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Education Family Law New Year, New You Issue 128 January/February 2026 Familiesonline.co.uk
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IN THIS ISSUE
New Year, New You Education Family Law Issue 116 January/February 2024
Familiesonline.co.uk
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CONTENTS
Contact us
Welcome
Carla Finlayson, editor
Wishing all our readers good health and happiness in 2026!
E: editor@familiesnorthyorkshire.co.uk
Many of our features in this issue relate in some way to the theme of health and happiness too. Our New Year, New You feature offers suggestions for New Year’s resolutions that will improve your life AND that you can actually stick to; in our Health feature, you’ll discover how to help a very young but anxious child.
T: 07734 690020 @FamiliesNYMag @FamiliesNYMag
Meanwhile, in Education, you can find out the role that school’s play in supporting a child with mental health challenges. If you have a child under 5 then in Early Years we discover the importance of letting them develop at their own pace.
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In this issue 4. 7. 8. 10. 11. 12. 14. 15.
And, of course, there’s fun to be had and to look forward to! Despite it being winter, there is still plenty to enjoy locally with your family– take a look at our What’s On guide.
Education Family Law What’s on Clubs & Classes News New Year, New You Early Years Health
Finally, we have three Tickit Woodland Trail Treehouses to giveaway, worth £39.99 each. Apply inside and also ensure you receive our newsletter with more giveaways and useful information.
Carla This product is made of material from well-managed, FSC®certified forests and other controlled sources.
September/October issue giveaway winners
Congratulations to all our winners. You can find a list at www.bit.ly/GiveawaywinnersSO25
Families Magazine is a franchise of Families Print Ltd of 75 Lisbon Avenue, Twickenham, TW2 5HL. Families is a registered trademark of Families Print Ltd. All franchised magazines in the group are independently owned and operated under licence. The contents of Families Magazine is fully protected by copyright and none of the editorial or photographic matter may be reproduced in any form without prior consent of Families Magazine. Every care is taken in the preparation of this magazine but the franchise owner and Families Print Ltd cannot be held responsible for the claims of advertisers, nor for the accuracy of the contents, or any consequence thereof.
GIVEAWAY
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EDUCATION
Redefining educational success By Gavin McCormack In my twenty-five years as a school teacher, I’ve had hundreds of conversations with parents about what would be best for their children. What all those conversations had in common was that no matter what was happening at home, in the classroom or with the children’s learning, what parents wanted most from education was for their children to be happy. And why not? Nothing is more precious than seeing a child truly happy and content in being who they are. Yet many of us still enrol our children in schools that boast about achieving the highest grades, having the biggest swimming pools or ranking highest on national league tables, without considering what these schools do to make our children feel content, purposeful and passionate. The reality of being number one In 2022, the OECD’s PISA rankings named Singapore as the number one school system in the world regarding academic attainment. The country has a regular spot in the top five, alongside Taiwan, Macau and Japan. But does that mean those children are getting the best start in life? Paradoxically, the OECD also releases The World Happiness Report, which ranks the world’s happiest countries. If academic rankings were linked to happiness levels, surely we’d see the same countries in the top positions on both reports? But that’s not the case. Iceland, Sweden, Denmark and Finland all top the happiness rankings. How can that be? There is a clear mismatch between our children’s academic grades and their levels of happiness. Although Singapore’s education system is renowned for its academic rigour and high standards, I’ve heard numerous firsthand accounts that this desire to be the best comes at a cost. Several studies speak to this same cost - alarmingly high levels of anxiety among Singaporean students, primarily attributed to academic pressure - including the 2017 OECD study that found eighty six percent of Singaporean students were worried about getting poor grades - even when well-prepared, compared to the OECD’s global average of sixty six percent (which is still very high).
The study revealed that the pressure stems from various sources, including parental expectations, societal emphasis on academic achievement and the competitive nature of the education system itself, which is not unique to Singapore. A fear of failure and internalising expectations doesn’t sound like a healthy childhood to me. The consequences of chronic stress can be severe, affecting students’ mental and emotional wellbeing, sleep patterns and quality of life. The focus on academic achievement can also lead to losing interest in learning, where the joy of discovery is replaced by the anxiety of performance. Simply put, if we put too much emphasis on our children getting the top grades, competing against each other and avoiding failure at all costs, they will inevitably become more anxious. Interestingly, Iceland, Sweden, Denmark and Finland - the top four countries on the 2022 OECD’s happiness ranking all have one thing in common: their citizens have immense personal freedom, choice and high trust levels within their communities - qualities that all work together to prevent the development of anxiety and depression. If we really want to put children’s happiness first, then we should choose schools that trust them to make their own decisions, learn from their mistakes, have agency over their learning and engage with the real world. This article is an abridged extract from the book Raising Resilient Children by Gavin McCormack, published by Simon & Schuster, available in all good bookshops now.
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Celebrate reading on World Book Day
What do the words ‘best school’ mean?
Help your child celebrate a love of reading on World Book Day, Thursday 5 March.
Before you enrol your child in any school, you have to decide what ‘best’ means to you.
Spark your child’s imagination and encourage them to read for pleasure and join in nationwide activities designed to make books exciting. Schools will distribute special £1 book tokens that children can swap for exclusive new titles or put towards any book in participating shops.
Is the ‘best’ school dictated by the grades, points, scores, facilities and reputation? Or is a successful school journey not about ‘what’ your child becomes but ‘who’?
Many schools also will invite students to dress up as favourite characters and host reading-related events. 4 Families North Yorkshire Magazine
In my view, it’s the latter. For me, education is about allowing a child to find their passion and attend a school that embraces the same values and visions for the future that their family holds dear. Familiesonline.co.uk
EDUCATION
Spot, Support, Refer: the role of schools in children’s mental health By Erin Miller Children’s mental health needs have increased sharply in recent years. According to NHS data, around one in five children ages 8 to 16 now has a probable mental health disorder, up from one in nine in 2017. Symptoms include anxiety, low mood and eating difficulties. While schools are often the first to notice when something is wrong, many have limited resources to meet emotional needs. So, what are your child’s school’s obligations in relation to mental health? Understanding what falls under the umbrella of mental health can be confusing. Mental health refers to a person’s emotional, psychological and social wellbeing - how they think, feel and cope with life. Not every instance of behavioural change is a diagnosable mental health condition: temporary stress and friendship issues are normal ups and downs of growing up. Ideally, schools and parents should work together to identify patterns of behaviour, rather than one-off instances. While schools have a duty of care to safeguard pupils and promote wellbeing, this does not extend to diagnosing or treating mental health conditions or offering clinical-style interventions. Their legal duties focus on noticing, recording and referring concerns to GPs, Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services (CAMHS) or educational psychologists. Under the Equality Act 2010, schools must make reasonable adjustments if a mental health difficulty amounts to a disability and under safeguarding laws, they must act if a child’s safety is at risk. Where needs are long term and significantly affect education, these can be recognised through an Education, Health and Care Plan (EHCP), which sets out the support the school and local authority must provide. To receive an EHCP,
it must be shown that the child’s needs have a clear impact on learning and require additional support beyond what the school can usually offer. What schools are NOT legally obligated to do State-maintained schools are not legally required to provide clinical treatment, counselling or employ mental health professionals. They are also not obliged to have a separate mental health policy and they are not responsible for managing or funding long-term clinical care or replacing NHS services. Schools don’t have to tailor the entire curriculum for mental health reasons unless a child’s needs amount to a disability or are formally set out in an EHCP. Finally, schools are not required to automatically authorise absences due to anxiety, low mood or other emotional distress without supporting medical evidence. Erin Miller is a teacher with a keen interest in how research can be used in the classroom to improve learning.
What is great practice?
How to get help
Schools are not legally required to provide counselling or mental health programmes but many demonstrate exceptional practice by embedding wellbeing throughout school life. Great schools create a whole-school culture of care, where emotional health is valued alongside academic progress. Staff are properly trained to recognise early signs of distress and to respond with sensitivity and consistency. Pupils feel safe to speak up and parents are treated as partners. Great practice often includes a named mental health lead, clear referral routes to specialist services and close collaboration with external professionals such as school nurses, educational psychologists or CAMHS teams. Schools may offer drop-in wellbeing sessions, peer-support schemes or access to qualified counsellors on site. Although many of these examples are not statutory duties, you could still suggest some of them if you are providing feedback to your child’s school. Keep in mind that effective schools succeed by building an inclusive, compassionate environment where wellbeing is embedded in the culture for students, staff and the wider school community.
If you have raised your concerns about your child’s mental health but feel your child’s school is not taking them seriously, start by meeting with the class teacher or pastoral lead to explain your worries. If the issue continues, contact the SENCO, headteacher or governing body.
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You can also seek advice from your local authority, the Parent Partnership, SENDIASS service or organisations such as Mind. CAMHS offers assessments and treatment for children up to the age of 18 for a variety of mental health problems. Start by speaking to your GP about the issue and requesting a referral to CAMHS or community services. CAMHS assesses and treats problems such as anxiety, depression, eating disorders and the effects of trauma. It offers a range of support which can include individual, group, or family therapy sessions, creative therapies, medication management, and, in some cases, inpatient hospital care. Some CAMHS teams also specialise in conditions like ADHD and autism. Crucially, remember you are not alone and support is available. Families North Yorkshire Magazine 5
EDUCATION
The ideal window for STEM learning By Matt Newnham When children first step into school, they bring with them an unstoppable stream of curiosity. Why is the sky blue? How do birds fly? What happens if I mix these paints? For parents and teachers, it can feel relentless. Yet within those questions lies something essential. The years between ages 5 and 9 are when children form the attitudes that shape how they see the world, how they see themselves as learners and how they will approach science and maths for the rest of their lives. Why does this matter so much? Because science and maths are not simply school subjects. They are life skills. Science teaches us to question, to seek evidence and to change our minds when evidence changes. Maths teaches us to see patterns, to plan and to reason logically. UNESCO1 and the OECD2 have long argued that building scientific literacy early is essential for the future. The children of today will face challenges we can only guess at: climate change, new technologies and social change. A generation confident in science and maths will be better equipped to meet those challenges. It is about creating citizens who can think critically, solve problems and adapt. The habits of mind built between ages 5 and 9 will carry into adulthood. The window of curiosity The psychologist Jean Piaget³ described children ages 5 to 9 as moving from imaginative thinking into logical thinking. At age 5, children may still believe the moon is following them home. By age 9, they begin to understand orbits, shadows and gravity. This shift is not just about facts. It is about the development of a way of thinking, a move from magic to mechanism, while still holding onto imagination. Children between ages 5 and 9 are at their most curious and least self-conscious. They ask questions without worrying about being wrong. They explore without fear of failure. This is why researchers at King’s College London4 and the Institute of Education point out that attitudes to science and maths often solidify before age 10. By the end of primary school, many children have already decided whether they are ‘good at’ or ‘bad at’ these subjects. This decision is rarely based on ability. It is based on confidence and on how those around them respond to their questions.
Children’s Booker Prize announced
Confidence Is built early Imagine a child who builds a tower of blocks. It falls. They try again. It falls again. They laugh, rebuild and eventually succeed. They have just practised the essence of scientific thinking: test, fail, try again, succeed. If an adult scolds or rushes them, they learn frustration. If an adult celebrates their persistence, they learn resilience. The National Science Teaching Association (NSTA)5 has shown through multiple studies that early exposure to positive experiences in science and maths builds lasting confidence. The opposite is also true. A child who hears parents say: ‘I was never good at maths,’ or ‘Science is too hard,’ absorbs that belief. By age 7, those beliefs can become fixed. Yet science is creative and maths rewards persistence. Anyone can enjoy these subjects if given space to play, explore and make mistakes. Confidence is not about getting the right answer every time. It is about believing that problems can be solved, that experiments are worth trying and that effort is valuable. Between ages 5 and 9, mistakes should be celebrated. A wrong answer is not a failure. It is a step towards understanding. When children see adults laugh at a failed experiment or cheer at a messy attempt, they learn that learning is about the journey, not just the result. What can parents do? The most powerful thing parents can do is show interest. A child who sees their parent curious and open to learning learns that curiosity is valuable. Explore questions together. Instead of rushing to answer, ask: ‘What do you think?’ Use daily life. Cooking, shopping, gardening and travelling all contain maths and science. Read stories with STEM themes. Adventure tales can deliver scientific concepts in fun ways. Model positive talk. Replace ‘I can’t do maths’ with ‘Let’s work it out together.’ In the golden window when children decide whether they are explorers or avoiders, adults hold the power to guide them towards curiosity, confidence and joy. Matt Newnham is an author and writer with decades of business experience. Inspired by his career in IT, he created Space Ranger Fred to make learning fun and accessible for children. For more information, visit www.spacerangerfred. com
The Booker Prize Foundation has unveiled the Children’s Booker Prize, a major new award celebrating contemporary fiction for ages 8 to 12. The first winner will be announced in February 2027. The award attracts a £50,000 prize, equal to the adult Booker Prize and aims to inspire a new generation of readers. A shortlist of eight books will be announced in November, with at least thirty thousand copies of shortlisted and winning titles gifted to children across the UK and Ireland. 6 Families North Yorkshire Magazine
[1] https://www.unesco.org/en/articles/how-science-can-help-createsustainable-world [2] https://www.oecd.org/en/publications/pisa-2015-results-volumei_9789264266490-en.html [3] https://www.bxscience.edu/ourpages/auto/2014/11/16/50007779/ Piaget%20When%20Thinking%20Begins10272012_0000.pdf [4] https://kclpure.kcl.ac.uk/ws/portalfiles/portal/64130800/10_Facts_ and_Fictions.pdf [5] https://ed.sc.gov/instruction/early-learning-and-literacy/earlylearning/nsta-position-statement-early-childhood-science-education
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FAMILY LAW
Divorce Day A New Chapter By Katie Audsley, family lawyer, Hartlaw LLP Monday 5th January has become known as ‘Divorce Day’ the busiest day in the life of a family lawyer, as people use the New Year to make a decision about their relationships and marriage and take steps that they may, until then, have been putting off until after Christmas. The pressure to turn your life around in January with a new exercise regime, hydration, meditation, nutrition and don’t forget cold showers! may already be enough, this looming day should not become another pressure to add to the stress of the New Year, it has to be the right time for you and your family. The important thing is finding a clear pathway from your separation to your newly separated lives and, if you have children, devising the means to be able to parent your children effectively when not living together. A good lawyer should break things down for you into manageable steps and work with you to come up with a plan that takes some of that pressure off and can show you what the next step looks like for your family, to avoid overwhelm. Importantly supporting parties towards a solution that will work for each and both of them and, if they are parents, for their children. With the knowledge of what legal procedures are in play and ensuring that you can reach a binding outcome of whatever kind you need. Although they are specialised in matters of law and procedure, many family lawyers have also developed their knowledge and skills in respect of general understanding of the emotional and psychological effects of family separation and the effects for children, abuse in the home, family finances (particularly where it relates to the expectation of the Court and the boundaries of applicable law) and may also help clients in considering the practical and day to day issues that need managing as they work towards an outcome. Importantly a good family lawyer will know, and be able to signpost for you, or bring in – other trusted professionals who will support the process and provide a comprehensive wrap around service. This really helps if you are struggling to know where to start.
You may be concerned about the element of cost, but the fact is, co-ordinating and designing the services that are needed can often result in greater overall efficiency, less delay and less cost. Also, quite simply, it is worth checking – for your own present and (really importantly) future peace of mind. The key message from ‘Divorce Day’ is you are not alone. If you require any advice or assistance in relation to any aspect of family law, please do not hesitate to contact us. Dianne, Kate or Katie in our family team can provide specialist advice and offer a free initial consultation. Please do contact a member of our family team by calling 01937 547000 or by emailing info@hartlaw.co.uk
Dianne Burke Partner, Collaborative Lawyer & Mediator
Kate Robinson Partner, Collaborative Lawyer & Mediator
Katie Audsley Family Lawyer
Big Garden Birdwatch Returns in January 2026 The UK’s largest citizen wildlife survey, the Big Garden Birdwatch, will take place from 23–25 January 2026, the RSPB has announced. Now in its 47th year, the event invites people of all ages to spend one hour counting the birds they see in their gardens, balconies, or local parks, and submit their sightings online. In 2025, more than 590,000 people took part, recording over 9.1 million birds. The house sparrow retained its top spot as the most commonly sighted species, followed by the blue tit and woodpigeon. Organisers say even reporting “no birds” is valuable, as it helps track long-term population changes. Launched in 1979 with the help of children’s TV programme Blue Peter, the Birdwatch has grown into a national tradition. The RSPB says the survey highlights both declines and recoveries in common species, and shows the power of communities coming together for nature. More info: www.rspb.org.uk
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Families North Yorkshire Magazine 7
WHAT’S ON
Jan/Feb
What’s On? Till 22 Feb
Beningbrough Hall Winter Woodland Animal trail Can you find all the animals that have been invited to the woodland party? They’re hiding in the bird boxes to spot as you explore the gardens.
7 - 8 Feb 31 Jan - 1 Mar Burton Agnes Snowdrops in the Woodland Every February, thousands of hardy snowdrops push through the cold winter ground to create a magnificent ‘white carpet’ across the woodland floor here at Burton Agnes. Walking peacefully among these makes a truly memorable day out at the end of the long winter. 3 - 5 Feb
23 - 25 Jan Your own garden! RSPB Big Garden Birdwatch Join the RSPB for the Big Garden Bird Watch this year. Share your findings and help monitor the birds of Britain. Find out more information and how to register for free online. 31 Jan - 1 Feb York York Residents Festival York Residents’ Festival is our opportunity to thank the people of York for welcoming 8.9 million visitors each year to the beautiful city. It represents a unique opportunity for Visit York members to showcase their businesses to local people with attractions offers, experiences and food, drink and retail discounts in and around York.
14 - 21 Feb
York Theatre Royal Tales from Acorn Wood Poor old Fox has lost his socks! Are they in the kitchen or inside the clock? And Rat-a-tat-tat! Who’s that keeping tired Rabbit awake? You can also join in with Pig and Hen’s game of hide-and-seek and discover the special surprise Postman Bear is planning for his friends.
York Ice Trail York City Centre The streets of York will be transformed into “An Enchanted City”, where a spell has been cast. Ice sculptures, alive with enchantment, appear across the cobbled and narrow streets of the city. Sculptures will be inspired by magic, mystery, and the weird and wonderful – creating an extraordinary trail. But who cast the spell? And why? The whole family can follow the trail to uncover the truth, before the ice melts and takes everything with it. 8 & 22 Feb
Lotherton Hall Love Birds Head to Lotherton for some feathered family fun during half-term. A celebration of their feathered friends! Spot native birds around the estate using the spotter’s guide, find out about things you can do at home to help wild birds at this time of year, and learn about the amazing birds they have at Wildlife World - including flamingoes, penguins, owls and emus! 14 - 22 Feb Treasures from Temple Newsam Temple Newsam House Discover beautiful treasures as you explore the magnificent house and create your own treasure chest to take home or gift to someone special. 14 - 22 Feb
Goldsborough Hall Snowdrop Sunday’s Enjoy a wander and see the spectacular display of snowdrops in Goldsborough Hall’s 12acre grounds, available for viewing on the 8th & 22rd February 2026. 12 - 21 Feb York Theatre Royal Annie York Light Opera Company returns to York Theatre Royal with the beloved classic hit Annie! Packed with unforgettable songs like Tomorrow, Hard Knock Life, and You’re Never Fully Dressed Without a Smile, this heartwarming tale of hope, family, and second chances is a must-see for audiences of all ages. 13 Feb - 1 Mar Various Locations Dark Skies Festival A great opportunity to explore the beauty of the night sky and learn more about the universe we live in. With its stunning landscapes and clear skies, the Yorkshire Dales is the perfect place to celebrate dark skies and appreciate the wonders of the universe. There are also plenty of family friendly fun such as rocket making, nocturnal wildlife talks, planet trails and dark skies crafts.
8 Families North Yorkshire Magazine
Harewood House House Family Takeover Get ready for the ultimate family adventure as we transform Harewood House into an interactive play space full of colour, fun and wonder! Follow a bunch of friendly characters from Harewood’s past and present as you discover stories through imagination and play. 14 - 22 Feb Great Yorkshire Showground Harrogate Indoor Funfair With jaw-dropping rides and amazing inflatables for all ages, Harrogate Indoor Funfair offers all the fun of the fair in an indoor, climatecontrolled and family-friendly environment.
Familiesonline.co.uk
WHAT’S ON
16 - 22 Feb 14 - 22 Feb
The Wind In The Willows: A Garden Adventure RHS Gardens Join Mr Toad, Ratty, Mole and Badger for an unforgettable family day out! Step into the world of The Wind in the Willows with a brand-new garden trail and hands-on activities, brought to life by EH Shepard’s enchanting original illustrations. The adventure begins this February - and the trail continues all year! and emus! 16 - 22 Feb Beningbrough Hall Storytelling Performance with Thunk-It Theatre Every spring, Flora visits the wilderness garden, to see her favourite thing: The Forgotten Flower Pot. But this year, something is different. There is rubbish in her pot! Can Flora catch the culprit? Join Thunk-It Theatre this school holiday to find out.
Jorvik Viking Centre Jorvik Viking Festival Put your whiskers to the test in our Best Beard Competition or explore exquisite Viking goods at our 10th Century Traders stalls. The Vikings will also return to muster their fearsome armies with the March to Coppergate through the city centre. Plus walking tours, kids crafting, expert talks and much more… jorvikvikingfestival.co.uk
Grand Opera House, York Barnum Step right up and enter the dazzling world of P.T. Barnum, where imagination and ambition know no bounds. Hand in hand with wife Charity, Barnum’s life and career twists and turns as he schemes and dreams his way to headier heights.
17 -18 Feb
25 Feb
24 - 28 Feb
Dog Friendly Days Out Check websites for full details Aysgarth Falls, Yorkshire Dales National Park - DL8 3TH (Aysgarth, Leyburn) Beningbrough Hall, National Trust - YO30 1DD (Beningbrough, York)
The Very Hungry Caterpillar Show Harrogate Theatre Created by Jonathan Rockefeller, the show features over 75 magical larger-than-life puppets. Alongside The Very Hungry Caterpillar, the show also features three additional Eric Carle stories. Audiences will enjoy Brown Bear, Brown Bear, 10 Little Rubber Ducks and The Very Busy Spider. These beloved tales are brought to life by a talented cast of storytellers, sweeping original music and stunning puppetry that is faithful to Carle’s iconic artwork.
Bolton Abbey - BD23 6EX (Skipton) Brimham Rocks, National Trust - HG3 4DW (Harrogate)
The Barbican, York Disney in Concert - The Sound of Magic Your favorite characters and music from across the Walt Disney Animation Studios catalog come to life on the concert hall stage and screen to create a cinematic concert experience like never before. Performed by a live symphony orchestra, beloved songs and scores are combined into exciting new medleys and suites, creating an unexpected and thrilling journey of music and animation that only Disney can deliver.
Castle Howard - YO60 7DA (York) Dalby Forest - YO18 7LT (Thornton-Le-Dale, Pickering) Fountains Abbey, National Trust - HG4 3DY (Ripon) Lotherton Hall - LS25 3EB (Aberford, Leeds) Yorkshire Sculpture Park - WF4 4LG (West Bretton, Wakefield)
Harrogate’s leading family prep school for children aged 2 to 11 years. At Brackenfield, your child will benefit from: • Small class sizes • A first-class academic education at an ISI rated ‘EXCELLENT’ school • The ability to thrive in a friendly, caring, lively and purposeful environment
• Learning in a warm family atmosphere with guidance from a dedicated team of inspirational teachers • Excellent wrap around care facilities Scan to book your place here:
Families are welcome to join us for a personal tour! See the school in action and meet our wonderful team.
128 Duchy Road, Harrogate, HG1 2HE | admissions@brackenfieldschool.co.uk | 01423 508558 Familiesonline.co.uk
Families North Yorkshire Magazine 9
CLUBS & CLASSES
Clubs & Classes
If your kids are wanting to get active, desperate for drama, eager to meet new friends or learn a new skill, then look no further than our guide to local clubs & classes to keep them busy! When you call, please don’t forget to say you saw them in Families North Yorkshire Magazine. Number Train
Water Babies North Yorkshire
Baby Swimmers
Number Train is a fun and interactive introduction to maths for preschool children designed and delivered by an experienced primary maths specialist. With a different theme each week, sessions keep your child engaged with games, action songs, arts and craft.
Classes for babies and toddlers from 6 weeks old. Your little ones will have a great workout, singing and playing through our structured awards programme to build water confidence and progress to a confident swimmer. info@babyswimmers.co.uk
Call 07852 989523 numbertrain@hotmail.com 2PRU Gymnastics Club
Kidslingo
An inclusive community where fun, family and a sense of belonging thrive.
Award winning, colourful, creative (often messy) art classes for babies, toddlers and children. www.artventurers.co.uk Baby Band Interactive music session for children who are independently sitting to interactive music session for children who are independently sitting to 3 years old. www.babyband.co.uk Born of the Forest Providing children with experiences which connect them with nature through opportunities for open ended, child initiated play. Children’s Yoga York Yoga taught through adventure stories which enable children to move their bodies and explore feelings and emotions in a safe space. Crafty Fox Kids Club A fun, hands-on art & craft classes for kids. 10 Families North Yorkshire Magazine
littlefish@waterbabies.co.uk 01423 457000 www.waterbabies.co.uk/babyswimming/yorkshire-north
Perfect Pitch Stars
Rugbytots
Classes include singing & drama in a fun and exciting environment.
2prugymnasticsclub.co.uk ARTventurers
Learn a skill for life with the UK’s leading provider of baby and toddler lessons! Develop swimming strokes, water safety, and core aquatic skills within a fun, multi-sensory learning environment that builds social, emotional, physical and language skills. The only lessons taught by Level 3 Pre-school Swimming qualified teachers across North Yorkshire.
Phonics with Robot Reg Inspiring young children, from birth to 12 years, to love languages (French & Spanish) from the very start of their language learning journeys www.kidslingo.co.uk The Little Gym For every stage of your child’s development from 4 months to 12 years. www.thelittlegym.co.uk Little Seedlings A free gardening workshops (for children aged 4-10) held on the first Sunday of every Month at Dobbies.
high-energy classes which open a world of Literacy to children and teach early phonics skills. Classes are available for children aged 3 months – 6 years. www.robotreg.co.uk Razzamataz York based classes in Performing Arts - singing, dancing & drama. Catering for all ages from 2 - 18 years www.york.razzamataz.co.uk Rhythm Time
Sunshine Sensory A unique and enriching experience that engages all your little ones senses while promoting relaxation, enhancing well-being, and creating memorable moments. Visit the website to discover how you can begin your little one’s sensory journey today!
Gym classes for children from 6 months to 7 years. www.tumbletots.com
Accessible private music tuition for all ages and levels One-to-one and small group lessons available.
Music & singing classes for babies, toddlers & preschoolers.
themusicroomsselby.co.uk
www.rhythmtime.net
A fun, playful, one-off class catered to younger climbers aged 4-6 taking their first steps into climbing.
www.rugbytots.co.uk
Tumble tots
The Music Room, Selby
Mini Freeks at Freeklime
Dynamic weekly sessions that enable children aged 2 - 7 years to develop their social and physical skills in a fun, positive environment.
Ruby Dance Studios Inspiring, confidence-boosting & creative dance classes for children aged 2-11 years. rubydancestudios.co.uk
Urban Circus A range of gymnastics/Circus Skills type sessions designed to help improve motor skills, balance, coordination and more. YTR Youth Theatre York Theatre Royal Youth theatre class for children aged 5+
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NEWS
Brackenfield School Stay & Play 25th February
Brackenfield School’s Nursery in Duchy Road, Harrogate is flourishing under the leadership of new manager Stephanie Cusworth and her team. With a supportive parent body who are delighted to give us glowing reviews both face to face and digitally, we are proud to have recently scored a tremendous 10 out of 10 on daynurseries.co.uk. Families of children with pre-school children are invited to join us, with their little one, at Brackenfield on 25th February from 10am – 11am for a Stay and Play session to discover what life is like for our busy Reception class pupils. Planned with a focus on STEAM (Science, Technology. Engineering, Art and Mathematics), engaging science related activities will enable families to see firsthand how integrated our Nursery and School are and how the Nursery provides the perfect stepping stone for the all-important journey through “Big School”. Our experienced Early Years team will be on hand to share top tips about how best to prepare your child for Reception and to illustrate how our triangulated approach to a child’s education involving families, teachers and the pupils themselves creates a winning formula achieving the best educational outcomes for your child. Book online at www.brackenfieldschool.co.uk or email admissions@brackenfieldschool.co.uk
NHS App Simplifies Child Healthcare for Busy Parents Parents across England can now manage their family’s healthcare more easily thanks to a new update to the NHS App. Announced in September 2025, the feature allows adults to switch between profiles for their children or dependents, similar to how streaming services like Netflix handle multiple users. The update means parents can book GP appointments, order prescriptions, and view vaccination records for their children without needing separate logins. NHS England says the change is designed to simplify access and reduce administrative barriers, particularly for busy families juggling multiple healthcare needs. The update means parents can book GP appointments, order prescriptions, and view vaccination records for their children without needing separate logins. NHS England says the change is designed to simplify access and reduce administrative barriers, particularly for busy families juggling multiple healthcare needs. A full rollout is planned for 2026.
EDUCATION
Tackling Homework for Reception Children and Beyond Play, curiosity, and connection, that’s where learning begins.
Children in Missing Out on Outdoor Play, Study Warns A major study has found that children in the UK are spending significantly less time playing outdoors than previous generations, with many parents citing safety concerns, lack of green space, and academic pressures as key barriers. The research, conducted by academics at the University of Exeter, surveyed over 1,000 parents and children. It revealed that only 27% of children play outside every day, compared to 74% of their parents when they were young. Parents cited safety concerns, limited access to green space, and academic pressures as key barriers. Experts warn that this decline in outdoor play is affecting children’s physical health, mental wellbeing, and social development. The study calls for schools, local councils, and families to prioritise unstructured outdoor time, especially in early and primary years. Researchers urge policymakers to invest in safe, accessible play spaces and to recognise outdoor play as an essential part of childhood—rather than a luxury squeezed out by homework and screen time. More info: news.exeter.ac.uk Familiesonline.co.uk
In the early years, homework should feel playful, not pressured. Set up a cosy “learning den” at home and keep sessions short, five minutes of fun beats fifty of frustration! We know it’s not always easy to juggle everything, especially from Year One onwards, and sometimes your child may be reluctant. Reading together is the heart of learning. Let your child choose what to read - picture books, comics, or even recipes, because reading is everywhere once we start looking. Re-read old favourites, use “pause, prompt, praise,” and let them see you reading too. When it comes to writing and spelling, make it hands-on. Try chalk on the patio, sand trays, or even glitter letters. Use the “look, cover, write” strategy and turn practice into games like rainbow words or spell snap. Above all, enjoy learning side by side. Your joy and curiosity will spark confidence and a lifelong love of learning. From Sarah, BrightStart Phonics Tuition Families North Yorkshire Magazine 11
NEW YEAR, NEW YOU
Resolutions that stick for 2026
Anna Houston is a freelance writer specialising in parenting and women’s lifestyle
By Anna Houston
Plan with purpose A little planning goes a long way. Set aside time each Sunday to reset so you feel calmer and more in control of the week ahead. Check the calendar, lay out uniforms and make a short to-do list. Pair it with a cup of tea, a podcast or a face mask, so it feels like self-care. Look at the bigger picture. Break your year into quarters and plan around family milestones. Avoid starting big projects in the busiest periods. Mapping goals to life’s rhythm makes them more achievable.
Double up on healthy habits Healthy habits can make life more fun. Meet a friend for a walk and takeaway coffee instead of sitting in a café or catch up at the playground and do a few squats while pushing the children on the swing. Pair up with a friend to start a mini ‘cook-along club’ where you try a new healthy recipe each week or introduce a ‘vegetable of the week’ challenge. Pick a fruit or vegetable you don’t usually buy and find ways to add it to meals - it keeps healthy eating creative and fresh.
Greener living, simplified Going green can feel overwhelming, so make one easy sustainable swap each quarter. If you commit to changing just four things throughout the year, by the end of it your life will have improved in four tangible ways. Last year we got a built-in water filter, swapped to an eco-friendly detergent, replaced plastic bottles with stainless steel ones and started growing herbs. They’re small changes but they’ve made our home feel more aligned with the way we want to live. 12 Families North Yorkshire Magazine
Just move little and often Regular exercise is a way to care for your body and lift your mood. Think ‘little and often’ rather than ‘all or nothing.’ Walk the school run, take the stairs or park somewhere that adds a fifteen minute walk to your destination. Consider a fold-away treadmill or exercise bike that you can use while replying to emails or watching a film. Twenty minutes of steady movement is far more realistic than a rigid gym routine - and it still counts.
Change your self-talk Healthy living starts in your head, not your kitchen. Much of how we eat, move and care for ourselves depends on how we speak to ourselves. If your inner dialogue is self-critical, it’s time to change the script. Instead of focusing on what you shouldn’t eat, think about what will make you feel energised. Swap ‘I’ve ruined it’ for ‘I enjoyed that; now I’ll make my next choice a nourishing one.’ When you stop labelling food as ‘good’ or ‘bad’, you stop labelling yourself that way too and you build a healthier, more forgiving relationship with eating.
Family check-ins Life is busy and real conversation can easily go by the wayside. Eat together at least three evenings a week - no phones or screens and ask everyone to share the best and worst part of their day. It keeps family life connected. Although big days out are wonderful, small, consistent moments through the week are just as powerful. This includes time with your partner. My spouse and I hug for twenty seconds every morning. It’s simple but effective and helps us reset and start the day as a team. Familiesonline.co.uk
NEW YEAR, NEW YOU January is full of big promises to ourselves - eat better, move more, stress less. But real growth comes from small, intentional steps that last. These ideas will help you build a calmer, healthier, more balanced life beyond the New Year.
Refresh your supplements Many of us reach for multivitamins without much thought but focusing on specific nutrients can make a difference - magnesium is worth attention. Supporting muscle recovery, hormone balance and deeper sleep, it can also help ease anxiety and improve focus. Low magnesium can show up in countless ways and many people are slightly deficient without realising. Restoring your levels can help you feel more balanced and energised. Everyone’s needs differ, so speak to a health professional if you’re unsure about changes.
The school holiday savings pot
Put a little money aside each month for school holidays so you can enjoy them with less financial stress. Many banking apps let you set up savings pots to stay organised. I have a ‘fun fund’ for my kids that covers days out, café trips and rainy-day activities. I also keep a small ‘pocket money’ pot for myself - guilt-free spending on things I truly want but would usually push to the bottom of the list. It’s a simple form of self-care that reminds me to look after myself too.
Time for fun
Set aside at least an hour each week for something that’s purely for you - a dance class, a puzzle, a walk with a podcast or a hobby you loved years ago. Treat fun as essential, not an afterthought; it recharges your patience and motivation for everything else.
Familiesonline.co.uk
Lighten the load Little routines make home life feel easier. Have a two-minute tidy-up to a song with the kids before bed or wear comfy ‘house shoes’ to signal it’s time to get things done. The aim isn’t a spotless house - it’s a calmer one. Each month, clear one area - a drawer, your handbag, the car boot or your finances. Sort your purse, redeem old vouchers, cancel unused subscriptions. Decluttering little by little helps you feel lighter and more in control.
Keep a gratitude journal
Keep a notebook by your bed and write down three things you’re grateful for each night or morning. When life feels hard, it helps you notice the positives that might otherwise go unseen and shifts your focus from what’s missing to what’s working. Sometimes I just write three short sentences but it always makes me feel thankful for the life I have with my children and partner. It can also create moments of clarity about your goals, helping you see what’s genuinely important.
End the day calmly
Create a short bedtime routine just for you. We put so much effort into helping our children wind down - bath, pyjamas, story, lights out - yet rarely give ourselves the same care. Turn off screens thirty minutes before bed, wash your face, light a candle and wind down with a book, journal or quiet meditation. These small signals tell your body it’s time to rest, creating better sleep, a calmer mind and a gentler end to each day.
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EARLY YEARS
Allowing your child to develop at their own pace By Helen Zimprich Children are different - we all know that. Yet we often find ourselves comparing them. Why can my neighbour’s daughter speak so clearly at two and a half while my daughter says only a few words? Why can my friend’s son eat on his own while my son still needs my help? From potty training to dressing themselves or sleeping through the night, the comparisons never seem to end. I’ve been there myself. I have three children and each one is unique. My daughter was independent from an early age, while my little son has always been deeply attached to me. She could dress herself and put on her shoes before pre-school; he needed me beside him until he reached age 6. At first, I thought he was doing it on purpose, to test my patience. But during parenting training, I learned something essential: every child’s brain develops at its own pace. My daughter’s brain was ready for independence in certain areas but my son’s wasn’t yet. His need for my presence wasn’t manipulation, it was purely developmental. He simply felt safe when I was near and that safety allowed him to learn to put on his shoes. It’s important for us parents to understand how the brain develops. It has three main parts. The right side of the brain is responsible for emotions - that’s why toddlers have such big feelings and frequent meltdowns. The left side, which handles language and logic, only begins developing around age 3 and matures much more slowly.
So when my son wanted me next to him while putting on his shoes, it didn’t make sense to my logical adult brain but it made perfect sense to his still-developing one. As parents, we need to ask ourselves: Is my child not willing or simply not yet able? Most of the time, it’s the second one. When we shift our perspective from frustration to understanding, everything changes. We stop expecting our children to hurry up and start meeting them where they are. It’s worth remembering that rather than your child giving you a hard time, your child is having a hard time. It’s tough having so much to learn! And your calm, loving presence is exactly what helps them through it. Helen Zimprich (www.helenzimprich.com) is a certified Parenting Coach who helps working mothers set healthy boundaries and supports them to create strong connections with their kids through calm, conscious parenting. Follow her on Instagram.
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Connect before you correct
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When children are angry or having a meltdown, lecturing or explaining doesn’t help; their brains simply aren‘t receptive. As parents, our task at that moment is to calm. We need to connect before we correct. That means helping our child feel safe again through a gentle tone, a soft touch or simply being present without judgement. Only when our child‘s nervous system has rebalanced - when they’re back in the ‘green zone‘ - can their brain process our words. That’s the moment when gentle guidance can be heard. Imagine your child is eating cookies. You say ‘stop’ after the third and your child starts screaming. You stay calm, comfort your child, validate the feelings and wait until the big emotions pass. Then, when things are calm, you gently say: ‘I know how that feels. It would be so nice to eat as many cookies as we want! But if we eat too many, our tummies will start to hurt.’ Choosing connection over correction teaches our children emotional safety, empathy and self-regulation.
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HEALTH
Early years anxiety: the power of emotional connection By Stephanie Bradley In recent years, a quiet but powerful shift has been affecting our youngest learners. Children as young as ages 3 or 4 are increasingly showing signs of anxiety, low confidence and emotional dysregulation. These are not isolated cases and the trend is growing. Children today are facing challenges that often seem unimaginable for their age; the emotional demands on this group of learners are mounting. The impact may be subtle at first - withdrawn behaviour, tearfulness, tummy aches, avoidance - but if left unchecked, these early warning signals can develop into entrenched emotional difficulties. Recognising the signs of anxiety in the early years Anxiety in young children rarely announces itself clearly. It’s disguised by behaviours that might include acting up, sudden clinginess, speech regression, avoidance of group activities or difficulty settling into new situations. These are not ‘difficult behaviours;’ they are signals of emotional struggle in children who don’t have the vocabulary to talk about or even understand their feelings. That’s where early identification and emotional teaching become crucial. Why early intervention matters Research in child psychology and neuroscience tells us that early childhood is a critical period for emotional development. It is during these early years that children begin to form ideas about self-worth, belonging, empathy and how the world feels to them.
Early intervention isn’t just beneficial, it’s foundational. Emotional literacy should be treated with the same importance as learning to read or count. Waiting longer to address these challenges means working against years of deeply ingrained patterns. The role of social emotional learning (SEL) Social Emotional Learning (SEL) has become a cornerstone of early years education for good reason. SEL promotes the development of emotional intelligence, empathy, self-awareness and the ability to self-regulate. When SEL is embedded early in the education experience and children are guided to discuss their emotions, they are more engaged, more confident and more capable of navigating daily challenges. Stephanie Bradley is an HLTA Teaching Assistant working in SEN and mainstream primary education. She has recently published a social story designed to support children’s emotional development. Have You Helped Someone Sparkle Today? is an interactive picture book for children ages 3 to 7.
Stories and discussion
Daily acts of kindness
In my experience, one of the most effective strategies for emotional support has been interactive storytelling and structured discussions. This involves choosing stories that don’t just entertain but invite children to reflect, question and personally relate.
One of the simplest yet most profound ways to promote mental and emotional wellbeing in young children is to foster kindness - daily, visible, consistent acts of it.
Stories offer a safe space to explore emotions. Through characters, children can externalise their own fears and joys. We must create space for open-ended questions such as: ‘How do you think they felt?’ ‘What would you do?’ and ‘Why do you think she was sad?’ As a teaching assistant in both mainstream and SEN environments, I’ve seen children who had previously struggled to talk about their feelings, begin to open up when using stories designed with intentional prompts. This creates space for meaningful conversations that spark critical thinking and discussion. Fostering emotional literacy, kindness and critical reflection are not extras; they must be taught from the early years onwards and are as crucial as phonics and numeracy. The use of language, stories and discussion has a vital role to play in the development of these skills.
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This isn’t about the grand gestures but the small ones: helping a friend tidy up, offering comfort to someone who is sad, saying ‘thank you’ or ‘well done.’ I’ve found that when kindness becomes a classroom norm, anxiety diminishes. Children begin to look out for each other. They feel safer, more valued, more included. And from that place of emotional safety, they are more willing to take learning risks, to participate, to grow. Kindness, empathy and connection are not soft skills. They are essential life tools. My experience already confirms that early emotional education changes lives. I’ve seen children who once cried every morning grow into confident classroom leaders. I’ve seen anxious children begin to open up when given safe ways to express themselves. And I’ve seen children with additional needs blossom when their feelings are acknowledged and respected.
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rhs.org.uk/harlowcarr
A garden adventure Half Term Fun , 14-22 Feb
y day out! Step into the world Join Mr Toad, Ratty, Mole and Badger for an unforgettable famil hands-on activities, brought to of The Wind in the Willows with a brand-new garden trail and ture begins this February life by EH Shepard’s enchanting original illustrations. The adven – and the trail continues all year!
Book online and save
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