Families Pennines Mar-Apr 2011

P e n n i n e s

The really useful magazine for parents inCalderdale, Kirklees, Saddleworth, Stalybridge, Littleborough & Bacup

FREEIssue 1 March / April 2011www.familiespennines.co.uk

Holiday for free!

Yes, you really can go on holiday for next-to-nothing

Mobile Alert What every parent needs to know about children & mobile phones

Easter fun

Spring into the Easter holidays with our ideas for what to do and where to go

2 www.familiespennines.co.uk tel: 01457 870112

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Welcome to Families Pennines

3

C O N T E N T S

Welcome to Families Pennines. Spring seems the right time of year for the birth of a new magazine – and I hope you’ll enjoy seeing this youngster grow and develop over the coming years. It was Easter last year that Pete, Ewan and I were in Scotland and stumbled across Families Edinburgh. It’s a brilliant magazine and I immediately thought, “Why haven’t we got one?” A couple of googles later and I was taking the first steps to creating Families Pennines.

In this issue we take a close look at three high quality clubs for babies and toddlers; bring you up-to-date with concerns about children and mobile phones; and help you to plan a great

holiday in these economically challenging times.

Mums reading the magazine may want to leave it open somewhere the rest of the family will see page 13 – it’s got ideas on how to make Mother’s Day special. (Don’t worry Dads – we’ll do something similar for Father’s Day in the next issue.)

I hope you enjoy reading Families Pennines and find it really useful. Let me know what you think using the contact details below.

Look out for issue 2 - available in the first week of May. It will be packed with great ideas for children’s parties.

Wishing you a joyful spring,

Louise Bennett Editor

Contact [email protected] Tel: 01457 870112 w w w.famil iespennines.co.uk Families Pennines, PO Box 54, Oldham OL3 5UQ

Next Issue: May/June (Parties main feature) To advertise or feature in our May/June issue ring 01457 870112 or email editor@famil iespennines.co.uk Deadline is the first week of April. Families Pennines is free to our readers thanks to our advertisers.

Designed by Russell Finneran 01457 873300 w w w.stonehousecreat iveser vices.co.uk Printed by Bishops Printers Tel: 023 9233 4900 www.bishops.co.uk Contributors: Patty Hemingway; Joanna Moorhead; Joanna Parry. Copyright Families Pennines March/April 2011.

Families Pennines is one of a group of magazines established in 1990. It is a Families Franchise independently owned and operated under licence. We take every care preparing this magazine, but the publishers and distributors cannot be held responsible for the claims of advertisers nor for the accuracy of the contents nor for any consequences. Any original materials submitted for publication are sent at owner’s own risk and, while every care is taken, neither Families not its agents accept liability for loss or damage.

Page 14

April What’s On

Page 4

News what’s happening near you

Page 6

Babies & ToddlersThe importance of pre-school exercise

Page 8

HealthMobile Alert - The dangers to children from mobiles and wifi

Page 10

TravelCut the cost of your family holiday or even do it for free

Page 13

Mother’s DayHow to make it special

Page 12

March What’s On

Page 15

Easter fun


A free assessment and introductory lesson are on offer to Families Pennines readers this spring from Huddersfield couple, Steve and Judith Uttley, as they celebrate the 2nd birthday of their maths and English after-school tuition service, NumberWorks’nWords.

Each student receives one-to-one tuition from specialists and lessons are tailored to address individual needs and goals.

NumberWorks’nWords is effective for children from Reception to GCSE level and as rewarding for students who excel

Swimbabes, one of the UK's leading providers of baby swim classes, has a brand new class for babies and toddlers in Saddleworth.

The new class is on Wednesday mornings at Calf Hey Cottage, Denshaw. Swimbabes classes are suitable for babies from four weeks old and a course lasts for 10 weeks.

For further details or to book on the course please call the Swimbabes office on 01484 683570 or visit w w w.swimbabes.co.uk

and seek further challenges as it is for those who need some help to keep up. Verbal Reasoning and SATs preparation is also offered.

Steve and Judith have three children, support Huddersfield Town FC and are fully qualified teachers with over 30 years experience between them, teaching children from Years 1 to 11.

They told Families Pennines: “We’ll go out of our way to make sure that every student

enjoys NumberWorks’nWords tuition because, when that happens, educational success – and renewed confidence – follows naturally.”

If you would like to book a free assessment and introductory lesson then you can speak to Steve and Judith on 01484 487911.

NewsWhat's happening near you

Chilly Powder is famous for its high quality family ski holidays – but did you know they do summer adventure holidays too?

Describing summer activity holidays as, “One of the best kept secrets in travel,” owners Francesca and Paul Eyre have seen family activity holidays become increasingly popular.

With options ranging from trekking with donkeys in the Alps to wakeboarding on Lake Geneva there is something for everyone – including relaxing in the jacuzzi. For parents who want to try something a bit too extreme for their younger children – e.g. the Fantasticable,

Do you want to have some fun and do some good at the same time? Then you’re the kind of mum that CLIC Sargent, the UK’s leading cancer charity for children and young people, is looking for.

Yummy Mummy Week 2011 runs from

where you fly from one mountain to another on a zipwire at speeds up to 100km/hour – Chilly Powder offers its highly regarded crèche and kid’s club during the summer months too.

Their food is such a renowned highlight of the holiday that they’ve finally put together a Chilly Powder recipe book for those who want to take a taste of the Alps back home. Their chalet-hotels are located midway between Mont Blanc and Lake Geneva in the French Alpine village of Morzine, only a couple of miles from the Swiss border. To find out more visit w w w.chi l lypowder.com and click on their summer holiday tab.

Saturday 26 March to Sunday 3 April (Mother’s Day).

You can have fun with your children, friends and family having a sponsored walk in your wellies, a coffee morning or a pamper night whilst raising money to

Won’t Melt in the Sun

NumberWorks’nWords Huddersfield Celebrates 2nd birthday

New Baby Swim Class in Denshaw

NumberWorks'nWords pupil Navinder, from Crosland Hill, celebrates his achievements

help CLIC Sargent continue to provide clinical, practical and emotional support for children and young people with cancer. If fundraising is not for you then you can support the campaign by buying Yummy Mummy gifts. Getting involved is easy, just visit w w w.yummymummy.org.uk or call 08451 206 658 to register for your fundraising pack.

What's happening near you

Do children at your school love running and swimming? Then they’ll want to know more about an exciting new sports gala being led by Heathfield Junior School, Rishworth, together with Pentathlon GB regional development officer, Liam O’Neill.

Heathfield will host an inter-school biathlon on Tuesday 8 March with another one already planned for Tuesday 11 Oct.

Deputy Head, Chris Bouckley, explains, “Four of our children went to the Sefton Family Triathlon for the first time last summer. They had so much fun we decided to offer something closer to home.”

“It’s the inclusive nature of the event that really appeals. Not everyone enjoys traditional team sports like football and rugby – but most children love to run and swim – and here at Heathfield we’re fortunate in having a great swimming pool and a fantastic sports field.”

Pentathlon GB’s Liam O’Neill, a top-flight triathlete himself, is delighted to see young children being offered the chance to take part in a biathlon: “This is a great way to involve youngsters in a new and exciting multi-discipline sport. We take great pride in providing a fun, active and enjoyable day, and who knows, we may just

discover a future Olympian!”

The long-term plan is to introduce cycling and two of the other Pentathlon disciplines (fencing & shooting). It’s hoped the October event will offer all participants a fencing taster session led by Pentathlon GB coaches and some of their GB athletes.

The Heathfield Biathlon is open to schools throughout the Families Pennines area. If you can’t make the March one, then now’s the time to start planning for October. For more details email Chris Bouckley cbouckley@heathf ie ldjunior.co.uk or ring 01422 823564.

Please say you saw us in Families Pennines 5

Splish Splosh gets Olympic AmbassadorSplish Splosh Swimming School is delighted to have the backing of one of Britain’s top hopes for a swimming medal in the 2012 Olympics.

Kate Haywood won silver and bronze breaststroke medals at the Commonwealth Games last year and is aiming to be on the podium in London next year.

Kate, now in Australia to prepare for 2012,

has agreed to be the Olympic Ambassador for Splish Splosh and is keeping the swim school’s blog readers up-to-date with her progress via a video diary, a blog and lots of photos. You can see the third instalment of Kate’s Australian adventure at w w w.spl ishsploshswimmingschool.co.uk through her video update. She’ll be making an appearance once a month, giving encouraging advice to all the Splish Splosh students. Splish Splosh provide lessons for all ages and abilities in Halifax and Huddersfield.

Olympic Ambassador Kate Haywood with Splish Splosh’s Vicky Pettitt

Tumble Tot Turns Teenage Holmfirth’s Monique Brennan is celebrating 13 years as the leader of Tumble Tots Huddersfield & Halifax this Easter. She’s a familiar sight on the Pennine roads in her brightly coloured van carrying the unqiue Tumble Tot equipment that helps children from 6 months to 7 years develop their co-ordination and balance in a safe and fun way. And Tumble Tots Huddersfield & Halifax is proving quite a family affair – Monique’s daughter Rachel was a 4 year old Tumble Tot when her mum started the business. Now she’s 17 and helps out at the Saturday morning sessions. “She loves it,” says her proud mum.

Heathfield Pioneers Pennine Biathlon

Heathfield Pioneers: Alice, Jennie, Sam & Matthew


When good habits start young they tend to stay with you for life. That’s why healthy eating and exercise come top of the list for getting your children off to a good start in life. And it’s never too young to start exercising as Joanna Parry and Louise Bennett report.

The science Some paediatric experts say parents who use prams, playpens, car seats and bouncing chairs for hours at a time may be delaying not only their child's physical development but their mental development too. "The need for even the very young to be physically active is something parents often don't understand," says Jane Clark of the University of Maryland, USA. An active baby has the chance of a healthier life. That’s because during infancy the brain is developing pathways and connections to the muscles. Not enough exercise may mean they don’t make the strong kinds of brain-muscle connections that make physical activity easier, more enjoyable and more likely to become a life-long habit.

Early Days That doesn’t mean babies should be pumping iron with mum and dad at the gym. Exercise has to be age-appropriate. A newborn baby's daily routine of changing, bathing, crying and growing is enough exercise for them. In fact, a newborn is exercising many of its muscles in the very act of feeding. You may not appreciate it at 2am, but crying is important for the lungs and diaphragm and plays a large part in the development of the baby’s musculature. One

exercise you can do at this stage is baby massage, a great way to physically and emotionally bond with your baby, and a soothing and relaxing experience for babies. You can do baby massage at home or in a class - for tips go to http://w w w.bbc.co.uk/health/physical_health/chi ld_development/babies_massage.shtml or http://w w w.handsonbabies.co.uk/

Exercise at home Classes are a great way for parent and child to have fun and meet up with others on a regular basis. But here are some exercises you can do with your baby at home where the healthy habit is just as important and can be great fun.

3-6 month old babies: l Lay your baby on a blanket and put toys in front. Encourage your baby to reach and try to grasp them. A baby gym with hanging toys is great too.

l Finger pull exercise – put your baby on their back and offer your two fingers. When they catch them successfully, gently lift your

hands. Most of the time your baby will leave your hand quickly, but as you play they will hold tighter and hang on for longer.

l Play peek-a-boo (a great favourite of mine – ed)

l Any kind of movement that your baby enjoys is good

- bouncing on your knee, standing with support or "flying" through the air (Mr ed’s favourite – especially when the small one adopted the ‘super-baby’ pose) – it all helps to strengthen their bodies.

Older babies: l Sit your baby on the bed with your hands a few inches away. When your baby inclines to one side, help them sit upright again. This will help with balance and develop trunk strength.

l With your baby on their tummy, roll a ball so they have to extend their arms to grasp it and roll it back to you.

l Motivate baby to move by clapping your hands and motioning to come towards you.

l If your baby is trying to stand, encourage them to move towards you.

Toddlers:Once your child is independently active then the park is a great place to go – and they will keep you fit as you chase after them – making sure the whole family gets and keeps the fitness bug.

Healthy Children,Happy Parents

For more information on keeping you and your family healthy visit

w w w.kidsexerc ise.co.uk w w w.familyf i tnessexper t.co.uk

Why pre-school exercise matters

photos : prshots Marks & Spencer photos : prshots Mothercare


Families Pennines loves Tumble Tots. Their

45 minutes sessions are happy, lively, colourful

and fun. My son started out as a Gymbabe in

Nottingham at 7 months old, became a Tumble

Tot in Saddleworth and was so sad when he

ceased to be a Gymbob.

Monique Brennan is celebrating 13 years as the

leader of Tumble Tots Huddersfield & Halifax this

Easter. She explains, “Tumble Tots is unique in

the versatile equipment that we use. It’s on a

scale that you simply wouldn’t have at home.

We can do all sorts of combinations to suit

the different stages of development – not just

physical agility and co-ordination but counting,

colour recognition and singing too.”

Parents are directly involved in helping and

encouraging their little ones in the classes

until age 3, when the children go into the

sessions on their own to help them prepare for

the transition to being in school – leaving the

parents with the opportunity for a good chat or

a quick bit of shopping!

Something I really appreciated about Tumble

Tots is that you’re taught to grip your child’s

clothing at the back to provide reassurance for

them and you that they won’t fall – but leaving

their limbs free for them to learn balance and

co-ordination in a way that isn’t possible if

they’re holding your hand.

As Monique says, “By involving parents in those

early stages we help them develop skills they

can transfer to the playground and soft play

areas, so they can be confident in helping their

child wherever they are playing.”

Over the years Monique has seen some of her

Tots develop into elite athletes – tennis and

gymnastics in particular – which has given her

great pleasure. But she says, “it’s when you see

someone achieve something they’ve struggled

with that it gives your heart a little lift - seeing

the children develop a love of physical activity

that will hopefully last a lifetime.”

Swimming is one of those life skills that we all

benefit from having. If we can swim we could

save a life – and not just our own. It’s also great

fun if you’re confident enough in the water to

enjoy time there with your children.

The trouble is too many adults are like me and

were put off by poor experiences when they

were at school. In contrast, my son started

swimming lessons just before his 3rd birthday

and he’s on course to achieve his Amateur

Swimming Association Gold Award this

summer. He’s a little dolphin. Just like his dad,

he prefers swimming underwater and loved it

when he went snorkelling for the first time last

summer.

The amazing thing is, I was snorkelling with

them – not bad for someone who wouldn’t wet

their face under the shower four years ago! I

was inspired to learn properly because my son

wanted all three of us to wave to each other

underwater. Just shows it’s never too late to

take the plunge.

For our children there are lots of swim classes

out there and one of the best is Splish Splosh

Swimming School. Babies as young as 3

months can take part in their lessons in Halifax

and Huddersfield.

Splish Splosh founder, Vicky Pettit, explains,

“Helping your baby to feel comfy in the water

is fun and gives you quality bonding time. But

even more importantly eating, sleeping, co-

ordination and social skills all advance because

the babies love being in the water.”

Vicky and her team don’t just teach pre-

schoolers though. They cater for all ages and

abilities, including adults and the disabled. She

explains, “We’ve taught babies as young as 9

weeks to grandparents who want to be able to

swim with their grandchildren.”

Once children reach 3 they enter the water

without a parent. Vicky says, “It’s great to see

their faces when they progress through badges

and realise they can do the actions.”

And if your water baby proves to have a real

talent with a competitive edge, then Splish

Splosh offer training for that too.

Girls AND boys enjoy discovering their natural

sense of rhythm and musicality in a relaxed

setting at Baby Ballet’s Halifax Academy HQ.

When Families Pennines visited, Miss

Stephanie’s Tiny Toes group of 18month -3 year

olds were delighted to show off their jumps and

hops to the tune of Jumping Jack, whilst Miss

Donna’s 3 year old Mini Movers were inspired to

copy her every move with their ‘magic scarves’ as

she reminded them this would be their end-of-

term performance for parents.

And parents are delighted with the movement,

counting, good manners and imagination that

go into a Baby Ballet session. Kathryn Caris from

Ogden, mum of Edie, 3½, and James, 2, says, “It’s

brilliant because the children learn key skills and

socialise in a fun way and the mums get to have a

chat too. In fact, with the café, children’s play area

and comfy sofas, you could stay here all day!”

For dancing beyond pre-school, Baby Ballet has

links with the Barbara Peters School of Dance in

Halifax and Huddersfield. They’ve also introduced

two boys only classes where teachers Scott and

Les instruct the 5 to 10 year olds in an exciting

mix of break & street dancing with elements of

gymnastics and martial arts thrown in.

For Baby Ballet creator, Claire O’Connor, the most

important thing is that parents and children feel

relaxed, welcome and able to enjoy the healthy

benefits of music and movement.

To find out more about the classes offered by Monique, Vicky and Claire, visit their websites w w w.tumbletots.com/huddersf ie ld w w w.spl ishsploshswimmingschool.co.uk w w w.babybal let.co.uk

More great Pennine ClassesJo Jingles w w w.hal i fax. jo j ingles.com Kerr y Higginbottom, 01422 820425 kerr y joj [email protected]

Funky Monkeys Music w w w.funkymonkeysmusic.co.uk Jul ie Tweedale, 01484 844747 [email protected]

Swimbabes w w w.swimbabes.co.uk 01484 683570

S oc atots w w w.socatots.com/calderdale Gemma Ford, 07919 151339 [email protected]

It’s a decade since the Stewart Report highlighted concerns about the potential impact of mobile phones on children because their skulls are thinner than an adult’s. Report author, Sir William Stewart, said he would not want his own grandchildren using mobiles – something he reinforced five years later after further study when he said children under 8 should not use a mobile at all and older children should only use them in emergencies.

That prompted the UK distributor of a phone aimed at 4-8 year olds to withdraw it from sale.

If, like me, you’ve started your family since the report, the information may have passed you by at the time. Since then WiFi has added to the electro-magnetic mix that most of us live in today.

Patty Hemingway is a family homeopath with a special interest in electromagnetic radiation sickness. In this special report for Families Pennines, she sets out current concerns about the impact of modern technology on our children’s lives.

Have you heard that mobile phones carry health risks, and that children are at an even greater risk than adults?Dr Devra Davis, environmental and public health specialist, research scientist and grandmother, could not believe this, but what she found out alarmed her so much that she wrote a book, Disconnect: The Truth About Cell Phone radiation, What the Industry Has Done to Hide It, and How to Protect Your family, 2010. She writes that, “Contrary to the firmly held beliefs of many respected authorities, invisible radio frequency radiation can alter living cells and create the same types of damage that we know increase the risk of cancer and neurological disease. Neither the danger nor the safety of cell phones is yet certain. How we manage that uncertainty could avert a global public health catastrophe... children are growing up in a sea of radio frequency radiation that did not exist even five years ago.”

My own concerns about mobile phone radiation and other forms of digital pulsed microwave radiation had been aroused a few years ago when I began seeing an increasing number of children showing symptoms after exposure to

mobile phones, mast radiation or wireless radiation. These included hyperactive behaviour which reverted to normal when the children were away from the irradiated environment, skin rashes and eczemas that did not improve with treatment, night terrors and mood swings, lowered immunity in previously healthy children and sudden nose-bleeds.

A major concern about mobile phones has always been that radiation can penetrate deep into a child’s skull because it is so much thinner and smaller than an adult’s. Standards for phones are set for a large, thick-skulled man, although half of the world’s four billion cell phones are used by people under twenty. The SAR (Specific Absorption Rate) printed on the box relates simply to the phone’s capacity to heat tissue, as manufacturers and standard setters initially refused to believe that there could be any other detrimental effect from radio frequency radiation. This is strange as our bodies run on electrical currents, which are easily disrupted by pulsed frequencies, as has been demonstrated in a study by Dr Magda Havas and colleagues, showing heart arrhythmias triggered by DECT (cordless)phones.

In the digital age this poses new health risks depending on a person’s susceptibility, the density and intensity of the radiation, and the length of time they are exposed to it. Children are certainly more susceptible because they are still growing, and their neural circuitry will not be fully formed until they reach their early twenties. Until

Is your child at risk fromMobile Phones?Many parents want the security of knowing their offspring are only a phone call away, so giving them a mobile phone may seem the best thing to do. But is it?


then, they need protection from anything that could interfere with their brain’s development.

In France, this research has led to the decision to ban children in primary school from using mobile phones and discouraging mobile phone advertising aimed at children. They are also removing wireless communication systems from public places such as libraries and hospitals after workers complained of feeling ill at work.

The Bioinitiative Report in 2007 was the work of a group of eminent international scientists who examined existing research into the health effects of electromagnetic radiation and especially its impact on the immune system, behaviour , childhood cancers, breast cancer and brain tumours. This epic work concluded that the safety standards for exposure need to be revised downwards. In other words, it would be prudent to adopt the precautionary principle.

Dr Ronald Herberman, director of the University of Pittsburgh Cancer Institute, was being cautious when in 2008 he drafted a memo to staff warning of the dangers of mobile phones and urging them to limit their use because of the risk of cancer. Top of his list of precautions is that children should use mobiles only for emergencies, in recognition of the fact that their growing brain tissue is likely to be more sensitive to the electromagnetic radiation from mobile phones.

Recently, Alasdair Philips from Powerwatch, an independent group that investigates the safety of mobile phones, revealed that safety advice was generally to be found only in the small print. Manuals for the Blackberry (The Torch), for example, warn users to “use hands-free operation if available and keep the device at least 25mm from your body (including the abdomen of pregnant women and the lower abdomen of teenagers)” when it is switched on.

Dr Davis’s advice is never carry a live mobile phone next to your body and always use a headset. You can see her video for teenagers on her website, www.environmentalhealthtrust.org , or check out the guidance from a group of concerned parents, who have looked closely at the science, w w w.wiredchi ld.org,

Changes You Can Makel Keep calls short

l Send texts

l Replace wireless equipment with non-wireless

l Change to a low-radiation or analogue baby monitor

l Turn all wireless equipment off at night, in the car and when near pregnant women or children.

BooksRadiation Rescue: 4 steps to safeguard your family from the other inconvenient truth – the health hazards of wireless technology. Kerry Crofton, 2009

Disconnect: The Truth about Cell Phone Radiation, What the Industry Has Done to Hide it, and How to Protect Your Family. Dr Devra Davis, 2010

Useful websitesw w w.iegmp.org.uk The Stewart report

w w w.environmentalhealthtrust.org how to use phones safely

w w w.wiredchi ld.org news and science for children and their parents.

w w w.bioinit iat ive.org the Bioinitiative Report

w w w.power watch.org.uk the latest research, clearly explained

w w w.es-uk . info support for people with symptoms of electrosensitivity

w w w.patt yhemingway.com find out more about the author, Patty Hemingway (RMANM)


It’s that time of the year when our

thoughts invariably turn to warmer

climes and sun-kissed beaches. The

kind of places we hope to end up in a

few months time, when it’s summer

once again, and we’re getting away

from it all for those magical two

weeks we call our annual holiday.

It’s often a major financial

commitment. And this year more

than usual, finding the money to

pay for a holiday is, for thousands

of families, going to be harder than

ever. But chins up – we’re not giving

up! There are still ways to do it...and

for those who do have some money

to spend, the bargains are likely to be

hotter than ever.

Holiday for free!

Yes, you really can go on holiday without spending any money at all. Even if you only manage not to pay for your accommodation, you’ll still be making a huge saving. Here are some of the ways of achieving a cost-free break.

HouseswapThe world falls into two camps on houseswapping. There are those who swear by it, who’ve stayed in the best villas around the world because of it; and there are those who can’t think of anything worse than having to leave their house pristine for another family when they go away, and who fear being palmed off with some tenement hovel while its owners live it up in their luxury pad.

The truth about houseswapping is that it IS hard work...you might not be paying for your accommodation, but you need to go to a lot of trouble beforehand to make sure you a) have the perfect swap

and b) that your own house is properly organised for the incoming family. Top tips from seasoned swappers are to find a family that’s as much like you as possible, and to ask lots of questions and look at lots of photos of the place you’re going to. Also, don’t rule out swaps with friends or relatives – these can be easier to organise, and you can top and tail them with some together-time with your mates as you overlap at one or both homes.

Wildcampingit ain’t for everyone, but those who love ‘real’ camping say they really, really adore it. What it means is camping in the remote wilds – not on campsites (where you have to pay), but in the absolute back of beyond, where there’s no infrastructure at all. The downside, of course, is that it’s usually illegal (unless you have the landowner’s permission) but if you’re headed to Scotland you’re in luck since the right to camp on hill land is now enshrined in public-access law. For more information, see w w w.outdooraccess-scot land.com.

How to do it for free, for less and (if you’re one of the lucky few who have some cash...) for more!

Holiday 2011

We all need a holiday, but how are we going to manage it in the harsh new economics of 2011? Joanna Moorhead shares some ideas on how to make it work – whatever your budget (and even if you’ve no budget whatsoever!)


Wild camping near Dunnottar Castle, Aberdeenshire Chris Robson/Scottish Viewpoint

Work for your keep!Working holidays, in fact, aren’t usually free – but they are very, very cheap. The National Trust, for example, has holidays from £90 a week including food and hostel-type accommodation. No previous experience is necessary, as you’ll be led by trained volunteer leaders and staff. The trust says it’s a great opportunity for families, especially those with older children, to spend time together as a family...you’ll be involved in ‘team activities’ and you’ll be helping to improve the environment. Children must be at least eight years old. For more information, see w w w.nationaltrust.org.uk/main/w-trust/ w-volunteer ing/w-workinghol idays.htm

Holiday for less In general, you get what you pay for with holiday spending. But it is possible to make your money go further – you just have to work out a strategy, and stick to it.

Bargain-huntThere are bargains around on the holiday front this year...and as usual, the trick is either to book well ahead, or to wait until the very last minute (and if your income is looking dodgy at the moment, the late-booking option could be the best).

Uncertainty is tricky when you’ve got kids, but try to keep them happy by promising that you will go somewhere, you’re just not entirely sure exactly where...but work out a few basics, so you can tell them it will definitely involve a beach, a flight (if it’s abroad) and the chance to play with other kids (if you’re going somewhere where there’ll be other families).

Holiday with another familyThis can make your outlay a lot cheaper, because the costs will be divided in two. If you’re holidaying with another family, the cheapest thing to do is either to stay in the UK or to go to France or somewhere else by ferry, since that’s the cheapest way to travel.

Look for bargains like La Blanchere in the Vendee region of France – it’s a four-bed farmhouse set in a two-acre garden with a games barn and an above-ground swimming pool. It’s available for just £700 a week in high season – so for two families sharing, that’s quite a bargain. For more information, see w w w.recommendedfamilyhol idays.com/top25places.shtml

Holiday for more If you’re going to spend a bit of money this year, you’re in luck because there will be plenty of choice – and you should be able to get somewhere that gives you excellent value for money, given that many families will be looking for a cheaper option.

Shop aroundSo, you definitely need to shop around. Tell travel companies about deals you’ve been offered by competitors – and see whether they’re prepared to throw more into your deal, or to cut the cost. Make clear from the start that you’re looking for a holiday that’s pricy but also offers great value. For example, Aztec Villas has wonderful villas in Cyprus that give you everything you’re ever going to need on a family holiday.

The resort of Penera has everything on your doorstep – cafes, restaurants, beach, water park – so although they’re not a cheap option, you won’t necessarily need to hire a car. Plus, the company makes sure the villas are stocked with all the clobber families with young kids need but don’t

want to have to lug around...pushchairs, DVDs, toys, balls, inflatables, Wii games. Prices around £1,100 (not including flights) for a villa sleeping eight in August. For more info, see w w w.aztec vi l las.co.uk

Go somewhere unfashionableFor 2011, for example, Mexico isn’t looking like the hottest holiday destination – but I was there last summer with my family for a fortnight, and though Mexico is a country with problems, those problems are light years away from your all-inclusive hotel on the Yucatan peninsula. We stayed at Club Med in Cancun, which was superlative – it’s got the best position on the Cancun holiday strip, it’s well away from the business of the town, the food is delicious and even our older children enjoyed the teen hang-out called, oddly, Carwash. Plus watersports, children’s clubs and childcare, pretty views, a great beach. For us, Mexico was a family holiday of a lifetime and it wasn’t a let-down – and given that the Yucatan is packed with all-inclusive hotels, and that it’s not had a great press of late, it should be a great place to get a lot more for your (considerable) outlay in summer 2011. For more information, see w w w.clubmed.co.uk


La Blanchere


What's On March

● Structured 45 minute sessions● Jumping, rolling, climbing, balancing● Fun songs and rhymes● Specially designed children’s equipment● Separate classes for ages 7 months to 7 yrs● Tuesday – Northowram, Halifax● Wednesday and Saturday – Huddersfield● Thursday – Holmfirth● Friday – Denby Dale

Skillsfor Life

The Leading National Physical Play Programme

To book, phone 01484 689467 or visit www.tumbletots.com/huddersfield

Teacher in the pool, Small Groups

Lessons for ages 3mths plusFartown, Hudds Sun 8.30am to 12pm

Crossley Heath, Halifax Mon, Weds, Fri 4pm to 6pm

Warley Road, Halifax Fri 4pm to 6pm

Wednesdays 2, 9, 16 & 23 March Baby Signing Classes, Kidzville Playgym, Church Street, Greetland, Halifax & Fridays 4, 11, 18, 25 March Baby Signing Classes, Party Dreamz, 27-31 Whiteley Street, Milnsbridge, Huddersfield. 1.30-2.30pm Baby signing classes using songs, toys, pictures & Tilly to help both parents & children to remember the signs. £25 for the course. Pay at first class. More information: Mrs R achel Smith 07952 770619; emai l s [email protected]

Saturday 5 March JoJingles Halifax 15th Birthday Celebrate with Big Jo at Eureka! The National Children’s Museum, contact Kerr y Higginbottom, Jo J Ingles Hal i fax 01422 820425 w w w.joj ingles.com/hal i fax

Saturday 5 March – Sunday 17 July Toffee Town Did you know that Calderdale is the home of modern toffee? It was first made by Violet Mackintosh in 1890, in the Mackintosh's pastry shop. 2011 is the 75th Anniversary of Quality Street production in Halifax and this exhibition celebrates the history of confectionery manufacture in Calderdale. What is your favourite favourite? Come along and vote! 10 am - 5 pm, Sunday 1 pm - 4 pm B ankf ie ld Museum, B oothtown Road, Hal i fax, 01422 352334

Sunday 6 March JoJingles Halifax 15 Birthday Celebrate with Big Jo at Eureka! The National Children’s Museum, Halifax. Contact Kerr y Higginbottom, Jo J ingles Hal i fax 01422 820425 w w w.joj ingles.com/hal i fax

Tuesday 8 – Thursday 10 March Moscow State Circus Returning to the UK with the award winning show Legenda. Featuring a huge cast of Russia's greatest and most flexible performers, the world's most famous circus collides with the legendary Russian folklore figure Rasputin to create an exciting new show that combines contemporary and classical circus at its very best. The Vic tor ia Theatre, Fountain Street, Hal i fax, 01422 351158 Evenings 8 pm, plus Wednesday and Thursday 5 pm

Saturday 12 March Saturday Art Club at Bankfield Museum 10.30-12.30pm. While the adults go shopping, children aged 8-12 take part in a creative and fun workshop. We explore a variety of arts and

Families Pennines tries to get the details right – but sometimes things change so please check before you travel.

Want your event listing? email the details to editor@famil iespennines.co.uk

For more events visit w w w.famil iespennines.co.uk/whatson

crafts activities using the gallery exhibitions and museum collections for inspiration. To book a place please contact Jef f rey Andrews on 01422 284459. Cost £3.75

Tuesday 15 March JoJingles Halifax 15 Birthday Celebrate with Big Jo at the Big Blue Frog, Stead Street, Halifax in the morning. Contact Kerr y Higginbottom, Jo J ingles Hal i fax 01422 820425 w w w.joj ingles.com/hal i fax

Tuesday 15 March JoJingles Halifax 15 Birthday Celebrate with Big Jo at Upsy Daisys Play Gym, Mytholymroyd in the afternoon. Contact Kerr y Higginbottom, Jo J ingles Hal i fax 01422 820425 w w w.joj ingles.com/hal i fax

Sunday 20 March JoJingles Halifax 15 Birthday Celebrate with Big Jo at Nostell Priory family fun day (part of Down’s syndrome awareness day). Contact Kerr y Higginbottom, Jo J ingles Hal i fax 01422 820425 w w w.joj ingles.com/hal i fax

Sunday 20 March Fun with Phones 1-4pm Celebrate national Science Week with children’s activities on the theme of communication. Forget the mobile – find out how people used to talk and send messages and have a go at making your own gadget. Cost 50p. Tolson Memorial Museum, R avensknowle Park , Wakef ie ld Road,Huddersf ie ld 01484 223830

Saturday 26 March The Dragon’s Daughter 11am & 2pm Nestled in the shadow of a great mountain was a tiny village. Perched at the top of the mountain, lived a fire-breathing dragon… Lawrence B at ley Theatre, Q ueen’s S quare, Huddersf ie ld, 01484 430528

Saturday 26 March Saturday Art Club at Bankfield Museum, Halifax -10.30-12.30pm. S ee S at 12 March for detai ls .

Saturday 26 & Sunday 27 March Day Out With Thomas Kirklees Light Railway, Clayton West, Huddersfield Meet Thomas, Percy, Mavis, Toby & the Fat Controller, with many additional attractions to keep the children entertained. R ing 01484 865727 or v is i t w w w.kirk leesl ightrai lway.com for more detai ls

Sunday 3 April is Mothering Sunday and Families Pennines offers some ideas

on how to make it extra special.


Ancient Greeks and Romans had spring festivals to honour mother goddesses.

Christianity created Mothering Sunday, honouring Mary, Jesus’s mother, and the ‘mother church.’ It’s the 4th Sunday in Lent – between Ash Wednesday (the day after Pancake Tuesday) and Easter.

Mothering Sunday became a day off when servants could go home to visit their mothers, collecting wild flowers on the journey home as a gift.

The American Mother’s Day was created almost 100 years ago when Anna Jarvis honoured her mother’s work for the poor by getting the US Government to make a law creating Mother’s Day.

Jarvis didn’t like how the Day developed, saying “A printed card means nothing except that you are too lazy to write to the woman who has done more for you than anyone in the world.” Well, we’re all entitled to our opinion!

Celebrating Mums Goes Back A Long Way…

Make a card – mums will treasure a card you make for them.

Give her a lie in! – It’s a real luxury – it costs nothing – all you have to do is keep quiet.

Breakfast in bed – Too young to make something hot? A glass of orange juice and a Danish pastry will go down well. Don’t forget a napkin or some kitchen towel so she doesn’t get the bed sticky!

Spring flowers – gather a small bunch like servant children centuries ago – but make sure you don’t cut flowers that mum wants to keep growing or that don’t belong to your family.

Go to church – a Mothering Sunday family service often includes presenting flowers to the women in the congregation.

Give her time – so she can have a leisurely bath, read that book – she can do both at once so long as she doesn’t get the pages wet!

If you’ve decided to spend your own money on a gift for mum, she won’t want you spending a lot – remember, it’s the thought that counts. So here are some ideas for under £10.

Chocolate & sweets – many shops will have Mother’s Day gift boxes under £10:

Shops you could try: The L i tt le Shop, 01457 870757, 50 High Street, Uppermil l

Sweet Memories, 07806 779478, The Piece Hal l, Hal i fax

The Lol l ipop Tree, 01484 533660, 125 Nor thgate, Almondbur y w w w.lol l ipoptreesweets.co.uk

Chocolate B ox, 01484 688222, Hol lowgate, Holmfir th w w w.chocolateboxholmfir th.com

S omething Sweet, 01422 845444, 3 The Cour t yard, Br idgegate, Hebden Br idge w w w.somethingsweet.co.uk

Flowers – they can be expensive so it’s a good idea to visit the florist a week before, tell them how much you want to spend, that it’s for your mum and see what they can do for you. Arrange to collect them on the Saturday before the big day – you may need some help to hide them till Sunday.

A book – but make sure she gets the time to read it – you can make your gift last longer by offering to tidy up after meal times until she’s read it.

The No Cost Option

The Low Cost Option

If you’ve more than £10 to spend here are some suggestions – and if they’re too expensive for Mother’s Day they could inspire you for her birthday.

Something wild – Airkix near the Trafford Centre in Manchester offer indoor sky diving vouchers from £29.99. More details at w w w.airkix .com or 0845 3316549.

Something soothing – a pamper voucher – if you know mum has a favourite place already try there. If not, for serious luxury you could try:

Titanic Spa, 0845 4103333, Low West wood Lane, L inthwaite w w w.t itanicspa.com

Something delightful - Champagne, chocolates & flowers – a budget-busting classic combination.

Look out for Father’s Day options in Issue 2 – out May

The Costs More Option

In the UK, Mother’s Day and Mothering Sunday have become interchangeable terms. The date is still set by the church calendar and Anna Jarvis must be spinning in her grave at how much gets spent worldwide. But whether you spend nothing, a little or a lot, there are plenty of ways to make your mum feel special.

Go On - Make Her DaySunday 3 April is Mothering Sunday

and Families Pennines offers some ideas on how to make it extra special.

photos : prshots Marks & Spencer.

14 tel: 01457 870112

What's On April

Saturday 9 April Saturday Art Club at Bankfield Museum Halifax 10.30-12.30pm. S ee March 12 entr y for detai ls.

Saturday 9 April to Monday 2 May Eureka! The National Children’s Museum, A Walk on the Wild Side Grab your binoculars and go on a safari through the galleries. Handle cute and scary animals, and join the interactive story, ‘Walking Through the Jungle’. Free with standard admission. Eurek a! D iscover y Road, Hal i fax HX1 2NE Tel : 01422 330069 w w w.eurek a.org.uk

Saturday 9 & Sunday 10 April Quarry Bank Mill and Styal Estate Spring Craft Fair Visit our craft fair packed full of handmade gifts and goodies, plus call in to our newly refurbished National Trust Shop. 11am – 4pm

Tuesday 12 April Nostell Priory and Parkland Spring Has Sprung Welcome the return of longer and warmer days with outdoor activities for families. B ooking Essent ia l 01924 863892 L imited number of p laces so book ear ly

Lyme Park Spring has Sprung Family friendly guided tour of the garden. Children of all ages welcome. Garden admission applies. NT members free. More Information: Lyme Park Estate O ff ice, 01663 762023, [email protected] 1-2pm

Saturday 16 & Sunday 17 April Marsden Moor Cuckoo Festival Join the community celebrations to welcome the return of the cuckoo & spring. Wide range of events in Marsden village including family fun, music, dance, craft fair and duck race: 10am-7pm.

Saturday 16 April to Friday 22 April Tatton Park Lambing Week at the Farm Will you be lucky enough to see our lambs being born? We have synchronised our ewes to lamb within a 10 day period. Informative talks and live viewing via our webcam. Sheep quiz and collage. More Information: Main O ff ice, 01625 374400, [email protected]

Saturday 16 April to Sunday 1 May Hardcastle Crags Easter Egg Trail Join us at Gibson Mill for our special Easter Trail. Solve the puzzle and win a chocolate egg! 11am – 4pm. More Information: S ara Parsons, 01422 841023 [email protected]

Sunday 17 April Victoria Theatre Halifax How the Koala Learnt to Hug A charming tale about the magic of family and, of course, the importance of a nice warm hug! Fountain Street, Hal i fax 01422 351158 w w w.calderdale.gov.uk/vic tor ia

Monday 18 to Friday 29 April Quarry Bank Mill and Styal Estate Easter at the Mill Egg-cellent trails, workshops and hands-on activities. 11am-5pm w w w.nat ionaltrust.org.uk 01625 445896

Tuesday 19 April Nostell Priory and Parkland Spring Has Sprung. See 12 April entry for details.

Friday 22 to Tuesday 26 April Kirklees Light Railway Easter Eggspress Come along and join in the fun with the Easter bunny and his engine friends with an Easter Egg hunt, egg & spoon races, bouncy castle, face painting and much more to keep the family entertained. Vis i t w w w.kirk leesl ightrai lway.com or r ing 01484 865727

Saturday 23 April Lawrence Batley Theatre A Little Bird Told Me The most original, wacky and fun collection of tales little ones and adults will ever see… Stories range from helpful gazelles to dragon poo – sometimes moral, sometimes delightfully absurd, but always colourful, curious and fun. Queen’s Square, Queen Street, Huddersfield 11am & 2pm R ing 01484 430528 or emai l [email protected]

Saturday 23 to Monday 25 April Nostell Priory and Parkland Easter Eggstravaganza! Easter Saturday Egg hunts in garden and Easter Trails in House Easter Sunday & Monday Easter Egg hunt in the gardens, Easter trail in the house, face painting, egg and spoon races and lots more. Fun and games for everyone with lots of chocolate. Price hunt & tra i l £2.00. face paints £1.50 More Information: Vis i tor S er vices Manager, 01924 863892, [email protected]

Sunday 24 April Marsden Moor Easter Egg Hunt Join our Easter egg hunt, starting at the National Trust office in Marsden. B ooking Advisable 01484-847016 10am – 2pm

Tuesday 26 to Saturday 30 April Horrible Histories: The Awful Egyptians & The Ruthless Romans, Victoria Theatre, Halifax. From the fascinating Pharaohs to the power of the pyramids, discover the foul facts of death and decay with the meanest mummies in Egypt. Or, from evil Emperors to the gruesome gladiators, find out why there’s no place like Rome! Fountain Street, Hal i fax 01422 351158 w w w.calderdale.gov.uk/vic tor ia

Families Pennines tries to get the details right – but sometimes things change so please check before you travel.

Want your event listing? email the details to editor@famil iespennines.co.uk

For more events visit w w w.famil iespennines.co.uk/whatson

Sunday 3 April Mother’s Day

East Riddlesden Hall Mother's Day Delights

Get crafting for Mother's Day. Delight your Mum with a decorated cup & saucer or handmade flower. Free activities include decorating a cup & saucer with Mum, or making a paper flower in her favourite colours. More Information: Car la Weatheral l, 01535 607075, car la .weatheral [email protected]

Nostell Priory and Parkland Mother’s Day Morning Do something different for Mother's Day. Bring mum for a special morning at Nostell. It starts at 10.30am with a cooked breakfast in the Tea Rooms. Then you have a two hour tour of the gardens, led by our head Gardener, Paul, followed by afternoon Tea in the Tearooms More Information: Vis i tor S er vices Manager, 01924 863892, [email protected] B ooking Essent ia l

Lyme Park Marvellous Mums Decorate a porcelain plant pot and make a card - the perfect gift for Mother's day. Children of all ages welcome. Garden admission applies. NT members free. More Information: Lyme Park Estate O ff ice, 01663 762023, [email protected]

Quarry Bank Mill and Styal Estate Make Mother's Day Spoil Mum on her special Day. Bring her for a delicious three-course lunch with a homemade treat for every Mum, and then take her shopping for something extra special. B ooking Essent ia l 01625 445845

S ee w w w.famil iespennines.co.uk/whatson for more Mother ’s Day out ideas

www.familiespennines.co.uk

15

Enjoy quality time with your kids this Easter

let your hair down and release your inner- l

child

roll around in the garden together, make l

mud pies, dig for worms and make dens out of sheets and washing lines

invest in some Play-Doh, art supplies and l

face paints and get creative

hardboil some eggs and paint with food l

colouring - when they’re dry roll them down a hill or a slide

water painting - paint with a clean l

paintbrush and a pot of water outside on walls, paving slabs, fences. It’s very effective and the sun removes the evidence!

have a picnic – indoors if it’s wet & cold, l

outdoors if it’s lovely

home camping – hang a tablecloth over l

furniture, add a torch, a sleeping bag and have some fun

decorate biscuits by mixing l

icing sugar and water in a bowl to make runny icing and decorate with sprinkles or smarties

pass the parcel. Why save it l

for parties? Your kids can do the wrapping too using old newspaper, with prizes as simple as a sticker or packet of raisins

Invite their friends over When you’ve run out of ideas, invite your children’s friends over to play. You may think double the children means double trouble, but it’s often easier for them to have playmates around to entertain each other. It also means they will get invited back, giving you a much-needed break.

Don’t interfere If you have more than one child and they are playing nicely together let them get on with it. You don’t have to be involved in everything they are doing.

Give them some jobs to do for pocket money Children like to earn their own money and to get a bit of responsibility – they will often jump at the chance to do a chore that you have been putting off for ages – like washing the car or weeding the garden.

Give them a treat Take them on a trip to a theme park, swimming pool or cinema as a special treat. Make full use of local resources to find out what’s going on in your area - there are always free activities and events going on during school holidays. See w w w.famil iespennines.co.uk/whatson for local ideas. If you’re travelling further afield this Easter, explore the other Families local pages for information on what’s happening where you’re going.

make pasta jewellery l

roll a sheet of newspaper into a ball and l

play volleyball over a washing line

make salt dough with 3 cups of plain flour, l

1 cup salt and 1 cup water. Model it like playdough and dry out finished models in a cool oven, then paint and varnish

treasure hunt - hide toys or sweets l

around the home and give your kids clues to find them. Kids like setting the hunts too. Alternatively, devise a nature trail where they have to find a series of items such as different coloured leaves

set up a home cinema in your living room: l

close the curtains, rearrange the furniture, make tickets and prepare snacks before putting on your favourite DVD

apple bobbing. Float an apple in a bowl of l

water and get your kids to try to bite it without using their hands. If you don't mind mess you can repeat the game with a chocolate or grape in a bowl of flour

hit the park and get active, go for a walk, l

or set up an obstacle course in the garden with buckets, chairs, tables, gardens rakes… anything goes really

Whether you’re a working parent looking to make the most of the Easter weekend or a full-time mum filling the school holiday, with a bit of planning and a few inspired ideas from Joanna Parry, you can make it a holiday to remember...

There are dozens of fun things to do at home, from building castles out of rubbish to dens in the garden, but when you run out of ideas, here are a few more:

l the holidays are the perfect time to clear out old toys or games and replace them

with new finds from the charity shop or swap with friends. Take the chance to reintroduce some traditional board games and toys into the mix

l encourage your kids to dig a vegetable patch of their own in your garden. If you don’t have any

outside space, make a mini garden by filling a plant tray

with earth and arranging small sprigs of leaves, daisies and

grass over the soil. Try small

pebbles for paths and foil for a

pond


photo : w w w.t igerphoto.co.uk

C COME AND EXPERIENCE...

Heathfield provides a caring environment and a stimulating education for boys and girls from the ages of 3 to 11.

Tuesday 8 March 2011 1.30 p.m. - 6.00 p.m.

Please contact Mrs Keeble, Admissions Secretary for further informationor to arrange a visit

Tel: 01422 822217 Fax: 01422 820911Heathfield School, Rishworth, West Yorkshire HX4 4QFEmail: [email protected]

Registered Charity Number: 1115562

C

open doors

HeathfieldThe Junior School to Rishworth School

Open Afternoon

A5 Heathfield Open doors ad 2011:Layout 1 08/12/2010 09:08 Page 1

Missed the Open Afternoon?Then please ring Heathfield on 01422 823564 to arrange a visit.

Discover Harewood this April...

Mad Hatter’s Easter Weekend

Fri 22nd - Mon 25th April

Royal Wedding Celebration

Friday 29th April

Children’s FestivalSun 1st - Mon 2nd May

Open weekends only in March &

daily from 1st April

Mother’s Day LunchSunday 3rd April

School Holiday FunSat 2nd - Sun 17th April

www.harewood.org0113 218 1000

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Families Pennines Mar-Apr 2011