Issuu

may/june2014 issue

free The useful magazine for families with young children in York, Harrogate, Tadcaster, Wetherby and Selby

STOCKELD

PARK

Where magic is made & adventures

begin

W for

A fun and educational tennis OOK NOoliday & B er hEE play and skills programme forsumtumm classes erm timeL Fn tR au TRIAON children from 2-8 years old Classes across Harrogate, Wetherby & York

LESS

Call Caroline on 07843 342662 /caroline.buncall@tennistykes.co.uk for Harrogate & Wetherby classes or Ben Walker on 07933 026 956 for York classes.

www.tennistykes.co.uk

Outstanding in all areas

building for the future!

Bankfield Pre-prep Expansion • Now offering full day & flexible child care for 2,3,4 year olds, 8am – 6pm • Holiday Club • Places available NOW • Well qualified and highly experienced staff • A stimulating and nurturing environment • Access to the facilities at Harrogate Ladies’ College, including the Sports Hall, Theatre and Chapel • Extensive outdoor space • Secure and homely • Early Years funding Open Mornings: every Friday 9.30am – 11am. Visits by appointment only

You are welcome to visit at any time please contact us:

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Vale of York

tel: 01423 504543 e-mail: admissions@hlc.org.uk

www.hlc.org.uk

welcome to families

I’m trying to grow green fingers but it’s proving tricky. Every spring I regret not bothering much the year before and have a half-hearted attempt at buying a few bits at the garden centre. I’ve been again today; bought a few things to replace stuff I’ve killed and I shall now sit back and hope for the best. Last year we had our first ‘crop’ from the apple tree. We debated the how to share it out amongst the family and decided to that cutting it into quarters would be fairest. The plums were a bit more successful and I managed a whole crumble with the produce. The lawn’s mowed though and the weeding has been done, so maybe I should stick to what I do best: supervising. Editor of Families VOY

in this issue

p4 news p6 clubs & classes p8 competition

p7 p10

p20

the parent business

p9 school holiday solutions p10 parties p18 homework p19 books p20 ready, steady, grow p21 what’s on p23 beta mum

Front page picture by photo artist Abby Wilkes. Abby won the West Midlands Master Photographer Award for her work with children three years in a row. She specialises in photographing children and families, creating art from life’s special moments. If you would like to book Abby for a photo shoot, contact her for information on: 07966 867 306. She travels throughout the UK and abroad on photo shoots. www.abbywilkes.com

families magazine

Tel: 01405 860831 editor@familiesvoy.co.uk www.familiesvoy.co.uk Circulation: 18,000 Deadline:

The deadline for the July/Aug 2014 edition is early June 2014

Printed by: Warners Midlands PLC www.warners.co.uk

Copyright Families in the Vale of York May/ June 2014. Colour transparencies and any other original materials submitted for publication are sent at owners’ own risk and, while every care is taken, neither Families nor its agents accept liability for loss or damage. Families in the Vale of York is part of a group established in 1990 and headed by Families South West. All franchised magazines in the group are independently owned and operated under license. We take care preparing this magazine but the publishers and distributors cannot be held responsible for the claims of the advertisers nor for the accuracy of the contents nor for any consequence.

www.thelittlegym.co.uk

Develop your child’s skills and confidence

The Little Gym is a place where children develop their co-ordination, balance, confidence, listening and social skills whilst having heaps of FUN! The Little Gym provider of the world’s leading gymnastics based programme for children aged 4 months to 12 years is available in Harrogate! Contact us now for more information on 01423 701560. The Little Gym® Harrogate • 1 Cardale Park • Harrogate • HG3 1RY 01423 701560 • Harrogate@thelittlegym.co.uk • www.thelittlegym.co.uk parent/child classes

preschool/ kindergarten gymnastics

primary school gymnastics

holiday camps

birthday parties

Families Vale of York

news

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reliable childcare from Bright

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Qualified Nannies

Maternity Practitioners Nursery Staff

Mobile Creches Babysitting

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Be Prepared! Okay so it might be a bit early to talk about getting back to school but we think this Back to School Complete Naming Kit is ideal for the summer months too. Complete with a Snappy Tags applicator and tags plus an assortment of stickers and labels for shoes and lunchboxes, it’s perfect for tagging all your summer uniform. Here at Families we’ve been using Snappy Tags for several years and find the button applicator so simple that the children do the job themselves - a double bonus as there’s no sewing or ironing either! And whilst I’ve not managed to train my daughter to hang on to her cardigans, I do find them quickly when I’m faced with the lost property box at school. Since the buttons are re-usable (you only need to buy new backs) my son’s still using his after at least 4 years and a move to secondary school. They don’t come loose, don’t fade in the wash and attach easily to the care label in his clothing. With stickers for shoes, underwear, sports equipment and drinks bottles, this kit will last you long into the autumn when it really will be time to go back to school! www.snappytags.co.uk

Planning permission granted for new children’s day nursery in York

Little Green Rascals Organic Day Nursery has successfully secured planning permission for a new site on Tadcaster Road, York. The site will be the second for Vanessa Warn, who opened her first Little Green Rascals nursery four years ago at York Maze in Elvington. The new nursery will provide care for 110 children aged 0-8 years and create 50 full and part-time jobs. “It’s fantastic to get the go-ahead and start putting all our exciting plans into action.” said Vanessa. “We’ve had a very positive response from the local community and from parents who desperately need more nursery provision in the area. We are dedicated to providing first class childcare with an organic and environmentally friendly ethos.” s Cupcakes & es sin bu d he Newly launc r Charlotte ne ow g There will be an investment of £100,000 in in ep ke Keepsakes is the building at 302 Tadcaster Road, once . sy bu ok Co yLille siness,” the offices of the Yorkshire Tourist Board. bu e th to es sid a “There are two This will include a full refurbishment, the Keepsakes are he “T . te lot ar says Ch creation of an organic kitchen garden and r children, some fo ts gif t en fer variety of dif an outdoor play area. An area of private ildren’s first ch of t ou e ad of which are m woodland close by will be used for a baby clothes.” Forest School. Vanessa, who advises t types of en fer dif ur fo York College on their childcare courses, Charlotte makes k blankets made from or will also be creating four apprenticeship teddy and patchw e all beautifully handar positions as well as 25 full-time and 20 baby-gros, which e child’s name. th th part-time positions. embroidered wi in s nd rla ga ry ht light fai Since announcing plans to open the s ion sh “I also make nig cu r es, characte nursery, Vanessa has already received a variety of them s as well as dresses outfit interest from over 80 parents: all ys and character bo r fo s ee d dungar for little girls an “At the moment I have to travel by car to order.” are hand made to take my 2 year old son to nursery,” all about cakes. is s es sin bu ’s Charlotte corating said local mum Sarah. “Having Little de ke ca n The other part of ru o and als Green Rascals within walking distance for all occasions e East Riding. It’s a beautiful “I make cakes e in th us ho m far from home will make life so much y erything people m Ev . ills sk w ne classes from ing to take their easier for me and my family.” ts ally fun day learn ge re a ne d yo an er ng ev tti se and d including lunch Anyone wishing to register need is provide em.” th th wi e m ho akes.com ps interest in places should go to ee dk creations an es cupcak www.littlegreenrascals.co.uk or ore visit www. ore wonderful creations at m To find out m e se o call the Elvington Nursery on 01904 You can als s ke 01430 860786. sa 607959. /cupcakesnkeep om .c ok bo ce Fa

sakes p e e K & s e k a Cupc

Phloking to Yorkshire Independents

A new rewards scheme, designed to encourage consumers to shop local more often, has now launched in four Yorkshire market towns and is being adopted by five further towns in North Yorkshire. Ilkley piloted Phlok, the social network that encourages shoppers in the local community to rediscover and use local independent businesses more regularly, in November. Boroughbridge, Wetherby and Skipton are now part of the scheme, with Otley, Ripon and Pateley Bridge, Pickering and Knaresborough to follow shortly. With the threat of online shopping and out-of-town retail parks continuing to put pressure on independent retailers in town and city centres across the UK, the new initiative is set to be a welcome boost to retailers in the North and West Yorkshire regions. A unique social media concept, Phlok is the new web and smartphone rewards platform that incentivises consumers with virtual currency, collectable and spendable with any business on the Phlok network. When the customer spends Phlok points, Phlok pays the receiving business full value for the points spent. The business then gets full price for its item or service while the customer gets something for free. Phlok Chief Executive Paul Graham said: “Our overall aim is to get local customers to transact more often with local businesses and support a growing, vibrant community. It means a lot to me that Phlok makes the term ‘Shop Local’ make sense.” Zhara Armstrong of Treasures of Wetherby is one of the latest business owners to get onboard: ”I am really happy with what customers are saying about Phlok,” she said. “It’s clear that people do want to shop locally and they know the benefits of doing so, and getting rewarded with Phlok really helps.” Since launching the company 16 months ago, around 600 businesses in 45 towns and villages across the UK and Ireland including shops, restaurants, bars, off licenses, pharmacies, coffee shops, car dealerships, clothes retailers and property agents have already connected. Phlok businesses have already reported in excess of £550,000 worth of sales and have had many millions of social media hits through Phlok’s innovative platform.

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Bankfield is Outstanding! l ia Now it’styoanffd ic standards of

ali The overall qu Bankfield s provision at to the the Early Year g in ing, accord are outstand d on their se ba rt po re n latest inspectio n. tio January inspec ghfield prep and Hi girls ePr ld fie d Bank an ys bo r ring fo Reception cate highly in every area. ed ais pr have been h quality described as hig ations Teaching was expect h hig g vin with staff ha listening ptionally good leading to exce viour. ha be of ds ndar skills and high sta motivating en as skilled in Teachers are se ncentrate co to rn and children to lea ship and er periods. Lead for extended ding and an tst ou o als e management ar hing the ac re is ol ho e sc in every area th ards. highest of stand ent of that the enjoym nts ed ht lig de re pa “We are e th support of the pupils, the ff have been sta e th of rk and the hard wo inspectors,” said Mrs the recognised by ankfield of Bankfield. “B ce to Collings, Head pla al ion and except is a delightful learn.” its hours cently changed Bankfield has re care from 8am – 6pm leand offers flexib furbished extension. re in their newly le. ll also be availab Holiday care wi www.hlc.org.uk

The Wharfedale Three Peaks Challenge Event On Saturday 28th June, the Upper Wharfedale Fell Rescue Association will be hosting a new walking event based in beautiful Upper Wharfedale. The day will cater for different ages and walking abilities with three different routes – all of which will start and end at Kettlewell Village Hall. The community and family walk of 4.5 miles follows the Dalesway path up the River Wharfe to the village of Starbotton and returns to Kettlewell on the Paradise Walk. There will be special children’s activities and all the family will be offered a hot meal at the end as well as souvenir wristbands, sponsored by ‘Swimtime’. There will also be an award for the school with the highest proportion of children taking part. All great value for a preentry fee of £12 for a family of four (£15 on the day). The UWFRA team is made up entirely of volunteers who give up their time to rescue injured or lost people and animals and has over 80 members with skills to undertake rescues both on the surface and underground, as well as a specialist trained water skills team. It costs in the region of £35,000 a year to continue the work of UWFRA and this is funded entirely through the generosity of the public and by supporting the fundraising work of the team. There will also be two longer routes for walkers: the ‘Three Peaks Challenge’ and the ‘Two Peaks Challenge’. Information and a welcome pack about the event can be downloaded from the UWFRA website http://www.uwfra. org.uk/ or requested by email at jacquibl@hotmail.com You can also find them on Facebook www.facebook. com/uwfra.three.peaks.challenge and Twitter twitter.com/Uwfra3Challenge

Mount Girl wins William Akroyd Scholarship

A York schoolgirl has received the prestigious William Akroyd Scholarship, which is open to students from Yorkshire schools. Holly Gardiner, 18, at The Mount School was the only candidate from a field of 53 applicants to be awarded the scholarship for the three years she will be at Oxford studying politics, philosophy and economics. The participating candidates came from twenty-two different schools across Yorkshire, each gave an essay answer to a chosen question, and the shortlist of six candidates attended an interview in York on Friday 7 March. Holly’s essay, on whether the issue of trying to resolve the civil war in Syria has taken second place to the process of eliminating chemical weapons from there, was described as “extremely well answered” and earned her a place on the shortlist. Julie Lodrick, Principal of The Mount, said, “It is a credit to Holly that she should be the only recipient of this scholarship in a year when the field of is of such a high standard. We are all immensely proud of Holly’s achievement and I know this scholarship will be of use during her years at Oxford.” Holly, who is also Head Girl at The Mount, said “I feel very honoured to be awarded this scholarship, which makes me feel even more excited about University. The School values our academic interests, and recognises our achievements. I think this helps you feel supported and inspired, and builds your confidence to take up opportunities like the William Akroyd Scholarship.” www.mountschoolyork.co.uk Ste am Cle an Ma chi ne is a innovative cleaning company based in Yor kshire, specialising in cleaning and sanitising all aspects of your children’s and baby’s life. From car seats to strollers, cots to cars, high chairs to car pets - anything can be cleaned with steam! Because everything is clea ned with a unique steam system, 99.9% of all known bacteria are killed, ensurin g a safe environment for all the precious people in you r life. Steam Clean Machine can remove a variety of dirt y marks, mould and a host of lime scales. Contact Steam Clean Mac hine for a quote to arrange a new level of cleanliness for your baby goods, hom e and car. And don’t forget to take advantage of the special 10% discount for Families readers - see the advert on the cover of this Call now quoting FAM01 magazine. 01423 223 986 www.steamcleanmachin to claim your 10% discount* e.co.uk sales@steamcleanmachin e.co.uk

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Harrogate Climbing Centre

Discover more at harrogateclimbingcentre.com Hornbeam Park Avenue, Hornbeam Park, Harrogate HG2 8QT *This voucher must to be provided at the start of the session. Terms & Conditions apply. See website for details.

Families Vale of York

Sambarca Football Schools

Clubs&Classes Tennis Tykes

Wimbledon is just around the corner so why not get your child involved in tennis coaching this Spring and Summer? Tennis is a great sport for very young children as it promotes physical fitness; develops agility, balance and co-ordination, aids self-esteem and encourages effective communication. Due to popular demand, the Tennis Tykes classes for under-5s which begin in the summer term now include a Wednesday class (10.45am-11.30am) at the brand new Kirk Deighton Village Hall just outside Wetherby. This class is in addition to the York Wednesday, Thursday & Friday and Harrogate Thursday & Friday classes. Harrogate school age classes will also now go outside on Thursdays (4.455.30 and 5.30-6.15pm) utilising the outdoor Birstwith Tennis Club court in Ripley village with indoor back up for those rainy days. Your child may or may not be the next Andy Murray but the research is clear that engaging young children in tennis benefits them in many ways. For further information about classes for children aged 2-4 & 4-8 and to book your FREE TRIAL lesson, contact Caroline Buncall on 07843342662/email caroline.buncall@tennistykes.co.uk for the Harrogate and Wetherby classes and Ben Walker on 07933026956/email ben.walker@tennistykes.co.uk www.tennistykes.co.uk

With the 2014 Brazil World Cup just over a month away football fever is starting to build. Sambarca Football Schools head coach Brian MacNair believes that a new approach is required in junior football across the country before England will become genuine cup contenders. “Sambarca sessions run across York for children aged 5 – 14 years,” says Brian, “and our approach to coaching football is different. Initially, we coach individual ball skills to enable all children to improve and these new skills are developed and practiced in small sided matches. The sessions are fun, involve lots of touches for every child and we encourage and focus on creativity rather than just winning matches. Once the children are technically able we focus on decision making to help make better players. “Our coaching has led to local football success,” he adds. “Heworth Under 10’s have won the Casterton Cup and also won the under 10’s league without losing a match and only conceded three goals all season. Most of the Heworth team attend Sambarca training.” Sambarca do not recruit players based on their ability. Instead they believe with good coaching, practice and good attitude they can help all players improve. “We’ve developed a number of very talented players who have recently been recruited to train with local professional academies. A large number of our players train with York City and Leeds Utd and we have players training with Manchester City and Blackburn Rovers.” If you would like to attend a Sambarca session to see what it’s all about please contact Brian on 07595 297639 or email info@sambarca.com

NEWS PQA Harrogate have had a very exciting term: “The whole academy are currently rehearsing towards a performance we have coming up on May 11th at The Grand Opera House York,’ says Principal Kellie Taylor.” Each group of students will be performing a musical theatre number and a four minute Shakespeare segment. “Two of our students, Holly Pennington and Leesa Barnes got through the first round of auditions in the nationwide competition Teen Star, whilst Eve Townsend was cast in an advert for Waitrose. Another student Sofia Snowball was cast in a new upcoming feature film ‘Deleted’ to be directed by Dominic Brunt, Emmerdale’s Paddy Kirk.”

For over 20 years, Brayton Busy Bees has been offering high quality care for children aged 2 to 5 years • • • • •

Fun, friendly and stimulating environment Caring, dedicated and highly qualified staff Ofsted report of “Excellent” Strong, open partnership with parents and carers Secure outdoor play areas and garden Helping to keep your little bees busy!

Sessions available during term time: Full day (9am-3pm), Mornings (9-12), Afternoons (12-3) For more information: • Talk to Alyson or Mel on 07932 907943 • Visit braytonbusybees.co.uk • Email admin@braytonbusybees.co.uk Based at The Methodist Chapel, Chapel Lane (off Brayton Lane), Brayton Registered Charity No. 1041141 | Pre-School Learning Alliance No. 30385

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PQA York students have been very busy this term too: Five students: Hannah Siddle, Rebecca Lennon, Tabitha Todd, Alex Hives and Indie Star RamsayWilson auditioned for a brand new musical version of Pinocchio by We Are Theatre, to be performed at the Joseph Rowntree Theatre in June. “Another of our students Ella-Rose had a highprofile role in a BBC adaptation of The Thirteenth Tale, which was screened at Christmas,” said James Aconley principal of York PQA. “We have an exciting term ahead too,” he added, “with juggling and magic masterclasses coming up as well as a performance at Huntington School’s Family Fun Day in July. We’ll also be working on film ideas for submission to Bullying UK and to the Love Arts York Festival in May.” To find out more about PQA York visit www.pqacademy.com or call 07753 179070 for York classes or 07928 835516 for Harrogate.

Swimtime Nominated In National Children’s Awards Scheme Swimtime North Yorkshire is excited to have been nominated in two categories in the ‘What’s On 2014’ awards. This exciting awards programme, now in its eighth year, celebrates the best activities, classes, people and places throughout the country as nominated and voted for by the experts - parents, carers and parents-to-be. “We’re thrilled to have been nominated in both the Most Outstanding Special Educational Activity Provider or Support Group and Most Outstanding Activity Leader for children aged 5 to 12 categories,” said Debbie Feeney of Swimtime North Yorkshire. “I am passionate about teaching children and adults to swim and be safe in the water whilst also making it fun and exciting; swimming is a life skill” This means that Swimtime will go forward to the national voting stage, which is bigger than ever this year covering 22 different categories. The winners will be announced at a live award ceremony on June 22nd and until 15th May parents can log on to www.whatson4schoolkids.co.uk & www.whatson4kidsparties.co.uk to vote for their favourites. Swimtime will also be running their popular crash summer courses again this year. These will be at DW Selby and Longashes, Skipton. They will cater for all ages and abilities and will run throughout the 6 week holiday. d.feeney@swimtime.org 01757 247047 07730 886436

Flutterbabies Book Early for Stagecoach Summer Workshops Stagecoach will be hosting a summer holiday workshop at Brigshaw High School and principal Lisa Druett is already taking bookings. “This year’s 5-day Holiday Workshop will be The Wizard of Oz,” says Lisa, “which will take children on a journey to the Land of Oz to meet everyone’s favourites including Dorothy, The Scarecrow and the Cowardly Lion. This year’s play in a week will take place from Monday 18th to Friday 22nd August. “The week promises to be actionpacked,” says Lisa, “every child will be given a part suitable to their age and ability - and they will all get their chance to shine.” Stagecoach Holiday Workshops begin rehearsing on Monday morning, and present their finished production to family and friends at 6pm on Friday evening. The workshops are open to anyone, boys and girls aged 4 – 18 regardless of experience or ability. There is no audition, but places are limited. For more information and to book your place call 0113 2103 505 or visit www.stagecoach.co.uk/ leedskippaxandselby.

Flutterbabies provides a range of fun and engaging courses in Baby Yoga, Baby Swimming and Baby Massage across our region and the babies who attend have been striking a pose for the camera. “Many mums and babies from our swimming classes have just enjoyed a fabulous underwater photo shoot with Swim-Shots,” says Samantha Dalton who runs the award-winning classes. “The shoots were carried out in a relaxed, warm environment with the focus being on fun, which has resulted in some beautiful photos that parents can treasure forever.” Swimming classes take place at the Quality Hotel Leeds Selby Fork, Scholes and Bramhope and Flutterbabies is proud to be an STA StarSwim School which means they maintain high standards both in their lessons and keep all paperwork up to date. “We’ve also recently started some IAIM Baby Massage courses in a lovely venue in Allerton Bywater and these are proving very popular – the next course starts on 12th May,” says Samantha, “and our Baby Yoga classes at York Yoga Studio in Acomb, Garforth and Leeds are proving a hit with parents too. “Flutterbabies courses encourage children and their carers to bond, socialise and spend fun and quality time together. All of our lessons follow a plan, but our fundamental ethos centres around the fact that all babies develop at their own pace and we adapt our lessons to ensure that we’re going at a pace that everyone feels happy and comfortable with.” To find out more contact Samantha on 07768 538527 or Samantha@flutterbabies.co.uk www.flutterbabies.co.uk

New Classes for Kid

s2Dance

Kids2dance is ple as in Boston Spa, Co ed to announce New Classes llingham, Church Hammerton, Pop Fenton, Kirk pleton, Tadcaste r and Wetherby Classes are for Pre . -school children an d offer high energy, and laughter. To bo fun ok a FREE taster session contact Ka 07541811354 or em t on ail kat.turnbull@k ids2dance.co.uk www.kids2dance.c o.uk

Families Vale of York

win FAMILY TICKETS TO n o i t i t e BURTON AGNES FESTIVAL p m o c

The Burton Agnes Jazz and Blues Festival returns on June 27th for its seventh year set in the award winning grounds and Elizabethan Hall of Burton Agnes, East Yorkshire. Held over three days with performances in the Elizabethan Hall and its beautiful grounds, the Burton Agnes Jazz & Blues festival presents a varied line up of funk, traditional jazz, hard blues, dreamy vocals and everything in between. The main stage on the lawn hosts the festival’s main acts. With rolling fields behind the stage and pristine woodland to the side, you couldn’t ask for a more stunning setting. Inside the Hall, intimate acoustic performances mix with original Elizabethan carvings and French

Impressionist art to create an inimitable festival experience. Local food and drink feature heavily at the festival. At the tea tent and food lawn festival-goers can indulge in home-baked treats, barbecued local meats, freshly prepared hot meals, and salads grown in the neighbouring walled garden. In the beer tent awardwinning Wold Top beer is on tap, brewed just five miles away. A campsite in the field adjacent to the Hall offers hot showers and panoramic views of the Yorkshire Wolds for those wishing to pitch a

tent for a night or the whole weekend. Burton Agnes Jazz & Blues Festival welcomes families with its safe, easygoing vibe. There is plenty on offer for children including a Children’s Corner with play area; 15 acres of magical gardens to explore including a walled garden with maze, jungle garden and giant games; and a woodland walk with forest creatures to find. Free face painting and balloon artistry keeps the children amused whilst the grown-ups enjoy some of the finest Jazz and Blues music and beautiful surroundings.

WIN A FAMILY TICKET

Families has a two family tickets to give away to the Burton Agnes Festival. To be in with a chance of winning go to www.familiesvoy. co.uk/competitions and follow the instructions there. Closing date May 31st. Full Ts & Cs online. Visit www.burtonagnes.com for more information about the festival.

theparentbusiness Sparkles All That

Victoria Louise Brigham is a qualified mobile nail technician and beauty therapist. As well as specialising in ladies’ pamper parties, she also does ‘sparkle’ parties for little girls. She lives with her husband Steve and children Sam aged 8 and Evie-Rose who’s 4. Families asked her how the business is growing. “After qualifying I began to do children’s parties for family members and friends,” says Victoria, “and very soon I was getting recommendations and began taking more bookings.” Victoria’s parties are not your run-ofthe-mill girly party: “I wanted to offer something a little different,” she tells me, “which is why we offer two different types of experience for little girls. It’s all very tasteful so parents needn’t worry about having their children caked in make-up!” The first ‘Diamond’ package includes

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a mini-makeover with make-up; nail varnish, mini foot spa and hairstyling plus a drinks fountain. With the Pink Diamond Package the party-goers also get to design their own tee-shirt, have fabulous glitter tattoos or nail art and indulge in chocolate fondue with marshmallows! The whole ensemble is then admired in a catwalk show to parade the tee-shirts and new makeover style! “By far the best aspect of what I do are the thank yous and smiles I get from the children at the end of a sparkle party!” says Victoria. “If they have had a pink diamond party the children do a catwalk show to model

their own designed tee-shirts and mini makeover style. I really enjoy watching the children have fun and confidence in showing their creativity. “I did a party last week for a little girl who was five. Her mum told me she loved it and that it was the best party she’d ever been to! It’s that kind of feedback that makes my job so worthwhile.” Victoria says parents and children particularly love the tee-shirt parties: “They offer an opportunity to celebrate the children’s work and of course they are the perfect ‘party bag’ gift to take home too!” Parents need to book a venue, although many people just hold the party at home. They will also need to sort out party food but Victoria provides a choice of two cordials for the drinks fountain plus special glasses as well as chocolate and marshmallows for the fondue. “Sometimes parents like to add fruit such as strawberries too,” she says. All That Sparkles caters for children aged 4 to 10 for a sparkle party but Victoria can tailor the party to suit any age, as she’s qualified in

Shellac, Gelish and Minx for older children. “I’d advise anyone considering working for themselves to go ahead. I really haven’t looked back. I’m my own boss and can work when I want which means my children always come first. I can take them to school every day and can be there for special events such as sports’ day and the Christmas play. The job fits perfectly around my family – I wouldn’t have it any other way. “I hope that my business will continue to grow in the future and give me the opportunity to explore and expand my party ideas. I have recently set up a business page Victoria Louise on Facebook to invite people to follow me – people can see pictures from some of our parties and ask any questions they might have.” You can contact Victoria on 07748 767656 victoria.brigham@gmail.com or www.facebook.com/Victoria. LouiseSparkles

schoolholiday solutions

Families asked local company School Holiday Solutions about their innovative approach to the school holiday childcare dilemma.

Q. I don’t want my children in camps all

summer, but I have to work. What can you offer?

School Holiday Solutions (SHS) offers an innovative approach to solving the dilemma faced by many families about how best to organise childcare over the long school holidays. Both Catherine Morin and Jane Linney, the SHS founders are working mothers and know just what it’s like to juggle the demands of pursuing a career, raising children and managing childcare. They both believe in SHS’ key message that the very best childcare begins at home. For children, there are so many demands on them during term time from school and various out of school activities. It’s not surprising that our children feel “schooled-out” and exhausted by the time the holidays arrive. For parents, the stress of “sorting out” the school holidays can seem overwhelming – mixing and matching with friends, grandparents, holiday courses/camps and annual leave can be a tricky, unreliable and expensive business. This is where SHS fits in to reshape the focus of the school holidays by delivering flexible childcare based in the family home tailored to the needs of each and every family. How does SHS do it? With its handpicked Au Pairs mainly from France and Switzerland who bring energy, imagination and a safe pair of hands to childcare at home. Just imagine the relief of knowing that the school holidays are sorted and your handpicked Au Pair is looking forward to spending time with you and your family during the long school holiday.

What’s the best age for children to make the most of having an Au Pair?

At SHS, our policy is not to allow an Au Pair to be in sole charge of a child under 2 years old but apart from setting this age bar, we find that Au Pairs fit well with children of all ages. There is something about the energy and enthusiasm our Au Pairs bring to their work which children really enjoy and feel they can

relate to. Even for older children, 13 plus, they like having an older role model around who is “in tune” with them and understands their needs. What’s more, having someone at home to help make lunch and encourage them to practise their language skills is seen as a bonus unlike learning with a tutor!

I’m sure I can’t afford bespoke childcare. What are the costs?

An SHS Au Pair would expect to be paid around £70 per week by the host family, depending on the hours worked and the same rate applies whether you have one, two or more children. In addition, you must provide your Au Pair with a room of his/her own and all meals. SHS charges a flat fee of £175 for its services in sourcing, interviewing and placing an Au Pair. SHS is confident that its Au Pairs deliver top quality childcare which is value for money. By way of comparison, booking 3 children on a holiday camp this summer in York during August for 2 weeks (9.30am-4pm) will give you little change from £900. Whereas, an SHS Au Pair could provide you with cover over a 6 week period in the summer for all 3 children at around £600. For full details of the range of Au Pairs hours and services available, please visit our website - www.schoolholidaysolutions. co.uk

I’m not sure I want a stranger in my home. Apart from the childcare help, what else do you think an au Pair adds to your household?

We understand the need for complete trust between a family and their Au Pair. That is why SHS has developed a profiling and selection service which is second to none. We interview and select all our Au Pairs which means we offer a truly personalised service for host families and Au Pairs. Every one of our Au Pairs is 18 or over, each comes with a health and criminal records check from their home country and they also provide childcare and personal references which we follow up. Matching your family’s needs with the right Au Pair is what we do best. In addition to providing flexible, low ratio childcare tailored to your family’s needs, your Au Pair would also help out with light housework, all done and dusted ready for your return home. And if you wish, he or she may offer some foreign language tuition to enhance your child’s skills whether by way of an introduction to a foreign language or polishing up aural skills for GCSEs or beyond! It’s amazing how quickly children pick up a language when they hear it every day from their very own personal tutor.

Q. Why do you think your

service is proving popular?

A. We think our

popularity is down to a combination of factors. At SHS we would expect nothing

but the best childcare for our own children and we would not expect our clients to settle for anything less. Our rigorous Au Pair selection and placement procedure is second to none and our clients value the top quality service we provide. We think families are becoming more aware of the importance for children to spend time in the home environment during the holidays away from the structured “summer school” setting whether with a childminder or summer camp. After all, if someone asked you to spend your holiday in another company or organisation rather than the one you normally worked for, you might not be that impressed! Being able to pick and choose what your children do in the holidays – which could include the courses you have always previously avoided because of their “awkward hours” such as 10-noon or 2-4pm, baking, painting, making a den, having a picnic, flying a kite, taking the dog for a walk all become possible with an SHS Au Pair. This low ratio childcare ensures that your children get all the attention they need and deserve. We believe that flexibility is also a key factor in selecting an SHS Au Pair. If you occasionally end up running late with work, you will have the peace of mind that comes from knowing your child is safe and sound with your Au Pair. This “safety net” within your own home relieves the stresses and strains of juggling work and home life.

How do I find out more? Visit our website

www.schoolholidaysolutions.co.uk or give us a call on 01904 499 314 to discuss your childcare needs. Why not ask us today to find a school holiday solution for your family?

Families Vale of York

parties at every age

A birthday party is a ritual of childhood and an event that’s remembered forever. So the pressure is on – how do you ensure success and survival (both your own and your home’s)? Joanna Moorhead guides you through what’s best, age by age

0-3: There’s just one word that matters here:

simplicity. Birthday parties for tinies can be marvellous, memorable affairs, but they don’t need to be elaborate or to involve much expense or entertainment or special props. In essence, you’re catering for the grown-ups

as much as for the children – because at this stage, the adults will definitely stay (and you’re more than likely to have a few grandparents in the mix as well). Concentrate on creating a fun, easy, safe space for the children – a soft play space with plenty of toys strewn around is ideal – and make sure the adults are well

The golden r ules

catered for: if they stay calm, the children will as well. If you want something with a bit of a theme, how about a teddy bears’ picnic? Make sure everyone remembers to take their favourite cuddlies home at the end though, or there will be tears at bedtime!

4-6: At this stage parties can be a bit more ambitious and a

time when it is well worth investing in a great entertainer: they are experts, know how to crowd control while producing shrieks and honest laughs. However don’t assume that to put on a great bash you need to spend lots of money. At this age children can have loads of fun without a big outlay; later on, when they’re tweens and teens, you’ll be under pressure to shell out big-time, so don’t pre-empt that now. A party at home or in the local park can be huge fun; traditional party games will be popular, and if you want to push the boat out a bit consider investing in a bouncy castle; or if home really isn’t a possibility, a soft play centre will be hassle-free, if more expensive. Themed parties are great for this age group, and they actually

Party food tips • Food doesn’t need to be complicated

• It does need to include options – many children won’t eat ham/cheese/eggs/grapes/ pizza • Don’t overface guests with too much food • Putting cup cakes rather than slices of cake into party bags makes life easier

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• Never have a party that lasts more than two hours • The younger the child, the fewer the guests

• Party bags can be cheap as chips, thanks to charity and pound shops – but always have them, they’re hugely popular • Have a plan mapped out for what should happen -and when

make life simpler for the party organiser: a pirate theme is always popular, or sea creatures, or pick up on your child’s favourite book or TV programme. Dressing up is a big hit for this age group too.

7-9: Activities work a treat at this stage, whether you’re at home

or in a church hall or at a park. For a popular and low-budget option, think about a baking party at home – weigh out all the ingredients before the children arrive, get them to mix and decorate them and then pop them in the oven to bake while you play a few party games (shortbread biscuits are easy peasy; have a range of cutters for exciting shapes).

10-12:

Older children like going out to party. To keep the costs down, encourage a smaller number of guests – think about a trip to the seaside or to an exciting adventure playground they’ve not visited before, and remember that the journey can be as much fun as the activity at the end of it. If you don’t mind spending a bit more, a trip to a climbing wall, an ice rink, a bowling rink or a go-karting centre can be wonderful fun too.

Recording 4 Fun

Families editor Belinda Maunsell caught up with Rob and Claire Pearson to find out how Recording 4 Fun can give your child a birthday they’ll never forget. Rob & Claire Pearson have recently relocated their business from the south of England and are now running pop parties all over Yorkshire and North Lincolnshire. I asked them what makes their parties so special. “What’s unique about our Popstar parties is that we come to you,” says Rob, “which means you get state-of-the art equipment with our mobile studio – but all in the comfort of your own home.” Recording 4 Fun is perfect for children who fancy themselves as pop stars (and which child doesn’t?) From start to finish, Rob and Claire plan your party carefully to make sure your children celebrate in style. Personalised invites are sent out before the party with the option of having CD invites as an add-on extra. You can also choose to receive backing tracks before the party so that everyone can practice before the big day! “All our packages include a professionally mixed CD,” say Rob. “The discs you get to take home will feature all the songs that you have recorded during your session. The CDs are created during the end of your party session time. There’s a CD copy for each singer to take home and extra CDs are available upon request.” Each mobile studio session takes around 2 ½ hours and includes a top record producer/ sound engineer, professional backing tracks, vocal practices and warm-ups with professional mixing, vocal guidance and microphone technique. You can also opt for extra time, photos and

parties with a difference

certificates which all promise to make your child’s party a day to ton remember. Rebecca Wal We chatted to cording “We only need a small Re ’s er ht ug about her da hy she space to set up, so a I asked her w r 4 Fun party. he r fo lounge, kitchen or dining y rt tar Pa chose a Pops room is perfect,” says ay. hd rt bi h 9t ’s daughter Claire. “You just need gularly ct choice theatre group re ing 4 Fun party was the perfe enough space for your “Eva goes to a rd didn’t want e co W rming so a Re usical’ party. chosen group size to and loves perfo some sort on ‘m dn’t want to join in, then ed nt wa ly ite fin ild di s be comfortable standing for her – she de rried that if a ch home there wa io, as I was wo ving the party at out, I needn’t have together singing. We ha to go to a stud By . do to nothing turned can cater for up to 25 they would have child to go off and play. As it ra singers though – so be always option fo was enthralled! with the One ne sure there’s enough room t to each child worried – everyo ns were sent ou er with the tio th ita ge inv to en CD , os if you have big numbers.” “Before the party rry backing tracks Eva had ch home. This made the Pe at Usually the birthday child start practising Direction & Katy school e children could they chatted at chooses two songs plus words so that th really exciting for the girls as rty pa e Happy Birthday – but they run-up to th going! ce the girls rehearsals were can choose more. about how the to set up and on ar b rived early soon had Ro He . rty ely pa iat e th ed “We have a huge library of attention imm “On the day of n’s re uch to their ild m , ch int e th po e ured professional backing tracks es which at on cis arrived he capt er ex l ca vo up with and any type of song can them warming chipmunks! ls em sound like be chosen – it doesn’t have of tips for the gir hilarity, made th d Rob had lots an s. ay ice rw vo de eir un s to be pop. As well as all use th rding wa and and how to “Soon the reco rk with the current commercial pop em where to st was able to wo b Ro d ing teaching th an lud r te inc gh ’d do a lau ey th of s tracks, we regularly record es lot im s et wa m e necessary. So The girls loved using Obviously there er wh es lin songs from musicals or rd -reco g just right. s! the girls and re e to get everythin children’s movies. You and microphone le of lines at a tim uipment including earphones up co t ils can even record your own eq wh ing gs rd do co t the proper re pizza and ho original songs.” done I served up recording was e th e nc “O Parties are adapted to suit the was a uced. for Eva so the CD the CD was prod ages of the children involved Happy Birthday a ‘party bag’ along with ed rd co re o als but they advise children ages “The girls had doubled up as – and of course 7+ will be best suited. great keepsake a ! – everyone had a piece of cake “We have completed fun rding 4 Fun party r forget – she co Re a d en m recom will neve recordings for early years “I’d completely a birthday Eva It was certainly w!” and pre-school groups no it t ou wonderful time. ab ng are still talki too. Whatever the age we work and her friends closely with parents to ensure as before relocating to all song lyrics, subject matter Yorkshire they owned and ran a professional and content is totally suitable for your age group. We specialise in tailoring Recording Studio facility in London. each party to the exact age range of your “Our team regularly work with chart artists, band group. We’ll also ensure that the Pop Star Party and groups as well as major and independent won’t be too childish for older groups or too record labels in all different musical styles and technical or advanced for the younger ones.” genres,” says Rob “and we can also record And they even do Pop Star Parties for adults spoken work, poems, podcasts, audio books too! So if you fancy something unforgettable to and more.” mark a special birthday, Recording 4 Fun could be just the thing for your group of friends – or To find out more about Recording 4 Fun, extended family! go to www.recording4fun.co.uk or call Rob and Claire’s team have over 20 years’ Rob on 01405 469 453 or 07580 662 308 experience in recording and producing music

Eva’s Party

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do i need to...?

By Carey McNaughton

Organising your child’s birthday party should be fun - right? Make sure you enjoy the day by planning ahead carefully – and follow these tips from local party expert Carey McNaughton.

Baby K by Mothercare www.mothercare.com

Instead of focusing on one area this year, I though it would be more useful to provide tips and advice for a few of the issues that parents seem to worry about most when organising children’s parties.

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Do I need to... Have a Party Theme?

Do I need to... Give out Party Bags?

Although it can seem unimportant, deciding on a theme for your child’s party early on will help you plan, and can save you time and money. The theme is a constant thread that runs throughout the entire party. It should be based on your child’s interests, and can be anything from favourite characters/ films to hobbies, fancy dress or even favourite colours. Once you have a theme it will help you to pull together everything for the party. This is not just limited to the partyware, party bags and decorations, as a theme can even influence decisions about activities/ entertainment and motivate you to try some creative food ideas. Knowing your party theme means that you will spend less time searching for ideas, entertainers and partyware online. It also makes it easier to find the most cost effective provider for the partyware you are looking for. However, before you promise your child a certain theme make sure you can get hold of it – some themes go in and out of fashion quite quickly!

Most of the people I know fall into one of two camps when it comes to party bags - you either love them (and really enjoy finding little things for them) or you regard them as an inconvenience (and an extra cost). In recent years they seem to have become such a large part of children’s parties that it takes a brave person to forgo them altogether. However, in my experience most children are not upset by the lack of a party bag – and are quite happy to go home with just a piece of cake. So, if you really don’t want to do party bags then be brave - don’t feel that you have to. However, when you get down to it one of the biggest issues with party bags seems to be the cost – with parents frequently saying that the number of party bags they have to provide means that they cannot afford to put anything “decent” in them and, as a result, they consider them to be a waste of money. To those of you who feel like this, here are a few ideas for inexpensive alternatives: • A craft Item/kit (which could even have been made during the party and, therefore, serves a dual purpose) • A book

parties ...continued

• A balloon/balloon model • A packet of seeds and small plastic plant pot • An inexpensive item related to the party theme (for example; a ball, a small bottle of shower gel, a dinosaur/animal mask, a small car, a bracelet) • Run a “lucky dip” at the end of the party, with one item per child If you are going to provide party bags then don’t forget to: • Decide on a budget per bag and stick to it • Shop around (include the internet) • Check with your entertainer (if you are having one) whether they provide anything for the children as part of their package (or they may do this for a small fee) – this could be your “party bag” • Think about what you would like your child to bring home from a party • Have fun finding things

Do I need to... invite the whole class? This is a question that seems to come up time and time again. It’s a very emotive subject, and can result in people feeling compelled to invite the whole class (even if they don’t want to) – because it’s the “done thing”, or they worry about what other parents will say/ think if they don’t. However, it is important to remember that the whole idea of the party is for your child to enjoy celebrating their birthday with their friends. Bigger is not necessarily better. Although some children love the idea of a big party, some are much happier with just a few friends, and some may want to invite “just boys” or “just girls”. There are so many factors that influence this decision. The best answer I can give you is to always remember that the number of children you invite to your child’s party is up to you. However, I know that this is not always an easy decision, and hope that the following advice will help you. Three key factors will influence how many children you feel comfortable inviting: • Your budget • The activities/entertainment • The venue Before you start talking to your child about their birthday party,

you should already have an idea about the maximum number of children you would be happy to invite to each type of party you think they might be interested in (so that you do not promise them a big party and then have to go back on your word). Then it’s up to you and your child to agree on final numbers, and who actually gets invited. If you arrive at a maximum number that is only one or two away from inviting the whole class (or “all the boys/girls” from the class), it’s worth thinking about whether you can accommodate everyone. It’s one thing not to be invited to a party when there are a few children who are not invited – it’s quite another to be the only one. It is natural for children to talk about parties, and you want them to be excited. However, when you are not inviting the whole class it is difficult to avoid disappointment for some children. A little thought about when, where and how you hand out the invitations can be a great help. Although it is convenient, asking your child to hand out invitations in the classroom may not be the best way to go about things. These days it is possible to send email/ text invitations to people (if you have their details), and I have even received party invitations via Facebook. If you need to, or would like to send paper invitations hand them out yourself if possible. Over the years, I’ve found that it really helps if you can manage your own child’s expectations surrounding party invitations (in terms of both their own party and other children’s). If your child understands the reasons for any limitations you place on party numbers, they are more likely to understand why they might not be invited to every party. It can be heart-breaking when you see how disappointed your child is not to be invited to someone’s party. Try your best to help them understand why. It may be comforting to know that as children get older, I have found that parties become smaller and the children themselves are more philosophical about whether or not they receive an invitation. Carey McNaughton lives in Breighton with her other half, David, and their two children. Carey Plans It offers personal party solutions - from advice through to a full party planning service. To learn more visit her website at careyplansit.co.uk

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Families Vale of York

N E E G R party

On trend with a

The sky has been the limit for kids’ parties in recent years – some parents spend thousands on making sure their child’s birthday treat goes with a swing. But the latest trend is to spend less and to be more environmentally-friendly. Joanna Moorhead reports After two decades of organising birthday parties for my four children, one truth is crystal clear to me: spending a lot doesn’t guarantee a successful bash. On the contrary, you can host a brilliant party that goes down in the history of your child’s friendship group for a reasonably small amount of money. The fact is, there are only two big things that matter when it comes to your party going well: planning, and luck. Planning means thinking ahead, having a timetable (even a rough one, in your head; better still a written-down one, in your notebook or on your iPad). Luck means the sun shines, no-one scrapes their knee, the candles light when you strike the matches and the camera doesn’t stop working as you’re poised for the essential, round-the-cake shot. Given that most of us have realised that spending doesn’t a good party make (though a bit of outlay is inevitable, and it’s crucial to spend wisely), many parents have also got to thinking that it’s a shame so many parties involve so much waste. We put too much food out on the table; too much gets messy and left and ends up being thrown in the bin. And, given that we’re all trying to be more environmentally-friendly, parties seem like a good (and reasonably easy) place to start.

Here’s our Fa how to hav milies top tips on e a party th a with a swin g – and is g t goes reen… Don’t overd o the food. Don’t pile to on the table o much ; have more in the fridg e or on standby to whip out if needed

Don’t use paper plate s – it’s easy to scrape them quickly and chuck th em in the dishwashe r

Buy big packets of eg biscuits, crisps etc. Not only does that mean less waste, it’s also cheaper – and many of the ‘healthier’ brands of, eg, crisps only come in big packets

Shop-bought cakes are stuffed with sugar, so make your own: and if you don’t make cakes, try to find a local, home-based cakemaker who will do one for you. We are great fans of story tellers and magicians at Families and have had absolutely wonderful parties being entertained by some of our local professionals... sometimes it is just sooo worth it! Blow the budget and really enjoy it!

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Mobile Nail Technician CND Shellac & Harmony Gelish Luxury manicures & pedicures Pamper parties & childrens 'sparkle' parties victoria.brigham@gmail.com

.s w im ti m e

.or

• • • • •

07748 767656

party Entertainers & Organisers Barbara Ray presents fun packed puppet entertainment for children aged 3- 8. www.barbararay.co.uk 01302 320717 Bob’s Your Uncle Magician and entertainer for children’s parties and events. 01423 340568 www.bobs-your-uncle.co.uk Brendini Magical fun and entertainment for all ages, especially children. 01757 704437 www.brendinismagic.co.uk

Carey Plans It Party planner - takes all the stress away from organising your do - with a range of services. See our feature on P12 & 13. www.careyplansit.co.uk 01757 322000 Go Ballistic Magic with Martin the Magician Juggling, magic and games for children of all ages. www.goballisticmagic.com 01904 613206 Henrietta Rabbit Children’s entertainers offering magic, jugglers, stiltwalkers, games, circus workshops, event management, balloonology, bubble machines, music, stories, crafts, giveaways and entertainment www.henriettarabbit.co.uk 0333 000 4567 Jeepers Creepers Children’s party magic shows www.themagicplace.co.uk 01765 604472 Professor Dan Slater Explosive magic show, fun & games. www.dan-slater.co.uk 07816 253409 Sandra - Children’s Entertainment 07709 252579 www.sandra-entertainment.co.uk The Magic Hatter Children’s entertainer & magician. www.magichatter.co.uk 0845 475 2124 Uncle Mal and His Crazy Puppets A fun-filled magic show. www.magicmal.co.uk 01904 762662

We have everything here to ensure your party goes with a bang!

Party Supplies Bluebell Party Tents Bluebell Party Tents offer a convenient, hassle-free service that transforms your garden into a perfect party paradise. The 5m by 5m fully decorated bell tents are suitable for parties of approximately 20, and can be used in all weather conditions – perfect for the unpredictable English seasons Owner of the Knaresborough-based party planning company, Krisztina Horner, said: “The tents can be used for swashbuckling pirates or sparkly princess pamper parties which have been particularly popular this year. They are also ideal for teen sleepovers, and the tents can be decorated to suit individual specifications, ideas and budgets.” For more information visit bluebellpartytents. co.uk or call 07809 573 687. Bouncing Around Bouncy castles for hire www. bouncingaround.co.uk 0786 792 3434 Bubbles & Squeak Great toy shops with gifts for children from birth. 12a & 22 Gillygate, York, 01904 672020 / 01904 672677 Corky’s Special gifts for tots to teens including great party bag fillers. 9 Museum Street, York, www. corkyschildrensgifts.co.uk 01904 625075 Dancers / Kaos Fancy dress supplies. 3 Gillygate, York, www.kaosfancydress.co.uk 01904 630317 Kakes & Kookies Novelty and contemporary cakes, cupcakes and cookies. www.kakes-andkookies.co.uk 07971 865337 The Bun Bunny Fabulous cakes & Buns. Based in Harrogate. www.thebunbunny.co.uk 07841 755 225 The Little Balloon Company 01904 705050 or 07818 001190 www.thelittleballooncompany.co.uk The Little Things Party bags that don’t cost the earth. www.thelittlethings.info

Venues Ashville College Sports Centre Party themes include – football, bouncy castle, pool parties, Enjoya-ball parties, Roller Disco parties, face painting options. They can also provide just hall hire, and can offer party food and a party coordinator. There are no age restrictions. 01423 724 827 or email parties@ashville.co.uk Crazy Tykes Soft play parties. 01937 541007 www.crazytykes.co.uk Kidzplay A selection of tailored parties at all 3 venues - Harrogate, Northalllerton & Boroughbridge. 01423 816111 / 01609 761596 / 01423 325575 www.kidzplay.co.uk Party Zone at The Academy, Harrogate Soft play parties. 01423 524052 www.theacademy.co.uk Selby Superbowl 01757 707074 www.selby-superbowl.co.uk The Engine Shed Fabulous party venue in Wetherby. 01937 588884 www.engineshedwetherby.co.uk The Web Adventure Park Lots of party themes including Wired high ropes, quad biking, princess or pirate & Make a Bear. 01904 692221 www.webadventurepark.co.uk The Wishing Well, Selby Soft play parties. 08712 003363 Winkies, Harrogate Themed soft play parties. www.winkies.co.uk 01423 886886

Families Vale of York

Creative party people All That Sparkles Pamper Parties for children by Victoria Louise. See our Parent Business feature on P6 07748 767656 or email her victoria. brigham@gmail.com Amazing Faces Facepainting 0794 960 2202 www.facepaintingharrogate.com Arty Animals Party Creative cooking and art fun combined. www.artyanimals.co.uk 0113 226 5898 / 07982 239377 Bead Jewellery-making parties. www.beadharrogate.co.uk 01423 313030 Crafts for Kids Party Interactive craft activities with Birthday Parties from just £7 per person, Jewellery Making Parties from £15 per person. 01757 630356 / 07776 140799

Cupcakes & Keepsakes Delicious cakes and cupcakes for all occasions, by Charlotte LilleyCook. You can also attend cake decorating classes with Charlotte to learn how make these creations yourself! www.cupcakesandkeepsakes.com 01430 860786 Lello & Monkey Treasure Hunt Party suppliers and producers - Party solutions in a box, making DIY parties easy peasy. 07766 041644 www.lelloandmonkey.co.uk Little Rascals Harrogate Character Mascot appearance & parties including Peppa Pig, and Micky & Minnie. 07855 844 265 www.facebook.com/little.harrogate Pots2Go www.pots2go.co.uk 01423 524797 Recording 4 Fun Fabulous Popstar recording parties – see our feature on p11 Story Studios Party Turn your child’s story or play into a recording with sound effects. www.storystudios.co.uk 07703 129071

Action & Activity

Bushbabies Birthday Parties Outdoor adventure parties for ages 2-6 and 7-11. Junior parties are themed - you could hunt for the Gruffalo or search for leprechaun’s gold. Parties for older children include survival, tracking, bows & arrows and firelighting. www.bushbabies.co.uk Diggerland Party Birthday parties include 2 hours in the park and a 45 minute lunch. Children get personalised certificates, a balloon, and a Diggerland lunchbox. www.diggerland.com 0871 22 77 007 Funky Feet Dance Parties Fab dance parties - Yorkshire Funkateer Stephanie comes highly recommended. 0845 680 3865 www.funkyfeetunlimited.co.uk

Harrogate Climbing Centre Party Parties include 1.5hrs (ages 7 upwards) or 1 hrs (5-6 year olds) climbing on colourful & exciting climbing walls. Fun is guaranteed! All equipment (including safety harnesses & helmets) and instruction is included. There’s the option for a party buffet after the climbing, provided by the on-site Indulge Deli Bar. The party food is freshly made on the day and can be tailored to individual dietary requirements. Caters for ages 5+ with no upper age limit, even big kids can get involved! www.harrogateclimbingcentre.com 01423 815 024 Live for Today For ages 8+. With a choice of a Laser Tag Party, Zorb Party or a Bushcraft and Archery Party. www.live-for-today.com Make a Wish Entertainment Magical fairytale parties based around your favourite theme, character, hobby or activity. www.makeawishentertainment.co.uk

Parties are for a minimum of 8, maximum 30 and include a day pass and pizza or sandwich box. Three time slots available per day. Free adult for every 5 children booked. Party bags available too. Parties can be booked during Spring half term (May 24th – 1st June) and the Summer holidays (July 19th – Sept 2nd) www.stockeldpark.co.uk

at Ashville College, Harrogate

Hall hire & catering options Dedicated party co-ordinator Pool parties Football parties Roller Disco parties Face painting Bouncy Castle Enjoy-a-ball activities Peppa Pig lookalike appearances Contact our events team on 01423 724 827 or email parties@ashville.co.uk Ashville College, Green Lane, Harrogate HG2 9JP www.ashvilletrading.co.uk

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Stagecoach understands that with the increasing demands on parents, juggling the pressures of work and family life, time is at an essence. Stagecoach Parties provide a way to remove the stress from what should be a day of celebration for everyone, and allow you to sit back, relax whilst they do all the work! Whether your child wants to be a fairy, princess, pirate or detective, there’s a Stagecoach Party for everyone. Themed Parties for 4-10 year olds combine drama, dance and singing with a wide range of party games and storytelling all based around the chosen theme. You choose the date and the time and you can either join them at one of their party venues or they can come to a venue of your choice. For older children Murder Mystery Parties are an exciting, fun and creative event for ages 11 -16. A detective host will take care of all the entertainment, so all you need to do is send out the invitations and prepare the meal. The guests will know prior to the party what character they will be and all other information is given to them throughout the party. There are 5 different spinetingling mysteries to solve, so for further details about Murder Mystery parties and Themed parties call 0113 2103 505 or visit www.stagecoach.co.uk

Stockeld Park Party

Children’s Parties • • • • • • • • •

Party with Stagecoach!

Class Parties Diddi Dance Parties Diddi dance parties get all the children up and dancing with fun, unique dancing games and exercises. Parties are tailored to the child’s age and children aged 1+ can be accommodated. See online for booking and some great party tips. www.diddidance.com 07917 757 566 Enjoy-a-Ball Parties Parties for up to 30 children aged 4 - 8 years, with lots of fun sports and games and running around. Just hire a hall, do food and provide party bags - they even provide the invites! www.enjoy-a-ball.com 07789 861108 / 08452 26 26 94

High-Low, Quick-Slow Parties Parties are tailored towards the age of the child and include action songs, familiar rhymes, musical instruments, simple party games, dancing and movement time. A special party balloon is given to the birthday child and every child at the party receives a sticker and certificate. Party sessions lasts approximately 50 minutes with lots of fun for both children and adults alike. Suitable for ages 1-6. www.highlowquickslow.co.uk 07903 270532 Les Goûters de Mimi Parties include 2 hours of French themed entertainment (including the tea-party), some French drinks and biscuits. Suitable for children aged 4 to 12. The games and activities are adapted to the age of the hosts and their guests. 077901 98534 or find Les Goûters de Mimi on Facebook.

En Pointe Ballet Party If you know a little one whose birthday party is coming up, make their dreams come true with a one hour ballet birthday session hosted by professional dancer and highly trained teacher Donya Keys (ARAD CBTS RAD RTS). Included within this hour she’ll come to your venue, dance, teach, and entertain the children, provide props and music to a magical themed ballet birthday session. Ballet Birthday themes include Princes and Princesses, Pirates and Mermaids, Fairy and Pixie adventures, Ballerina in the theatre - or get in touch for special requests. At the end of the session, all the children will be presented a certificate and award. Ballet Birthdays are only available on Saturday afternoons term time. Other times and dates available in school holidays. www.enpointeyork.co.uk 0755 735 5562 Tappy Tots Parties for children aged 3 -6 years lasting approximately 45 minutes. You’ll need to hire their own venue but catering can be provided alongside cake and party bags if required. www.tappytots.co.uk 01977 621616 Tennis Tots Parties Parties cater for up to 26 girls and boys aged 3-6. www.tennis-tots. co.uk

Tennis Tykes Parties Tennis Tykes has an exciting range of tennis parties for children celebrating their 3rd, 4th, 5th or 6th birthdays. There’s a fun packed hour of tennis activities incorporating lots of games and tennis ball skills, all supervised by qualified coaches and trained staff. The Tennis Tykes characters, Tommy and Tessa are also on hand to make it a truly special day for the birthday boy or girl. For further information, contact Caroline Buncall on 07843342662/ email caroline.buncall@tennistykes.co.uk or log onto www.tennistykes.co.uk.

IDEAS

party

Flex Dance Parties Parties are 60 or 90 minutes with a showcase for friends & family at the end. www.flexdanceinc.co.uk 07921 222 710 / 07500 618 613 Fantastic Adventure Parties Character based and themed parties for ages 4-10. 07921 222 710 www.fantasticadventireparties.co.uk

dressing up!

Both of my children have always loved dressing up- everything from Postman Pat to a Medieval Princess, so dressing up for birthday parties have always been an obvious choice in our house. At Treasures Pirate parties are our most common request and we have plenty of Knights, Butterflies, Ladybirds, Doctors & Fire Chiefs too.

1 Cowgirl Outfit This outfit looks great on and Niamh has had a lot of fun with this.

Cowgirl hat, scarf, fringed vest, badge & skirt are all included. Priced £19.99. A Cowboy outfit is available too. Both available at Treasures priced £19.99. From Age 3

2 Crusader Knight This is one of my favourites and was certainly Finn’s favourite

when he was younger. This is a four piece outfit with a sword & helmet and comes in 3 sizes starting at age 3 – 5 years. Priced £32.99.

3 Captain Pirates are our best selling boys outfit and pirate parties are very popular, so

we have several different Pirate outfit options: Peg Leg, Buccaneer, Pirate and Captain. The pirate jacket with its gold trim looks great on this outfit and it even comes with mock boots with golden buckles. This comes in 3 sizes starting at 3- 5 years. Priced £23.99

4 Role-Play

We also have a selection of fabulous role play outfits which are very popular including Fire Chief, Construction works and Doctor. All are £19.99 and suitable for ages 3 – 6 years.

activities If you’re planning a craft party or perhaps you want some activities to entertain the children while you or the entertainer gets set up, try these: Melissa & Doug Design your own braceletsmakes 4 bracelets & over 100 sparkling gem & glitter stickers included. £4.99

Trio of 3D Sequin Art- choice of hearts or cupcakes, each set makes 3 lovely gifts to take home after the party too. £12.99

Re-usable Puffy Stickers- choose

The Little Gym Parties New Dora & Diego themed Parties with a special storyline and music from the Emmy award-winning animated preschool series. www.thelittlegym.co.uk/harrogate 01423 701560

By Zhara Armstrong of Treasures

from Pirates, Princesses or Dressing Up. More than 50 stickers in each set to create your play scene. £4.99

Funtrix-

keep the children busy learning new tricks. The new Fun Trix range from £3.99 includes Diabolo, Juggling Balls, Spinning Tops and Yo Yos.

s Treasureg party ba

Buy 8 get one FREE

We have lots of great ideas for good quality affordable party bag gifts. Our most popular party bags purchases include Lego Minifigure (£2.49), Playmobil Figures (£1.99) (boy & girl options), Smencils (scented pencils £1) & bubble wands (£1.49). New additions to our party bag section include – Cat’s Cradle (game - £2.99) and OiDroids – unique pop up robots for partygoers to build. There are 4 great robots in each pack and 64 different designs so lots of opportunities to swap between friends. Great for party bags priced at £1.49.

Treasures Wis h List

Let your child ’s early by taking birthday celebrations start around Treasu a mini shopping trolley res to create th wish list. eir present

Treasures will gi ve include invitatio you a Wish List card to ns so friends an d know what the birthday child re family will ally wants. Even family members living far away can view your child’s wish list on us a call to purc the Treasures website - give ha the wrapped pr se and we will ensure we ge t esent to the bi rthday child. Having a Wish List also means no duplicated gifts and it encourag more es parents to buy together thus reducing th presents. Wha t’s more everyo e number of ne buying off a wish list gets a 5% discount and we wrap everything for free! You can also jo in Treasures Bi enjoy a 12.5% rthday club an d discount vouc her. Join on lin at www.treasu e restoys.co.uk by clicking on the cake! Families Vale of York

Why Do I HAVE To Do

Homework? IF YOU HAVE a school age child, you’re probably familiar with the eye rolling and sighing response to any mention of the ‘H’ word.

Next time your child asks why he has to do homework, you’ll have the answer ready. We also have tips on how you can help.

what is homework for?

Tempting though it might be - in order to hurry up the process, it is not the chance for you to show off how much you remember from your schooldays and do it for them! Homework is set: • For children to practise, reinforce and extend work that is taught in class • To enable teachers to find out whether or not pupils have understood the lesson • To help children develop skills of independent time management • To show what children are able to produce under unaided conditions • To encourage pupils to understand that school work does not finish when the school day ends and that responsibility for working continues beyond the classroom • To develop a strong work ethic

should parents get involved?

The answer from experienced teachers is a resounding “yes!” One told us that “the improvement in a young child whose parent is hearing them read for 15-20 minutes a night is fairly astronomical compared to those who don’t, and the improvement carries right up to ages 7 or 8, by which time children are usually reading fluently.”

homework diaries

Most schools give out homework diaries, making it easier for parents to see what has been set, when it should be handed in, and providing a way for teachers and parents to communicate. If your child is taking longer than the expected time to do their homework, or if you had to explain how to work out the set maths, make a note in the homework diary so the teacher knows about it.

all work and no play?

Last September, a school in Guildford abolished all homework apart from reading and occasional projects, for children aged seven to eleven. The school was graded ‘outstanding’ by Ofsted and the head teacher has seen no difference in achievement. In an article published by the TES, it is suggested that the amount of homework children complete has little correlation with their level of academic success; in fact many believe homework can have a negative impact - particularly in relationships between children and their parents who are trying to get them to concentrate.

how to help...

Show an interest in your child’s work; point them in the right direction rather than telling them the answer; offer a snack and a drink while they work. Here are more tips from experts - the teachers. • Be aware of where and how your child works best. Some children need quiet, others prefer people around them. Some want to start their homework as soon as they are home to get it out of the way; others are better after a snack and a half hour ‘chill’ • Show a positive interest and monitor what is being done. Is it too much? Too little or rushed? Communicate with the school if you have concerns • Extend schoolwork with visits to museums and exhibitions - they offer so much that can bring subjects to life in a way no amount of books or websites can do • Ask your child if she is pleased with her homework (before leaping in to point out all the mistakes!), and offer praise where it is due - for example the work is neat, or well written, or answers the question really well • Time management is one of the hardest aspects for a child to get to grips with - but they’ll need to when it comes to sitting exams. Give your child a timer set for the duration of the homework and see how much they finish. Initially it can help if you remind your child when they are halfway through the time, and again when there are ten minutes left. This is good training and before long they will have adjusted to how much work they can produce in the allotted time • Children who have been sitting at desks for most of the day often need to let of steam after school. A run around the park on the way home can dispel restlessness before settling down to homework • Set a positive example. Other members of the family can use homework time by taking up their own studies or settling down to a focused activity (such as sorting bills/ reading the paper/ ironing) at the same time.

Homework may be more appropriate in secondary school where it is an invaluable tool in teaching hard work and self-discipline. Experts agree that homework should be varied and motivational - technology is proving useful, with an increasing number of tasks being completed online. Children may also be given activities to complete in their local community, for example at the library - while this is learning outside school, it is not homework in its more traditional sense. Homework clubs at school have also proved successful. As the debate continues, many schools are moving away from ‘timed’ homework slots and, only where appropriate, are concentrating on simple repetition and re-enforcement of skills being learnt during the day. The full article ‘All Work and No Play’ is on www.tes.co.uk.

18 Families

Vale of York

ed’s reading room

Hi kids, parents, grandparents, teachers – and book lovers everywhere! I’m Ed and here is my early Summer book selection for you to enjoy. The books are all available online and from good bookstores. Ed’s Reading Room is an exciting free online book and story club for primary children in homes and schools.

FOR AGES 5-7 YEARS Cosmic Colin: Sneezy Alien Attack by Tim Collins (Buster Books £4.99) ED SAYS: ‘Colin is over the moon when he and his friend Harry set off for another adventure in Harry’s spaceship but he is not at all pleased that he has to take his little brother David with him. David is even more annoying than usual because he has a terrible cold. When they are confronted with aliens what will they do? Could David’s coughs and sneezes become an advantage for them? ‘This book in the hilarious Cosmic Colin series is very entertaining for young readers. They are sure to be enthralled by this super story with fantastic illustrations throughout.’

FINE YORKSHIRE FISH AND CHIPS FOR ALL THE FAMILY!

The Case of the Feathered Mask by Holly Webb (Stripes £5.99) ED SAYS: ‘Maisie is totally fascinated by all the mysteries waiting to be solved around her in Victorian London. Professor Tobin has rooms in her grandmother’s house and Maisie enjoys hearing stories and looking at artefacts from his travels abroad. When the professor’s rare feathered mask is stolen, Maisie has to use all her powers of detection to solve this latest mystery. ‘Here is a great story that will appeal to newly confident readers who enjoy an exciting adventure. So get on the case with Maisie!’

FOR AGES 7 YEARS PLUS The Quirks in Circus Quirkus by Erin Soderberg (Bloomsbury £5.99) ED SAYS: ‘The Quirks are a very unusual family who bring a whole new meaning to the word quirky. Each has a unique magical power that they constantly try to hide as they really want to settle in their new town – Normal in Michigan. When the circus comes to town the children learn to juggle and fly on the trapeze. But however good their circus skills are, will they be able to keep their nosy neighbour from uncovering their secrets? ‘This is a crazy action-packed story with superb illustrations. The imaginative characters show how being different from others is cool!’

The Impossible Boy by Mark Griffiths

(Simon and Schuster £6.99) ED SAYS: ‘Things are not always as they seem. Blue Hills appears to be like so many other towns but on closer inspection the impossible is happening. When a new boy starts to entertain his schoolmates with inexplicable magic tricks, Gabby and Barney – aka Geek Inc – set out to investigate. They soon realise that the weird and mysterious goings-on could threaten the whole world and they mean to find out the truth. ‘This is a fantastic page-turner that is sure to entertain boys and girls alike. Readers who enjoy a good mystery will wish they were members of Geek Inc to get in on the action.’

Ed’s Reading Room is part of www.edontheweb.com, a DTI awardwinning website. It was created by Maggie Humphreys, a teacher of more than 25 years, and Les Snowdon, who together are authors of several books on fitness walking and healthy eating. You are very welcome to contact Maggie on 01753 730019 or by email at maggiehumphreys@aol.com.

Kids eat for £1

at the Wetherby Whaler York! As a family-run business with more than 40 years’ experience, the Wetherby Whaler has a tradition of value for money and delicious fish and chips. The restaurant at the Wetherby Whaler in York is the perfect place for a family treat! Terms and conditions: This voucher is only redeemable at the Wetherby Whaler York, Nether Poppleton, York, YO26 6RA restaurant. This offer is valid from 28th April 2014- 30th June 2014. The offer is only redeemable on a kid’s meal. One voucher per meal. No cash or product alternative is available. No voucher photocopies accepted. The voucher is not transferable. Each child must be accompanied by one full paying adult. Offer excludes the week of Monday 26th May to Monday 2nd June 2014. To receive the offer, children must be under 12 years old.

Wetherby Whaler

@wetherbywhaler

Wetherby Whaler York, Nether Poppleton, York, YO26 6RA

TEL: 01904 784500

w w w. w e t h e r b y w h a l e r. c o . u k Families Vale of York

20 Families

Vale of York

what’s on

may/june2014

We’ve ordered everything according to start date – be sure to look out for all the events which

in mar/apr14

run for several weeks / weekends too. And be sure to check before you set off. These were correct as we went to print but may have changed. Check if you need to book ahead too.

Stockeld Park Blooms this spring

24 May – 1 June Stockeld Park will be open over the spring break with lots of exciting activities for all the family. You’ll be able to get busy in the marquee planting zone – why not plant a pumpkin seed which Stockeld will grow for you ready to buy at Halloween? On May 26th CBEEBIES Mr Bloom will be helping with some magic planting with the help of Fairy Enchantica from Make a Wish Entertainment. From 5 – 6 July Stockeld will be holding a Cycling and French Festival to get in the spirit of the ‘Tour’. Early breakfast will be available from 5am and as well playing in the Adventure Zones you will be able watch the race in relaxed style on a giant screen in the picnic field, whilst enjoying French food, treats and drinks. The kids can soak up the atmosphere of the weekend by trying their hand at Unicycle training, or the ‘Likeabike’ balance course, take part in themed crafts, get a ‘cycle’ glitter tattoo and have their Faces Painted. Stockeld will also be screening the first of the ¼ finals of the World cup on their giant screen on the Saturday night and the Wimbledon Final on the Sunday to make the most of an amazing sporting weekend. www.stockeldpark.co.uk CBEEBIES Mr Bloom will be helping with some magic planting at Stockeld Park

things to do, places to go Every Day

Penguin Feeding HAREWOOD HOUSE For ages 10+ get up close to feed the penguins £10 www.harewood.org Every Day

Piglets at THE FARMER’S CART

3 – 5 May

16 May

24 & 25 May

World Heritage Weekend

Dig After Dark

Malton Food Lovers Festival

FOUNTAINS ABBEY 01765 608888 www.fountainsabbey.org.uk.

DIG St Saviourgate, York. 01904 615505 www.jorvik-viking-centre.co.uk

3 – 5 May

17 May

Brodsworth Recruiting

Tour de Cinema

BRODSWORTH HALL A cast of actors bring to life WW1 recruitment www.english-heritage.org.uk

17 & 18 May

Craft Fair

23 May – 1 June

4 – 5 May 11am – 5pm

Big Fun with Little Trains

Medieval Murder Mystery

Games for Giants!

The Swords of Middle Earth

TEMPLE NEWSAM www.leeds.gov.uk/ templenewsamhouse

YORK CASTLE MUSEUM www.yorkmuseumstrust.org.uk 2 – 5 May

Spring Steam Gala NORTH YORKSHIRE MOORS RAILWAY www.nymr.co.uk

RIEVAULX ABBEY Blackmail, bribery and betrayal, but who is to blame? www.english-heritage.org.uk 5 MAY

Toy Stories

NORTH YORKSHIRE MOORS RAILWAY www.nymr.co.uk

HENSHAWS ARTS & CRAFTS CENTRE 01423 541888 www.henshawsacc.org.uk

Until 13 Dec 2014

On-going

Family Volunteering Weekend

4 May

01904 499183 www.farmerscart.co.uk

ROYAL ARMOURIES www.armouries.org.uk

BRIMHAM ROCKS Movie night www.nationaltrust.org.uk

5 May

Murder Mystery & Detective Crafts ABBEY HOUSE MUSEUM, LEEDS www.leeds.gov.uk/abbeyhouse 7 May

Little Scientists ABBEY HOUSE MUSEUM, LEEDS www.leeds.gov.uk/abbeyhouse

Malton Free Foodie Fun for all the Family (even the dog!). Join JeanChristophe Novelli, The Chiappa Sisters and The Incredible Spice Men in a food paradise. www.maltonyorkshire.co.uk 24 & 25 May 11am

Kite Making Workshop FOUNTAINS ABBEY 01765 608888 www.fountainsabbey.org.uk 24 – 26 May

50 things Play Weekend

NATIONAL RAILWAY MUSEUM www.nrm.org.uk

BENINGBROUGH HALL & GARDENS www.nationaltrust.org.uk 01904 472027

24 May

24 - 26 May 11am - 5pm

Teddy Bear Trail LOTHERTON HALL www.leeds.gov.uk/lothertonhall 24 May

Family Bike Ride FOUNTAINS ABBEY 01765 608888 www.fountainsabbey.org.uk. 24 May

Book Signing- Jill Jennings CASTLE HOWARD 01653 648333 www.castlehoward.co.uk 24 & 25 May

Pond Diping BRIMHAM ROCKS www.nationaltrust.org.uk

Clash of Knights Scarborough Castle www.english-heritage.org.uk 24 – 30 May

French Scarecrow Hunt KIRKSTALL ABBEY, LEEDS www.leeds.gov.uk/kirkstallabbey 24 -31 May

Follow the Yellow Brick Road EUREKA! www.eureka.org.uk 24 May – 1 June

School Holiday Fun – Flower Power! FOUNTAINS ABBEY 01765 608888 www.fountainsabbey.org.uk

Families Vale of York

what’soncontinued... 24 May – 1 June

25 & 26 May

Let’s Go Native

Yorkshire Game Fair

HARLOW CARR Fun half term activities 01423 565418 www.rhs.org.uk/ gardens/harlowcarr

NEWBY HALL & GARDENS www.newbyhall.com

24 May - 1 Jun 11am - 5pm

A Monk’s Life Whitby Abbey Children can dress in monk’s and nun’s robes and discover the lives of novices, monks, lay brothers and nuns. www.english-heritage.org.uk

26 May

Murder Mystery & Detective Crafts ABBEY HOUSE MUSEUM, LEEDS www.leeds.gov.uk/abbeyhouse 26 – 30 May

Love Your Zoo Week

24 May – 1 June

LOTHERTON HALL www.leeds.gov.uk/lothertonhall

Half Term Fun

27 May

RIEVAULX TERRACE & TEMPLES www.nationaltrust.org.uk

Charlie and the Chocolate Factory family fun and crafts

24-26 & 31 May, 1 June

Half Term Fun NUNNINGTON HALL www.nationaltrust.org.uk 24 May – 2 June

Wizard of Oz Week NORTH YORKSHIRE MOORS RAILWAY www.nymr.co.uk 25 & 26 May

The Nunnington Dragon NUNNINGTON HALL www.nationaltrust.org.uk

ABBEY HOUSE MUSEUM, LEEDS www.leeds.gov.uk/abbeyhouse

28 May

Revolting recipes science fun ABBEY HOUSE MUSEUM, LEEDS www.leeds.gov.uk/abbeyhouse 28 May

Teddy Bear Trail

17 April 1-3pm

Geocaching Taster Day FOUNTAINS ABBEY 01765 608888 www.fountainsabbey.org.uk. 29 May

50 Things Thursday BRIMHAM ROCKS www.nationaltrust.org.uk 29 May

Hunt the Golden Ticket family challenge ABBEY HOUSE MUSEUM, LEEDS www.leeds.gov.uk/abbeyhouse

Turn Yorkshire Yellow

THORP PERROW 01677 425323 www.thorpperrow.com

KIRKSTALL ABBEY, LEEDS www.leeds.gov.uk/kirkstallabbey

18 April 1-3pm Hambleton Leisure Centre Stone Cross, NORTHALLERTON 7 May 1-3pm Cottingham High School Harland Way HULL 8 May 1-3pm Horizon Community College Dodworth Road BARNSLEY 14 May 1-3pm Selby High School Leeds Road SELBY

15 June

Den Building

Father’s Day Classic Car & Motor Show

FOUNTAINS ABBEY 01765 608888 www.fountainsabbey.org.uk. 1 June

Craft Fair

Sundays in June from 1 - 20 June

Medieval Minstrels Rievaulx Abbey Get to grips with helmets, shields, swords and a whole host of lethal weaponry, especially made for kids to get their hands on. www.english-heritage.org.uk 2 June

Children’s Woodland Activity Day THORP PERROW 01677 425323 www.thorpperrow.com 7 June

HAREWOOD HOUSE www.harewood.org 15 June

Father’s Day Band Stand BENINGBROUGH HALL & GARDENS www.nationaltrust.org.uk 01904 472027 15 June

Father’s Day THORP PERROW Free tea & cake for dad with his entry ticket! 01677 425323 www.thorpperrow.com 15 June

Classic Cars Brodsworth Hall www.english-heritage.org.uk 15 June

Den Building for Dads

Baby Rave

BRIMHAM ROCKS www.nationaltrust.org.uk

MAGNA www.visitmagna.co.uk

20 – 22 June

7 & 8 June

The Beverley Folk and Roots Festival

Tractor Fest NEWBY HALL & GARDENS www.newbyhall.com

BEVERLEY Children up 11 go free.

12 – 22 June

21 June

York Festival of Ideas

Music on the Meadows

York – varied locations Exploring the idea of order and chaos. Over 120 events – visit website in May for up-to-date information. www.yorkfestivalofideas.com

Vale of York

Kettlethorpe High School Standbridge Lane, WAKEFIELD

30 May 11am–12pm & 1-2pm

HENSHAWS ARTS & CRAFTS CENTRE www.henshawsacc.org.uk

22 Families

11th April 1-3pm

28 May 11am – 1-pm & 2-4pm

Skittles, Hoops and Whistles

Children’s Woodland Activity Day

Joseph Rowntree School Haxby Road New Earswick, YORK Kingswood Academy Wawne Road, Bransholme, HULL

29 & 30 May

28 May

www.tabletots.co.uk 10 April 1-3pm

LOTHERTON HALL www.leeds.gov.uk/lothertonhall

27 May - 1 Jun

Brodsworth Hall www.english-heritage.org.uk

Table Tots

RIPLEY CASTLE Family night out with tribute bands Queen B and Ultimate Madness. Firework finale. www.ripleycastle.co.uk

27 June

31 May

Family Bike Ride

Isabel’s Well

FOUNTAINS ABBEY 01765 608888 www.fountainsabbey.org.uk.

JUNCTION www.junctiongoole.co.uk 01405 763652

27 – 30 June

1 June

Burton Agnes Jazz and Blues Festival

The Sooty Show

BURTON AGNES See our competition on P 6 28 June

SONG CYCLE: A MUSICAL CELEBRATION OF THE BICYCLE FOR KIDS OF ALL AGES YORK MINSTER www.boxoffice.yorkminster.org

LEEDS CITY VARIETIES www.cityvarieties.co.uk 3 – 4 June

The Gruffalo CAST www.castindoncaster.com 7 June

Storytelling Workshop HELMSLEY ARTS CENTRE 01439 771 700 www.helmsleyarts.co.uk

theatre

10 June

4 May

Monday’s Child

The Worried Walrus

YORK THEATRE ROYAL 01904 623568 www.yorktheatreroyal.co.uk

CAST www.castindoncaster.com 13 – 17 May

Annie WAKEFIELD THEATRE ROYAL AND OPERA HOUSE www.wakefieldtheatres.co.uk 20 May

Superhero Snail Boy HELMSLEY ARTS CENTRE 01439 771 700 www.helmsleyarts.co.uk 20 – 24 May

Annie GRAND OPERA HOUSE YORK 24 May

The Sooty Show CAST www.castindoncaster.com 24 May

10 June

Tube YORK THEATRE ROYAL 01904 623568 www.yorktheatreroyal.co.uk 11 June

Yummm! YORK THEATRE ROYAL 01904 623568 www.yorktheatreroyal.co.uk 11 & 12 June

Science Museum Live: The Energy Show YORK THEATRE ROYAL 01904 623568 www.yorktheatreroyal.co.uk 12 June

All things Weird & Wonderful

HULL CITY HALL

YORK THEATRE ROYAL 01904 623568 www.yorktheatreroyal.co.uk

26 May – 14 June

14 June

War Horse

I Believe in Unicorns

ALHAMBRA THEATRE BRADFORD 01274 432000 www.bradford-theatres.co.uk

14 June

Butterfly Dance Studios Showcase

27 May

Jack & the Beanstalk LAWRENCE BATLEY THEATRE 01484 430528 www.lbt-uk.org 28 May

Superhero Snail Boy POCKLINGTON ARTS CENTRE 01759 301547 www.pocklingtonartscentre.co.uk

YORK THEATRE ROYAL 01904 623568 www.yorktheatreroyal.co.uk

The Elves & The Shoemaker YORK THEATRE ROYAL 01904 623568 www.yorktheatreroyal.co.uk 17 – 21 June

Horrible Histories – Barmy Britain

29 – 30 May

ALHAMBRA THEATRE BRADFORD 01274 432000 www.bradford-theatres.co.uk

Pinocchio

24 – 25 June

WEST YORKSHIRE PLAYHOUSE 0113 213 7700 www.wyp.org.uk

Angelina Ballerina the Mousical ST. GEORGE’S HALL Bradford 01274 432000

beta mum

Show me a big, hairy spider and I’ll show you a perfectly calm, strong woman. I’m not exactly kissing old Incy Wincy but I’ll happily pop him in a glass, find a bit of card for a lid and gently liberate him back into a nice dark corner of the garden. I proffer a similar level of tranquility, mixed with a healthy dose of caution, to many other popular phobias - I find little fear in the likes of snakes, needles, dentists and Simon Cowell. Not wild about heights or flying but I’ve worked really hard not to pass these on to my children. But I do have one nemesis. My own special fear is a race of evil little critters so sneaky, they’ve fooled some of the more easily-led members of the human race into actually liking them. Some poor innocents even think they’re cute. Fools. When these things finally rise up and take over the earth, making humans into slaves - which is what they’re plotting, slimy little devils - the ones they’ve fooled will be the first to die at their webbed, green hands (feet?). Yes, I’m talking about frogs. Who on earth can like these horsesized, slimy, green-brown, muddwelling, warty, razor-teethed creatures? (I may have exaggerated the size.) (And possibly the teeth.) (And the world-domination thing.) Like you (poor, deluded victim) I used to be fine with the frog race. But on a holiday to Cuba in the 90s, I had a toady epiphany and woke up to the threat posed by these wolves in a Kermit skin. Myself and my then partner spent a night in a somewhat leaky rainforest lodge. After a fair few mojitos on the verandah, I was tucked up in bed, snoring peacefully, when my partner started inexplicably screaming. Not only is it pitch black in the rainforest, but when you’re woken up in a strange bed, in a strange place, it takes a while to find the light switch. As I fumbled around, I asked (possibly not very politely) what could possibly be the matter. His reply came loud, clear and fast:

‘Something fell on my face!!!’ ‘Oh, don’t be so bloody stupid. How could something fall on your face? You’re dreaming, you nutter.’ Finally, I found the bedside light and flicked it on. There, slimy and menacing, snuggled up on the pillow between us, was a large, grinning toad. The toad winked at us and whispered hoarsely ‘Hasta la vista, baby.’ (I may have exaggerated the talking.) (And possibly the grinning.) Anyway, 20 years later, I have a (perfectly reasonable) phobia, our neighbours have a pond and we have a hunting cat called Boris. Despite the fact that Boris is so old and fat he can barely fit through the cat flap himself, he seems remarkably lithe when it comes to catching frogs in next door’s garden and bringing them home to show me. Like any good mother, I have trained my children to whisk mummy out of the room and risk their young lives by ridding our home of the invading menace. But the last time Boris tipped up with his amphibian offering, I was in the house alone. The odds weren’t good. Woman versus frog. In the past, I’ve run next door and roused the neighbours, but this time I thought about facing my fears. I didn’t have a big enough glass and bit of card to replicate the spider method, so I had to think on my feet. I threw an old towel over the frog (while it sat there snarling at me), scooped it up and shook it (fairly gently considering) into a dark corner of the garden. And pegged it back indoors and locked the door. I am inordinately proud of myself. I’m telling you this so that when the Frog Revolution finally happens, and I’m proved right, the human race will survive. An old towel and a bit of courage and we should be survive. Don’t let all that guff about the zombie apocalypse distract you from the real threat, people.

Jacey Lamerton is a York-based designer/maker and runs Get Your Frocks Off!, which specialises in creating must-haves from cast-offs. Her affordable, wearable clothing and accessories are upcycled from unwanted fabrics. Get info, discounts, nonsense by following Get Your Frocks Off! on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and Pinterest. More wit and ramblings appear on the blog - getyourfrocksoff.wordpress.com. Families Vale of York

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Vale of York