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IN THIS ISSUE
Education Family Law What’s On Issue 132 September/October 2026 Familiesonline.co.uk
Familiesonline.co.uk Families North Yorkshire
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mountschoolyork.co.uk
2 Families North Yorkshire
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CONTENTS
Contact us
Welcome
Editor Carla Finlayson editor@familiesnorthyorkshire.co.uk 07734 690020
Are you wishing the summer could have gone on for ever OR looking forward to having the kids back at school or nursery and returning to your usual routine?
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Either way, there’s a lot to like about autumn and the beginning of a new academic year can be an exciting time for children, even if it takes a few weeks for you all to settle into the groove. There’s lots to help you in this issue. Read up on what to expect from the first few weeks of the new term and also find out how to help manage the step up from the EYFS curriculum to Key Stage 1. Maybe you are choosing a school for 2027 this term? We’ve got some tips for you too.
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It’s not all work and no play though! Take a look at What’s On to plan some fun activities for the family at the weekend and encourage your child to become a nature detective with the help of our autumn challenge.
In this issue
5. 9. 10. 12. 13. 14. 15. 16.
Education Food Kids’ Classes Family Law What’s On Neurodivergence Health Autumn challenge
Lastly, don’t miss our range of giveaways including Ultimate Stitch Interactive Plush Toy, Minnie’s Mansion playset and Elmo Giggle Max. Apply inside The paper used in this magazine is made with or contains forest-based materials from FSCcertified forests and its use will not have harmed forests.
Families North Yorkshire 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 North Yorkshire are fully protected by copyright and none of the editorial or photographic matter may be reproduced in any form without prior consent of Families North Yorkshire. 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.
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BOOK TODAY Call Carla on 07734 690020 or email editor@familiesnorthyorkshire.co.uk
GIVEAWAY
Editor, Families North Yorkshire
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Families North Yorkshire 3
EDUCATION
OPEN DAY
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4 Families North Yorkshire
NURTURING COMMUNITY
HOLIDAY CLUB
WRAP AROUND CARE
belmontgrosvenor.co.uk/open-days/ 01423 771029
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EDUCATION
What to expect from the first weeks of term By Erin Miller
The first few weeks of the September term are often a bigger adjustment both for children and parents than they expect. Whether it is your child’s very first day at school, they are returning to school or they are beginning a new key stage, it helps to know what to expect during those early weeks. After the long summer holidays, some children are excited to return, while others may feel nervous, emotional or unsettled by the change in routine. While all of these reactions are completely normal, preparedness always helps. Expect a lot of communication If your child’s school is new to you, one of the most useful things you can do early on is familiarise yourself with how the school communicates with parents; whether through ParentMail, school apps, ClassDojo or email newsletters. The first few weeks usually involve lots of practical information about routines, homework, PE days, reading, clubs and trips. It can feel overwhelming at first but families and schools usually quickly settle into a rhythm. If you are unsure about something, don’t worry in silence, reach out to the school and ask; it’s likely other parents will be wondering the same thing! Expect routines and behaviour expectations to be prioritised over academics At the start of the school year, teachers often focus heavily on routines, relationships and behaviour expectations before moving fully into academic work. Children spend time practising everyday routines such as lining up, organising belongings, moving around the classroom and working with others.
Prepare for your child to be overwhelmed
Many parents are surprised by how emotionally tiring the return to school can be for children. Even those who seem settled may come home exhausted, emotional, irritable or unusually quiet during the first few weeks. One reason for this is often referred to as ‘after-school restraint collapse,’ where children spend the school day managing routines, expectations and social interactions before releasing those emotions once they are back in the safety of home. You may also notice inconsistency; one day your child may seem happy and confident, while the next they suddenly dislike school, their teacher or their classmates. This is usually a normal part of adjustment rather than a sign that something is wrong. Most children need time to settle into new routines and expectations, so patience, reassurance and consistent routines at home can make a big difference. Prioritising good sleep routines and calm evenings can help, as tiredness often amplifies emotional reactions. Avoid too many extracurricular activities initially until your child is settled. Familiesonline.co.uk
You may also hear lots about class rules, rewards or school values during these first weeks, as teachers establish expectations for the year ahead. For younger children especially, schools also prioritise emotional wellbeing and helping children settle socially through activities such as circle time, PSHE and team-building tasks. So don’t worry if your child hasn’t actually mentioned what they are learning in the first week or so. Expect baseline assessments and early observations The first few weeks are also a time when teachers assess where children are academically after the summer break. There is often a dip in academic attainment, which is completely normal. Schools often carry out baseline assessments, reading checks, phonics activities or short maths tasks to identify strengths, gaps in learning and any children who may need additional support. For Reception children, this includes the statutory Reception Baseline Assessment (RBA), completed within the first six weeks of school. These assessments are informal and not something children need to prepare for. Erin Miller is a teacher with a keen interest in how research can be used in the classroom to improve learning.
Looking at the longer term: assessments
You might already be thinking ahead but don’t expect detailed information about these assessments during the first few weeks of term. Apart from the Reception Baseline Assessment (RBA), most statutory assessments take place later in the school year and schools will usually provide parents with more information closer to the time. As well as the Reception Baseline Assessment (RBA), depending on your child’s year group, they may complete other statutory assessments, including the Phonics Screening Check (Year 1), the Multiplication Tables Check (Year 4) and Key Stage 2 SATs (Year 6). If you would like to learn more about when assessments take place and what they involve, GOV.UK provides guidance on primary assessments and key assessment dates. While it is natural to look ahead, there is no need to worry about these assessments. For now, the focus should be on settling into the new school year.
Families North Yorkshire 5
EDUCATION
Open Day Directory Autumn 2026
Brackenfield School: A Hidden Gem for Harrogate Families
Tucked away in Harrogate, Brackenfield School is a hidden gem for families wanting the right start to their child’s education. Its nursery, for children aged two to four, gives little ones a safe, stimulating space to play, explore and discover, guided by staff who know the Wrens (2-3) and Robins (3-4) well. When the time comes, children move on to Reception with ease. What makes Brackenfield stand out is the breadth of what’s on offer: outdoor learning, literacy, numeracy, music, PE and weekly French lessons with specialist teachers, all woven into a caring, holistic curriculum. Wraparound care with home-cooked lunches gives busy families added flexibility too. Learning goes beyond the classroom, with trips to the library, Harlow Carr and Hesketh Farm Park supporting topics like plants and nature. Children also visit a local residential home regularly, meeting and interacting with elderly residents through games and activities; a small but meaningful part of Brackenfield’s focus on community. Brackenfield offers a smooth move into Reception from its nursery and has a genuinely warm, community feel. Families can visit the school’s Open Morning on Thursday 24 September. Visit www.brackenfieldschool.co.uk/admissions or email admissions@brackenfieldschool.co.uk to book a place.
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Please check with the school directly for dates and times of Open Days. Whilst care has been taken to cover a wide range of areas within the North Yorkshire County, all schools are not listed. State school primaries rarely publish their forthcoming open days/evenings, so it has not been possible to list these. Please contact state schools directly for more information Ashville College: 19 September www.ashville.co.uk
The Mount School: 3 October www.mountschoolyork.co.uk
York Steiner School: 22 September www.yorksteinerschool.org
Queen Ethelburga’s: 3 October www.qe.org
Brackenfield School: 24 September www.brackenfieldschool. co.uk
Queen Mary’s: 3 October www.queenmarys.org
Duchy College: 25 September www.hlc.org.uk
North Yorkshire
Belmont Grosvenor: 10 October www.belmontgrosvenor.co.uk Pocklington School: 10 October www.pocklingtonschool.com Don’t forget to say you saw these listings in Families North Yorkshire Magazine!
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EDUCATION
Choosing your child’s first school: a parents’ guide By Caroline Vickery-Clark September, for many families, marks a new beginning. For parents of children ages 3 to 4, it is time to choose their first school. While the task can feel overwhelming, if you focus on your child’s needs and take a step-by-step approach, you will be able to make an informed choice. Location If you are looking for a state school, begin by researching which schools are local to you as state schools will often consider proximity to the school when accepting pupils. Use your local authority website or the Department for Education website to create a shortlist. If you are considering an independent school, you will generally also be looking in your local area and The Good Schools Guide (www.goodschoolsguide.co.uk) is a helpful resource. Type In England, state schools are funded by the local authority or government and include academies, free schools, voluntary, community and foundation schools. Independent schools are fee paying schools, where families are responsible for funding education and additional activities. Reputation and information There is plenty of information available to help you compare schools. This includes school websites, performance data, attendance figures and contextual information about pupils. For state schools, Ofsted reports can also provide a useful insight into a state school’s overall effectiveness. Different areas of school life are graded and the ‘expected standard’ grade shows the school is working at a high standard. For independent schools, The Independent Schools Inspectorate (ISI) inspects schools that belong to associations under the Independent Schools Council. This covers the vast majority of traditional, mainstream private and prep schools. ISI uses descriptive judgements like ‘excellent’ or ‘good’ when evaluating a school. Bear in mind however, that each school is much more than a report. Parent views can also tell you much about a school. Shortlisting schools Use your initial research to shortlist around five schools to visit. This is the most important step in making choices. Open Events and school tours reveal the school ethos and culture. Where possible, take your child to Open Events and on school tours to see how they respond to the environment. Open Events Most schools hold Open Events during the autumn term. Expect presentations from teachers and the headteacher, as well as advice on preparing for school. A tour of the school offers the chance to see the facilities and meet pupils. If possible, try to visit during a normal school day; this allows you to see children engaged in learning and gauge whether they are happy and settled. You may have the chance to speak to current pupils which can be very helpful. Children give the most honest insight into daily school life. Staff and school life Teachers and support staff will play a key role in your child’s experience and the relationships between staff and pupils are often the clearest indicators of a school’s culture. Use Open Events to discover their approach to learning, parent partnerships and support for children’s individual needs. Nowadays schools provide support for pupils’ wellbeing, known as ‘pastoral care.’ On your visit, ask about pastoral support, quiet spaces and approaches that help children feel safe and supported. Try to picture your child in the school environment - not just on their best day but when they may need extra reassurance. Familiesonline.co.uk
Practical considerations Schools may offer different forms of practical support for families including before and after school care, co-curricular clubs, holiday clubs, SEND support and wider enrichment opportunities. It is worthwhile considering how well each school would meet your own family’s needs into the future. Applications State school applications usually open in September and close in January, depending on your local authority. Applications are made online through your local council’s admissions system where you can list several preferences. It is recommended that you choose at least three options. Offers are typically made in April and families must then accept or decline their place. Appeals information is available through your local authority. Independent schools manage their own admissions processes directly, with timings and criteria on their websites. Caroline Vickery-Clark works at MET Academies (www.metacademies.org.uk), an inclusive multi-academy trust serving Herefordshire and Worcestershire, bringing schools together to provide safe, high-quality, community-focused education while celebrating each school’s unique identity.
GIVEAWAY
Ages 3+
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Families North Yorkshire 7
EDUCATION
A smooth transition from the EYFS to Year 1 By Michelle Elliott and Chloe Willis Now that your child has finished Reception and is settling into Year 1, you might notice some changes in expectations from their school, as well as changes in your child’s daily routine and (most likely) in their mood! Year 1 teaching naturally shifts from the mostly play-based approach of the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) towards the more formal structure of the National Curriculum. While schools are experts in managing this phased progression, it can still be a tricky move for your child. The most noticeable change in the first few weeks will likely be the classroom itself. In Reception, your child will have been used to continuous provision, both indoors and outdoors, where they explored and learnt through play, alongside short adultled sessions such as phonics. In Year 1, tables and chairs are arranged for more focused, adult-led learning sessions, though many classrooms still allow for children to choose their own learning tasks at certain times of the school day. If your child is finding this change difficult, it might be worth talking to their teacher to get more of an idea about the classroom set up and daily routines.
You can also support your child’s sense of responsibility by encouraging them to take on small, manageable tasks, like helping to pack their school bag or tidying their toys, which will really help them find their feet as they navigate these early days of Year 1. Remember to make time to truly listen to your child too. Giving them space to share their feelings and then simply acknowledging those feelings, provides vital comfort and security during this time of change. Finally, approach the move into Year 1 as an exciting new adventure! Highlight all the wonderful things they are doing, the new experiences they are sharing and the fun activities they are engaging with. Your positive attitude will be the greatest influence on theirs.
If your child is having problems settling during their first few weeks, the most important thing is to keep talking to them about the changes they are experiencing. Focus on supporting their independence, concentration and listening skills - the real foundations for a happy transition. Continue to build these skills at home through fun activities that require short bursts of attention, such as puzzles, colouring or enjoying a story together.
Michelle Elliott and Chloe Willis are from Twinkl (www.twinkl.co.uk) which offers parents a vast library of teacher-created, curriculum-aligned resources to support home learning, development and family wellbeing for children ages 0 to 11.
What can you and your child expect during Year 1?
Supporting your child with the transition
As well as experiencing a more structured daily routine, your child may start going to whole school assemblies and taking part in wider school events, such as sports day. They may have the chance to take part in schoolwide groups such as the school council too. Don’t worry though, their teachers (and older peers) will support them with the changes - they won’t suddenly be expected to run assemblies!
Resist asking lots of questions straight after school. Children often need time to decompress after a busy day of listening and learning.
As in Reception, there will be a focus on phonics throughout the year. This will consist of new sounds and skills, designed to support your child to read and write more accurately and fluently. In June, your child will take part in the Phonics Screening Check where they’ll showcase the reading skills they have been working so hard on throughout the year. You will probably be given more information about this by your child’s school during the year or perhaps invited into school to learn more about how you can support your child’s phonics skills at home.
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Model talking about your own day. This can encourage your child to open up about theirs. Use a visual timetable. With new routines come a big adjustment; going through each day’s plan can be really helpful in settling in. Bring snacks. When you pick up your child, having a small snack to hand will replenish their energy and boost their mood. Enjoy family board games. These help your child concentrate for a sustained period of time, follow instructions and practise communication skills, all of which will help them through Year 1. Stick to a consistent bedtime routine. Having this structure will help your child get the rest they need to deal with the transition. Familiesonline.co.uk
FOOD
Delicious AND nutritious lunch box ideas By Samantha Gnimavo
Research shows fewer than two percent of packed lunches meet School Food Standards* but it doesn’t have to be that way. Can lunch boxes can be delicious AND nutritious? Certainly - here’s how! Swap your usual spread for something with more flavour Trying new spreads introduces children to different flavours and sneaks in extra nutrients. Instead of butter or mayo, why not try houmous or pesto? Both add fibre and taste great. Small changes like this gradually broaden a child’s palate.
Don’t forget dairy Babybel® or small cheese chunks are easy, protein-rich additions. If packing yoghurt, check the sugar content: fruit yogurts can contain a surprising amount. A simple fix is stirring a little jam into plain yogurt instead.
Eat the rainbow The more colours on a plate, the better. Fruit and vegetables all contain different vitamins, so variety really does matter. Challenge your child to spot every colour in their lunchbox. It turns healthy eating into a game and makes lunchtime more exciting. For a sweet treat, add a piece of seasonal fruit Fruit is nature’s dessert. Regularly rotating one or two pieces exposes your child to a range of flavours. Seasonal fruit is usually cheaper too, so beyond the banana or apple standbys, try a pear, satsumas, apricots or berries. Variety is the spice of life!
Swap crisps for popcorn Crisps are a lunchbox staple but have you considered salted popcorn? Higher in fibre and lower in fat, it’s a simple, satisfying swap. It’s fun and easy to make at home or pick up small ready-made bags at most supermarkets. A small change, a big win!
The school day doesn’t end at lunch. An extra snack for home time satisfies afterschool hunger. Good options include a small handful of nuts or seeds (if the school allows), a cereal bar, rice cakes or a piece of fruit. A little goes a long way.
Insulated flasks and food jars keep food warm for hours so they work for colder weather lunchboxes. A warming bowl of last night’s leftover pasta, soup or stew is comforting, nutritious and reduces food waste.
*www.bit.ly/foodfoundationkids
Familiesonline.co.uk
Hitting five-a-day starts at lunchtime. Adding vegetables to a sandwich boosts fibre, vitamins and minerals, keeping energy levels steady all afternoon. Try salad leaves, tomatoes, cucumber, spinach, grated carrot or sliced bell peppers. Colourful and crunchy, let your child choose.
Swap white bread for wholegrain or sourdough Plain white bread is low in nutrients and digests quickly, leaving children hungry before the afternoon is over. Wholegrain and sourdough breads are far more nutritious and release energy slowly. It’s a simple swap that makes a real difference.
Pack an after-school snack
Choose hot over cold
Samantha Gnimavo is owner of Happy Body (www.happy-body.co.uk), a women’s health and fertility nutritionist and NHSaccredited health coach.
Fresh fillings in sandwiches
Keep it simple: add a flask of water Staying hydrated is essential for concentration and overall health, yet it’s often overlooked in lunchboxes. A flask of water is all you need. Skip the squash, it adds unnecessary sugar. If your child isn’t keen on plain water, try adding a slice of lemon, a sprig of mint or swap to sparkling water.
Who doesn’t love a good dip? You can never have too many vegetables. Chop some carrots, cucumber and bell peppers, add a pot of houmous and you put fun and fibre into any lunchbox or after-school snack. Children who help prepare their food are also more likely to eat it.
Families North Yorkshire 9
KIDS’ CLASSES
How sport and education can work together By Dennis J Smith (M.Ed) Back to school and to the excitement of a new school year. New teachers, new classrooms, new friendships and new opportunities can all help create a sense of anticipation. While some children may feel a little nervous, many are also eager to return to familiar routines and activities. For parents, the start of a new term is often a good time to think about how children can enjoy a healthy balance between education, sport and family life. Over many years of working with young people, I have seen how participation in sport can often support progress in school. Children who take part in football, swimming, tennis, rugby, athletics, dance or other activities frequently develop qualities that can also help them in the classroom. Sport encourages perseverance, concentration, self-discipline and resilience. Young people learn that improvement usually comes through regular effort rather than instant success. They discover how to cope with setbacks, learn from mistakes and keep trying when things become challenging. These are valuable lessons both on the sports field and in school. However, balance remains important. Children benefit most when sport is enjoyable rather than becoming another source of pressure. Not every child wishes to become a champion and that is perfectly acceptable. The real value often lies in participation, friendship, enjoyment and personal development. The same principle applies to education. While academic progress matters, children should not feel that their worth depends entirely on test scores or examination results. Confidence often grows when parents focus on effort, attitude and gradual improvement rather than constant comparison with others. As the new school year gets going, parents can help by encouraging positive routines. Regular sleep, healthy meals, reading, outdoor activity and organised preparation for the school day all contribute to a calmer and more successful start. Most importantly, children benefit from knowing that home is a place of encouragement and support. A simple conversation after school, showing interest in what they enjoyed, learned or
experienced during the day, can sometimes be more valuable than focusing solely on performance. A new school term offers a fresh opportunity for children to grow in confidence, develop new skills and enjoy new experiences. When education, sport and family support work together, young people are often able to achieve their potential while maintaining a healthy sense of balance and wellbeing.
Helping young athletes build lasting confidence Confidence is one of the greatest gifts that sport can offer a child but it rarely develops overnight. Instead, it grows gradually through positive experiences, encouragement and learning how to cope with challenges. Parents play a vital role in this process. Children often judge their own performance through the reactions of the adults around them. A supportive comment after a match, race or competition can have a lasting impact. Statements such as: ‘I enjoyed watching you play’ or ‘I loved your effort today’ help children feel valued regardless of the result. Mistakes are also an important part of development. Every athlete experiences setbacks, disappointments and periods when progress feels slow. Children who learn that mistakes are opportunities to improve are more likely to persevere and remain motivated. Rather than focusing solely on winning, parents can encourage effort, commitment, learning and enjoyment. When children feel accepted whether they succeed or struggle, they develop confidence that extends beyond sport, school, friendships and everyday life too.
Number Train is celebrating its 9th birthday Number Train, the award-winning pre-school maths class, is celebrating its 9th birthday! So it seems especially appropriate that this year, Number Train welcomes its 9th Train Driver to join the team of enthusiastic former teachers who have now delivered Number Train sessions to hundreds of children across the North East of England. What started as a small class in Horsforth, Leeds, run by Number Train founder Annette, has been in such demand over the subsequent years that Number Train has been able to expand across Yorkshire, and as of this year, is now available to children in County Durham and Leicestershire. Aimed at children from around 2.5 years upwards, Number Train is designed and delivered by experienced primary school teachers to help children grow in confidence, learn new skills, and prepare for school, through music, making, movement and, of course, maths! “I first came to Number Train with my son in 2018 and attended every class for 7 years as I went from one son to three! The fact that Number Train has been such a huge success does not surprise me in the least. We loved every class with my kids at every age – from the simple number recognition and confidence building at the younger end, to the school readiness and strong foundation in numeracy when it was finally time to say goodbye. 10 Families North Yorkshire
All three of my boys are now thriving at school, and I know that’s in no small part thanks to Number Train.” – former Number Train parent Interested in finding out more about Number Train? We now offer classes across the following areas: Leeds, Harrogate, Wakefield, Bradford, York, Doncaster, Stockton-on Tees or Leicester. Visit www.numbertrain.co.uk to book a taster session. Familiesonline.co.uk
KIDS’ CLASSES
North Yorkshire classes directory ARTS & CRAFTS Bish Bash Pot Pottery & Glass Studio in York Crafty Fox Kids Club (ages 5-11) in York Rainbow Ceramics in York
Spotlight Dance Academy (ages 16mths+) in York
NUMBER TRAIN 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. Call - 07852 989523 numbertrain@hotmail.com
Stagecoach Performing Arts (ages 4-18) in Harrogate, Selby, York
www.numbertrain.co.uk
Sally Corbally School of Dance (ages 2.5+) in Selby
MULTI-ACTIVITY
Stardust Drama (ages 4+) in Harrogate
Born of the Forest (ages 5-11) in Follifoot
Summerbell Dance Academy (ages 18mths+) in Harrogate, Starbeck
Enchatica’s Classes (ages 0-11) in Harrogate
York Dance Works in York
The Grand Cookery School Parent/ Child Classes (ages 6-13) in York Lacy’s Cottage Riding School (ages 4+) in Scrayingham Naburn Grange Riding Centre in Naburn Wild Things Explorers (ages under 5) in York
PERFORMING ARTS ACTAcademy (ages 3-11) in Harrogate Articulate Drama School (ages 6-19) in Harrogate, York
York Stage School (ages 18mths-18) in York York Theatre Royal Youth Theatre (ages 5-19) in York
Yorkshire Rose Dance Academy (ages 2.5+) in York
www.babyswimmers.co.uk
SPORTS Acomb Martial Arts (ages 3+0 in York Agility Fitness Park (ages 5-11 in Poppleton
Bluebirds Dance Studio (ages 4+) in Knaresborough
Children’s Yoga York (ages 2+) in York
Bolshee Young Creatives (ages 8-14) in York
City of York Hockey Club Juniors (ages 2+) in York
Butterflies Dance & Performing Arts (ages 4+) in Thirsk
Didi Rugby (ages 18mths-6) in Harrogate, Ilkley, Tadcaster
DanceED Harrogate (ages 3-16) in Harrogate
Harrogate Gymnastics (ages 2.5+) in Harrogate
Derwent Danceworks (ages 2+) in York
Harrogate RUFC (ages 6+) in Harrogate
Drama Kids Academy (ages 5-16) in Acomb, Easingwold, Harrogate, Selby, York
Harrogate Town FC Emerging Talent Centre (ages 6-16) in Harrogate
Evolution Dance (ages 4+) in York
Heworth ARLFC Juniors (ages preschool+) in Heworth I Want to Ride My Bike in Harrogate
Freedom Performing Arts (ages 3-18) in Knaresborough
The Little Gym Harrogate (ages 6 weeks-12) in Harrogate
Harrogate Youth Theatre (ages 5-18) in Harrogate
Little Messys (ages 4-13) in Selby, York
Hot Tap Dance School (ages 2+) in York
Love Cricket Coaching Academy (ages 6-15) in York
Just Dance York (ages 3+) in York
Pateley Bridge Junior Football Club (ages 4-11) in Harrogate
LA Performance Academy (ages 6-14) in Harrogate Let’s Act Drama School (ages 3+) in York Lynton Academy of Dance (ages 2.5+) in Harrogate Move It Mini (ages 2-4) in Knaresborough Northern Dance Academy (ages 4+) in York
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. Email info@babyswimmers.co.uk
Babyballet (ages 6mths-6) in York
Katie Ventress School of Dance (ages 2+) in York
Classes for babies and toddlers from 6 weeks old.
York’s Independent Performing Arts School (ages 3+) in York
Ainsty Gymnastics & Trampoline Club (ages 6mths-16) in York
Flying Ducks Youth Theatre (ages 4-18) in York
BABY SWIMMERS
Richmondshire Thirsk Dales Gymnastics Club (ages babies+) in Colburn & Thirsk Ripon Tennis Club (ages 5+) in Ripon Rugby Tots (ages 2-7) in Harrogate, Knaresborough, Scotton, York Thirsk Junior Hockey Club (ages 5-16) in Sowerby Urban Circus (18mths+) in Harrogate
GW Football Academy (ages 4-9) in Sowerby
Energise Leisure Centre (ages 3mths-12) in Acomb
Kixx (18mths-10) in Harrogate, Knaresborough, York
Harrogate Leisure & Wellbeing Hub (ages 4mths+) in Harrogate
Ripon City Panthers Junior Football Club (ages 6+) in Ripon
Harrogate School of Swimming (ages birth+) in Harrogate
Soccerkidz (ages walker-Year 1) in Harrogate
Harrogate Swimming School (ages 3+) in Harrogate
Thirsk Falcons (ages 6+) in Thirsk
Knaresborough Martial Arts and Leadership Academy (ages 3+) in Knaresborough
York City Foundation Saturday Mornings (ages 5-12) in York
MARTIAL ARTS Alan Sparks School of Taekwondo in York Chris Jones Martial Arts (ages 4+) in Knaresborough Chokdee Martial Arts Academy (ages 4+) in York Kaizen Combat Arts (ages 4+) in York The Karate Dojo Ripon (ages 4+) in Ripon Krav Maga Self Defence (ages 5-15) in York Legions Muaythai (ages 4+) in York Martial Arts 4U (ages 3+) in Acomb, Heworth Matt Fiddes Martial Arts (ages 3+) in Acomb Rawcliffe, York Phoenix Martial Arts (ages 4-13) in Selby Renowned Martial Arts (ages 4+) in York X Martial Arts (ages 3+) in York
SWIMMING Adams Aquatics Swim School in York Baby Swimmers (ages 6 weeks+) in Harrogate, York
Knaresborough Leisure & Wellbeing Hub (ages 4mths+) in Knaresborough Pateley Bridge Leisure and Wellbeing Hub (ages 4mths+) in Pateley Bridge Puddle Ducks (ages 0-10) in Acomb, Boroughbridge, Harrogate, Thirsk, York Pure Swim Yorkshire (ages baby-15) in Harrogate, York Splash Swim Academy in York Starbeck Swimming Pool (ages 4mths+) in Harrogate Stokesley Leisure and Wellbeing Hub (ages 4mths+) in Stokesley Swim Academy (ages 4-11) in York Swimming with Linzi (ages 1mth-8) in York SwimPerfect (ages 3+) in Boroughbridge, Ripon Swimtime (ages 2-11) in York Swim2U Swim School (ages 4+) in Harrogate Thirsk and Sowerby Leisure and Wellbeing Hub (ages 4mths+) in Thirsk Tom Dean Swim School (ages 6ths+) in York
Bedale Leisure and Wellbeing Hub (ages 4mths+) in Bedale
Water Babies (ages birth-14+) in Boroughbridge, Harrogate, Helmsley, Knaresborough, Selby, York
Bootham Swim School (ages 5+) in York
Yearsley Swimming Pool (ages 3mths-12) in York
Patricia Veale School of Dance (ages 2.5+) in York
York City Gymnastics (ages 2+) in York
Pauline Quirke Academy of Performing Arts (ages 4-18) in Harrogate, Selby, York
FOOTBALL
Brightwater Swim School (ages 3.5+0 in Cundall, Harrogate, Topcliffe, York
York City Baths (ages 4+) in York
Perform Dance & Drama School (ages 3+) in York
FDS Harrogate Soccer School (ages 4+) in Harrogate Football Fun Factory (ages 2-12) in York
Coral Magson Swim School (birth+) in York
Galacticos Junior Football Academy (ages 3-14) in York
The Jack Laugher Centre (ages 4mths+) in Ripon
York Leisure Centre (ages 3mths-12) in York
Perform with Emma Bassett (ages 3+) in York Razzamataz Theatre School (ages 2-18) in York Familiesonline.co.uk
York Sport Village (ages 6mths-16) in York
York Swimming Academy (ages 0-16) in York
Families North Yorkshire 11
FAMILY LAW
A September message for families by Katie Audsley, Family Lawyer – Hartlaw LLP September always arrives with a particular energy. The longer relaxed days of summer give way to early alarms, school bags by the door, and the familiar rhythm of family life returning. For many parents, this shift brings a sense of renewal. For others, it highlights pressures that were easier to ignore in July. Let’s look at how you can use September as a moment to reset, reconnect, and regain stability. New Routines, New Realities The return to school often exposes practical issues that separated or coparenting families need to address. Timetables change, clubs restart, and travel arrangements become more complicated. If you share care, this is the moment to revisit your child arrangements, check in with your co-parent to look to the new school year ahead. Even small changes - a later finish time, a new club, a different bus route - can affect pickups, drop-offs, and weekly schedules. A clear plan now prevents conflict later. Parental Responsibility: Your Rights at School Schools will soon be sending out forms for trips, medical consent, SEN assessments, and digital safety policies. If both parents have parental responsibility, both should be consulted. September is the perfect time to check that the school has accurate contact details for each parent and understands your family structure. This simple step can make the whole year smoother. You can contact them directly to make sure they are up to date and will keep you informed. The September Squeeze Uniforms, lunches, transport, clubs - September is expensive. Many families reassess child maintenance and in particular,
shared school related costs at this time of year. If your financial circumstances have changed, you may be able to review your arrangements. A conversation now can prevent stress later in the term. Revisiting or writing a Parenting Plan that you can work on together is a good place to start. September Summary September is more than a change of season - it’s a chance to reset. It’s a moment to: • • • • •
Rebuild routines Reduce conflict Clarify responsibilities Seek support early Put children’s wellbeing at the centre
Family law isn’t just about courts and paperwork. It’s about helping families create stability, safety, and confidence as the school year begins. If you feel stuck, we can help. 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 offer a free initial consultation. Hartlaw Solicitors Call 01937 547000 Email info@hartlaw.co.uk www.hartlaw.co.uk
SPELLS + SPARKLES at Harewood this October Half-Term Spooky activities Broomstick making Autumnal safari bags Spellbinding spot-it trail
Woodland play
KIDS GO FREE!
Adventure Playscape Woodland Wonderland Sylvascope Treehouse
Book online for the best prices today at harewood.org 12 Families North Yorkshire
0113 218 1010 | info@harewood.org Harewood House, LS17 9LG Familiesonline.co.uk
Your family guide to
What's On 18-20 SEP Filey Kite Festival Filey Brigg Country Park The skies above Filey are set to come alive once again at the scenic Filey Brigg Country Park this September. This FREE, family-friendly event promises a weekend of vibrant displays, community spirit and coastal charm.
20 SEP Nidderdale Show Bewerley Park Show Field, Pateley Bridge The Nidderdale Show brings together farming, local businesses, talented makers, delicious food and a wonderful community atmosphere all in one place.
21-27 SEP Autumn Bioblitz Lotherton Hall Take part in BIAZA’s ‘Spotted on Site’ Autumn Bioblitz to take a virtual snapshot of the native flora and fauna found at Lotherton. Download the iNaturalist or (for younger scientists) the Seek app before your visit and take pictures of the animals and plants you spot on your visit.
26 SEP-30 OCT
18-31 OCT Halloween Events Bolton Castle It’s that time of the year and Halloween settles on Bolton Castle with a ghostly pall! All the paraphernalia to ensure Halloween is a hit for all the family is here and the courtyard and dungeon take a spooky theme.
24 OCT UV Fungi Walk Danby Lodge National Park Centre Join Lucy from Wild Roots Foraging for a spectacular evening exploring biofluorescence in nature! Begin the evening with a wild-spiced, mushroom hot chocolate and a wander around Crow Wood to look at some of the wild edible and medicinal plants and fungi, as the light fades. As darkness begins to fall, you will begin the UV hunt for biofluorescent fungi, plants, mosses, lichens and bugs with UV torches. Booking is essential.
Spilmans Pumpkin Festival Spilmans Farm, Thirsk Make memories in the pumpkin patch – there is fun for everyone. See website for available dates.
10 OCT Fungus Foray Temple Newsam Join a guided walk for families and beginners looking at Fungi at Temple Newsam. The walk aims to find examples of all the major genus of fungi so that participants can quickly identify all kinds of mushrooms.
10-11 OCT Back to the 1940’s Eden Camp Get ready to Brylcreem your hair, don your best hat, and dress to impress as you step back in time and immerse yourself in the vibrant spirit of the 1940s at Eden Camp! Web’oween The Web Adventure Park Head to The Web Adventure Park this half term for pumpkins, rides, entertaining and so much more! It’s a great day out for the whole family. Check the website for available dates.
16 OCT-4 NOV The Crowe’s Wood Halloween Trail Kiplin Hall & Gardens Are you ready for some spook-tacular fun. Familiesonline.co.uk
Indoor Funfair Great Yorkshire Showground Enjoy 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. Halloween Half Term Whitby Abbey Gather your little monsters for a ghoulishly good day out at Whitby Abbey this half term. Follow the quest to solve creepy clues and gather round to listen to spooky stories. Pumpkin Trail Bolton Abbey The Pumpkin Trail is back! Navigate your way through Strid Wood following the giant pumpkins!
3 OCT-1 NOV The Halloween Adventure Stockeld Park Celebrate spooky season at Stockeld Park! Complete a forest trail with the help of the Woodland Witches, go pumpkin picking, explore the Monster Maze and go to battle in the Laser Zombie experience. Enjoy a thrilling family day out every October weekend and daily from the 24 October until 1 November 2026.
Halloween at Scarborough Castle Scarborough Castle Join the Great Pumpkin Party and celebrate the season with family activities and entertainment. There’ll be interactive storytelling, spooky games and devilish disco fun, as well as themed trails and seasonal selfie spots around the site.
25 OCT 24-31 OCT Trick or Treat Street William’s Den Something strange is happening in the village… The Great Village Bell has stopped chiming. Without it, Halloween can’t begin. Now it’s up to your family to follow the clues, meet mysterious villagers and solve this year’s magical mystery before time runs out. Hallowtween York Maze Calling all fearless 10-15 year olds, and adults of a more nervous disposition... Venture into a new dimension of spine tingling fun this Halloween.
24 OCT-1 NOV Spellbound Lotherton Hall Every autumn the witches of Lotherton cast a special charm together, the Keeping Charm, that gathers the last of the summer’s warmth and stores it so the village comes through winter. But this year, their heartwarming hex has come undone and its ten words have scattered, one to each witch across the estate. Halloween Hocus Pocus Mother Shipton’s Step into a world of enchantment as you explore themed displays filled with witches, cauldrons and magical mischief. Keep your eyes peeled for the iconic witchy sister trio, who are conjuring chaos throughout the woodland. Meet them, join their coven and snap a magical photo together!
Magic Mike: Not So Spooky Halloween show Bridlington Spa Join Magic Mike and Count Chuckula for a magical Panto style show full of messy ghostly fun for the whole family.
26 OCT Hocus Pocus Joseph Rowntree Theatre Join the Sanderson Sisters for a wickedly fun, family-friendly theatre experience like no other! Hocus Pocus: Live Experience brings the beloved movie to life with singing, dancing and all your favourite songs from the film.
30 OCT The Creepy Circus Danby Lodge National Park Centre Family Fun Halloween Walking adventure suitable for Primary Ages up. This is an outdoor event so please dress for walking, wrap up warm and bring a torch! Booking is essential.
6-7 NOV Bonfire Weekend Thornton Hall Country Park Get ready for a blazing bonfire, jaw-dropping fireworks, and a night packed full of crackling excitement, tasty treats and sparkling family fun.
Please say you saw these events listed in Families North Yorkshire magazine! Families North Yorkshire 13
NEURODIVERGENCE
Why autistic girls are missed and how parents can help By Jen Staunton For many years, the typical picture of autism has been based largely on how it presents in boys. More recently though, it has been recognised that the experience can look quite different for autistic girls. Some girls are described as ‘shy,’ ‘sensitive’ or ‘perfectionist.’ Others work incredibly hard observing and copying their peers’ behaviour to fit in socially. Teachers may see a child who is quiet, polite and coping well in the classroom, while at home parents witness the real impact of how much effort that takes. Many autistic girls spend the school day masking. This can involve closely monitoring and adapting their behaviour to fit in socially, meet expectations or avoid drawing attention to themselves. They may appear hardworking and socially confident while internally feeling anxious or overwhelmed. While effective in social situations, masking can become exhausting. Parents may notice that after school their daughter is completely drained. They might withdraw for long periods, be tearful or irritable. These are signs that a child’s nervous system has been working hard to cope with sensory, emotional and social demands throughout the day. Early understanding can make a powerful difference. When children learn that their brain simply works differently, it can reduce confusion and self-doubt. The right language and support can help autistic girls develop confidence, self-understanding and positive self-esteem. Autistic thinking also brings many strengths. Autistic girls are often deeply empathetic, passionate about fairness and able
Ages 18mths+
to focus intensely on topics they care about. Many also show wonderful creativity, determination and attention to detail. Signs of autism in girls While every child is unique, there are some patterns parents may notice, such as: becoming extremely tired after school; sensitivity to noise, clothing textures or busy environments; repetitive behaviours such as hair twirling or nail biting; intense interests in particular topics; perfectionism or anxiety about mistakes; needing routines and finding change difficult; difficulties navigating friendships. If parents recognise such signs, it can be helpful to speak with a GP or professional to explore whether autism might be part of the picture. Jen Staunton is a SEND teacher supporting neurodivergent children and the parent of an autistic girl. Her recentlypublished children’s book I Am Autistic and Fabulous: An Affirming Book for Autistic Girls helps primary-aged autistic girls understand their autistic identity in a neurodiversityaffirming way. More support at www.everykindofmind.com
GIVEAWAY
Sesame Street Tickle Me Elmo Giggle Max 5 available
T&Cs apply
Worth £25 each Get ready for max giggles with Tickle Me Elmo Plush toy from Sesame Street Tickle Elmo and watch him shake with joyful delight The perfect friend for cuddles & laughter Use QR code or apply at www.familiesmag.co.uk/go 14 Families North Yorkshire
Positive ways parents can help There are many ways parents can support autistic girls to feel confident, understood and emotionally safe. Talk about differences positively: children benefit from understanding that their brain works differently, not incorrectly. Allow quiet time: necessary for decompression after school’s sensory and social demands. Focus on strengths: for instance, creativity, honesty, determination and deep empathy. Listen to your child’s experiences: acknowledging their feelings can make a huge difference. Reduce pressure to ‘fit in’: children should feel safe to be themselves without constantly trying to meet social expectations. Work collaboratively with school: sharing observations between home and school can help adults better understand patterns of overwhelm, masking or anxiety.
Familiesonline.co.uk
HEALTH
Using anchoring to calm anxiety By Christopher Paul Jones Anxiety has become incredibly prevalent. Children can suffer anxiety about going back to school; parents can suffer anxiety about their child’s development and societal expectations can be an issue for everyone. But very few people really understand how anxiety works, what causes it or indeed how to change it. Understand what anxiety actually is One of the biggest misconceptions about anxiety is that it is about character; if sufferers were just braver, stronger or more confident, they wouldn’t feel it. But anxiety is much more often a learned reflex. A conditioned response. Trying to think your way out of it often doesn’t help because emotions don’t follow logic. Anxiety can be handled One of the quickest and most useful tools I’ve come across is something called anchoring, a technique that creates a conditioned association between a specific internal emotional state and an external stimulus (such as a touch). Anchoring gives us something incredibly valuable - the sense that we can start reclaiming control. How to anchor Think of a time when you felt very relaxed. Go fully to that time. See what you saw. Hear what you heard. Feel what you felt. At the peak of that feeling, squeeze your thumb and forefinger together. Hold that for as long as you can stay in that feeling. The second the feeling begins to fade, let go.
Now do it again, thinking of a time when you felt very loving or connected. Repeat other positive emotions: a time you couldn’t stop laughing; a time when you felt very confident or very safe. Now test it. Clear your mind for a moment. Then squeeze your fingers together in exactly the same way, with the same pressure. This should start sending you back to those positive emotions. Whenever you start to feel anxious, squeeze your fingers together in exactly the same way and fire off positive emotions. If the anchor is strong enough, it should take out or at least neutralise much of the negative emotional charge. Christopher Paul Jones is a leading Harley Street phobia expert who combines mainstream psychology and cutting-edge techniques which aim to change the mind’s danger response. He is author of Face your Fears – 7 Steps to Conquering Phobias and Anxiety. More at www.christopherpauljones. com
Anxiety vs phobia
One client’s story
Anxiety and phobia are often used interchangeably but the key differences are important.
A client explained that she had anxiety around flying. I asked her a simple question: ‘What specifically are you afraid of?’ She said: ‘Turbulence.’
Phobias tend to be tied to a very specific trigger. The time you were chased by a dog. The turbulent flight that frightened you. The moment you were forced to get up and speak in class and everyone laughed. The brain links one thing to one fear response. Anxiety, however, is often more of a prolonged sense of unease. It can come from growing up with anxious parents, moving around a lot, being bullied at school or going through a prolonged period of stress at work or at school. Rather than one very clear moment, it’s often a longer period of not feeling safe, supported or in control. And what then happens is that instead of flying = fear or dogs = fear, the mind starts to generalise. Anything out of your comfort zone, anything slightly uncertain, anything that feels even vaguely unpredictable can begin to trigger that same emotional response.
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I got her to think about turbulence and really step into what she was scared of. As she did that, I linked that state to a touch on one arm. Then I asked her to think of a time when she had felt very loved and connected. A moment where she felt safe, warm and emotionally close. As she stepped into that feeling, I linked that state to a touch on the other arm. Then I fired them together. What happens when you do this is that the two emotions rush in together and the stronger state starts to take over. It doesn’t always mean an instant miracle but when you’ve conditioned a powerful enough positive emotion, it is possible to completely change how you feel. A few months later she messaged me to say she was sitting on a plane, unfazed by her previous feelings.
Families North Yorkshire 15
AUTUMN
Become an autumn detective: solving nature mysteries Autumn leaves clues everywhere. A chewed acorn beneath a tree. A seed spinning on the wind. A cluster of berries shining among the leaves. Trees are preparing for winter, animals are gathering food and hidden communities are working beneath our feet. This autumn, take a notebook outside and become a nature detective. Your job is to follow clues, ask questions and uncover the hidden stories of the season.
THE TREE THAT LET GO
THE TRAVELLING SEED
Collect three fallen leaves in different colours and compare their veins, edges and textures.
Search for seeds with wings, parachutes or other unusual shapes. Some spin on the wind, others hitchhike on passing animals or are carried inside fruit.
A tree spends all summer growing its leaves, then in autumn they fall. Before it does, it recovers valuable nutrients stored inside them, including sugars and nitrogen. What you could find: leaves from trees like oak, beech, maple What advantages might a bare tree have during winter?
Drop a few different seeds and watch how they fall. Do they tumble, spin or float? What you could find: sycamore seeds with wings, burdock seeds with hooks and burrs
THE BERRY ADVERTISEMENT
THE ANIMAL NOBODY SAW
Bright berries appear on hedges, shrubs and some trees in autumn. Why would a plant make its fruits so easy to see?
Something visited before you arrived but you just missed it. Scavenge the undergrowth for chewed pine cones, empty acorn cups or cracked nutshells. Scientists learn much about animals from the evidence they leave behind.
Notice which berries stand out most clearly against the leaves around them. Birds often swallow berries whole and carry the seeds away inside them, dropping them somewhere new. What you could find: blackberries on bushes and rowan berries on trees What do you think the plant gets out of that arrangement?
THE MUSHROOM THAT APPEARED OVERNIGHT Search for fungi growing on logs, tree stumps or among fallen leaves, and compare their shapes and colours. The mushroom is only part of the fungus, the fruit; most of the fungus may be hidden underground or within wood, sometimes spanning an area larger than a football pitch. What could you find: fly agaric, oyster mushrooms, turkey tail fungi and inky caps… but remember: look, DON’T TOUCH, as some fungi are poisonous.
If you could see beneath the surface of the field, how large do you think the hidden part might be?
What could you find: feathers, pine cones and nuts that have been gnawed on, paw prints in the mud
What do your clues suggest about what happened here?
THE CITY UNDER THE LEAVES Choose a small patch of leaf litter and carefully look underneath. Worms, woodlice, beetles and millipedes may all be working together to break down dead plant material and return nutrients to the soil. Without them, fallen leaves would simply accumulate and the nutrients locked inside them would never be released. What could you find: worms, woodlice, small beetles, millipedes
How many different residents can you find in one patch?
Every clue tells part of a larger story. Leaves fall and release nutrients, seeds disperse, berries draw in birds, fungi thread through the soil and tiny creatures work beneath the leaf litter. The season that looks like an ending is actually a very busy beginning. Written and illustrated by Ria Mishaal, owner of Curiosity Companions (www.curiositycompanions.com) which offers nature education subscriptions for ages 4 to 12.
16 Families North Yorkshire
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