with suspense and charm. Hansel and Gretel are sent into the forbidden forest to gather berries by their Cadbury Easter Egg Hunt at Nostell – uncaring, heartless, stepmother. April 15 to 22 BEN & HOLLY, AT VICTORIA THEATRE, Nostell Priory and Parkland, National Trust, Doncaster Be Curious at the University of Leeds – March 30 HALIFAX Road nr Wakefield, WF4 1QE The University, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS2 9JT 01924 863 892 www.nationaltrust.org.uk 0113 243 1751 www.leeds.ac.uk Follow your map to find clues and games, discover more Have you ever wondered what happens in a University? Spring Fair at The Donkey Sanctuary – April 7 about Nostell’s spring residents, and claim your yummy Go along for a day of free, family friendly activities at Swan Lane, Eccup, Leeds, LS16 8AZ Cadbury chocolate prize. Admission ticket needed. the University of Leeds. 10am to 4pm. www.thedonkeysanctuary.org.uk £2.50 per hunt sheet. Hunt runs daily 10am –3pm. A seasonal celebration with the donkeys – the perfect Medieval Easter at the Royal Armouries leap into Spring. Decorate A Chocolate Egg at the Piece Hall, Museum – March 30 to April 14 Halifax – April 17 Armouries Drive, Leeds, LS10 1LT Anything Could Happen at Seven Artspace – Blackledge, Halifax, HX1 1RE 0113 220 1999 royalarmouries.org April 7 01422 525 217 www.thepiecehall.co.uk Entertain the family during the Easter Holidays with an 31(a) Harrogate Road, Chapel Allerton, Leeds, LS7 3PD Join the Chocolate Box team to learn about the history action-packed programme of medieval-themed events www.anythingcouldhappenleeds.com of chocolate and do some tasting. Children will get to and activities. Daily from 10am. Join the growing throng of young storytellers and have decorate their own chocolate egg and create a beautiful your children’s make believe brought to life, live on box to carry it home in. CSI Seashore at The Deep – March 30 to April 28 stage. 1pm. Tower St, Hull HU1 4DP International Jousting Tournament at the 01482 381 000 www.thedeep.co.uk Easter Activities at Nostell – April 8 to 12 Royal Armouries – April 19 to 22 Throughout the Easter holidays The Deep’s special Nostell Priory and Parkland, National Trust, Doncaster Armouries Drive, Leeds, LS10 1LT agents will be taking a trip to our native coastline in CSI Road nr Wakefield, WF4 1QE 0113 220 1999 www.royalarmouries.org Seashore to find out all about the species that can be 01924 863892 www.nationaltrust.org.uk One of the greatest spectacles in Yorkshire – authentic discovered at the seaside. Help them solve dastardly Loads of Easter family fun all week at Nostell. jousting in the heart of Leeds. crimes as you go, and you might event earn a CSI badge On Monday get stuck into muddy wild play in the of your own. Other holiday activities include interactive adventure playground. On Tuesday set out on an The Gruffalo and The Gruffalo’s Child at Leeds presentations, crafts and face-painting. outdoor adventure to Engine Wood to learn all about Town Hall – April 20 cooking on a campfire (£2 per person). On Wednesday The Headrow, Leeds, LS1 3AD Fantastical Beasts Exhibition at Temple try out wild art in the adventure playground and on 0113 2478 384 www.leedstownhall.co.uk Newsam – Daily from March 30 Thursday and Friday roll up your sleeves and discover Terry Davies conducts the Orchestra of Opera North Road, Off Selby Road, Leeds, LS15 0AE the designer in you making Chippendale-inspired crafts in René Aubry’s inspired scores to accompany the www.leeds.gov.uk/museumsandgalleries in the Workshop in the house. Regular admission prices screening of this animated double-bill. 4pm. From gryphons to gargoyles and wyverns to wolves, apply. All activities take place 11am –3pm. explore the hidden beasts lurking in the walls of Temple Spring Lambs at the Piece Hall, Halifax – Newsam. AniMalcolm at The Carriageworks – April 9 April 22 The Electric Press, 3 Millennium Square, Leeds, LS2 3AD Blackledge, Halifax, HX1 1RE Mother’s Day Special at Kirklees Light Railway – 0113 3760318 www.carriageworkstheatre.co.uk 01422 525 217 www.thepiecehall.co.uk March 31 Malcolm doesn’t like animals, which is a problem Meet some lovely Ryland Lambs and Ewes in Park Mill Way, Clayton West, Huddersfield, HD8 9XJ because his family love them, in fact, they’re wild about the courtyard. 01484 865 727 kirkleeslightrailway.com them. A vibrant, energetic and gloriously funny musical Mum deserves to be spoilt this Mother’s Day. Why not from the award-winning Story Pocket Theatre. 4pm. Annie The Musical at Bradford Alhambra – treat her to an all-day rover ticket for half price? The April 22 to 27 ticket for Mum will be valid all day on all trains. Gung-Ho! at Harewood House – April 13 The Alhambra Theatre, Morley Street, Bradford, BD7 1AJ Harewood, Leeds, LS17 9LG 01274 432 000 www.anniethemusicaltour.uk Junior CSI at Thackray Medical Museum – 0113 2181010 www.harewood.org Direct from the West End on a UK tour. Set in 1930s weekdays April 1 to 26 Gung-Ho! – the world’s biggest inflatable 5k run – New York during The Great Depression, brave young Beckett Street, Leeds, LS9 7LN is coming to Harewood. 10am to 3pm. Annie is forced to live a life of misery at Miss Hannigan’s 0113 244 4343 thackraymedicalmuseum.co.uk orphanage. Her luck soon changes when she’s chosen Calling all investigators! A crime has been committed. Family Easter Egg Trail at the Piece Hall, to spend a fairytale Christmas with famous billionaire, Can you help solve it? Halifax – April 13 to 28 Oliver Warbucks. Blackledge, Halifax, HX1 1RE Grandad’s Island at The Carriageworks – 01422 525217 www.thepiecehall.co.uk Illustration Workshop at the Piece Hall, April 2 to 3 Woolly the Sheep has lost his chocolate eggs, can you Halifax – April 24 The Electric Press, 3 Millennium Square, Leeds, LS2 3AD help him find them? £1 per trail. Trails available from the Blackledge, Halifax, HX1 1RE 0113 376 0318 www.carriageworkstheatre.co.uk welcome centre. Each Completed trail will receive a 01422 525 217 www.thepiecehall.co.uk Benji Davies’s award-winning book is brought magically chocolate treat. Children can join local artist Chris Mould to create their and sensitively to life on stage by the team behind Flat own illustration in a special 1 hour workshop. Stanley and Red Riding Hood. Miniature Train Rides at Ravensrpings Park in Brighouse – April 14 Peter Pan Easter Panto at the Victoria Theatre – Ready Steady Lift Off at The Carriageworks – Cawcliffe Road, Brighouse, HD6 2HP April 25 April 3 bhme.co.uk 2 Fountain Street, Halifax, HX1 1BP The Electric Press, 3 Millennium Square, Leeds, LS2 3AD Ravensprings Park is a private park owned by the www.victoriatheatre.co.uk 0113 376 0318 www.carriageworkstheatre.co.uk Brighouse and Halifax Model Engineers. The park is Starring Bobby Davro as Smee, Tracy Beaker’s Dani An immersive theatre show for 3 to 8-year-olds open for public rides on selected Sundays (mainly the Harmer as Wendy and Disney Art Attack’s Lloyd Warbey combining live performance, music, storytelling and second) from April to October, providing rides on two as Peter Pan. 2pm and 6pm performances. painting in one interactive theatre show. 10.30am, different railway tracks. There is a large safe grassed 12.30pm and 2.30pm. area for children to play with refreshments and ice Leeds Bubble Rush at Harewood House – cream available in the club house. 1.30 to 5pm. April 27 Aliens Love Underpants at The Carriageworks – Adults £3 Children £2. Harewood, Leeds, LS17 9LG April 5 to 6 0113 2181010 www.harewood.org The Electric Press, 3 Millennium Square, Leeds, LS2 3AD Join St Gemma’s Hospice for the biggest, brightest, 0113 3760318 www.carriageworkstheatre.co.uk happiest and most colourful 5k. 10.45am to 3pm. The best-selling children’s book is delightfully brought to life on stage for the very first time. For families with children aged 3+.

familiesonline.co.uk Families Leeds 15