Families Glasgow issue 64 July August 17

Glasgow Issue 64 July/Aug 2017

WIN tickets

to Paw Patrol & Resonate X Insomnia

Summer Activities

l a i c Sp e

Summer

Reads Get Ready

for School

Go on an adventure with the Glasgow Subway Welcome to St. Enoch

Kids travel all day for* only ÂŁ1.35

St. Enoch

St. Enoch

WHOOSH!!

ide Rivers

museums

s PArk

cine mas

ries galle

scie centnce re

*Applies to children under 16 years old travelling with a Smartcard. Children under five travel for free if accompanied by a fare-paying adult.

spt.co.uk/family

gaming exhibition - live stage shows vr zone - retro zone minecraft zone indie games - retail zones - free play tournaments meet & greets and loads more!

sec, glasgow 21st - 23rd july 2017

tickets start from just ÂŁ15

insomniaresonate.com

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In this issue...

2-8

News & Views

8

Win Tickets!

9-11 Tips & Advice - Get Ready for School 12-13 Summer Reads 14-16 Summer Camps and Activities 16-19 What’s On Highlights

Welcome to issue 64!

Get in touch Editor: Susanne Hein editor@familiesglasgow.co.uk, 01355 459 314 Keep up to date at www.familiesonline.co.uk

In this issue, I have some spectacular prizes – check out page 8 for the chance to win tickets to see Paw Patrol Live!

Race To The Rescue at the Armadillo, or take part in Resonate X Insomnia at the SEC. I am also very excited to bring you news of two new activity providers coming to Glasgow: Swim Easy have decided to share their innovative swimming teaching programme with us, and The CocoaBean Company will finally fill that void left behind by the demise of the much-loved Chocolate Factory.

I’m also delighted to bring you a brilliant list of summer reads which are bound to include something for your young readers. And check out the summer activity listing at the back – as well as excellent activities put on by your local council, private providers such as Scottish Youth Theatre, BYTC and Camp Indy are upping their game with early drop off and late pick up times available.

For younger children we have delved into the world of fairies, to see if we can catch a glimpse. Summer is shaping up to be an exciting adventure!

Best Wishes,

@FamiliesGlasgow Next issue: September/October Tell us about any events or classes that you want to publicise.

Please get in touch Booking deadline: August 11th Special ad rates and offers available, call or email to find out more.

Passport to Adventure

will be skating into Glasgow!

Join Mickey Mouse and Minnie Mouse as they take audiences on a fun-filled tour in Disney On Ice presents Passport to Adventure. Journey to the most memorable Disney destinations with all of your favorite characters and get swept away by classic tales that have captivated the world.

The show will be in Glasgow from 22nd September to 1st October and tickets are available at www.disneyonice.co.uk.

Community Corner To nominate a charity, social enterprise or voluntary community organisation to for our next issue please e-mail editor@familiesglasgow.co.uk with subject “community corner” and include up-to-date contact details – don’t forget to include your reason for nominating this organisation!

Music and Dance for Boys and Girls aged 6 months - 5 years www.ballet4babies.co.uk

Designed by kris@grafikfabrik.co.uk.

Printed By J Thomson Colour Printers.

Copyright: Families Glasgow Magazine June 2017.

Families Glasgow is part of Families Magazines Ltd a franchise company. All franchised magazines in the group are independently owned and operated under licence. Families ® is a registered trademark of Families Magazines Ltd, Remenham House, Regatta Place, Marlow Road, Bourne End, Bucks, SL8 5TD. The contents of Families Glasgow are fully protected by copyright and non of the editorial or photographic matter may be reproduced in any form without prior consent of the publisher. 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 consequence.

Disney On Ice presents

drama for the early years Miss Claire info@ballet4babies.co.uk

0775 911 9965

07736298013 www.monkeydrama.co.uk ALANA@MONKEYDRAMA.CO.UK

LANGUAGE CENTRE & CHILDREN’S BOOKSHOP The Language Hub C.IC. 52 Keith Court, Glasgow, G11 6QW www.thelanguagehub.co.uk info@thelanguagehub.co.uk t: 0141 258 2700 m: 07505 144 476

MAKE A DIFFERENCE YOGA T R A INING FOR PRE-SCHOOL C ARER S w w w.k id s areyo ga .com

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Take your wee shooglers on a summer adventure!

Saturdays at RCS The Royal Conservatoire of Scotland is recognised as one of the world’s top 3 performing arts institutions and is the only place in the UK to teach drama, dance, music, production and film.

On Saturdays they offer a unique programme of classes to children and young people aged 3–17 across the performing arts, with open access courses for everyone to engage with, regardless of experience. The classes aim to provide a creative learning experience whilst improving skills, technique and confidence.

All classes will challenge students to stretch their imagination and offer the chance to meet like-minded people in a fun and supportive environment.

They will be running a free Taster Day on Saturday 5 August.

Find out more about these classes and sign up for the Taster Day at rcs.ac.uk RCS also offers an Early Years programme on Sundays which includes drama, dance and music classes for children aged 1 – 7.

Panto Full of Beans!

Comedy sensations Gary: Tank Commander and The Dolls lead this year’s spectacular SEC Armadillo family pantomime, Jack & the Beanstalk.

Mistakenly selling the family cow for only a bag of beans, Gary (Jack’s brother) faces the wrath of his mischievous aunties (The Dolls), before finding that the ‘magic’ beans openup an unexpected world of adventure.

The SEC panto sees the return of 3D to Glasgow’s biggest panto adventure with audiences joining the Trot family on an exciting quest deep into a mysterious forest. Jack and the Beanstalk also features stunning special effects created especially for the world’s biggest pantomime producer, Qdos Entertainment, by The Twins FX. Jack and the Beanstalk will be on at The SEC Armadillo from Sat 16th Dec until Sun 7th Jan.

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With a Smartcard you can travel the entire Subway network, jumping on and off as you please. If you’re taking the kids as well, children under five can travel for free, whilst those under 16 travel all day for £1.35 with a Smartcard. And with staff on hand to assist with your pram and any other needs, we take the stress away, letting you enjoy your family day out!

With 15 stops located around the centre, taking just 12 minutes to cross the city, it’s easy to visit the sights and you won’t wait more than eight minutes for a train, phew!

So hop on board and see where the Subway will take you this summer!

Visit spt.co.uk/family

The Summer Reading Challenge 2017 The annual Summer Reading Challenge to children is simple.

During the holidays they are encouraged to read six or more books of their choice - fact books, joke books, picture books or audio books - just as long as they are borrowed from the library. There are collectable incentives and rewards, plus a certificate for every child who completes the Challenge, which is run by independent charity The Reading Agency. Children can sign up at their local library from the end of June onwards and all materials are absolutely free.

This year’s theme is Animal Agents, introducing young readers to a variety of clever creatures, specially trained to use their skills and natural instincts to unravel mysteries. Animal Agents is illustrated by Tony Ross, illustrator of the hugely popular Horrid Henry series.

The Challenge is open to all primary school children and is designed for all reading abilities. Schools work with local libraries and give out information to encourage children to take part, and most libraries run Summer Reading Challenge linked early years activity for pre-schoolers. Why not head to your local library during the summer holidays and enrol. It’s completely free and any child can take part.

Read more at www.summerreadingchallenge.org.uk.

New Swimming Lesson Provider for Glasgow In Edinburgh, SwimEasy endeavoured to change the swimming provision quality and move it into the 21st century. Their innovative swimming teaching programme uses a progressive and systematic development pathway that adheres to the highest quality of technical and educational principles of swimming. After completing their programme, many of their swimmers remain in the sport. They are proud to see their exSwimEasy swimmers on the national and international stages competing and enjoying the sport, and others as swimming teachers passing on skills that they learned with SwimEasy. So Glasgow, get ready for a difference in your swimming lesson provision!

Tron Skillshops

Local Folksy Lee Hardwicke grew up in the East end of Glasgow. After going to Drama School in London and working down there as an actor for a few years, she set up Folksy with her now husband Tom Hardwicke. They relocated to Bothwell in 2012 and tour the UK every year with their productions, which are always family friendly and very interactive.

They use music and puppetry to bring their stories to life. Their composer/Musical Director is Lee’s brother, Gary Cameron, who also works for other theatre companies including The Tron Theatre and The National Theatre Of Scotland.

Folksy is bringing two pieces to locations around Glasgow this summer – check out our listing to see where your nearest performance will be!

Tron Skillshops are drama classes for children and young people. Skillshop Juniors is suitable for ages 4-6 years, while Skillshop Seniors is suitable for ages 7-10 years. Term starts on the 2nd September and both groups meet on Saturdays. Let your imagination take you on the most amazing journey where everything is possible!

Tron Youth Theatre members learn about the world of theatre through creative workshops, rehearsals and performance projects as well as seeing professional productions. YT Juniors meet on Wednesdays during termtime, starting on the 6th September and is open to young people aged 11-13yrs. YT Seniors meet on a Monday, also during term-time and is for ages 14-19yrs.

For more information about how to join, contact Lisa Keenan, Creative Learning Manager on lisa.keenan@tron. co.uk or call 0141 559 5318.

Swimming Lessons Now Available In Glasgow At a Pool Convenient to you Choose the best teaching for your child with the market leaders in the teaching of swimming.

Why settle for less? Choose the best.

Nobody does it better!

R

R

Learn the SwimEasy way!

Glasgow

Be par come t Sw of Th imE e Fam asy ily

0141 328 3942 www.swimeasy.co.uk

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Monkey Drama, Monkey Drama…what will we do today?

Sugar Free Juice Alternative!

Loose leaf tea specialist T2 has just opened a brand-new store on Glasgow’s Buchanan Street. We’re on a mission to keep our kids hydrated, so we paid them a visit to see whether tea might be the answer. Russell Forrester, managing the opening of the new store, told us: “What you’re looking for specifically is a tisane: a blend of flowers, fruits, herbs and spices – definitely caffeine free.” He then went on to demonstrate just how powerfully, and naturally sweet sugar-free can be. The Jug-A-Lot brewing jugs make it super-easy to make and also to chill for those really hot summer days. The modern interior and friendly staff make it a joy to explore the various teas. Our favourites for kids were Packs-A-Peach and Turkish Apple.

Why not pop along and immerse yourself in the aromas of fruity delights?

Looking for a fun, award winning drama class for your 2-5 year-old? Then Monkey Drama is the perfect class for your wee one! They go on the best adventures of the imagination, using drama, props, music and role-play to help the children to explore their worlds creatively. Every week is a different theme and as well as having lots of fun, the children can build confidence and enhance their personal and social skills.

Monkey Drama is all about letting the children engage in structured dramatic play by jumping right into the heart of the chosen story or theme. There are public classes every Friday in Broomhill Community Church at either 9.45am or 11am. They also throw the most awesome parties! Booking is essential.

Get in touch with alana@monkeydrama.co.uk, call 07736298013. Check them out on Facebook or visit the website www.monkeydrama.co.uk to book or for more info!

Focus on Fairies It’s nice to go for a stroll, and what better way to entice the kids to come along than with the promise of finding some fairies! Below we have listed just some of the places fairies can be found.

• Follow the forest fairy trail and discover a magical woodland world, Castlemilk Park, Glasgow South Side. FREE www.castlemilkpark.co.uk • Woodland Fairy Experience, Balfron. Every Saturday and Sunday, and daily during school holidays. £5, tea/coffee/ Juice/biscuits included. Take a packed lunch or pop into the Beech Tree Inn on the way (www.thebeechtreeinn.co.uk) they have a play area and some small animals and Shetland ponies. www.woodlandexperiences.co.uk • Fullarton Fairy Trail, FREE, always open. Three minutes’ drive from Troon. Public toilets on site. Also has a memory tree on which you can tie a ribbon. fullartonfairytrail.co.uk • Pollock Country Park. FREE. Walk through the gardens, then through the vegetable patch it’s in a corner at the back.

• Balloch Park Fairy Trail, between Balloch Road, the river Leven and the burn of Balloch. FREE. Carved and created by Patrick Muir in his own time.

• Doon Hill and the Faerie Knowe, Aberfoyle. The oldest known fairy residence in these parts, mystical Doon Hill garnered its heightened reputation in 1691. It’s a walk of 4.5km with an impressive oak memory tree at the top. www.trossachs.co.uk/reverend-kirk

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Summer fun is ON with Young Glasgow!

Make the most of the summer holidays, whatever the weather, with Young Glasgow’s Summer Holiday Programme.

They have a great range of FREE or discounted activities at venues across the city, including summer camps, arts and crafts, sporty fun, games, cycling and outdoor adventures.

Libraries, community centres, museums and sports centres all over the city are taking part, so there’s bound to be fun happening near you!

Find out more about what’s on in your area at www.youngglasgow.org.uk. Don’t forget to like them on Facebook and give them a follow on Twitter to keep up to date while you’re on the go too!

Dylon Fabric Pod Dylon Fabric Dyes has launched a revolution in home fabric dyeing – an easy-to-use Pod that you simply place into the machine giving brilliant colour results. We tried out this awesome little pod and it worked beautifully – no mess, no fuss, just lovely even, bright colour. No more cutting bags of loose dye, no more measuring huge quantities of salt - the easy-to-use Pod pops straight into your washing machine, before releasing the colour to be retrieved clean, empty and ready for recycling. And with 22 shades to choose from, your favourite is waiting for you!

Pirate summer of fun at The Tall Ship!

3rd July – 16th August 2017 · · · ·

Daily pirate-led treasure hunts £3 per child Interactive piracy exhibition – FREE Daily drop-in pirate activities – FREE Plus on-board café and gift shop!

SEC ARMADILLO Fri 1 - Sun 3 September 2017 Tel: 0844 395 4000 www.sec.co.uk

A VISTAR ENTERTAINMENT PRODUCTION ©2017 Spin Master PAW Productions Inc. All Rights Reserved. © 2017 Viacom.

Tel: 0141 357 3699 www.thetallship.com

*groups must pre-book to guarantee entry*

G 017 N I N 2

E OPMMER SU

Visit us in Soar at Braehead and Vi make your own chocolate.

What delicious fun!

Love. Chocolate.

L

www.thecocoabeancompany.com Families Glasgow

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Do Lunch With Summer fast approaching and the days getting warmer, we’d like you to help us raise funds and Do Lunch! on 1st July.

n Wi

Gather some friends, grab some grub and enjoy!

Tokidoki Madness!

Our office is going crazy for the kawaii cuteness of tokidoki!

Headquartered in Los Angeles, tokidoki was founded in 2003 by designer Simone Legno and his partners. An innovative line of apparel, handbags, cosmetics, accessories and more, tokidoki has built a worldwide following with its larger-thanlife characters and designs. We have a few stationary items to give away, like this super-cute journal!

To WIN a tokidoki stationary item e-mail Families at competitions@familiesglasgow.co.uk (subject: “tokidoki”) with your name and address by August 10th. Standard terms and Conditions apply.

WIN

Whether it’s a BBQ bonanza, a perfect picnic or a three-course luncheon, all funds raised will help sustain long-term, life-saving research at our UK Centres of Excellence.

Start planning your event on our website today! www.braintumourresearch.org/fundraise/do-lunch

Do Lunch! Raffle

Purchase our Do Lunch! raffle tickets to be in with a chance of winning £300 of high street vouchers, a Do Lunch! hamper or a signed copy of ‘Savour - Salads for all Seasons’ by chef Peter Gordon.

Tickets just £1 - please help us raise vital funds by selling books on our behalf as well as buying your own - email us at dolunch@braintumourresearch. org to order tickets.

Thank you for helping fund the fight - please share your Do Lunch! photos on social media using the hashtag #DoLunch

gaming exhibition - live stage shows vr zone - retro zone - minecraft zone indie games - retail zones free play tournaments meet & greets & loads more!

WIN Tickets to PAW Patrol Live !

PAW Patrol Live! “Race to the Rescue” is an action packed, high-energy adventure featuring catchy music that is set around the day of the Great Race between Adventure Bay’s Mayor Goodway and Foggy Bottom’s Mayor Humdinger.

The drama unfolds when the race is about to begin; Mayor Goodway is nowhere to be found. Ryder summons Marshall, Chase, Skye, Rubble, Rocky, Zuma, and the newest pup, Everest, to rescue Mayor Goodway and to run the race in her place. Shows will run on Friday 1st, Saturday 2nd & Sunday 3rd September 2017 @ The Clyde Armadillo, Glasgow @ 10.30am / 1.30pm / 4.30pm each day.

To be in with a chance to win tickets, simply answer the following question: What is the name of the Mayor of Adventure Bay? 1. Mayor Goodfellow 2. Mayor Goodway 3. Mayor Goodman To enter, email your answer to Family At competitions@familiesglasgow.co.uk with subject PAW PATROL with you name and address by 4th August. Standard terms and conditions apply A VISTAR ENTERTAINMENT PRODUCTION ©2017 Spin Master PAW Productions Inc. All Rights Reserved. © 2017 Viacom.

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sec, glasgow, 21st - 23rd july 2017

Win 1 of 5 pairs of Standard tickets to Insomnia X Resonate E-mail competitions@familiesglasgow.co.uk with your name and address by July 14th, subject: “InsominaXResonate” Standard terms and Conditions apply.

Starting School

H

elping your child to prepare for starting school goes a long way to help alleviate some of their anxiety and fear; as well as your own too. Remember anxiety stems from the unknown so when it comes to starting school preparation is the key.

One of the first things to do is visit school together. Make sure you find out where your little one will hang their coat, have lunch and perhaps most importantly locate the toilets! Spend time exploring the playground too. Plan to meet up with other families who have children starting in the same class over the summer months to forge friendships.

Next try to encourage your child to be independent, ensure they can wipe their own bottom, wash their hands (with soap!), peel a banana, carry a tray, and dress and undress themselves.

Your child should also be confident approaching other adults for help; within school this could be the janitor, the school secretary or the classroom assistant, so practise this skill when out and about. Allow your child to ask for the bill in a restaurant, pay for a comic at the newsagent or order food at the café.

Over the summer months create positive associations with starting school. Shop together for a school bag, pencil case or a new lunch box. Find out if your school has a summer playground clear up day and volunteer to help.

As the start of term approaches try to establish a school routine. This means earlier to bed and earlier to rise. Your child will manage the transition to school so much better if they are well rested.

On the first day ensure you leave yourself plenty of time to get ready and if you can, walk to school together, perhaps arranging to meet a ‘friend’ on the way. If your child is tearful and clingy the first few days try not to worry; a few tears are perfectly normal.

For a child struggling to settle into school life it is important to keep connections to home strong. Try popping a little note or picture into their lunch box or attach a photo key ring to their pencil case or school bag. Perhaps a small toy from home or a scarf that smells of Mum or Dad may help ease the transition. Most importantly try to stay relaxed, help your child prepare for the day ahead and offer reassurance. Create a special goodbye ritual and try to keep goodbyes short but perhaps most importantly speak with your child’s teacher for further support.

Finally, do not underestimate how tired your little one will be after a day at school. If you can, plan a gentle afternoon (after school activities and play dates can wait). A story snuggled up on the sofa, a little TV time and a family dinner followed by a warm bath and an early night.

Now, sit back, relax and be confident that you have given you and your child the best possible start to school life!

Vari McDonald B’Ed (Hons) Head of Acorn Park Nursery School, Glasgow www.acornparknursery@aol.com 0141 332 2461 Co-Owner of Acorn Park Nursery which was established in 1998 with more than 25 years experience in Early Learning and Childcare. Vari and her nurturing and experienced team helped many families make the smooth transition from nursery to primary school. To find out more about Acorn Park Nursery please visit www.acornparknursery. com or call 0141 332 2461.

Ecoffee n i W To WIN an Ecoffee cup, go to the shop at www.ecoff.ee/ where you will find 54 colourful designs. E-mail the name of your favourite design to Families at competitions@familiesglasgow.co.uk (subject: “Ecoffee”) with your name and address by August 10th, and if we have it to win, you win it! Standard terms and Conditions apply.

Very few people know it, but 2017 marks a somewhat dubious 30th anniversary: that of the modern single-use “paper” cup.

Each year over 100 billion single use coffee cups go to landfill.

The average lifespan of a single-use cup is 13 minutes – and due to their plastic content less than 1% get recycled.

Ecoffee Cup is a new generation of reusable takeaway cup.

Created with the world’s fastest growing, most sustainable crop – bamboo fibre, Ecoffee Cup is BPA and phthalate free.

And because bamboo fibre is naturally sterile, Ecoffee Cup is lovely to drink from and won’t flavour-taint your drinks. The lid and sleeve are made with matte food-grade silicone which is designed especially for hot liquids.

The whole product (cup, lid and sleeve) is dishwasher safe and should last for years if you treat it nicely. Available in a wide range of fun, contemporary patterns; bright, vibrant colours or classic prints. That’s why we think Ecoffee Cup packs just a little bit more style than its plastic, ceramic or stainless-steel cousins.

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Parent 2 Parent

W

e are a family of four: Ruby (10), Leon (7), John and myself. We live in the west end of Glasgow where I also run The Language Hub. I am half German so we speak English and German at home.

Why do you like living where you do?

I prefer straight forward talk, down to earth attitudes, and I just love people with a good sense of humour. In Glasgow you are never short of any of those three. I also love the history of Glasgow so the Glasgow City Archives in the Mitchell Library is one of my favourite reading places.

Favourite shop

Difficult, there are so many to choose from! I buy our bread from Tapa on Great Western Road, it is not easy to find good, German like bread. And the cakes from ‘My Home Bakery’ on Hyndland Street are the best.

Favourite night out with the kids

Favourite Park

I always used to like the playpark in Kelvingrove Park in front of the An Clachan Cafe. You could have a coffee and toilets were nearby. However, Ruby and Leon now feel they are a bit too big for this park so we have moved on to Anderston playground behind the Gaelic school, weather permitting. And we do like the Botanics just for a walk, as we live near the back gate.

Favourite children’s club/class

We recently went to an icehockey game at Braehead arena!

What a great night out, and it is very family friendly. I can highly recommend it.

No parent should be without

Laughter on a daily basis….oh, and wipes and cash are handy too!

Parenting pet hates

Apart from the language sessions at the hub? Ruby enjoys her Aereal Yoga class at OurWorldYoga and Leon has a great time at Caledonian taekwondo.

Repeating everything 5 times or more and then having to do it myself before going insane (I say this with a smile).

Favourite day out

I usually laugh too much about myself to really feel embarrassed. Have put my foot in it several times over the years but as this is always unintentionally, I apologise and move on.

We enjoy the seaside, so if there is enough time a trip to Millport is nice, but if it is more a Saturday afternoon excursion then we go to Byres Road for some window shopping and some coffee and cake.

Favourite child friendly restaurant

I am still looking for a restaurant which I would consider really child friendly, which very often seems to be defined by having a kid’s menu, high chairs and crayons if you’re lucky.

But there hardly ever seem to be the essentials like small sized plastic cups or plates, cutlery, never mind a play area or entertainment. We like Tony Macaroni’s on Byres Road and Little Italy as kids can make their own pizza!

Most embarrassing moment

Favourite family holiday spot

We usually spend our summer holidays in the north of Scotland, this year we will be going to Nairn.

Most successful recipe/food

Not exactly a recipe, but top on Ruby and Leon’s list are green pesto and pasta and beans on toast. If they are really hungry and it needs to be fast in order to cheer them up, these yummies do the trick in our house.

Book Reviews To pick only two titles from our range of books at the hub for our summer recommendation is not an easy task. There are so many great new books for children out there. We decided to choose two books from one of our favourite publishers, Kelpies.

Ollie and the Otter

This is a lively story about Ollie, an osprey who loves to swoop into the water and catch fish. He is desperate to impress Isla, another osprey but seems unable to throw a fish to her. Ollie’s friend, Rory the otter, lends a helping hand so in the end, Ollie achieves his goal and finds a new friend in Isla.

Ollie and the Otter - Emily Dodd, Kirsteen Harris-Jones - ISBN: 9781782503699 – PB - £6.99 – Kelpies (3-6yrs)

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The Awkward autumn of Lily McLean

This funny, laugh-out-loud sequel to ‘The mixed-up summer of Lily MacLean’ is set at Lily McLean’s High School where she is trying to show people that she is not like her big sister who always used to be in trouble. Lily's best mates are Rowan, David and Aisha but there are some who do not want Lily to have any friends. When she finds nasty messages in her locker she hopes a fun trip to the Isle of Arran will bring her friends together. But other dramas are unfolding, too. Back home, her big sister's in big trouble as she might end up in jail - or worse.

The Awkward Autumn of Lily Mclean - Lindsay Littleson ISBN: 9781782503545 – PB - £6.99 – Kelpies (8-12yrs)

Your Kids’ Book Reviews - Summer Reads Sponsored by...

I

ndependent Bookshop Week, 24th June-1st July, is an annual celebration of independent bookshops in the UK and Ireland, with a whole range of author events, signings and activities taking place in participating bookshops throughout the week.

To find out more, visit www.indiebookshopweek.org.uk This is not the style of book that I would normally choose. It is written in the form of a series of recordings made by the main character, Alex, all about his life and what life is like on earth. He is recording them on a ‘golden iPod’ to send into space for other lifeforms to find, just like his role model, the famous Carl Sagan. Alex is just such a lovable character and the respect and faith that he has in the world and in people is really refreshing.

However, my favourite character would have to be Carl Sagan (the dog). Who couldn’t love Carl Sagan?

Ann (age 13), Muirend See You In the Cosmos – Jack Cheng - ISBN 9780141365602 – PB - £6.99 – Puffin (9-16yrs) Rabbit is really grumpy, and woodpecker is so noisy. Bear wants to help his friend rabbit be happy, so he climbs up the tree to see woodpecker.

They make friends, and rabbit gets to see the mountains and find his happy.

(Parent note: “I’m driving MYSELF crazy?” said Rabbit. “Yes”, said Bear, “You see? Your brain is getting into a fight with the World.” A beautiful, funny tale about how a change in perspective can lead to a change in mood.)

Josie (age 5), Eaglesham Rabbit and Bear- The Pest in the Nest – Julian Gough and Jim Field - ISBN 9781444934267 – HB - £9.99 – Hodder Children’s Books (5-7yrs) I really liked this book. I have some of the other books in this series and this one is just as funny, maybe even more. I really like all the pictures in the book, and the family always gets into trouble. This time they are on holiday, and it all goes a bit wrong, but in a funny way.

Charlie (age 8), Finnieston My Brother’s Famous Bottom – Jeremy Strong - ISBN9780141385426 – PB - £5.99 – Puffin (7-12yrs) This is such an exciting story about two dinosaur bone hunters who are in competition with each other. They play tricks on each other, and keep score. The pictures are funny, and I learned loads more about dinosaurs.

Oliver (age 7), Dennistoun The Bone Wars – Nicky Dee ISBN9780993529382 – PB - £6.99 – (6-10yrs)

Granny Aching had been an expert on sheep, but Tiffany decides she would rather be a witch. She hasn’t had any training, but then the Wee Free men appear and decide she really IS a witch, and she needs to save the world (and her little brother) from the Queen of Elves! This book turns everything upside down, and makes you realise how interesting language is and how important it is to use words carefully.

Yasmin (age 10), Kirkintilloch The Wee Free Men - Terry Prattchett - ISBN 9780552576307 – PB - £7.99 – Corgi (9-11yrs) You can do many of different activities in this book. My favourite was packing the suitcase and making my own passport. I think it is a very good book to take on a long journey. (Charlotte, 6 years) I liked the colouring in completing the uniforms the best.

Rosalie (5 years) Travel Activity Book - Charlie BrandonKing - ISBN 9781908985774 – PB £9.99 – Button Books – (5-11yrs)

The following two titles have been shortlisted for the IBW Award 2017 in the category “Children’s Fiction” This is a funny book where you can laugh out loud, I liked that. There are now 6 books but I haven’t read the other ones yet. This one is about Andy and Terry who live in a very high treehouse. They have added 13 new storeys where they have lots of adventures. It is all very silly and funny. I like the book because it also has lots of pictures and drawings.

It reminds me of ‘The Wimpy Kid’ books but I think there should be a main girl character too. I will definitely say to my friends to read the book.

Ruby (age 10), Partick The 78-Storey Treehouse - Andy Griffiths, Terry Denton – ISBN 9781489382023 – PB - £5.99 – PanMacmillan – (8-12yrs) The Wolf Wilder is a beautiful, fierce story of where courage comes from. Feo lives in the woods with her mum, in snowy Russia. It’s their job to re-introduce domesticated wolves back into the wild when their spoilt, noble owners get tired of them. Her world is turned upside down by the arrival of an army general, hell-bent on violence and control. There are bits in the book that genuinely scared me, and others made me cry. I loved it! It’s the kind of book that makes you dream about being in someone else’s shoes, and what it would be like to be so innocent and so brave.

Katie (age 11) The Wolf Wilder - Katherine Rundell – ISBN 9781408862582 – PB - £7.99 – Bloomsbury – (9-11yrs) To WIN a copy of See You In The Cosmos, Rabbit & Bear or Wolf Wilder e-mail Families at competitions@familiesglasgow.co.uk (subject: title of the book you wish to win) with your name and address

by August 10th. Standard terms and Conditions apply.

Families Glasgow

July/August 2017

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The Building Blocks of Social Success: Children from Three to Five

W

hen people consider social ability, they tend to think of the confident thespian or the extrovert holding court at a party. Often these people do have good social skills, but social skills comprise much more than confidence, acting and oration. They’re about the ability to make lasting friendships, seek help, adapt to new social environments and politely evade confrontation; all the skills that are required to ‘get on’ with other people across contexts. A sociable child will get on at school better. They will get on with other children in the class, be easier to teach and ultimately be preferred by the teachers. These skills continue to be highly valued throughout life, and there is a reason that, even into adulthood, we are asked to demonstrate our ‘people skills’, ‘ability to be a team player’, and ‘communication skills’ in our careers.

Equally, teachers are human like the rest of us and would rather spend their time teaching than disciplining. It is unfair but true, sociable people get treated better. A friendly, helpful child will be praised and treated kindly which in turn raises the child’s self-esteem, confirms the child’s belief in herself and in the world being a friendly place full of nice people, which in turn makes it a whole lot easier for her to continue to be friendly and helpful.

This is the positive cycle that we all wish our children to experience. Reverse this cycle and you can see how things can quickly turn sour. An unfriendly, unhelpful child will be scolded and treated with ambivalence or hostility, which will erode their self-esteem and compound their sense of the world being against them, which in turn makes it entirely reasonable for them to continue to withdraw or rebel.

Upskill your child

In her most recent book, Inside Out Parenting, Dr Holan Liang guides us through the complex emotional developments of young children in her trademark down-to-earth style, with plenty of practical examples and tips along the way. Each developmental stage is addressed with average and unusual needs in mind. To see more of her tips, check out Inside Out Parenting for yourself.

Problems with social ability are currently rarely diagnosed in the pre-school period unless they are severe. This is not because they do not exist but because adults, particularly parents, are extremely obliging in making up for their child’s weaknesses, and often aren’t aware of their difficulties.

Even if a child is gibbering in Alien, you can bet that their parents will know exactly what is being communicated.

Playdates at home will be supervised by adults and will involve intervention to make sure that children ‘play fair’, ‘don’t leave people out’, ‘wait their turn’, ‘be nice’, and critically, ‘don’t beat each other into a pulp’.

If another child is ‘not nice’ to your child, they will not be invited back. Not so the school playground. There, your child will have to communicate with other children who are impatient, do not necessarily care to hear what your child has to say, have little incentive to include your child in games and may well beat your child into a pulp if they find them annoying.

AS SEEN ON

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To WIN a copy of Inside Out Parenting by Dr Holan Liang, please e-mail Families at competitions@ familiesglasgow.co.uk (subject: “Inside Out”) with your name and address by August 10th. Standard terms and Conditions apply.

MAKE YOUR CHILD’S DEVELOPMENT MORE FUN!

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July/August 2017

Families Glasgow

LEGO® is a registered trademark of the LEGO® Group of companies which does not sponsor, authorize or endorse these programs.

Creative Learning Corporation common shares are listed on OTCBB under the ticker symbol CLCN. © 2013 Bricks 4 Kidz

Get involved, families and nurseries, it’s contagious!

Side effects are as follows, but not limited to these juicy benefits:

1. Yoga is non-competitive.

‘Being the best’ and ‘achieving’ is a compulsive urge of determined children and entirely natural. By way of balance, Yoga teaches kids that different kids do things differently, and this can be very useful in early development.

2. Yoga is effortless effort.

Yoga aids kids’ natural strength in a way that we as adults can only be envious of. Their brains live in a constant state of meditation! This awareness lasts until the age 4-6, then merges with the prefrontal cortex when it starts integrating with the rest of the brain, allowing for maturity. We only have these precious few years, where the "work" brain is not running the show.

Join Saturday drama classes for children aged 3–17.

Saturday

Yoga kids ready?

The Royal Conservatoire of Scotland is one of the world’s top 3 performing arts education institutions and is the only place in Scotland where children can choose to learn from classes in Drama, Musical Theatre, Production or Filmmaking.

Classes start in September and booking opens in June. Sign up to the Taster Day on 5 August at rcs.ac.uk/tasterday

Applying mindfulness to physical activities encourages lifestyle changes and makes a difference throughout school years and beyond. Living ‘aware’ habitually translates to a healthy approach to eating & relationships as well as the ability to centre oneself and focus the mind.

Imagine you had learned the basics of yoga when you were at nursery - how would your life be different now?

5. A little focus goes a long way.

Modern life is immersed in an endless stream of stimulation, which causes many of us to feel imbalanced. Yoga allows for silence, and creates the space for a child to feel a connection, teaching kids to be fully present. This can combat the need for escapism in later life: Getting into it as opposed to getting out of it.

6. Yoga teaches breathing.

Learning how to breathe properly can be complicated! Using a rainbow of breathing techniques, kids learn through play something that helps them day to day, and for the rest of their lives. Older kids learn to focus on their pose by learning how to hold their attention, and in doing so learn to focus on their bodies and muscles function.

rcs.ac.uk

4. Yoga encourages healthy habits.

7. Yoga teaches calming techniques.

drama

Being pre-verbal must be very frustrating - being misunderstood can very frequently be expressed by crying and throwing tantrums. Yoga builds an environment that is fully supportive, where kids can feel at ease and completely connected, with no need to “kick off”. Yoga kids learn how to apply these tools to their everyday lives and to self-regulate in various situations, not simply pretending all is fine, aiming to please or even comply, but equally to say when something does not feel good.

This Article was written by Kids Are Yoga, internationally recognised Staff Training Program, providing a unique and proven way to weave yoga into the day-to-day.

Cut out this article and take it along to your nursery if you want to get some KAY into your kids’ life. Thank you for spreading Kay www.KidsAreYoga.com Families Glasgow

July/August 2017

13

Summer Activities Special July 24 – 27, Aug 1 – 4,

Jul 10 – Aug 4 10.00-13.00, 1-10yrs Partick The Language Hub Summer Holiday Fun The Language Hub will be running a summer holiday camp with lots of different activities for different ages groups: Arts & crafts, bounce & rhyme sessions, book workshops, language immersion and learning sessions. £5 per hr per child. For more information see www. thelanguagehub.co.uk or contact us directly at The Language Hub children’s bookshop and language school, 52 Keith Court, Glasgow G11 6QW, 0141 258 2700.

August 7 – 11 10.00-16.00, 6-14yrs East Kilbride Stagecoach 'Beauty and the Beast' musical theatre workshop Stagecoach Performing Arts school invites children to join us for a week of singing, acting and dancing fun.

Our professional teachers will work with them to cast, learn and rehearse the show. On Friday evening they will perform it for family and friends, complete with costumes. No previous experience needed, just lots of enthusiasm and energy. Cost £150, (younger siblings £90).

August 7th-11th 9.00-12.00, 4-6yrs East Kilbride Mini Beauty and the Beast workshop Children aged 4 - 6 can come to their own mini Beauty and the Beast workshop. Cost £95. To book call 07787 808880 or visit www.stagecoach.co.uk/eastkilbride/holiday-workshops.

Aug 7 – 12 10am – 4pm*, 8-11yrs Merchant City Scottish Youth Theatre Summer Courses: Junior No experience necessary An introduction to the world of theatre and performance, ideal for young people who want to explore acting, movement, character and storytelling in a fun and energetic environment. £120 (including a non-refundable £20 fee which must be paid at registration) *Out of Hours Club available Jul 10 – 22 10am – 5pm, 12-15yrs Scottish Youth Theatre Summer Courses: Foundation Over 2 weeks, participants will work on acting, choreography, music and characterisation, rehearse and perform a new piece of theatre based on the title Intrepid.

Some evening rehearsals leading up to the performance £300 (including a non-refundable £20 fee which must be paid at registration) Book at www.scottishyouththeatre.org Jun 28 – Aug 17 9.30-16.30, 5-12yrs Balfron Station Green Aspirations Wee SKELFs Summer Club We’ve had multiple themes and on different days teach children important bushcraft skills like den building, map reading, fire lighting, making bows & arrows, wand whittling, storytelling and campfire cooking in a fun and safe environment! You can book your child onto any combination of days throughout the school holidays as every day is different! £20 per day. For more information and to book www.greenaspirationsscotland.co.uk/holidayclubs or call 01360 449220

10-12, 10-3 or 1-3, 3-5yrs Greenbank Greenbank Woodland Play Summer Camp Forest school activities in the Paddock at Greenbank Gardens, Clarkston. We’ll be building dens, playing games, making natural crafts and much more. £50 for four x am or pm, £65 for 2 full day blocks July 28, Aug 5 9.30-11.30 or 1.00-3.00, 1-5yrs Greenbank Holiday time StaynPlay (Outdoor parent and Child group) All the usual fun of our outdoor sessions but in the summer holidays. Siblings welcome. Mud, sand, water, obstacle course, climbing. £5 for first child £1 for siblings. Refreshments included.

Parents stay.

Contact greenbankwoodlandplay@gmail.com/ greenbankstaynplay@gmail.com Tel- 07913 272717 or via Facebook @Greenbank Woodland Play or @Greenbank StaynPlay Jul 10 – Aug 3 9.00-13.00, 3-9yrs Hyndland / Scotstoun Enjoy-a-ball West End Camps Summer Camp is full of action packed fun from start to finish. We play various ball sports, fun games, parachute games, musical games, team building games and much more.... Between activities there are plenty arts and crafts materials available to use. During our lunch break, we will watch a short, animated movie, this allows the children to enjoy some rest time. All children must bring along their own packed lunch, water bottle and an outside jacket. If the weather is nice we may go outside to a local park to play games (less than 5 minute walk away). £15 per day, 25% discount for siblings.

For more information and to book please go to www.eab-glasgow-west.class4kids.co.uk Jul 3 – Aug 11 10.00-12.00 & 13.00-15.00, 5-14yrs Whiteinch Making Summer Movement Matter You are invited to join the fun at Movement Park this summer. Across our six weeks you will have the opportunity to try and develop in some of our innovative activities. Fancy learning some Judo or Parkour or trying your hand at Circus Tricks, All About Balls or our Creative activities? Then come on down to our hub and engage with our warm friendly staff. £6 per session, £12 per day or £50 per week For more information see www.movementpark.org.uk or our facebook page @movementpark813 or contact us directly by phone 0141 434 0002 or email movementparkinfo@gmail.com.​ Jul 10 – Aug 2 Times TBC, 9-14yrs Firhill Business Centre 3 Day Games Development Boot Camp The British Youth IT College is hosting a Summer Boot Camp this year during the Summer Break from school. Does your child want to learn to make their own games? How about learn how their console games are made? £75 per course, early drop off and late pick up available at £5/hr.

For more information or to register now go to www.byitc.org/education/summer-boot-camp/

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July/August 2017

Families Glasgow

Summer Activities Special Jun 26 – Aug 11

Jul 3 – Jul 7

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8.15-16.00, 5-14yrs I N T E R NAT I ON Kelvinside Academy A Camp Indy – International Summer Camp UK Camp Indy is an American-style summer camp, based at Kelvinside Academy.

Come join us for an amazing summer adventure, full of fun SU excitement and friendship. 7 weeks MM UK ER CAMP of fun start Monday 26th June Friday 11th August. Late pick-up available at £4/day. £150 per week or £33 per day For more information or to register now go to www.campindy.co.uk Jun 28 – Aug 15

12.00-16.30, 4yrs+ Kinning Park Skate into summer at RollerStop!

We’ve got disco lights, music and plenty of skates for hire, all you need to bring is a smile. Our experienced staff are happy to help you get rolling, just ask. Once everyone has found their balance, we’ll play some games! Summer holiday roller discos run from Tuesday to Sunday, 12-4.30pm (1.5 hours skating time).

Children cost £5 or £7.50 with skate hire, and family tickets are available.

For more information and booking, visit www.rollerstop.co.uk

9.00-16.00, P1-P7 Park Circus Children’s French Summer Workshop Alliance Francaise are pleased to announce a special summer workshop for Primary School children. This is an ideal opportunity for children to find out more about French language and culture through fun activities such arts & crafts, songs, outdoor games (weather permitting!), etc. £85 morning, £180 full day For more information and to book call 0141 331 4080, www.afglasgow.org.uk/summer-workshop-for-children-june Jul 24 – 27, Aug 7 – 10 9.30-12.00, 8yrs+ Rouken Glen Rouken Glen Pottery Camp These will be MAKING days, the 5th day we will arrange for a following weekend when everything made has been dried and fired.

We will then come back and paint all the things we have made.

We’ll be working with moulds, clay rolling, coil pots, potters’ wheel and more. Numbers are limited to 12. £70, includes all materials and is payable on 1st morning. Please text Steve on 07977 495586, or email stephenherley@sky.com to reserve your space.

Jul 3 – Aug 10 9.00-16.30, 3-12yrs Various locations Bricks4Kidz Summer Camps With specially-designed Bricks 4 Kidz® models, LEGO® games, and time for free-play, the kids are always having fun. All camps are staffed by trained, screened Bricks 4 Kidz® teachers. Camp days are based on different goals from engineering and building challenges to robotics/ programming and coding. From £13.50 for 2hr session to £80 for two-day stop motion movie making camp. For more information and to book please go to www.bricks4kidz.co.uk/scotland-glasgow

Families Glasgow

July/August 2017

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Summer Activities Special Jul 3 – Aug 18

25-27 Jul

Various times, 4-18yrs Royal Conservatoire of Scotland Summer Schools Here, at Scotland’s national conservatoire, there’s something for everyone - from the youngest child with a spark of potential to accomplished adults looking for professional development. We have over 70 summer schools to choose from across music, dance, drama, production and screen. We hope to welcome you to RCS this summer.

From £65 For more information and to book visit www.rcs.ac.uk or call 0141 332 4101 Jul 8 – Aug 5 From 9.00, 2-7yrs Victoria Park Rugbytots Summer Outdoor Class During the summer, Rugbytots classes are moving outdoors! 30mins sessions for 2-3.5yr olds, and 45mins sessions for 3.5-5 and 5-7yr olds. Most children love Rugbytots, but if you find after your first two sessions that it's not for you, we'll give you a full refund.

For more information and to book go to www.rugbytots.co.uk Jul 3 – Aug 11 8.00-17.00, 4-16yrs Uddingston Uddingston Hockey Club Summer Camps Uddingston Hockey Club's Summer Camps are open to members and non-members. The camps cater for complete beginners to more experienced hockey player with sessions led by UKCC Level 2 coaches with vast experience. Set within the secure grounds of Uddingston Cricket & Sports Club, camps offer an ideal environment for children to develop their hockey and social, by practising and playing hockey the world class hockey facility and interacting with many other children throughout the week, keeping active and healthy. £15/day for 10-3, £30/day for 8-5 inc breakfast. Camps have two options for booking: TO BOOK or for further information please email uddingstonhc. youthcamps@gmail.com Jun 26 – Aug 11 10.00-16.00, various City Centre Summer Art Courses The Open Studio at The Glasgow School of Art offers weeklong courses for Children in a wide range of subjects including Drawing and Painting, Silversmithing, Jewellery, Photography, Illustration, Stained Glass, Ceramics, Sculpture, etc ...

The courses last one week and are held on The Glasgow School of Art Campus in Glasgow City Centre.

For further information, please contact open-studio@gsa. ac.uk, or call 0141 353 4596 / 0141 566 1311 / 0141 353 4565, or visit www.gsa.ac.uk/openstudio 5-7 Jul 10.00-15.00 P1-P3 Bellahouston Park Summer ARTScool!

Children will be encouraged to develop their creative skills and interests in a variety of art, design and architecture themed projects. They will work in a fun and friendly environment where they are encouraged to experiment with lots of different materials and ideas to explore drawing & painting, printmaking, model making and sculpture, fashion/textile, product and jewelry design. There will be an exhibition of the children's work at 3-3:30pm on the last day of the workshop. £90. For further information, please visit www.houseforanartlover.co.uk

10.00-15.00, P4-P7 Summer ARTScool!

Join tutor Leanora Brophy for a summer art course that will inspire, entertain and educate! Children will be encouraged to develop their creative skills and interests in a variety of art, design and architecture themed projects. They will work in a fun and friendly environment where they are encouraged to experiment with lots of different materials and ideas to explore drawing & painting, printmaking, model making and sculpture, fashion/textile, product and jewelry design. There will be an exhibition of the children's work at 3-3:30pm on the last day of the workshop. £90 For further information, please visit www.houseforanartlover.co.uk Jul 1 – Aug 11 10.00-16.00, 3-20yrs Paisley SummerFest 2017 Youth Performing Arts Festival SummerFest 2017 has over 35 different performance projects.

Participants normally attend 4-6 days of rehearsals and workshops, in Paisley Town Centre venues, which culminate in an exciting theatrical performance for parents and friends.

SummerFest is organised, produced and directed by the team from PACE Theatre Company who have been inspiring and celebrating the artistic achievements of young people for over 25 years. For more information visit our website at www.1summer. co.uk or call us on 0345 130 5218.

3 Jul – 11 Aug 10.00-14.00, Newton Mearns Kids Summer Golf Camp What better way for your child to spend the summer holidays, than learning more about the wonderful game of golf. Our week long golf camps are designed to both fun and informative and offers 10 hours worth of dedicated PGA coaching per week. All clubs and balls are provided free of charge and the week comes with a fun guarantee! £90 per week. To book please call Mearns Castle Golf Academy reception on 01416448200 3 Jul – 11 Aug 8.30-16.30 Newlands Tennis Summer Camps Whether you are a budding Andy Murray or just fancy trying a new sport, come and spend your summer at Newlands Lawn Tennis Club! Tennis drills, fun games, matchplay, multi sport and rackethon - something for everyone! Full day and full week discounts, FUN FRIDAY - pizza and prizes! Indoor courts available if required. For more info or to book please contact our coaching team Steel Tennis on steeltennis@newlandsltc.co.uk 10-15 Jul Time TBC, 3-8yrs Langside Summer music lessons - ‘Rumble in the Jungle’ Children will take part in music, percussion, singing and art and craft activities related to a jungle theme.

They will develop their music skills and knowledge of beat, rhythm and pitch, by learning a variety of songs from Disney films, such as ‘The Lion King’ and ‘Jungle Book’. The week will include Kodaly musicianship skills (games and activities exploring beat, rhythm and pitch), exploring percussion instruments and an end-of-week performance.

In addition to the musical benefits gained, the course is also designed to have a positive impact on confidence, Maths, Language and Social skills. £145 For more info or to book please visit www.glasgowclyde.ac.uk/ courses/commercial-courses/summer-music-lessons-rumble-inthe-jungle

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July/August 2017

Families Glasgow

What’s On Sat 24 Jun I Want To Be… Beside the Seaside 14.00 | £5.95 Scottish Mask & Puppet Centre, 8-10 Balcarres Avenue, Kelvindale, Glasgow, Lanarkshire, G12 0QF, 01413396185 www.maskandpuppet.co.uk The puppets are going on their holidays around the world, so come and see Chinese, Indian, Greek and Indonesian shadow puppets, marionettes, rod puppets and our very own British glove puppet tradition from the Centre’s collection.

Not forgetting Senga or is it Agnes backwards.....? Our very own Glaswegian cleaning lady... who looks after the Centre when we go on our hols...

Sat 24 Jun Summer solstice celebration 13.00-16.00 | FREE North Kelvin Meadow, Clouston Street, Glasgow G20 www.woodcraft.org.uk Woodcraft Folk, a young people's charity is celebrating our values of international friendship and solidarity and our love of the outdoors in a big public event for Refugee Festival Scotland. Join us for an afternoon of co-operative games, food sharing and a camp fire.

24-25 Jun East Kilbride Summer Fest 12.00-17.00 | FREE East Kilbride Art Centre, 51-53 Old Coach Road, East Kilbride G74 4DU, 01355 261000 East Kilbride celebrates its 70th birthday this year, and the summer fest promises to be extra special. With various workshops to try your hand at new skills and street entertainment throughout the day, there’s sure to be something for everyone.

28 Jun - 10 Sep Brick City 10.00-17.00| child £4, adult £6, family £16 New Lanark Visitor Centre, South Lanarkshire ML11 9DB, 01555 661345 www.newlanark.org/ visitorcentre/brick-city Brick City is a celebration of some of the world's favourite buildings and urban recreated solely using LEGO Bricks.

Brick City has been enjoyed by tens of thousands of visitors across the UK and now fans of LEGO young and old will have the chance to catch this must-see exhibition at New Lanark during the summer of 2017. Regular workshops and story times will also be held throughout the duration of the exhibition.

Thur 29 Jun International Mud Day 11.00-15.00 | FREE | Rouken Glen, nr playpark, contact: Greenbank Woodland Play, FB @greenbankwoodland. co.uk Pop up mud kitchen, mud paint and all things muddy by Greenbank Woodland Play.

Suitable for all ages (even adults) Sun 1 Jul Wooden Wonders Bivvy Build 13.00-17.00 | FREE Whitelee Windfarm Visitor Centre, Eaglesham, 01416140962 Our popular den build returns – come and learn to build a weather tight bivvy and pit your skills against nature! Will it stand up and will you opt to brave the night in it? (Note: participants will be bussed to/ from activity area. Overnight camping is your choice but Whitelee Countryside Ranger Service cannot provide supervision.) Booking is essential.

Mon 2 Jul Glasgow Mela 12.00-20.00 | FREE Nothing compares to the energy, vibrancy and colour of the Glasgow Mela – shimmering saris, fabulous food, and inspiring music and dance are just some of the sights and sounds of this amazing free summer event in the west end's beautiful Kelvingrove Park!

4-8 Jul

Sat 15 Jul

Bugsy Malone 14.30 and 19.30 | £10-£16 East Kilbride Village Theatre, 10 Maxwell Drive, Glasgow G74 4HG, 01355 248669 Dandy Dan’s hoodlums terrorise the districts of New York, exterminating undesirables with their new weapon – splurge guns.

His rival Fat Sam Stacetto, who runs the Grand Slam Speakeasy, but Fat Sam’s gang still use old fashioned pies.

Fri 7 Jul The Village Storytelling Festival Children’s Day 10.30-16.30 | under 3s free, child from £4, adult from £6 Centre For Contemporary Arts, 350 Sauchiehall Street, Glasgow G2 3JD, 0141 352 4900 www.villagestorytelling.org. uk/live-storytelling/villagestorytelling-festival/ Following on from feedback of last year’s festival, this year includes a full day dedicated to families, with lots of activities and workshops throughout the day. As a super special treat, this day will be rounded off with “Granny Islands Ceilidh”, with Mairi Hedderwick, creator of the fabulous Katie Morag series.

Thu 13 Jul Minibeasts of Merkland 13.30-15.00 | FREE Merkland Local Nature Reserve, Kirkintilloch, 01419566100 Search for some of the wee creatures that live in the grasslands, ponds and woodlands with the Mugdock Park Ranger! All nets and equipment provided. Meet at the car park off Merkland Drive or follow the signs to meet the Ranger. Donations welcome.

Sat Jul 15

Sing-a-Long-a Frozen 14.00 | from £15 | 5yrs+ Kings Theatre, 297 Bath Street, Glasgow, G2 4JN, 0844 871 7627 www.atgtickets.com/venueskings-theatre/ A full screening of Disney’s FROZEN, with lyrics on screen to help you sing along during the film. Two Singalonga Princesses will guide you through this interactive screening, showing you how to use your free prop bag, warming up your singing voices and teaching you some dance moves.

Sun 16 Jul Heavy Horse Show 10.00-17.00 | £5.50child, £8 adult, under 5s FREE National Museum of Rural Life, East Kilbride, G76 9HR, 0300 123 6789 www.nms.ac.uk/heavyhorses Watch majestic Clydesdale horses and tiny Shetland ponies compete in a range of events and enjoy spectacular stunt-riding shows, horse rides, craft activities, a children’s hobby horse arena and more.

The award-winning museum, historic farmhouse, 1950s working farm and country café will also be open throughout the day. Tickets are on sale now, with Early Bird tickets available until 2 July.

The Green Machine 14.00 | £6/£20 | 4+yrs Eastwood Park Theatre, 1 Rouken Glen Road, Giffnock G46 6UG, 0141 577 4956 www.eastwoodparktheatre.co.uk The McDougalls have been sent to town on a mission! There's rubbish everywhere, everyone's eating junk, the gardens are overgrown and the animals are very lonely. They need your help to put things right! Will Rab the Crab be able to swim in the sea? Will Donald the Dinosaur put his rubbish in the right bin? And will the town really be green again?

21-23 Jul Insomnia X Resonate 10.00-18.00 | from £15 SEC, Finnieston Quay, Glasgow, G3 8YW, 0870 0404000 www.secc.co.uk Multiplay Events and QD Events have teamed up to introduce ‘Insomnia X Resonate’ to Glasgow Scotland’s biggest gaming festival! With an incredible line-up of YouTube stars and latest releases, this is set to be the best Scottish gaming event to date.

Find our full listings at familiesonline.co.uk Families Glasgow

July/August 2017

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What’s On Fri Jul 28 The Princess And The Pig 13.00 | from £8 Clydebank Town Hall, 49 Dumbarton Road, Clydebank G81 1EU, 0141 562 2889 Folksy Theatre are delighted to be performing their musical adaptation of Jonathan Emmett's "The Princess & The Pig'. Theres been a dreadful mix-up in the royal nursery.

Priscilla the princess has switched places with Pigmella, the farmers new piglet! The kindly farmer and his wife believe its the work of a good witch. The ill-tempered King and Queen squarely blame a bad witch. Its the sort of thing that happens all the time in fairy tales! Bring along your picnics, blankets, folding chairs & friends & family to enjoy this wonderful open-air production, filled with music and puppetry!

Tickets available at www. brownpapertickets.com

29-30 Jul

Sat 5 Aug

11.30 (Sat only) and 14.30 | £5 | 1-4yrs Tall Tales Tron Theatre, 63 Trongate, Glasgow G1 5HB, 0141 552 4267 Fun filled family storytelling sessions brought to life using props, movement, music, percussion and creative play – all carefully designed to stimulate the senses.

RCS Taster Day 10.00-17.00 | FREE | 1-17yrs Royal Conservatoire Scotland, 100 Renfrew St, Glasgow G2 3DB, 0141 332 4101 www.rcs.ac.uk/about-lifelonglearning/saturday-dramataster-day/ The RCS is a vibrant, happy and encouraging environment where young people explore their creativity, meet new friends and develop their skills further. Their Saturday programme of classes for children and young people aged 3–17 across the disciplines of dance, drama, music and more offer open access courses for everyone to engage with, regardless of experience. Not sure if it’s for you? Come along to the taster day and find out!

Sat 29 Jul

Funbox: Highland Fling 13.00 | £12 East Kilbride Village Theatre, 10 Maxwell Drive, Glasgow G74 4HG, 01355 248669 Hoots mon and help ma boab!

Take the high road (or the low road) and get roamin in the gloamin for Funbox's brand new show.

Mugstock Festival From 13.00 Friday | from £12 (12yrs and under go FREE) Mugdock Country Park A relaxed and friendly atmosphere and fantastic family area in the park's Victorian Walled Garden combine to make this festival very popular with families looking for something for everyone. Expect 6 stages in a beautiful natural setting, roaming performers, hidden artwork in the woods, willow workshops, tie dye t-shirts and a selection of tasty and reasonably priced food and drink, along with home comforts including on site cafes where you can get a proper cup of coffee, or a bacon butty. Ran as a non-profit venture, tickets are surprisingly affordable, and are on sale now at www.mugstock.org 29-30 Jul 10.30 (Sat only) and 13.30 | £5 | up to 1yr Tiny Tales Tron Theatre, 63 Trongate, Glasgow G1 5HB, 0141 552 4267 Fun filled family storytelling sessions brought to life using props, movement, music, percussion and creative play – all carefully designed to stimulate the senses. For babies and crawlers up to 1 year.

14.00 | from £8 The Princess And The Pig Chatelherault Country Park, Carlisle Road, Hamilton ML3 7UE, 01698 426213 Open air performance as for Fri Jul 28. Tickets available at www.brownpapertickets.com 4-6 Aug IGNITION Festival of Motoring 10.00-18.00 | From £15 IGNITION will return for an exhilarating three-day extravaganza of cars, bikes, stunts and much more. This year’s event will pay homage to Scotland’s rich rally heritage by uniting some of the sports’ most famous icons. A new addition for 2017, the outdoor Ride and Drive Zone, will give motor enthusiasts the chance to test their skills offering a mix of off-road driving experiences, test drives, a young driver experience and the chance to ride electric motocross and trials bikes.

The indoor IGNITION arcade, another new attraction, will host a range of games and experiences to cater for the whole family, including remote control drifting, giant Scalextric, virtual reality, simulators, gaming areas, remote control truck racing and more.

World Pipe Band Championships, Piping Live! £5 to £37 Glasgow Green www.pipinglive.co.uk Piping Live! Glasgow International Piping Festival is the biggest festival of its kind in the world and the weeklong celebrations will see over 200 events take place in various venues across the city, including daily performances in George Square at noon and the 70th World Pipe Band Championships, a prestigious international competition that has a long-standing association with Glasgow. The event celebrates Scottish culture and heritage, and includes Highland Dancing and the Glasgow World Highland Games Championships.

8-9 Aug

Sun 30 Jul

28-31 Jul

7-13 Aug

Sun 6 Aug Hansel and Gretel’s Whacky Adventure 13.00 & 16.00 | £7 East Kilbride Village Theatre, 10 Maxwell Drive, Glasgow G74 4HG, 01355 248669 Have you ever wondered what happened to Hansel and Gretel after they defeated the nasty witch who lived in the Gingerbread House? Well, now you can find out! Join them as they venture through the whacky woods.

Mon 7 Aug

The Smartest Giant In Town 14.00 | from £8 Queens Park Amphitheatre, 20 Balvicar Drive, Glasgow G42 8QS, 0141 423 3962 George was the scruffiest giant in town. But one day, when he sees a shop stocking giant-size clothes, he decides it's time to update his image.

However, as he journeys home, he meets various animals who desperately need his help. George's kind heart and generosity take him on an adventure where he discovers that it's not how you look that's important but how you feel.

Folksy's musical adaptation of Julia Donaldson's wonderful book will be filled with puppetry, colourful characters and songs, that will have you clapping and singing along!

Bring along your picnics, blankets, folding chairs & friends & family to enjoy this wonderful open-air production!

Tickets available at www. brownpapertickets.com

14.00 | £10/£14 The Smartest Giant In Town Cottiers, 93-95 Hyndland St, Glasgow G11 5PU, 0141 357 4000 www.cottiers.com George was the scruffiest giant in town. But one day, when he sees a shop stocking giant-size clothes, he decides it’s time to update his image.

Find our full listings at familiesonline.co.uk 18

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Families Glasgow

What’s On Thu 10 Aug Marvellous Minibeasts of The Moss 13.30-15.00 | FREE Lenzie Moss Local Nature Reserve, 92 Kirkintilloch Rd, Lenzie G66 4LQ, 01419566100 Bugs, beetles, butterflies and bumble bees! Lenzie Moss Local Nature Reserve has them all. Join the Ranger Service and hunt for minibeasts in the woods and grassland. Meet at the far end of Lenzie Railway Station car park or follow the signs to find the Ranger.

Donations welcome.

Fri 11 Aug Goldilocks and The Three Bears Singalong 13.00 & 16.00 | £10 / £38.00 Family Ticket (x4) East Kilbride Village Theatre, 10 Maxwell Drive, Glasgow G74 4HG, 01355 248669 The much-loved fairy-tale Goldilocks and The Three Bears comes to life on stage in an unforgettable live stage production of song and laughter that the children will love.

Mon 14 Aug The Wiggles Big Show 14.30 | £15 City Halls, Candleriggs, Glasgow G1 1NQ · 0141 353 8000 www.glasgowconcerthalls.com Australia’s most successful family entertainment group are coming Scotland. Emma will be delighting fans with her Irish and ballet dancing and there’ll be Highland dancing too with Anthony as he plays his bagpipes. Join Simon for the fun of “Simon Says” and if Lachy falls asleep, don’t forget to call out “Wake up Lachy!”.

Anthony, Emma, Lachy and Simon will be bringing some familiar wiggly friends with them too, including Dorothy the Dinosaur and Henry the Octopus!

14-20 August

Sun 27 Aug

Kirkintilloch Canal Festival www.kirkintillochcanalfestival.org Highlights this year include boat trips, storytelling trips for younger children, live music, fireworks, Marina Food Court, cycling, arts and crafts, Nerf Adventure, football, pillow fights, assault course, archery, canoeing, stonecarving sessions, 1950s Rock Roll Café, classic cars, market stalls, meet the pirates, spin art, Jump 'n' Jive, children's art activities, stilt walkers, funfair and carousel, walk on water, canoeing, model plane flying, and much more.

Funbox: Highland Fling 13.00 | from £13.50 Eastwood Park Theatre, 1 Rouken Glen Road, Giffnock G46 6UG, 0141 577 4956 www.eastwoodparktheatre. co.uk Hoots mon and help ma boab!

Take the high road (or the low road) and get roamin in the gloamin for Funbox's brand new show.

Sat 19 Aug Friends of Cumbernauld House and Park Family Fun Day 12.00-15.00 | FREE Cumbernauld House, Glasgow G67 3JG Lots of fun activities for all ages in the park in front of the house and various forays into the glen too.

1-3 Sep Paw Patrol 10.30/13.30/16.30 | from £22.70 SEC, Finnieston Quay, Glasgow, G3 8YW, 0870 0404000 www.secc.co.uk Featuring a cast of everybody’s favourite PAW Patrol characters, PAW Patrol Live! shows that ‘no job is too big, no pup is too small’ and shares lessons for all ages about citizenship, social skills and problem-solving as the characters each use their unique skills and teamwork.

Remember to mention you found it in Families!

Tron Skillshops & Youth Theatre Now recruiting for 2017/18

For costs and details email lisa.keenan@tron.co.uk or book directly via Box Office on 0141 552 4267

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Terms commence: Sat 2 Sept: Pre-school – 10yrs Mon 4 Sept: 14 – 19yrs Wed 6 Sept: 11 – 13yrs

Families Glasgow

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TWO HUGE DAYS OUT! Only 15 minutes away from central Edinburgh

highlandwildlifepark.org.uk

Images by Laurie Campbell

edinburghzoo.org.uk

Only seven miles from Aviemore

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Families Glasgow